| Scrape | 23 |
|---|---|
| Id | 995 |
| Active | 1 |
| Created Epoch | 1,718,409,603 |
| Modified Epoch | 1,723,321,794 |
| Scrape Epoch | 1,718,409,782 |
| Created | 6/14/24, 7:00 PM |
| Modified | 8/10/24, 3:29 PM |
| Status | completed |
| Notes | |
| Dataset External No | 995 |
| Filename |
| Id | Active | Status | Created | Modified | Created Epoch | Modified Epoch | Notes | Scrape Result Id | Original Ad Id | Adarchiveid | Collationcount | Collationid | Currency | Enddate | Entitytype | Fevinfo | Gatedtype | Hasuserreported | Hiddensafetydata | Hidedatastatus | Impressionstext | Impressionsindex | Isaaaeligible | Isactive | Isprofilepage | Pageid | Pageinfo | Pageisdeleted | Pagename | Reachestimate | Reportcount | Ad Creative Id | Byline | Caption | Cta Text | Dynamic Versions | Effective Authorization Category | Display Format | Title | Link Description | Link Url | Page Welcome Message | Creation Time | Page Id | Page Name | Page Profile Picture Url | Page Entity Type | Page Is Profile Page | Instagram Actor Name | Instagram Profile Pic Url | Instagram Url | Instagram Handle | Is Reshared | Version | Body | Branded Content | Current Page Name | Disclaimer Label | Page Like Count | Page Profile Uri | Page Is Deleted | Root Reshared Post | Cta Type | Additional Info | Ec Certificates | Country Iso Code | Instagram Branded Content | Spend | Startdate | Statemediarunlabel | Actions |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1879452 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 6/4/25, 11:26 AM | 1718410685 | 1749054363 | 995 | 482466337522632 | 1 | 8.1711925700979E+14 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 108282622378515 | 0 | Claire Ryan Nina | 120211459501970017 | cooolink.com | Download | NONE | image | Free download ποΈποΈποΈ | https://cooolink.com/w2a/lp/bangtoon/cooolinkBtComics2?utm_source=fb_onelink&utm_medium={{placement}}&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_adset_name={{adset.name}}&utm_ad_name={{ad.name}}&utm_adset_nameid={{adset.id}}&utm_ad_nameid={{ad.id}}&utm_campaignid={{campaign.id}}&utm_channel={{site_source_name}} | 1718362805 | 1.0828262237852E+14 | Claire Ryan Nina | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448372056_1034194628037982_4426899260935308536_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=9FSSVnPICGMQ7kNvgFA9nQF&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAPimQBZZgh3aK4ZW2St2Skq1t89RfE5IN-Zmej8hJX6Q&oe=6672C775 | person_profile | 0 | Claire Ryan Nina | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448273073_476224461478906_7587903840860729600_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=gV_3LxeXjo8Q7kNvgGp3od2&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYA2bqdPFcLnVuo8ICQscvjB0JBRuSvdC4XSixxc9wzuEA&oe=6672B293 | 0 | 3 | This manga is definitely worth watching! πππ | Claire Ryan Nina | 0 | https://facebook.com/61552215344479 | 0 | DOWNLOAD | 1718348400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879378 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 5/3/25, 6:18 PM | 1718410683 | 1746314286 | 995 | 486491970507065 | 1 | 1.1612554951187E+15 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 338875532639908 | 0 | Roam Wild Live Free | 120210232883360243 | roamwildlivefree.com | Shop now | NONE | image | Summer T-Shirt Sale | Printed and Shipped in the US | https://roamwildlivefree.com/collections/mountains-and-forests | 1718390379 | 3.3887553263991E+14 | Roam Wild Live Free | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448278696_379231994650334_5128977105330806011_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=rVWw4tAR0vIQ7kNvgEzJKd_&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYB5T523rTIlI421WP8Ly4rzaeQv1zE25vZ2Gi3WGzEypw&oe=6672BDED | person_profile | 0 | Roam Wild Live Free | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448258701_1579049152663259_2956509102970597453_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=d61ndH7cX8MQ7kNvgFw2XnY&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBEFgwIF8Qewp7ESxzX0iBg-mvGavtJlnyy3mA9DrEzgQ&oe=6672A7D1 | 0 | 3 | π² Enjoy a discount of up to 35% off when you purchase our Forest Collection! We are offering complimentary delivery on orders above $65+. | Roam Wild Live Free | 1 | https://facebook.com/RoamWildLiveFree | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1718348400 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879463 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 6/23/25, 7:29 PM | 1718410686 | 1750724941 | 995 | 879678887331030 | 1 | 4.3467949616016E+14 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 108255439048790 | 0 | Buchanan Freebery Blaine | 120208580827200482 | cooolink.com | Download | NONE | image | Free download ποΈποΈποΈ | https://cooolink.com/w2a/lp/bangtoon/cooolinkBtComics2?utm_source=fb_onelink&utm_medium={{placement}}&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_adset_name={{adset.name}}&utm_ad_name={{ad.name}}&utm_adset_nameid={{adset.id}}&utm_ad_nameid={{ad.id}}&utm_campaignid={{campaign.id}}&utm_channel={{site_source_name}} | 1718362673 | 1.0825543904879E+14 | Buchanan Freebery Blaine | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/417463646_2384185818438682_3293953429249308373_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=XeFxUzl3uV0Q7kNvgH49Kbt&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBTf1tRzyqVqqKN4RiLuiEnmeopWiH4dRSXrPprxt7kuQ&oe=6672BC80 | person_profile | 0 | Buchanan Freebery Blaine | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448372673_1853421311831415_5396444602619358360_n.jpg?_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=vwyaIX4xV6wQ7kNvgGGvSNJ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAMUTM3czZ31QLWruYyzyrt46sTaQ6jFJxL-9AZ8xapag&oe=6672B88D | 0 | 3 | This manga is definitely worth watching! πππ | Buchanan Freebery Blaine | 0 | https://facebook.com/61552547469039 | 0 | DOWNLOAD | 1718348400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879379 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 6/4/25, 5:11 PM | 1718410683 | 1749075075 | 995 | 468832532402739 | 1 | 3.7697147823839E+14 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 137682100876 | 0 | Hassle Free Home Services | 6583401129970 | myhasslefreehome.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | Weβll take your to-do list. You take the weekend. Home management, repairs, and preventative care. | {{product.description}} | https://myhasslefreehome.com/?utm_source=meta&utm_medium=paid&utm_campaign=auto-placement-June-2024&utm_content=2024-06-14_ErikLoveLust | 1718395133 | 137682100876 | Hassle Free Home Services | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/417398008_263960826774708_4514569952948210329_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=4Eek3--_GAEQ7kNvgGzjKZJ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDXqBlf2BEKs99OF_34XF5pGQjHg2NuOMtWLTqYRk-naA&oe=6672C539 | person_profile | 0 | Hassle Free Home Services | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/417482266_768370512125974_5918608896931645830_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=kFtsT6w4CGMQ7kNvgFowVHJ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDgjZZkxYci3TSR_Z2ugAqFIYtHKgi0feOLGFA0ObBx0Q&oe=6672BFF1 | 0 | 3 | π« Your neighbors have worked with us for over 20 years. π Outsource home management to local professionals. | Hassle Free Home Services | 438 | https://facebook.com/hasslefreehomeservices | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718348400 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879364 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 2/24/25, 8:05 AM | 1718410682 | 1740405934 | 995 | 885751373391564 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 26448950205 | 0 | Free People | 6557918176448 | freepeople.com | Shop Now | 37974 | NONE | dpa | Ruched Seamless Shorts | $38 | https://www.freepeople.com/shop/ruched-seamless-shorts/?color=001&size=XS%2FS&type=STANDARD | 1718393531 | 26448950205 | Free People | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448261124_404035412632590_5629898659360079405_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Exv_oDtCgncQ7kNvgHxYA4t&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAlFTF-N1vl48WWYadSHozQteO7EWdi7c9Z0GUjQ08Osw&oe=66729E32 | person_profile | 0 | Free People | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448441737_448873858085819_3700902483057447922_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=bl0-cGBV-FoQ7kNvgHBkgJz&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAmcGqRHExIWm8NZVoKgFDNeLwTMSK01YuZ5Mh6VSODmw&oe=6672BE43 | 0 | 3 | Celebrate Summer! Free express shipping on all orders! Shop now. | Free People | 1746939 | https://facebook.com/FreePeople | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1718348400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879478 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 7/8/25, 9:43 PM | 1718410686 | 1752029021 | 995 | 1666726494102438 | 1 | 1.6648837009812E+15 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 108304702377057 | 0 | Rich Rachel Bentley | 120211073049390589 | cooolink.com | Download | NONE | image | Free download ποΈποΈποΈ | https://cooolink.com/w2a/lp/bangtoon/cooolinkBtComics2?utm_source=fb_onelink&utm_medium={{placement}}&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_adset_name={{adset.name}}&utm_ad_name={{ad.name}}&utm_adset_nameid={{adset.id}}&utm_ad_nameid={{ad.id}}&utm_campaignid={{campaign.id}}&utm_channel={{site_source_name}} | 1718363002 | 1.0830470237706E+14 | Rich Rachel Bentley | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448261383_7478144345644231_7176356659714661965_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ySQOoRE7uEIQ7kNvgEz_gza&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYB-vcg9zhN4P0vOPs2ZoFS8eFp2DECG-JtSDUSa8XKd6A&oe=667294A0 | person_profile | 0 | Rich Rachel Bentley | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448068253_485732190686189_8527466890666778700_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=BQ5tGuh-0BYQ7kNvgGshUKw&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBjCG6Heqbq32kZ4CvmqbIpehXRWF5P7GwZjpoP-uIfZA&oe=667294BB | 0 | 3 | This manga is definitely worth watching! πππ | Rich Rachel Bentley | 0 | https://facebook.com/61552807764867 | 0 | DOWNLOAD | 1718348400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879370 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 6/6/25, 2:25 PM | 1718410683 | 1749237920 | 995 | 1690307808378445 | 11 | 2.8338250934358E+15 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 123481120996569 | 0 | CariFree | 120210229557080417 | www.carifree.com/father's-day | Shop Now | NONE | dco | The Perfect Gift for Dad: Practical & On Sale β 10% Off With HAPPYDADS | Give Dad the perfect combination of practicality and savings with CariFree Gel 1100. Our innovative formula fights cavities and strengthens enamel, making it an essential addition to any dental care routine. This Fatherβs Day, enjoy 10% off and make Dad's smile shine even brighter. He'll love the practicality of the gift and the fact that you got it on sale! Hurry, this limited-time offer won't last long. Order now and make Father's Day extra special! | https://carifree.com/product/gel-1100/ | 1718392173 | 1.2348112099657E+14 | CariFree | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448358695_805720357944974_6206463257774206883_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=VSSw2w8aRkoQ7kNvgHfnOyu&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYD5wmoCu7gAh5rVMlx7lwkpyFZ9C2BTNf9_KuptdpoNUA&oe=6672BD79 | person_profile | 0 | CariFree | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448357430_1019833832473895_9103159104283525034_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=PYZTO3GMgPoQ7kNvgH06_vb&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAWG6hT31zA5XVvqcAA22NPoV68tG5L7WaQWPszdfckQQ&oe=6672B24A | 0 | 3 | Every Dad loves two things in a gift: number one, it's practical, and number two, it's on sale! π This Father's Day, hit the jackpot with CariFree Gel 1100, now 10% off! Our advanced cavity prevention formula is as practical as it gets, using nano-hydroxyapatite to strengthen teeth and fight cavities π¦·. Plus, with this special Father's Day discount, youβre giving Dad the gift of savings too! Trust us, heβll be all smiles when he finds out. π Donβt wait β show Dad you know him well and grab this deal today! Use code HAPPYDADS at checkout and save 10% today! | CariFree | 6267 | https://facebook.com/CariFree | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1718348400 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879542 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:29 PM | 1718410693 | 1723321794 | 995 | 785695356970863 | 1 | 1.8811915023045E+15 | 1718002800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 144939265372419 | 0 | Indulge in story | 120214343181970348 | shgjfh.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πRead the next chaptersπ | https://shgjfh.com/market/meganovel/13?lpid=11844&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717762144 | 1.4493926537242E+14 | Indulge in story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447256994_962585992003167_5083994497026705008_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=xvSiU4eM0HIQ7kNvgGaLPgU&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDfHZvL4fwCX9_hfvxj2Lbnpddf0pG1uD9Gqv9GoXUxJw&oe=6672B331 | person_profile | 0 | Indulge in story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447590700_1016773316708518_420838429285916977_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=KYgitKO0u2cQ7kNvgF55Rj_&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDyXqxq5I-PXqx461m_CajttJGgWqxofCm2izR9EzU9dg&oe=6672B6AD | 0 | 3 | The roads were soaked. It had been raining for a whole day in Southbury. Aria Carver's backpack was thrown out of the door by the butler in disdain. "Mr. Kent doesn't want to see you, Ms. Carver. So, I have to say some words in his stead. Your birth parents are in the countryside. Your father's last name is Carver. "The Kent family mistook you for their daughter in the past. But now that Ms. Lily has been found, I hope that you can do what's best for everyone and stop contacting the Kent family." The butler, Alfred Dun, took out a card. "Here's 10,000. Mr. Kent instructed me to give it to you as compensation." "No need." Aria didn't even look at the card as she picked up her backpack. Alfred looked at her in disdain. She didn't want the money? Was she acting tough? She should really think about her circumstances. The Kents had found their real daughter. They wouldn't want a country bumpkin like her anymore. She was an embarrassment. "As you wish, Ms. Carver." Alfred closed the door with a loud bang. Aria paid him no mind. She only took a black backpack when she left the Kent Residence. She stood proud and tall. She left the Kent Residence without taking anything that didn't belong to her. The rain falling on her made her look a little defeated. The people on the second floor saw her and started snickering. They didn't care if she could hear them. "She's finally gone." "I know right? I was so afraid that she might not want to go back to the countryside, and would try to stay with us." Aria didn't respond, but a sneer appeared on her face. Were the Kents ignorant? Yes, they were. Aria chewed on a gummy absentmindedly. She had a head of long and glossy black hair. Her face was a little pale, but it didn't make her look weak. Instead, she looked quite mysterious. β¦ At the same time, the Carver family was having an international meeting at their home in Janovin. Warren Carver sat at the head of the table. He held a cane in his hands and looked really intimidating. "It's been so many years. Is there still no leads on your sister?" He was talking to his six grandsons. The Carver family was the wealthiest in Janovin. The six scions of the family were all very remarkable people. Any single one of them would cause a stir if they went out in the open. At that moment, they all looked saddened. Longing and sorrow filled their eyes. They were the ones that lost their youngest sister back then. She was only a baby when she went missing. She never caused a fuss and was always very adorable. It had been 18 years. They had never stopped looking since. All the leads went cold at a secluded village in the mountains. They had no idea how many times the human traffickers moved their baby sister around. "Grandpa, let's keep looking. We will definitely find her!" Suddenly, a chubby man, Frank Levin, rushed into the room with some documents in his hand. He panted as he said, "Mr. Chairman! Little Ms. Carver has been found!" Warren, who was usually composed, stood up immediately. He was so excited that his hands were shaking. "Where is she? Send someone to pick her up right now!" Frank handed the documents over. "She's in Southbury. We're still looking into her exact location." "Then let's go to Southbury! Get a car ready!" Warren was very excited. β¦ It was evening in Southbury. Aria, who had been kicked out of the Kent Residence, didn't go to the countryside. She waited for the rain to stop before she headed back to the place she was staying at. It was a very insignificant neighborhood. When she was parking her car, someone called out to her, "You're back, Aria." "Yeah. I'm back." Aria smiled. Maria Goode, a fruit vendor, handed her an apple. "I haven't seen you in two weeks. No one else could help me with my arthritis." "Don't forget about me, Aria. My hand always trembles when I'm playing chess." Everyone knew that Aria was a very beloved figure in the Elmer district. Some retired government officials loved to chat with her as she treated their conditions. The place might look plain and simple on the surface, but there was more than met the eye. The person who talked about his hand was Jasper Garland, a former national chess champion. Aria didn't delve into the identities of the other residents. She chose to live in this neighborhood because it was a nice place. Chapter 2 More Than Meets the Eye "I'll offer treatment for everyone at the community square tomorrow." Then, Aria reminded them, "Remember to take the medicine. Don't stay up late to watch soap operas. They won't end so soon." "The Tiara" was all the rage in the Elmer district at that time. All the older men and women were hooked on it. A lot of them looked guilty after Aria said that. "Weβ¦We will sleep at 10:00 pm from now on." In the past, no one could have imagined that this group of people would be so obedient to one person. A lot of them had made great contributions to the country. Even their identities were kept a secret. Elmer district's community manager, Joel Hayes, had been hoping that Aria would come back sooner. He could finally breathe a sigh of relief. "Dr. Carver, I have been keeping an eye on your house. I've not allowed anyone to approach your property." "Thanks for the hard work." Aria bowed slightly and handed him an apple. Joel accepted the apple with a smile. "It's no trouble at all. I trust you won't be leaving anytime soon?" A community manager like him could never keep the neighborhood's residents under control. "Yeah. I won't be leaving," Aria said as she took the key. Joel replied joyfully, "That's wonderful! I'll leave you be so you can unpack your stuff. Let me know if you need anything." Aria nodded. She inserted the key and opened the door after Joel left. The lock was very old. It didn't seem like there was anything special about it. But after she undid the first lock, an LCD lock appeared before her. "Confirmation to proceed with iris scan." Aria said casually, "Do it." "Proceeding with iris scan. Please wait." "Iris scan completed. Welcome home, master." It was a very classy computerized voice that hadn't been activated for some time. The metal door opened automatically with a "clack". The house was instantly illuminated. There was a bookshelf that was about six feet tall which was filled with medical books and containers with herbs in them. There was a lot of greenery at the door. Most of them were herbs. All of them were labeled. In the middle of the living room sat a very cool-looking black and red motorcycle. Aria walked over to the kitchen and took a bottle of water from the fridge. She wanted to drink some water and watch some TV. Suddenly, the phone that was charging on her desk rang. It was a custom ringtone. "Richie Carver, wakey wakey, It's time for work! Richie Carver, wakey wakey, It's time for work! Richieβ" Aria took the call when it was about to ring for the third time. "Speak." "Boss, there's a huge job in Southbury. Should we take it?" Aria took a sip of the water. "What's it about?" "The richest man in Janovin is looking for his long-lost granddaughter. They say she's in Southbury. It shouldn't be hard to find her. This job pays a lot." Aria yawned. "Not interested." "Hold on! Please wait, boss! There's another one. The type you like! It's also a huge job!" The person on the other end of the call was very servile. Aria placed her chin on the palm lazily. "Tell me about it." "The York family of Janovin is looking for you. They're offering 10 million for you to treat a patient. "They also said that people who can find you or provide information about you will be rewarded as well. They're so stacked!" "Why are they so generous?" Aria went into work mode immediately. She tapped the phone and said, "Send me the details of the job." "Sure thing!" The next moment, the floor-to-ceiling windows became a screen, and the job information was projected on it. The York family had been around for ages. They had protected the country for generations. If Aria's memory served correctly, they even lived in the Guardian Mansion once. The York family had sent out invitations to quite a few renowned doctors. The invitation was in effect for a week. The location for the consultation was set at the Caesar Hotel in Southbury. They wanted to get a doctor who would be able to treat the illness of Landon York, who was in charge of the York family operations. There wasn't much description of Landon's condition. They only mentioned that he had been frail for a long time and that his condition couldn't be revealed to the public. It seemed like there was more than met the eye. Aria stretched her legs. "I'll take this job." Chapter 3 Saving Someone on the Streets "You have a good eye, boss! I'll prepare an account to receive payment from the Yorks!" Aria said calmly, "No need to rush. Let me sleep first. Do it tomorrow." Other than making money, Aria's biggest interest was treating all sorts of rare diseases. This job from the York family was a nice one for her. Honestly, she was probably the only person who wasn't fazed by the York's visit to Southbury. All of the prominent families in the city were scrambling into action. A family like the Kents had to reach out to everyone they knew and utilize all of their connections in an attempt to get an invitation from the Yorks. Even regular people were talking about how the city was especially lively that month. First, the richest man in Janovin came to look for his granddaughter. Then, the York family came to receive treatment. Some said that the Yorks came to Southbury because the legendary Whiz Doctor was in town. There were a lot of rumors about the Whiz Doctor, but some of them were quite outlandish. This time, the Whiz Doctor might actually appear due to the York family's invitation. β¦ The following morning, Aria woke up late. Like any other working adult, she didn't feel like leaving her cool and comfortable room or her cozy bed to get out into the morning sun. But she had to work. So, she got up and washed her face. Without putting any makeup on, she grabbed her bag and left. In order to avoid the morning rush, she scanned a shared bicycle. "Are you heading out to work, Aria?" "Yeah." She was greeting everyone along the way and also had a piece of toast in her mouth given to her by Kenneth Kane. She rode the bicycle steadily without rushing and merged into traffic after a while. β¦ After 30 minutes, Aria arrived at Southbury's renowned Caesar Hotel. Everyone at the entrance and the lobby looked very busy. In the past few days, almost all of the luxury cars in the city gathered at the hotel. In comparison, Aria stood out a lot as the only person who came on a shared bicycle. As soon as she came to a stop, Jose Garcia, a security guard, came over to chase her away. "Get lost, you broke college student. The hotel is not open to the public today." She planted one foot on the ground and met his gaze. Then, she said coolly, "I'm here to save someone's life." "You? Save someone's life?" Jose burst into laughter. "Young lady, you're still so young, but you're quite the braggart." Aria paused for a moment. Then, she showed him proof of her accepting the job on her phone. "Please tell the people inside that Dr. Whiz has arrived." "Dr. Whiz? You can call me Dr. Genius!" Jose gave her an impatient look. "I've seen many invitations. You're the first one to show it on the phoneβ¦" Jose noticed a luxury car rolling up as he spoke. So, he waved at Aria. "Go. Get out of the way." Then, he rushed over to the car and opened the door. "Welcome, Dr. Gunther and Ms. Kent. I'll inform the staff to prepare some tea for you." The people in the car just nodded at him. They didn't even reply. But Jose had a big smile on his face like he had won the lottery. The car drove past Aria. Lily looked out the window and recognized Aria. Her gaze wavered slightly. The old woman next to her, Salome Gunther, asked, "What's wrong, Lily?" She smiled softly. "Nothing." Aria's gaze remained calm. She walked away resolutely. There was even an amused expression on her face. She used to be someone who held people's lives in her hands, yet she had become the target of another person's shunning. Oh, how the mighty had fallen. Aria pursed her lips. She offered treatment to patients based on her mood and would never help those who were greedy or selfish. She had decided to give up on offering treatment to the York family's patient. So, she took out her phone and was about to reject the job. Suddenly, someone on the sidewalk screamed. "Oh, no! Someone has fainted!" People started flocking toward the voice. "Oh, God! It's a child!" "His face is so paleβ¦" Hearing the commotion, Aria didn't hesitate at all. She parked her bicycle and rushed toward the crowd. The little boy on the ground was only three or four years old. His forehead was drenched. It seemed like he had been sweating profusely. A woman named Francine Gibson grabbed a man in a white lab coat. "Young man, you're a doctor, right? Please save the boy." "No can do, lady. The kid's family isn't here. I can't make any decisions without consulting them." The man in the lab coat, Jimmy Cornell, added with disdain, "Besides, I don't provide treatment to just anyone." Aria heard the exchange between the two of them. She pushed through the crowd and said in a professional manner, "Please give the boy some space. Let the air flow through. The patient needs fresh air." Her tone sounded so authoritative that no one doubted her. Then, she crouched down and placed her fingers on the boy's neck. Francine said anxiously, "Young lady, how old are you? Can you really make him better?" Chapter 4 Doubt "That's right, young lady. We should probably call an ambulance. This boy appears to be lost. I called out for some time just now, but no one came over," an old man said. He was concerned that Aria might be blamed if anything happened to the boy. Aria quickly unbuttoned the boy's coat and brought him to some shade. "Don't worry. I'm a licensed doctor." Then, she opened her bag and took out a medical kit. It was equipped with needles and scalpels of all sizes, all arranged neatly in rows. Aria felt the boy's pulse again. "Stop it! How can you simply touch the patient?" Jimmy yelled. He couldn't allow Aria to do as she pleased. She ignored him and continued to monitor the boy's pulse and heart rate. Jimmy sneered. "I'm Jimmy Cornell, currently studying at Janovin Medical University. My mentor is Dr. Salome Gunther. I'm not just a random bystander. You say you're a licensed doctor? How old are you?" Aria continued to ignore him. Her focus was on the boy. She took out a needle and began to sterilize it. "I'm talking to you! Even that old man knows we should wait for an ambulance. Why can't you get it through your head?" This was the first time Jimmy had been completely ignored by someone. Aria had one knee to the ground. Her demeanor was cool and emotionless. "Do nothing and wait for the ambulance? Wait as the optimal treatment period passes by? Is that what your mentor taught you?" "Who said we should do nothing while we wait for the ambulance? You're the one delaying treatment with those needles. Please don't show off your pseudo-science methods, and let me perform CPR on the patient." Aria shot him a cold glare after she heard what he said. Who would've thought that such a pretty young lady could have such a vicious gaze? "He has a heat stroke. Do you think CPR would help? What a worthless doctor," Aria said as she applied pressure to the boy's fingers. Her tone was glacial. Jimmy lost his cool immediately. "Who are you calling worthless? Do you even know who my mentor is?" He had just received an award overseas for his medical skills. He was incredulous at the woman's audacity to doubt his abilities. "I'm not interested in your mentor. Move." Jimmy's eyes turned bloodshot. "I'll let it slide this time since you're just a lowly traditional medicine practitioner. His lips are turning blue. It's a heart issue." "Hypoxia and ischemia might impact the respiratory system and cause the lips to turn blue." Aria looked at Jimmy with a cold stare, then added, "But a heat stroke can cause that symptom, too. The difference is that his pulse is steady. Moreover, his lips are parched. "It's clear that he had been exposed to high temperatures for a prolonged period. You don't even look at these symptoms, yet you claim to be a medical student?" "That's true. You have to look at the symptoms first. I was taught that too," someone in the crowd agreed with Aria. Then, people in the crowd started chattering. "It seems like the Janovin Medical University isn't anything special at all." "That young lady is way more reliable. I noticed she was quite professional when taking the boy's pulse." Jimmy couldn't take the humiliation anymore. "Alright. So, he has a heat stroke. Will your acupuncture cure him of it? If so, why are we even learning modern medicine?" "You can't represent everyone else who practices modern medicine." Aria glared at him icily. "I'll say it one more time. Move." There were two types of people she hated the mostβthose who looked down on traditional medicine and lousy doctors getting in the way of her treatment. "Sure, I'll move. I'd like to see how skilled you are." Jimmy crossed his arms. "If you can heal him with these needles, I'll get on my knees and apologize to you." "I'm looking forward to that." Aria located the acupuncture points and raised her hand. Chapter 5 Acupuncture Works Aria stuck the first needle into the boy without any hesitation. The boy immediately frowned. It was like he was regaining his consciousness. It looked like he was struggling as his brows furrowed even deeper. Someone in the crowd yelled, "He's waking up!" Jimmy was stunned. His face grew pale. "This can't beβ¦" How did she pull that off? Just one needle? Could a person really regain consciousness from that? Aria raised her hand again. Her gaze was focused, and she looked very composed. She stuck the second needle into the boy's fingertips to draw some blood. Right after she did that, the boy opened his eyes. His pupils were dark and round, while his eyelashes were extraordinarily long. He glanced at Aria quietly, but his face was still quite pale. Everyone in the crowd was stunned. Francine spoke up, "Young lady, you healed with a few pokes of the needle?" Aria applied some light pressure on the needle. She saw that the bloodletting was done, so she removed the needle and pressed a cotton ball on the wound to stop the bleeding. "Madam, it's not that simple. Applying acupuncture to the fingertips can help with dissipating the heat. He was inflicted with heat stroke, which was caused by the high temperature. I just helped him cool down with acupuncture." "Spare me the theatrics. That kid hasn't spoken a word since he regained consciousness. You probably left him with some side effects with your treatment!" Jimmy snorted. Francine was a little annoyed. "The boy has already regained consciousness. Why are you talking about side effects? Are you just trying to get out of apologizing to the young lady?" "That's none of your business!" Jimmy looked at Francine and suddenly sneered. "I understand now. You're all in on this. You pulled me here, and she's trying to scam me. "This is an organized scam, isn't it? I knew traditional medicine practitioners were all fake." Aria's expression grew cold when she heard that. She was about to raise her hand. Then, the boy spoke up in a weak but icy tone, "Traditional medicine has always been an essential part of Celestria's culture. You're a lousy doctor, sir. You should put more effort into studying." "Youβ¦" Jimmy was at a loss for words. The boy spoke up right after he said he wasn't healed. The boy even spoke out against him. It was clear that the boy wasn't on his side. Francine burst out into laughter. "Hey, kid. He's talking about you. You should put more effort into studying." "I won't waste my breath with you bottom feeders anymore. You're just a group of peasants," Jimmy said in disdain. Aria flicked a needle in his direction. It brushed past his face and got stuck in a tree nearby. Such a violent display caused Jimmy to freeze up. Even his legs felt like they were about to give out. Aria smiled as she said casually, "Don't you think you've forgotten about something?" She was just a young woman, but she had a very vicious and commanding presence, which caused Jimmy to feel fear. He tried to keep his cool. "What did I forget?" "An apology," Aria said as she tapped on her phone. She looked devilishly charming. Jimmy didn't want to do that. So, he said arrogantly, "Everyone makes mistakes. I don't have any more time to waste with a traditional medicine practitioner like you." Francine couldn't stand his attitude anymore. "Is this how a student of Dr. Salome Gunther would act? You lost a bet to that young woman, and yet you refuse to apologize? Such ethicsβ¦" "What's wrong with my ethics? Who here can prove I lost a bet to her? None of you will ever have enough money to pay for Dr. Gunther's treatment. "Me being here and providing free medical services is an honor for all of you. How dare you peasants keep babbling about such nonsense? Don't you dare cause trouble here! Do you even know where you are right now?" Francine's hands trembled in anger. "Youβ¦ You!" Jimmy snorted. He looked at all of them with utter disdain. They were in a modern society. He didn't believe that Aria would dare to do anything to him. Chapter 6 Teaching Him a Lesson Jimmy had always thought that the common folk were beneath him. He didn't notice that Aria's gaze changed as she looked up. Viciousness and contempt filled her eyes. She casually toyed with a piece of candy in her palm. Then, she flicked toward Jimmy. He felt his knee give out as he fell to the ground. "Ah!" The pain caused him to frown. He tried to get up but realized that he couldn't move his body at all. He couldn't talk, and his hands wouldn't budge. It felt like his movements had been sealed with the attack. Aria walked up to him and said calmly, "As a medical student, you failed miserably at determining the patient's symptoms, and you even declared a verdict without a second thought. "Being a doctor doesn't mean you're better than anyone else. It's a job for you to help people in need. You're unskilled and unethical. Now that you're on your knees, I'll accept your apology. Consider this a lesson I'm teaching you in your mentor's stead." "You!" Jimmy's eyes were filled with hatred. Aria leaned in and whispered in his ear. "Since you're such a shameless person, it'll probably be okay if you remain on your knees here for a couple of hours." "What did you do to me? I want to call the cops! I have been assaulted!" Jimmy yelled. Aria smiled. "And who can prove anything? Mr. Cornell, you got on your knees yourself. I didn't even touch you." "I know right? He deserves that!" The people in the crowd felt great satisfaction seeing Jimmy in that state. "The young lady didn't do anything. Stop lying!" That was the truth. He was the one who refused to help the boy. He was also the one who was running his mouth after Aria provided treatment for the boy. He was also the one who had been cursing at everyone in the crowd and was shameless enough to refuse to apologize. He was a true disgrace to the medical profession. Did he really think he could just say all those things without repercussions? He even tried to blame Aria for his condition. The women in the crowd started to yell, "Everyone, come and take a look! There's an unskilled medical student here. He's on his knees to apologize right now!" "You! All of you!" Jimmy's face was flushed, and his breath was labored. That was why people didn't mess with the ordinary citizens who were brave, kind, and despised delinquency. Jimmy was a fool for being so domineering in front of them. The more people looked at him, the lower Jimmy's head hung. He wished the ground would open up and swallow him up. He was afraid that someone would recognize him. The malice in his eyes grew as he looked at Aria. They were both in the medical industry. So, they were bound to meet again someday. He swore he would get back at her the next time they met. Aria didn't spare him another glance. Besides, if they crossed paths again, she didn't mind breaking his legs. Quite a lot of the older people in the crowd asked for Aria's contact information. They had seen how she performed acupuncture on the boy. It was clear that she was an extremely skilled doctor. They were determined to secure her contact information. Aria didn't turn any of them down, so she added them to her contacts. Francine asked enthusiastically, "Young lady, you were so skilled with the needles. Is there a traditional medicine practitioner in your family?" Aria thought about Georgina Harris, the woman who used to be her grandmother while she was living with the Kents. Georgina was the only one who showed her any kindness. She came up with a solid reason. "Yes. My grandmother practices traditional medicine. She runs a care center." "No wonder. I'll introduce some clients to her soon!" "Sure." Aria thanked Francine politely. Aria didn't have the airs of a renowned doctor at all. She was a legend hiding in plain sight. The boy hadn't spoken at all since he talked to Jimmy. He just sat there quietly as he observed everything. His eyes were very bright, and he looked really adorable. After she finished talking to everyone else, Aria looked at him. "Are you still lightheaded?" He shook his head. Then, he looked up at Aria. "Miss, I'm Miles. Thanks for saving me. If it weren't for you, I would've been dead." Miles York's voice was very sweet. His eyes were round, and his face was very smooth and cute. He did a cute little bow when he thanked Aria. "Your name is Miles? Where is your family?" Aria asked with a raised eyebrow. "They're all inside!" Miles said as he pointed behind him at the Caesar Hotel. Not just anyone could get in there at the moment. Chapter 7 Saved Someone Important People in the crowd exclaimed in surprise and started talking. "Everyone in Caesar Hotel today is quite important. I heard that there are a lot of prominent medical families in there." "Then this boyβ¦" Aria wasn't surprised at all. After all, Miles was very well-dressed. The watch he was wearing on his wrist was quite expensive as well. "Remember to bring bodyguards when you come out next time," Aria said as she packed her medical kit up. When Miles realized that she was leaving, he clung to her leg. Aria couldn't get on the bicycle, so she looked down at him. Miles didn't speak. He just held on to her sleeve. He took a step whenever she did. They were going nowhere like that. She stopped in her tracks. "I'll take you back to your parents." "Okay!" Miles got what he wanted. He nodded and said, "I'll have my parents thank you properly, miss." Aria adjusted his collar for him. "No need for that. I don't take payment for helping kids." "Andβ¦" Miles shifted his gaze. "Do you have a boyfriend, miss?" Aria stood up straight. "No." "Then, I'll ask my brother, Landon, to be your boyfriend as thanks." Miles smiled as he started describing Landon. "Landon doesn't like to talk, but he's very handsome. He makes a lot of money, too. It'll be good for your ego if you go out with him. A lot of pretty ladies want to marry him, you know." Aria smiled when she heard that. "I have no plans of getting married right now." "Okay," Miles replied with disappointment as he drooped his head. He continued walking with Aria dejectedly. When they arrived at the hotel entrance, he looked at Aria enthusiastically and said, "Miss, why don't you meet with Landon first? You should make your decision after you see him." He was sure that Aria would fall for Landon when she saw him. He was a very handsome man, after all. Aria smiled. "You're trying so hard to promote your brother to me. Does he know about this?" "He's always sick. Everyone in the family has been telling him to get married. You're such a skilled doctor, and you're pretty, too. I'm sure a lot of people want to be your boyfriend. So, I'm just trying to get you to give Landon a chance." Aria looked at his parched lips. Then, she went to buy him a bottle of water and some crackers. "Stop talking so much. You're still recovering." Miles was very obedient. He ate whatever Aria gave him. He couldn't open the bottle himself, so he raised it up to Aria and said weakly, "Please help me open it." Landon's assistant, Troy Jepson, came to meet Miles and was shocked to see what was happening. He was sure that the woman with Miles was that imposter that the Kents kicked out. Why was Miles with her? He even asked her to help him open his bottle. Did he change his entire personality? Something flashed in Troy's eyes, but he quickly suppressed his emotions. He knew who Aria was, but she didn't know him. Troy took care not to expose his identity as he walked up to them in a hurry. "Mr. Miles! I've finally found you. I'm so glad you're okay." "This pretty lady saved me," Miles said as he held Aria's hand. He had a defiant look on his face. It was like he was finally himself again. Troy politely said, "Thanks, Ms. Carver." Aria looked at him calmly. "He already thanked me." Her attitude made it hard for Troy to grasp the situation. So, he said to Miles, "Mr. Miles, Mr. Landon called in some favors to track you down. He's in the car right now. He didn't even take his afternoon meds yet." Miles looked up in surprise. He didn't expect Landon to come out here personally. | Indulge in story | 598 | https://facebook.com/61552702618591 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717830000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879572 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:29 PM | 1718410694 | 1723321794 | 995 | 1123587355422972 | 1 | 7.6990506525411E+14 | 1718089200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 273913162469522 | 0 | New world publications | 120212928768730170 | wwwedb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πAttention! Do not read in publicοΌπ | https://wwwedb.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11782&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717757425 | 2.7391316246952E+14 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959759_1311554859802432_4227718076479884991_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GwKF1hWO7f4Q7kNvgGcgnOa&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAaDJ90YtTRVgl1h4Qq29YmZWIZCVWKY5MqqmnLhItL8w&oe=6672A69D | person_profile | 0 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959270_7187349571370885_4976612476689122460_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=NNss872fdPgQ7kNvgE-PVII&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAp0ikcilFTLm0se1WcAfumGS3USCJAFn0NgxepicFnPw&oe=6672B455 | 0 | 3 | The clearing of a throat makes me jump. I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of alcohol. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that donβt quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door. Shrinking down to the ground. βIs this the way you greet all Alphaβs?β His deep voice rumbles through the room, an edge of amusement to his tone. βIβm sorry.β I whisper, getting to my feet. βIβ¦I thought I was alone.β I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. βCome forward.β He orders. Alpha Trey was going to kill me. I do as Iβm told. Allowing him to see me properly and I am met with narrowed crimson eyes. I close my own eyes, expecting the worst. βYou smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?β My head moved up and down, though I couldnβt tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they discovered the truth about me. βI would prefer it if you spoke to me.β He growls, βIβm not in the mood to play games.β βYes.β I whisper. βI amβ¦I am a Wolf.β I couldnβt help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? I wasnβt sure how much more my body could take. βHow is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.β βIβ¦..β I hated the question. βI havenβt got all day!β He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldnβt scent him. I knew why I hadnβt been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever liked to do. They never hear my side of the story. All they do is accept Alpha Trey's word as the truth. βYou should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?β His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them. There was no way I was making direct eye contact. βMy Wolf abilities were bound.β βWhy?β If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. βIt was a punishment.β βFor what?β βFor killing my parents.β | New world publications | 9 | https://facebook.com/61557831245498 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717743600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879843 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:29 PM | 1718410730 | 1723321796 | 995 | 861939552623158 | 1 | 1.8722349231897E+15 | 1717225200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120211846693390779 | qweasdzxconline.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πRead the next chaptersπ | https://qweasdzxconline.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11090&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715085862 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438129100_1146045226739178_2601865360875538189_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pgaM6op9EH4Q7kNvgFvStUz&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAnzNXAdVZ3R4dAiEpauXywjYljw4eXW7quZ6rvyHSXBw&oe=6672A490 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440747644_315502774915635_6353252339687881796_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YicSkuGzOiMQ7kNvgEoi2bQ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAN9i2X9Y9MK7cgBix3paDsplYdUdBGGi_LOwLoSJKKaQ&oe=6672CB97 | 0 | 3 | π"Ned Fletcher, with how you're treating Angie right now, aren't you worried that you're going to regret it when you finally regain your memories one day? You loved her so much before and you two got married for love! Despite you forgetting your feelings about her, how could you post so many indecent photos of her on social media?" Ned spoke nonchalantly, saying, "Why are you still holding me hostage with morals and principles? She was the one who framed me by lowly methods. I was just warning her. If Ingrid hadn't asked me to stop, I'd have gone even further! By the way, show your respect to Ingrid. Sheβs not a new girl but my only one forever and never!" Angeline Emmerson heard the talk standing outside the door. She used to be treated ever so lovingly by Ned in the past. Angeline felt her eyes reddening and filling with tears. The Ned she knew had died in the car accident that happened four years ago. The one inside was merely a stranger! Angeline inhaled deeply. Then, she pushed the door open. Ned looked up and saw her entering. "Who brought you here?" Angeline stared at Ned and said, "I've already made a police report regarding your spiked drink at the event and your spreading of my photos for revenge." Hearing this, everyone's reactions differed from one another. Angeline continued, "Ned Fletcher, it's true that I wanted to try rekindling our relationship, but I would never have stooped so low as to do those disgusting things to you. I didn't want to let go of this relationship because I was worried that the Ned I knew would return someday and blame me for giving up on him so easily," Angeline placed the divorce agreement she'd been hugging onto the table. "I tried my best, but I'm tired now. Ned Fletcher, I'm giving up on you. I don't want you anymore." Ned's eyes traveled from the divorce agreement to Angeline's face. There was a hint of surprise in his cold eyes. "Let's finalize the divorce after the police have cleared my name and you have publicly apologized to me." | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717138800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879847 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:29 PM | 1718410731 | 1723321796 | 995 | 861939552623158 | 1 | 1.8722349231897E+15 | 1717225200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120211846693390779 | qweasdzxconline.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πRead the next chaptersπ | https://qweasdzxconline.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11090&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715085862 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438129100_1146045226739178_2601865360875538189_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pgaM6op9EH4Q7kNvgFvStUz&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAnzNXAdVZ3R4dAiEpauXywjYljw4eXW7quZ6rvyHSXBw&oe=6672A490 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440747644_315502774915635_6353252339687881796_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YicSkuGzOiMQ7kNvgEoi2bQ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAN9i2X9Y9MK7cgBix3paDsplYdUdBGGi_LOwLoSJKKaQ&oe=6672CB97 | 0 | 3 | π"Ned Fletcher, with how you're treating Angie right now, aren't you worried that you're going to regret it when you finally regain your memories one day? You loved her so much before and you two got married for love! Despite you forgetting your feelings about her, how could you post so many indecent photos of her on social media?" Ned spoke nonchalantly, saying, "Why are you still holding me hostage with morals and principles? She was the one who framed me by lowly methods. I was just warning her. If Ingrid hadn't asked me to stop, I'd have gone even further! By the way, show your respect to Ingrid. Sheβs not a new girl but my only one forever and never!" Angeline Emmerson heard the talk standing outside the door. She used to be treated ever so lovingly by Ned in the past. Angeline felt her eyes reddening and filling with tears. The Ned she knew had died in the car accident that happened four years ago. The one inside was merely a stranger! Angeline inhaled deeply. Then, she pushed the door open. Ned looked up and saw her entering. "Who brought you here?" Angeline stared at Ned and said, "I've already made a police report regarding your spiked drink at the event and your spreading of my photos for revenge." Hearing this, everyone's reactions differed from one another. Angeline continued, "Ned Fletcher, it's true that I wanted to try rekindling our relationship, but I would never have stooped so low as to do those disgusting things to you. I didn't want to let go of this relationship because I was worried that the Ned I knew would return someday and blame me for giving up on him so easily," Angeline placed the divorce agreement she'd been hugging onto the table. "I tried my best, but I'm tired now. Ned Fletcher, I'm giving up on you. I don't want you anymore." Ned's eyes traveled from the divorce agreement to Angeline's face. There was a hint of surprise in his cold eyes. "Let's finalize the divorce after the police have cleared my name and you have publicly apologized to me." | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717138800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879647 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:29 PM | 1718410700 | 1723321796 | 995 | 1879390642474185 | 1 | 7.7004547176018E+14 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 214305385109285 | 0 | Delaney Worldwide | 120208791531700084 | delaneyworldwide.com | Learn More | NONE | carousel | Trusted Movers For a Smooth Transition | Stress-free relocation. | http://www.delaneyworldwide.com/ | 1713558864 | 2.1430538510928E+14 | Delaney Worldwide | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436547483_7464615606938391_7957480284726591432_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=0ZOOt2qIQ7IQ7kNvgGghmz0&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDfQnxjJ8RHwKsecW3SyehFHoEGh6KAx-Rn3KzyJdRCjA&oe=6672C73B | person_profile | 0 | Delaney Worldwide Inc | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439625953_400220496122398_789550840492018026_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=74tozip3wW4Q7kNvgHq14_G&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBaL7uJi3RajOPHnAIHuar0QHC3dOrE07codJQqpBVuuQ&oe=6672B56B | 0 | 3 | Stress-free relocation. | Delaney Worldwide | 2 | https://facebook.com/61557773368721 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1713855600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879649 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:29 PM | 1718410700 | 1723321796 | 995 | 1879390642474185 | 1 | 7.7004547176018E+14 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 214305385109285 | 0 | Delaney Worldwide | 120208791531700084 | delaneyworldwide.com | Learn More | NONE | carousel | Trusted Movers For a Smooth Transition | Stress-free relocation. | http://www.delaneyworldwide.com/ | 1713558864 | 2.1430538510928E+14 | Delaney Worldwide | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436547483_7464615606938391_7957480284726591432_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=0ZOOt2qIQ7IQ7kNvgGghmz0&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDfQnxjJ8RHwKsecW3SyehFHoEGh6KAx-Rn3KzyJdRCjA&oe=6672C73B | person_profile | 0 | Delaney Worldwide Inc | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439625953_400220496122398_789550840492018026_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=74tozip3wW4Q7kNvgHq14_G&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBaL7uJi3RajOPHnAIHuar0QHC3dOrE07codJQqpBVuuQ&oe=6672B56B | 0 | 3 | Stress-free relocation. | Delaney Worldwide | 2 | https://facebook.com/61557773368721 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1713855600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879368 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:29 PM | 1718410683 | 1723321796 | 995 | 885751373391564 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 26448950205 | 0 | Free People | 6557918176448 | freepeople.com | Shop Now | 37974 | NONE | dpa | Ruched Seamless Shorts | $38 | https://www.freepeople.com/shop/ruched-seamless-shorts/?color=001&size=XS%2FS&type=STANDARD | 1718393531 | 26448950205 | Free People | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448261124_404035412632590_5629898659360079405_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Exv_oDtCgncQ7kNvgHxYA4t&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAlFTF-N1vl48WWYadSHozQteO7EWdi7c9Z0GUjQ08Osw&oe=66729E32 | person_profile | 0 | Free People | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448441737_448873858085819_3700902483057447922_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=bl0-cGBV-FoQ7kNvgHBkgJz&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAmcGqRHExIWm8NZVoKgFDNeLwTMSK01YuZ5Mh6VSODmw&oe=6672BE43 | 0 | 3 | Celebrate Summer! Free express shipping on all orders! Shop now. | Free People | 1746939 | https://facebook.com/FreePeople | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1718348400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879391 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:29 PM | 1718410683 | 1723321797 | 995 | 477942217919342 | 5 | 7.9330905624098E+14 | 1715324400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 110757928736038 | 0 | HappyMe's | 120208390565450724 | norvure.com | Shop now | NONE | image | Let Your Pup Roam Safely With This Tie Out Stake | 40% Off Until Midnight | https://norvure.com/products/tanglefree%E2%84%A2-360-swivel-dog-tie-out-stake | 1715049493 | 1.1075792873604E+14 | HappyMe's | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440410296_320816604184579_4382935421732099458_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=SCcZSST0H0QQ7kNvgF-0jE-&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDQQ3plvF28j7_S2glI7mbVhPLtUSYF7vhHy_vH4zsX_w&oe=6672ADBC | person_profile | 0 | HappyMe's | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438118318_3775657095983445_6022554941443760618_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=cyWbLUHdXNsQ7kNvgG68rhb&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYC3HkwyzTHMa-lJeDXgjWkOYhTF_m09f3-o9BWeLxB0ZQ&oe=66729B52 | 0 | 3 | πΎ Give your furry friend the freedom to explore without tangles! TangleFreeβ’ 360Β° Swivel Dog Tie-Out Stake ensures your pet's safety and your peace of mind during outdoor playtime.<br /> <br /> π Click Below To Get Yours 40% Off Until Midnight | HappyMe's | 4240 | https://facebook.com/100094368992659 | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1715065200 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879395 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:29 PM | 1718410683 | 1723321797 | 995 | 624461703169271 | 1 | 4.3310230580463E+14 | 1711177200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 101479542560743 | 0 | ConsumerSafe.com | 120205741070030259 | contact.consumersafe.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | See If You Qualify | They set aside $4.5 billion... | https://contact.consumersafe.com/roundup/ | 1710166508 | 1.0147954256074E+14 | ConsumerSafe.com | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/431615458_770690081512177_3495676478623739503_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=4A5U3MFLNL4Q7kNvgFOLvuL&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDoDXMh5wggKgEqlnRNb8EwJuN7dTRwp08Sj0Mqy9qmRA&oe=66729A05 | person_profile | 0 | Consumersafe.com | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/431770947_782259450625980_2788408335447563369_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=m5KTRcrCT0IQ7kNvgGWWXjk&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDR2jAonxQp56uUh2R6Tcrmxz6_8f87wGTTKhJ8f3jibg&oe=66729CE9 | 0 | 3 | Roundup weedkiller has been linked to Non-Hodgkinβs Lymphoma. If you or someone you know used Roundup and was later diagnosed with Non-Hodgkinβs Lymphoma, you could be eligible to receive significant compensation as part of a settlement. Click to learn more and see if you qualify. | ConsumerSafe.com | 1552 | https://facebook.com/consumersafedotcom | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1710140400 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879401 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:29 PM | 1718410684 | 1723321799 | 995 | 364773666547126 | 3 | 1.4503721990179E+15 | 1716188400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 101065786425886 | 0 | Fit Fusion Hub | 120205440160240685 | fitfusionhub.co | Shop now | NONE | video | Free Worldwide Shipping! | βββββ 5/5 Reviews! | https://fitfusionhub.co/products/spray-water-bottle | 1711385222 | 1.0106578642589E+14 | Fit Fusion Hub | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434184238_1072920160456235_24173197660041531_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=BRxix8Xfy9AQ7kNvgHiZ_Yk&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYB-Xc4VVpdIlU3djZttwUD_EmP7_drGCPQ5IL_xeY0HSw&oe=6672A598 | person_profile | 0 | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434367076_1410016319635911_4146421580755421988_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=aERQW_u-SLwQ7kNvgH1WhJc&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDbAXo26I-uzCQPH5vE1bB1a8umCU40AjEvpibXTfhDqg&oe=6672C32C | 0 | 3 | Sip, spray, and stay refreshed on the move with the stylish 700ml Spray Water Bottle, your ultimate hydration companion! π¦π | Fit Fusion Hub | 54 | https://facebook.com/fitfusionhub | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1716102000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879429 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:29 PM | 1718410685 | 1723321799 | 995 | 416526867943445 | 1 | 7.6142898584583E+14 | 1717138800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 337782656077360 | 0 | Happy Drama Catching Up | 120212457540530592 | fblp.drama-time.com | Watch More | NONE | dco | Download Nowπππ | https://fblp.drama-time.com/Gm09h7-0524-EN-694790.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=1777998279593623554 | 1716974468 | 3.3778265607736E+14 | Happy Drama Catching Up | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/445372749_806966594400367_8328680758778900513_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=6WkkU54eBlMQ7kNvgEzKyLc&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDYfuqIPxsjjapVd5vo2ig5JAAzqsFYuCzC_JpExU2lug&oe=66729FDA | person_profile | 0 | Happy Drama Catching Up | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/445517830_981120310045018_357273464333431315_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=QroaYOh1EzMQ7kNvgGzBrG5&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAkgh7tA7yo04mxRwNsub0cexNcK9z8A_WHndYV0gwZiQ&oe=6672BBF1 | 0 | 3 | Reborn - I am the Protagonist ONLY on Miiow TV.π¬ Don't miss out! Watch the series you've been wanting to see. No regrets, just pure entertainment! #Must SeeTV #No Regrets #Watch Now | Happy Drama Catching Up | 13 | https://facebook.com/61559368364181 | 0 | WATCH_MORE | 1716966000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879433 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:29 PM | 1718410685 | 1723321799 | 995 | 416526867943445 | 1 | 7.6142898584583E+14 | 1717138800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 337782656077360 | 0 | Happy Drama Catching Up | 120212457540530592 | fblp.drama-time.com | Watch More | NONE | dco | Download Nowπππ | https://fblp.drama-time.com/Gm09h7-0524-EN-694790.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=1777998279593623554 | 1716974468 | 3.3778265607736E+14 | Happy Drama Catching Up | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/445372749_806966594400367_8328680758778900513_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=6WkkU54eBlMQ7kNvgEzKyLc&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDYfuqIPxsjjapVd5vo2ig5JAAzqsFYuCzC_JpExU2lug&oe=66729FDA | person_profile | 0 | Happy Drama Catching Up | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/445517830_981120310045018_357273464333431315_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=QroaYOh1EzMQ7kNvgGzBrG5&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAkgh7tA7yo04mxRwNsub0cexNcK9z8A_WHndYV0gwZiQ&oe=6672BBF1 | 0 | 3 | Reborn - I am the Protagonist ONLY on Miiow TV.π¬ Don't miss out! Watch the series you've been wanting to see. No regrets, just pure entertainment! #Must SeeTV #No Regrets #Watch Now | Happy Drama Catching Up | 13 | https://facebook.com/61559368364181 | 0 | WATCH_MORE | 1716966000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879459 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:29 PM | 1718410686 | 1723321799 | 995 | 832571872068678 | 1 | 7.730406250423E+14 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 108282622378515 | 0 | Claire Ryan Nina | 120211459524200017 | cooolink.com | Download | NONE | image | Free download ποΈποΈποΈ | https://cooolink.com/w2a/lp/bangtoon/cooolinkBtComics2?utm_source=fb_onelink&utm_medium={{placement}}&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_adset_name={{adset.name}}&utm_ad_name={{ad.name}}&utm_adset_nameid={{adset.id}}&utm_ad_nameid={{ad.id}}&utm_campaignid={{campaign.id}}&utm_channel={{site_source_name}} | 1718362899 | 1.0828262237852E+14 | Claire Ryan Nina | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448349104_460323980082272_4603568607602931499_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=2wfJmayuroYQ7kNvgHDC_WF&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYATX9wNgvHnhUBXbNLupbcKdx05FRI9ouneGwlqcP9yrA&oe=6672BB68 | person_profile | 0 | Claire Ryan Nina | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448162716_3290634484566531_2579799371635045115_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=qeOsGdIhNwoQ7kNvgFjv3Qc&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYA2UbIgqtyum1V5GH-3FGp6JBMlccM2BmTp-4RL1fRZrA&oe=6672C432 | 0 | 3 | This manga is definitely worth watching! πππ | Claire Ryan Nina | 0 | https://facebook.com/61552215344479 | 0 | DOWNLOAD | 1718348400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879472 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:29 PM | 1718410686 | 1723321800 | 995 | 1270150917336863 | 1 | 1.0274659354045E+15 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 108282622378515 | 0 | Claire Ryan Nina | 120211459507960017 | cooolink.com | Download | NONE | image | Free download ποΈποΈποΈ | https://cooolink.com/w2a/lp/bangtoon/cooolinkBtComics2?utm_source=fb_onelink&utm_medium={{placement}}&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_adset_name={{adset.name}}&utm_ad_name={{ad.name}}&utm_adset_nameid={{adset.id}}&utm_ad_nameid={{ad.id}}&utm_campaignid={{campaign.id}}&utm_channel={{site_source_name}} | 1718362815 | 1.0828262237852E+14 | Claire Ryan Nina | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448388266_828442218733292_8101428239588270147_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=vromgRlOSsIQ7kNvgG_TarX&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBMKlA2HXFrEVmdCI8Ox3PWSsTZNSJhbJc-a7AY_itVXg&oe=6672A28D | person_profile | 0 | Claire Ryan Nina | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448324263_1378685396161370_330723754129909790_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=zNGxz9lcmakQ7kNvgEcZkHU&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYACRV6O1Ye8YtgTJoXc_6SiffH0iInIMhqiF7kwbTLdQQ&oe=6672C92B | 0 | 3 | This manga is definitely worth watching! πππ | Claire Ryan Nina | 0 | https://facebook.com/61552215344479 | 0 | DOWNLOAD | 1718348400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879488 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:29 PM | 1718410686 | 1723321800 | 995 | 484727797317617 | 1 | 3.8233189212365E+15 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 465231436915042 | 0 | Round Hill Pines Beach Resort | 120209928093240713 | roundhillpinesresort.com | Learn more | NONE | image | Purely Lake Tahoe. | Free parking after 5pm | https://www.roundhillpinesresort.com/ | 1716313534 | 4.6523143691504E+14 | Round Hill Pines Beach Resort | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/444151843_474469511617545_4871444314462096977_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=5n_Vo2WMopYQ7kNvgEoD4nA&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDeO87Ktb-hclFm0KpNJi1bqar7kqY1tgbWSSZp9fyQwQ&oe=6672ABD8 | person_profile | 0 | Round Hill Pines Beach Resort | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/444190415_426693070154938_8110181002765708861_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ksHFz3L-ScoQ7kNvgF740lG&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDWvPwKJz44hPs11Le7_8uzaDz0HMZWEmcMZdTFdhhfIw&oe=6672C31F | 0 | 3 | Cocktails with toes in the sand and the best sunset view on the Lake. The Rum Bar awaits the pleasure of your company. | Round Hill Pines Beach Resort | 6705 | https://facebook.com/roundhillpines | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716620400 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879497 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:29 PM | 1718410687 | 1723321800 | 995 | 989063109520358 | 1 | 9.7705697704554E+14 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 214305385109285 | 0 | Delaney Worldwide | 120209559278060084 | delaneyworldwide.com | Learn More | NONE | carousel | Discover Effortless Relocations With Us | Choose us for stress-free moves! | https://www.delaneyworldwide.com/local-long-distance/ | 1715588930 | 2.1430538510928E+14 | Delaney Worldwide | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441450794_7441351729289684_4996825761901876544_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Gqx580w7YTAQ7kNvgEgN5BK&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDPE1JtfOQCvTojXQeSzAabpBNe_V8RIQoOrPmz0rHygw&oe=6672AADD | person_profile | 0 | Delaney Worldwide Inc | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440496763_742214424660267_3958153346325376394_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=-QQUxV3SEocQ7kNvgEV1ovs&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYB3aqBCARnHG6HXMZghhQVg1qh1Dg0KIkBP9pePtit3QA&oe=6672BDCF | 0 | 3 | Choose us for stress-free moves! | Delaney Worldwide | 2 | https://facebook.com/61557773368721 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716188400 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879498 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410687 | 1723321800 | 995 | 989063109520358 | 1 | 9.7705697704554E+14 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 214305385109285 | 0 | Delaney Worldwide | 120209559278060084 | delaneyworldwide.com | Learn More | NONE | carousel | Discover Effortless Relocations With Us | Choose us for stress-free moves! | https://www.delaneyworldwide.com/local-long-distance/ | 1715588930 | 2.1430538510928E+14 | Delaney Worldwide | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441450794_7441351729289684_4996825761901876544_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Gqx580w7YTAQ7kNvgEgN5BK&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDPE1JtfOQCvTojXQeSzAabpBNe_V8RIQoOrPmz0rHygw&oe=6672AADD | person_profile | 0 | Delaney Worldwide Inc | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440496763_742214424660267_3958153346325376394_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=-QQUxV3SEocQ7kNvgEV1ovs&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYB3aqBCARnHG6HXMZghhQVg1qh1Dg0KIkBP9pePtit3QA&oe=6672BDCF | 0 | 3 | Choose us for stress-free moves! | Delaney Worldwide | 2 | https://facebook.com/61557773368721 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716188400 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879499 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410687 | 1723321800 | 995 | 989063109520358 | 1 | 9.7705697704554E+14 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 214305385109285 | 0 | Delaney Worldwide | 120209559278060084 | delaneyworldwide.com | Learn More | NONE | carousel | Discover Effortless Relocations With Us | Choose us for stress-free moves! | https://www.delaneyworldwide.com/local-long-distance/ | 1715588930 | 2.1430538510928E+14 | Delaney Worldwide | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441450794_7441351729289684_4996825761901876544_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Gqx580w7YTAQ7kNvgEgN5BK&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDPE1JtfOQCvTojXQeSzAabpBNe_V8RIQoOrPmz0rHygw&oe=6672AADD | person_profile | 0 | Delaney Worldwide Inc | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440496763_742214424660267_3958153346325376394_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=-QQUxV3SEocQ7kNvgEV1ovs&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYB3aqBCARnHG6HXMZghhQVg1qh1Dg0KIkBP9pePtit3QA&oe=6672BDCF | 0 | 3 | Choose us for stress-free moves! | Delaney Worldwide | 2 | https://facebook.com/61557773368721 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716188400 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879500 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410687 | 1723321800 | 995 | 679771527573816 | 1 | 9.5691207609713E+14 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 108164895515 | 0 | LifeCare Alliance | 120208883012670396 | lifecarealliance.org | Learn more | NONE | image | Supporting Independence & Dignity | You can make a difference! | https://www.lifecarealliance.org/beingtherematters/ | 1714765915 | 108164895515 | LifeCare Alliance | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438144986_672527694998886_2515713942064662129_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=j7o54Fk5WaEQ7kNvgGQsrGD&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAcSfvYSL0e1KO0LaqtaZpaxjG6fSY_KWF3TofTSuAQ3Q&oe=6672C9F7 | person_profile | 0 | LifeCare Alliance | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440413863_1589580615151604_4716376650662036087_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=WZvcOikuCeoQ7kNvgEr-tbf&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBo2ZEYXO-Qd680LaJ6jmYfUfJzxH70Y9LC6YA58B259Q&oe=6672C602 | 0 | 3 | Explore the vital services we provide for seniors and those with medical challenges. From Meals on Wheels to our Free Cancer Clinic, Help-at-Home and so much more, Being There Matters. Join the Alliance β donate or volunteer today! | LifeCare Alliance | 4039 | https://facebook.com/LifeCareAlliance | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879761 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410719 | 1723321800 | 995 | 379270718294139 | 1 | 7.4703713420808E+14 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 241155789412943 | 0 | Inland Valley Recovery Services | 120206695304000591 | www.inlandvalleyrecovery.org | Contact us | NONE | video | Your Road To Recovery Starts Here | Break free from addiction. | https://www.inlandvalleyrecovery.org/ | 1710394723 | 2.4115578941294E+14 | Inland Valley Recovery Services | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/431869361_348072008207042_2220250795207324178_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=5oezD1mslxsQ7kNvgFzPnjs&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDMuxoO7ZXqauQ_tD-3pnCWj6lI2F5I_Z2DHi243C2E6A&oe=6672C9FB | person_profile | 0 | Inland Valley Recovery | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/430738651_330975669947882_1433483430364268567_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Gb6tZSHhmJAQ7kNvgGNPWiG&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCU6CeoCOWvJzwAzw0eLlKS5ML8g-Q4ZJHlbFmHD3itgw&oe=6672AF73 | 0 | 3 | Are you or someone you love battling a fentanyl addiction? You're not alone. We are ready to help you. | Inland Valley Recovery Services | 2178 | https://facebook.com/InlandValleyRecoveryServices | 0 | CONTACT_US | 1710486000 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879777 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410723 | 1723321801 | 995 | 3257834227858415 | 1 | 3.7757143170999E+14 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 113222160318026 | 0 | Servall - Paris, TN | 120210481180440370 | servallpestcontrol.com | Contact Us | NONE | carousel | Protect Your Home With Proper Drainage | Expert gutter solutions! | https://www.servallpestcontrol.com/ | 1710166404 | 1.1322216031803E+14 | Servall - Paris, TN | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/431186519_1112968813354192_4278728201242244015_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=awMtziREd9YQ7kNvgGWtSfC&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBXqDE-kbyVLWLPb6qw0EdiwKOmKkyILgz6iAxm438vkQ&oe=6672A9C8 | person_profile | 0 | Servall - Paris, TN | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/431273553_338768775263175_8395586336125006700_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=a7B5Zmh1clwQ7kNvgE_eZ7W&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYB5YGMSvJXZvbu1oi6wW0LyyewDGqjNvBTdqP8JV_IxXg&oe=6672B7C8 | 0 | 3 | Expert gutter solutions! | Servall - Paris, TN | 643 | https://facebook.com/ServallParis | 0 | CONTACT_US | 1710572400 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879526 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410692 | 1723321801 | 995 | 404621832409719 | 28 | 9.6783316154479E+14 | 1716534000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120210797601370002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πRead the next chaptersπ | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1716634519 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438221346_347076918382053_5509872404599054561_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=sisTEz4NT9EQ7kNvgHKLxoB&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCtqMSOg0KYjS4Qe6YSMcVwv7m8-3gjX2xmRdEJ4QbNtQ&oe=66729A9D | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438240590_982215810240924_7779339330704555568_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=k8YDPZIgCtIQ7kNvgEe3WoY&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDgQf2PDgTNWbeeCeovqRzYZ15FNuJAKpZSDMwPWPKx8w&oe=6672A3E0 | 0 | 3 | I had never seen Felix like this - fury was written all over his face, and his lanky figure was trembling slightly. I've known Felix since we were born. Our mothers were best friends and they were trying to pair us up again just now. I had a crush on him, and he always treated me kindly. But now, he glared at me and spat, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around! That's why they misunderstood! Stay away from me!" I hadn't expected him to say something like that. I stared at him dumbfounded. Both my parents and Felix's parents ceased their conversation about our wedding and future. Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? I'm my own man. I'll never marry her, so you all can just stop trying to pair us up!" Felix shouted as he glared at everyone in the house. His eyes were filled with hate. It made me want to curl up into a ball out of embarrassment. The house remained completely silent. Everyone's gaze was on me, and I could feel my heart throbbing in pain. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. He had trampled all over my dignity and self-worth in front of his whole family and mineβ¦ My father, usually calm, flushed crimson at Felix's harsh words, his fists clenched. Mom, too, looked angry and embarrassed, jaw agape, her expression one of disbelief. Uncle Austin, Felix's father, slapped Felix, scolding, "You rebellious boy! Who taught you to behave like that?" The impact of slap sent Felix reeling, and he hit his head on the corner of the wall. Felix slumped to the floor in pain, leaving an unmistakable streak of red on the white walls. Aunt Mel rushed forward with concern, "Felix, my son! Are you alright?" Felix shot me a scathing glare as if I had committed an unspeakable crime. "Are you happy now, Luna?" he spat. I stared back at him with wide eyes, tears streaming down my face and onto the floor. Even though I liked him, that didn't mean he could throw wild accusations and embarrass me as he pleased! I liked him, but I, too, had my sense of dignity! If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I would gladly change! "I'm sorry, Felix. I never thought that my actions would have bugged you so much," I forced the humiliation down as I continued, "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix." I bit my lip hard, and the sharp tang of blood exploded across my tongue. I, Luna Lawson, also swear to myself - I won't endure the same humiliation AGAIN! | Massive story | 670 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716361200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879527 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410692 | 1723321801 | 995 | 404621832409719 | 28 | 9.6783316154479E+14 | 1716534000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120210797601370002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πRead the next chaptersπ | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1716634519 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438221346_347076918382053_5509872404599054561_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=sisTEz4NT9EQ7kNvgHKLxoB&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCtqMSOg0KYjS4Qe6YSMcVwv7m8-3gjX2xmRdEJ4QbNtQ&oe=66729A9D | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438240590_982215810240924_7779339330704555568_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=k8YDPZIgCtIQ7kNvgEe3WoY&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDgQf2PDgTNWbeeCeovqRzYZ15FNuJAKpZSDMwPWPKx8w&oe=6672A3E0 | 0 | 3 | I had never seen Felix like this - fury was written all over his face, and his lanky figure was trembling slightly. I've known Felix since we were born. Our mothers were best friends and they were trying to pair us up again just now. I had a crush on him, and he always treated me kindly. But now, he glared at me and spat, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around! That's why they misunderstood! Stay away from me!" I hadn't expected him to say something like that. I stared at him dumbfounded. Both my parents and Felix's parents ceased their conversation about our wedding and future. Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? I'm my own man. I'll never marry her, so you all can just stop trying to pair us up!" Felix shouted as he glared at everyone in the house. His eyes were filled with hate. It made me want to curl up into a ball out of embarrassment. The house remained completely silent. Everyone's gaze was on me, and I could feel my heart throbbing in pain. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. He had trampled all over my dignity and self-worth in front of his whole family and mineβ¦ My father, usually calm, flushed crimson at Felix's harsh words, his fists clenched. Mom, too, looked angry and embarrassed, jaw agape, her expression one of disbelief. Uncle Austin, Felix's father, slapped Felix, scolding, "You rebellious boy! Who taught you to behave like that?" The impact of slap sent Felix reeling, and he hit his head on the corner of the wall. Felix slumped to the floor in pain, leaving an unmistakable streak of red on the white walls. Aunt Mel rushed forward with concern, "Felix, my son! Are you alright?" Felix shot me a scathing glare as if I had committed an unspeakable crime. "Are you happy now, Luna?" he spat. I stared back at him with wide eyes, tears streaming down my face and onto the floor. Even though I liked him, that didn't mean he could throw wild accusations and embarrass me as he pleased! I liked him, but I, too, had my sense of dignity! If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I would gladly change! "I'm sorry, Felix. I never thought that my actions would have bugged you so much," I forced the humiliation down as I continued, "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix." I bit my lip hard, and the sharp tang of blood exploded across my tongue. I, Luna Lawson, also swear to myself - I won't endure the same humiliation AGAIN! | Massive story | 670 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716361200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879530 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410692 | 1723321801 | 995 | 404621832409719 | 28 | 9.6783316154479E+14 | 1716534000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120210797601370002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πRead the next chaptersπ | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1716634519 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438221346_347076918382053_5509872404599054561_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=sisTEz4NT9EQ7kNvgHKLxoB&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCtqMSOg0KYjS4Qe6YSMcVwv7m8-3gjX2xmRdEJ4QbNtQ&oe=66729A9D | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438240590_982215810240924_7779339330704555568_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=k8YDPZIgCtIQ7kNvgEe3WoY&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDgQf2PDgTNWbeeCeovqRzYZ15FNuJAKpZSDMwPWPKx8w&oe=6672A3E0 | 0 | 3 | I had never seen Felix like this - fury was written all over his face, and his lanky figure was trembling slightly. I've known Felix since we were born. Our mothers were best friends and they were trying to pair us up again just now. I had a crush on him, and he always treated me kindly. But now, he glared at me and spat, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around! That's why they misunderstood! Stay away from me!" I hadn't expected him to say something like that. I stared at him dumbfounded. Both my parents and Felix's parents ceased their conversation about our wedding and future. Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? I'm my own man. I'll never marry her, so you all can just stop trying to pair us up!" Felix shouted as he glared at everyone in the house. His eyes were filled with hate. It made me want to curl up into a ball out of embarrassment. The house remained completely silent. Everyone's gaze was on me, and I could feel my heart throbbing in pain. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. He had trampled all over my dignity and self-worth in front of his whole family and mineβ¦ My father, usually calm, flushed crimson at Felix's harsh words, his fists clenched. Mom, too, looked angry and embarrassed, jaw agape, her expression one of disbelief. Uncle Austin, Felix's father, slapped Felix, scolding, "You rebellious boy! Who taught you to behave like that?" The impact of slap sent Felix reeling, and he hit his head on the corner of the wall. Felix slumped to the floor in pain, leaving an unmistakable streak of red on the white walls. Aunt Mel rushed forward with concern, "Felix, my son! Are you alright?" Felix shot me a scathing glare as if I had committed an unspeakable crime. "Are you happy now, Luna?" he spat. I stared back at him with wide eyes, tears streaming down my face and onto the floor. Even though I liked him, that didn't mean he could throw wild accusations and embarrass me as he pleased! I liked him, but I, too, had my sense of dignity! If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I would gladly change! "I'm sorry, Felix. I never thought that my actions would have bugged you so much," I forced the humiliation down as I continued, "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix." I bit my lip hard, and the sharp tang of blood exploded across my tongue. I, Luna Lawson, also swear to myself - I won't endure the same humiliation AGAIN! | Massive story | 670 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716361200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879534 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410692 | 1723321802 | 995 | 468089762273303 | 1 | 1.6919708815392E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 273913162469522 | 0 | New world publications | 120212928768730170 | wwwedb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πAttention! Do not read in publicοΌπ | https://wwwedb.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11782&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717757425 | 2.7391316246952E+14 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959759_1311554859802432_4227718076479884991_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GwKF1hWO7f4Q7kNvgGcgnOa&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAaDJ90YtTRVgl1h4Qq29YmZWIZCVWKY5MqqmnLhItL8w&oe=6672A69D | person_profile | 0 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959270_7187349571370885_4976612476689122460_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=NNss872fdPgQ7kNvgE-PVII&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAp0ikcilFTLm0se1WcAfumGS3USCJAFn0NgxepicFnPw&oe=6672B455 | 0 | 3 | The clearing of a throat makes me jump. I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of alcohol. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that donβt quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door. Shrinking down to the ground. βIs this the way you greet all Alphaβs?β His deep voice rumbles through the room, an edge of amusement to his tone. βIβm sorry.β I whisper, getting to my feet. βIβ¦I thought I was alone.β I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. βCome forward.β He orders. Alpha Trey was going to kill me. I do as Iβm told. Allowing him to see me properly and I am met with narrowed crimson eyes. I close my own eyes, expecting the worst. βYou smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?β My head moved up and down, though I couldnβt tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they discovered the truth about me. βI would prefer it if you spoke to me.β He growls, βIβm not in the mood to play games.β βYes.β I whisper. βI amβ¦I am a Wolf.β I couldnβt help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? I wasnβt sure how much more my body could take. βHow is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.β βIβ¦..β I hated the question. βI havenβt got all day!β He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldnβt scent him. I knew why I hadnβt been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever liked to do. They never hear my side of the story. All they do is accept Alpha Trey's word as the truth. βYou should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?β His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them. There was no way I was making direct eye contact. βMy Wolf abilities were bound.β βWhy?β If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. βIt was a punishment.β βFor what?β βFor killing my parents.β | New world publications | 9 | https://facebook.com/61557831245498 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718089200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879787 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410724 | 1723321803 | 995 | 328628403299992 | 1 | 6.7053029729062E+15 | 1714806000 | person_profile | taken-down | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 321330554388277 | 0 | Start Reading | 120207810472520056 | befant.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | β€οΈπWhat happens nextπClick Here to read onπ | https://befant.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=11192&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1714573086 | 3.2133055438828E+14 | Start Reading | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441206868_1116532276285473_1322182524522961747_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=dVdBCJR8m9IQ7kNvgGxBIHN&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYB7kMrKVOgJ8YW8xzKGRsgCufQFrP2OVnCXBDScENWSEw&oe=6672BD09 | person_profile | 0 | Start Reading | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440418966_448917680872294_3438075365541597509_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=A81_9g5fi4IQ7kNvgGjLewp&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCte60qkl7CLEFTwKWYv-5UrqhAQ7J86fd-7fhXEnOTxA&oe=6672950C | 0 | 3 | Evelynβs POV I sat at the bar, downing drinks and trying to forget about my problems. βPour me another, please,β I said to the bartender. As the omega refilled my glass, I looked at my phone and sighed for the umpteenth time. Still no word from my boyfriend, Alex, and no news from my fatherβs doctor either. Just as Iβd prayed the moon goddess would spare my mother and bring her back to me, I now prayed for my fatherβs life. Out of the blue, heβd slipped into a coma, and a month later, the doctors still had no answers. Meanwhile, I lost hope and my heart broke more with each passing day. The pack wasnβt faring well without their alpha, either. They needed a leader, and as my fatherβs only legitimate child, I would become the next alpha of my pack if he didnβt make it. I sighed again as I wondered if the pack would be better off with my stepbrother Kevin in the role. He was a male with a powerful wolf. Conversely, I was a female with no wolf. If that werenβt bad enough, an ug-ly scar that ran from my cheek to my ear marred my face so prominently that others stared constantly. Even patrons in the bar stared, though I did my best to ignore them. I took a swig, downing the last of my drink. βAnother,β I said to the bartender. βMiss, youβve had quite a lot already. Maybe itβs best to stop and go home for now?β the bartender, an obvious omega said. I looked at her and rolled my eyes. βI donβt want to go home. I want to drink until I forget about life. So give me another, please.β As the bartender hesitated, a waiter approached. βI have the perfect drink for you,β said the omega. βA new brand of whiskey, and itβs strong. Itβll take the edge off and make you forget. I can promise you that.β βIβll take it,β I slurred. The omega waiter nodded. βVery well. Iβll be back in a jiffy.β Once he left, I focused on my phone once again. Still nothing from Alex or my fatherβs doctor. A minute later, the omega waiter approached with an open bottle. βHere you go. Thisβll help you forget all your worries and cares. Dare I say, youβll be in ecstasy for at least forty-eight hours.β βYouβd do well, as a brand ambassador,β I said with a chuckle. βAll right. Let me sample its glories.β The waiter nodded and poured a substantial amount into my tumbler. I tipped the glass back, gulped its contents in a single swig, then slammed the tumbler back onto the bar. I addressed the bartender as I grabbed my bag to retrieve my wallet. βTab, please.β It was time for me to get going. I needed to see my father. The bartender acknowledged my request, then walked to the register. Before the bartender got there, my image wavered. I rubbed my suddenly blurry eyes. βWhat the heck?β I mumbled as I stood. I almost ended up on the barroom floor, barely able to catch myself in time. I gripped the edge of the bar, working to stay upright. The omega waiter rushed to me, grabbing me by the waist to help me. βPrincess, are you okay?β I gently extracted myself from him. βYeah. Fine,β I said, then put a hand to my forehead. Too hot, and my stomach was queasy too. That thought barely registered before blackness engulfed me. Sometime later, I sighed, then opened my eyes. My face twisted in confusion. βThis is not my house. It looked more like a hotel room. What was I doing here? And how did I get here?β I muttered to myself, rubbing my blurry eyes. Before I could think long enough to answer either of those questions, giggling came from the room next door. Then a familiar female voice said, βOh, Alex. Do you know how long Iβve waited for you to touch me?β I covered my mouth to hold back a gasp. Iβd know that voice anywhere. It was my stepmother, Quinn. But what βAlexβ was she talking to? It couldnβt be my Alex. That couldnβt be possible. Even the idea of that was outrageous. Yet, I didnβt know any other Alex, and I didnβt think Quinn did either. Still, there had to be some reasonable explanation. My legs felt like jelly, so I used the roomβs furniture and walls for balance as I staggered to the hotel room door. I opened it and, with blurry vision, looked around. When I didnβt see anyone, I walked to the next door. Quinnβs voice came from the other side. βYouβre not truly going to marry that scarred wench, are you? I mean, she doesnβt even have a wolf. Meanwhile, you could easily have all of this with me.β βTrue,β said a male voiceβAlexβs voice. My Alex! What the hel? How could he? βBut sheβs the heiress,β he said, continuing. βAnd I can always come to your room at night whenever I get bored with her.β Quinn chuckled, and I could barely believe what I was hearing. So it was all about me being the daughter of their alpha. Alex was with me just to get his hands on my fatherβs properties and wealth. βPlease,β Quinn said flippantly. βShe might be Alphaβs daughter, but with that scarred face of hers and no wolf, sheβs no better than a rogue omega. Itβll be my son, Kevin, who ends up with everything, not that weak girl. Besides, youβre too handsome to have such a disgusting wife.β I folded my fists in anger. How evil could Quinn be? And Alexβcould he be more of an ingrate? Still, I couldnβt help but press my ear to the door to hear more. βYou say that like itβs a certainty,β Alex said. βJust remember that, unless I marry Evelyn, Kevin gets nothing.β So they had a plan. Alex intended to marry me to secure the properties and the seat of the pack. Then it seemed he, along with Quinn, intended to ensure everything would somehow be transferred to Quinnβs son, Kevin. Theyβd plotted against me! I had to pick my gaping mouth up off the floor. βBut enough with all that for now,β said Alex. βI want a taste of that fleshy hole of yours.β βOnly if you tell me I can steal you away from that silly girl. She doesnβt deserve you. Youβre too good for her.β Alex laughed. βOf course. Once everythingβs in place, you can do whatever you want with her. In the meantime, you can still have me, especially once me and Evelyn are married, and all of us are living in the same house.β βNo worries about access,β Quinn said with a giggle. βThatβs right,β Alex said. βAnd Iβm looking forward to having constant access to this beautiful succulent body of yours, too.β I couldnβt take any more. I barged into the hotel room, allowing the back of the door to slam against the wall. βHow dare you!β I thundered. Chapter 2 I stare from Quinnβs nonchalant face to Alexβs petrified face. βYou ungrateful slime!β I yelled. I reached for the vase on the roomβs front table and flung it at Alexβs head. He ducked, and the vase hit the wall behind him, shattering. That I missed made me even angrier. Quinn wore a smug smirk as I staggered a few steps into the room. I shook my head. It didnβt feel right. It felt like something more than a hangover, like Iβd been poisoned. Still, I wanted to pounce on these two traitors, so I pressed on, getting dizzier by the step. Quinnβs smirk grew evil as she saw me struggle to keep consciousness. She looked like a villain whose plan was falling into place perfectly. I saw it, the mischievous look in her eyes. It seemed like it had been her plan for Me to get poisoned, and be brought here, so I could find her and Alex in Bed. βWhat can you do about it?β She asked Me and I scoffed, unable to believe the amount of shamelessness I was seeing in Quinn. Then ignored her, turning my attention to Alex. βI fcking trusted you!β I screamed. βHow could you do this? And with my stepmother? Whatβs wrong with you?β βOh, stop being such a drama queen,β Alex said. βWhat if I have an interest in older women? That doesnβt mean I don't love you.β βThatβs my fuking stepmother, Alex! My dadβs wife! This is the height of immorality,β I said, shaking my head. βI can't believe you! Really!β I yelled again. βEve, dear,β Quinn said, βyou need to stop yelling. You donβt seem well.β I glared at her and clenched my fists, wanting to pummel the two of them until they couldnβt feel anything but pain. Instead, I said, βDonβt pretend to care about me. You think I donβt know how much you hate me? Goddess knows, you donβt hesitate to show it. So stop pretending like you really care what happens to me. For all I know, you planned this whole thing so I could see you both, have a heart attack, and die.β Quinn gasped and laughed mockingly. βI am not that creative, Evelyn. Besides, why would I want you to know Alex and I fell in love?β I stared at her in disbelief. βIn love? You conniving snake. It's only been a month since Father slipped into a coma, and youβre claiming to be in love? With my boyfriend?β Alex came over and rubbed my arms. βNow, calm down.β I kept my focus on Quinn as I got away from Alex. βHow shameless can you be? Is your love that fickle? Does it change that fast?β βCome on,β Alex said, drawing my eyes. βIt's no big thing. Hey, maybe you could even join us. What do you think?β I glared at him. βJoinβ¦?β I landed a loud slap on his face. βYou filthy pig. Youβre worse than a rogue. And you donβt think thereβs anything immoral about what youβre suggesting? About what youβre doing? Sleeping with my stepmotherβ¦ your future mother-in-law?β Alexβs face contorted into a frown. βOh, stop being such a goody two shoes.β Alex grabbed my elbows. I pulled away from him. βDonβt touch me! To think I wanted to be your wife. Ever since the day I met you, I wanted that, too. How silly of me. I should have heeded the warnings about you.β βDonβt be disrespectful, Eve,β Quinn said. βIβm still your fatherβs wife and head of this pack. And I will not tolerate it.β βLeader of the pack? Is that so? You havenβt even done anything to find out why my father, your husband, ended up in a coma. Pfft. Youβre a terrible excuse for a leaderβ¦ and a mother.β βExcuse me?β Quinn rose from the bed and approached with her eyes narrowed. βAre you undermining me?β I shook my head. βSimply stating the bitter truth. Ever since you came into my fatherβs house, thereβs been nothing but pain and discomfort. I wish it was you instead of my dad in that coma.β Quinn slapped me hard across the face. βThatβs for your insolence.β She slapped me again just as hard. βThatβs for hitting Alex.β She slapped me once more. βAnd thatβs for wishing me dead.β Alex grabbed her hand. βQuinn, please. Thatβs enough.β Quinn glared at him. βThis young lady is a spoiled brat. She needs to be taught a lesson.β She turned back to me. βIβm in charge of this pack and also your legal guardian, and Iβve had it up to my guts with your tantrums.β I stared at her in disbelief. βWake the fvck up, Eve,β Quinn yelled. βI make the rules now, and you will do as I say. Do you hear me, you worthless omega?β I wished I had a wolf so I could shift and have it out with this crazy bit-ch. But maybe not having a wolf was what allowed me to remain calm, despite the fact that Iβd never been hit in the face before. Either way, I kept my cool while I stared into my adulterous stepmotherβs eyes. Eventually, I shook her head and said, βYou disgust me,β then turned and left the room. As the door closed behind me, tears came to my eyes. What a betrayal. As if it werenβt bad enough that Alex cheated on me, he chose to do it with my stepmother. Why? Why me, of all people? I aimlessly headed back to the room I came from, still staggering to get my things. I opened the door and then stopped, wondering why she was bothering to go back there. Everything was a blur, and I wasnβt sure if it was because of my welling eyes or the pill Iβd obviously been given. But then I felt a presence behind me. Chapter 3 βWho are you?β I asked, as I tried to shake off the wave of discomfort and dizziness that had suddenly hit me. I wiped my eyes. βYou!β I exclaimed, looking at the omega waiter from the bar. βWhat are you doing here?β Nerves crept up my spine as I stared at the man who had given me the drinkβthe drink that had obviously been dru-gged. βOh, come on Princess.β He stepped forward, forcing me to go back up into the room. βYou know why Iβm here,β he said with a wicked grin. βAnd your body wants it. I know it does.β I wanted to puke, βPlease let me go home. I need to go home to my dad.β βIβll let you go homeββhe started to unclasp his beltββas soon as you give me what I want.β I backed up another step. βIt will be over soon, Princess. I promise.β βWhy?β I asked, still seeing him through blurry eyes and wondering if there was any way I could escape him. He gave me a perverted smile, then wagged his brows. βWell, your body is a nice prize on its own, but there are better reasons.β I didnβt need him to tell me those reasons. If he took my first time, I'd be forced to marry him, which would damage my reputation and leave utterly no chance of becoming an Alpha heir. I couldnβt bear the thought of sleep with him, let alone marrying him. I had to find a way out. But the blurry vision was making me dizzy. All I thought to do was plead. βI need to get home immediately,β I said as authoritatively as I could in my current condition. βIt's late.β The omega smirked. βYou know I canβt let you leave, Princess. Not without a taste of the forbidden fruit.β He approached. As soon as he got within range, I slapped him hard with all the strength I could find. His face twisted in rage. βThis isn't the fuking palace.β He hit me back so hard that he knocked me onto the bed. βThis is my turf. I do as I wish.β Alex POV βWe need to get Eve,β I said. βShe didnβt look too good.β Quinn stared at me in disgust. βAre you really worrying about her right now?β I looked at my phone, biting my finger as I saw all of Eveβs messages for the first time. And now, she wasnβt responding to me. What if she went off and slept with some other guy? I turned to Quinn. βIβm just worried. She didnβt look well. She seemed off, like she was sick or something.β Quinn rose from the bed and sauntered to a table in the corner, where she picked up a bottle of booze and poured a glass. With the glass in hand, she strutted seductively back to me. βHere. Drink this. It would help calm you.β I accepted the drink and took a gulp, then walked to the window. Quinn approached from behind and wrapped her arms around my bare waist. βI fear she isn't okay,β I said. Quinn sighed in irritation. βShe was drunk. Thatβs how she is these days. She gets drunk, and I don't even know her whereabouts. She probably goes out sleeping around. Maybe sheβs out sleeping with some omega right now,β she said with mischief in her voice. I spun around, squinting at her. βWait a second. Did youβ¦? Was this your idea, when you said I should be your sneaky link? You know I can't afford to lose Eve.β Quinn sighed. βWas what my idea? To get her drunk and have her brought to our hotel? Pfft. Donβt accuse me of such outrageous things. Yes, I wanted her to find out about us, but I didnβt do that.β I ran my hands through my hair, unsure whether I should believe her. βAnd why are you so worried about her sleeping around?β Quinn asked. βWhy should you care what she does?β βFuk,β I whispered. I always knew this play-boy attitude of mine would get me into a ton of trouble one day, but I never expected it to be with a girl I actually cared about. Yes, I was using her for her inheritance, but that didnβt mean I had no feelings for her. βListen,β Quinn said. βIβm sure you feel like sheβll betray you because you betrayed her. But do you really think sheβll risk it, knowing sheβll have to marry anyone she sleeps with? Not only that, in her position, Eve would lose her dignity in the community, too. Sheβd end up begging you to take her back.β βAre you sure about that?β Quinn took the glass from me and kissed me slowly. Once she drew her li-ps away from mine, she peered at me. βIβm here to help you,β she said. βSo even if she doesnβt beg for you, I can always ensure you end up owning some Carson family properties. Iβm married to Alpha Carson after all.β She bit her li-ps seductively. βSo be a good boy and come undress me.β Something pricked in the back of my mind, a warning I couldnβt put into words. But it was something that told me to resist her, that I couldnβt trust her. But I wanted her, so I put a lid on that warning, and a few minutes later, my tongue grazed her vagi-na. Chapter 4 Evelyn POV I struggled to keep my head straight, as I fought for consciousness. I heard footsteps and I knew that the weird omega was back. I staggered up, reaching for a weapon. My hand found the neck of an empty wine bottle. I swung it in an arc and hit him across the head. He went down with a thud, and I ran out of the room and directly into a man. βI'm sorry,β I mumbled as I tried to scoot past him. βMiss, are you alright?β he asked. I turned and saw the omega coming after me. βHelp me,β I said, with panicked eyes and a voice filled with urgency. The stranger saw the omega, grabbed my wrist, then dragged me into his room. In one smooth motion, he slammed the door shut, locked it, then spun me into his che-st With fear of the omega still overwhelming me, I buried my face in his arms and whimpered weakly, latching onto his trousers to steady myself. βHeβs gone,β said the stranger. I raised my head from his bare front body and peered at him. Despite my blurry vision, I could tell he was handsome. βWhatβs your name?β I whispered. He chuckled, then backed away and walked to his table. βSuppose I told you, would you remember? You seem a little drunk.β I shook my head. βI was poisoned. And there's still quite some amount in my system. But Iβll try to remember. Please, whatβs your name?β βMy name isn't important. You look exhausted. I need to get you home.β I chuckled. βIβd feel safer staying hereβ¦ with you.β He walked toward me. βI am a wolf in heat. You know what that means.β It meant he wanted a woman se-xually. Any woman. βI can do just the same that omega could do to you. Are you still not afraid of me?β I chuckled. βI just found my fiancΓ©e cheating on me with my fatherβs wife. YouββI rested my palm on his body the other hand, seem like an honorable person. I'd rather sleep with you than with that cheat or a creepy omega. Besides, you don't seem all that scary.β I held his face, looking into his blue eyes. βA person with a story and many secrets, yes, but not scary.β βYour li-ps are so beautiful, Evelyn,β he said, and I looked up at him. βHow did you know my name?β He chuckled and gestured to my necklace. βYour necklace says it. Am I wrong?β βAh, right. Silly me. And here I thought you were one of those crazy stalkers I have.β βAnd if I was? Would you run away?β βNo,β I whispered, and the stranger kissed me. I returned his kiss with a fervent passsion, and we gnawed at each otherβs li-ps, each trying to outdo the otherβs needs. I moaned as he kissed me. His hands wandered, touching me gently. A flicker of apprehension came to my mind, but I pushed it back, telling myself this was right. This was what I wanted. He struggled to unbutton my blouse while continuing to steal kisses from my li-ps. I sighed in pleasure when, moments later, his touch landed on my body and he latched hungrily at it. βOh, the goddess,β I moaned as I wrapped my hands around his head. I felt the heat in my pusssy. βTo the moon goddess,β he said, βyou have the most gorgeous body and eyes I have ever seen.β He approached and wrapped his hands around my waist. He picked me up bridal style and carried me to the bed. There, he laid me on the mattress and kissed me again. With his tongue, he languidly strolled down my body to my mound, then inserted a finger. βSo tight,β he growled. I moaned and squirmed under his touch, parting my legs further. He moaned in approval and then shifted, placing himself at my entrance. I flinched in fear when I saw the size of him. He noticed my apprehension and he stopped. βAre you all right?β he asked. βDo you want me to stop?β I shook my head. βNo. Itβs just that it's my first time.β He chuckled and patted my hair. βIβll be gentle,β he said and kissed me pass-ionately. My body soon became receptive, and he got into me slowly. I squirmed as he filled me, the sensation painful at first. He sighed in pleasure. βSo tight. So wet,β he whispered, then kissed my forehead and drove his full length into me. I grabbed him and cried out. βShh. Shh. It's alright. Itβll feel good in a minute,β he said and started moving inside me. Slowly, my body adjusted to his size, and I loosened my grip on his shoulders. As I relaxed around him, he could feel my calmness and he increased his pace. His growls and my moans filled the room, the both of us reaching the peak of ecstasy in unison. βI need to take a shower,β I said after the climax subsided. He nodded and lifted me, taking me to the bathroom where he washed me. As he kissed me deeply with the water pouring over our bodies, mating tension rose between us againβ¦ I woke early the next morning, feeling sore all over from the previous nightβs activities. The handsome stranger with whom I enjoyed those activities was still asleep. So I rose from the bed and went for my bag, leaving behind an envelope that contained a check. Then I got dressed and tiptoed out of the room, closing the door quietly behind me. Chapter 5 I stirred in my sleep, my body sore from the business of last night. Suddenly my eyes shot open, when I heard my bedroom door open, and in walked Quinn. I glared at her and shut my eyes. βSign of bad luck. I open my eyes and I see the adulterous stepmother of mine.β I said sarcastically. Quinn glared at me and she opened my curtain window. βYou should get up. It's time for breakfast.β I peered at her. βYou never care if I eat or not. Is this your guilty consciousness getting to you?β Quinn studied me, and I squirmed uncomfortably under her intense gaze. βDid you have se-x last night?β Quinn asked. I shot her a surprised look. βHmm. Seems like you did.β Quinn said and I looked away. βI have no idea what you are talking about. Get out of my room.β I said and Quinn walked towards me. She didnβt look convinced. βWeβll talk about this later,β she said. βFor now, you have a pack function to attend, so come down for breakfast,β Quinn said and walked out of the bedroom. I stared at my closed door and I wondered why all of a sudden, Quinn was so nice to me. I'd find out at breakfast. I got up to shower with the events of the previous night running through my mind. Wouldnβt it be nice if that was all I had to think about? A short while later, I went to the dining room where Kevin, my stepbrother, was seated at the tablet at Quinnβs right hand. But what caught my attention was Alex. βWhat are you doing here?βI clenched my fists in rage. βDonβt make a scene,β Quinn said. βJust sit and have breakfast quietly.β βI refuse to share a table with this scumbag,β I said. βGet him out of here. Or rather, I wouldnβt want to disturb your happy family, so Iβd rather have my breakfast in my bedroom.β Alex stood and held my hands. βEve, let's talk in private.β Kevinβs gaze shifted from me to Quinn, to Alex. βWhatβs going on here? Is there something that I don't know about?β Kelvin asked. He and Alex had been very good buddies and that's how he and I met. I kept my focus on Alex. βLet go of me. I have nothing to say to you.β Alex simply stared at me. βI asked you not to make a fuss at breakfast,β Quinn said. βWhy can't you obey simple instructions, hmm?β I stared at Quinn in disbelief. βMaybe I would have yesterday when I still respected you. But not after my discovery last night.β Kevin straightened in his chair and addressed me, βI can take anything you do, but I won't accept you insulting my mom, Evelyn. Just sit down if you are asked to.β I shot him a glare. βYou stay out of this,β I said and looked at Quinn. βOr would you like for me to tell your son about your shameful acts?β βShut your trap,β Quinn said, banging her hand on the table. I chuckled at Quinnβs discomfort. She obviously didnβt want her son knowing about her escapade. I pulled out of Alexβs grasp. βI am going to check on my father,β I announced to the room, then turned to the kitchen maid. βI'll have breakfast in my bedroom, Sophia,β I said and turned to walk upstairs. βPrepare yourself,β Quinn called out. βYour engagement is in four days.β I paused and looked back at her. βExcuse me?β I asked, my eyes strained and narrowed. Quinn folded her hands. βYou heard me. Prepare for your engagement ceremony in four days. Bring the omega you slept with last night.β I gaped at her. βWhat do you mean, the omega she slept with?β Kevin asked. βHer fiancΓ©e is standing right in front of her.β He shifted his gaze from his mother to me. βWhat is going on, Eve?β βAlex cheated on me with your mother, and I caught them in the act, so our engagement is off.β Kevin turned to his mom with disbelief etched into his features. βYour mother is a despicable woman,β I added. βOne who sleeps with her stepdaughterβs fiancΓ©e. Thatβs how dirty and disgusting she is. Now, you must understand why I refuse to cower under her authority?β I said, looking Quinn directly in the eye. βEvelyn Carson!β Quinn yelled as she sprang from her chair. βShut up.β βLet's talk about this in private,β Alex implored. βIt can be solved.β I curled my li-p in disgust. βBold of you to assume Iβm still interested in being your wife. You think because I have no wolf and am deemed a worthless omega that I would settle for a man who doesnβt know the line between family and se-xual relationships?β βOh, come on now. Get rid of your pride. Nobody will want to marry someone who already slept with a man,β Alex said. βPfft.β I scoffed. βYou're finally showing your true colors. I wish I'd never been with you. β I turned to Quinn. βAnd about that engagement party. Fine. Set it up. Iβll bring him home that day. Ensure you send out invitations. I'd rather be married quickly to this stranger than marry a cheat.β I nodded toward the kitchen maid. βSophia, breakfast to my bedroom, please,β I said, then left the room. Kevin turned to Quinn and asked, βWhat was she talking about, Mom?β I heard Kelvin say. βShut up, and eat your breakfast,β she said. I know she's planning to get rid of me but I would make sure she's thrown out before she can even achieve her aim. I'll prove to her that the Alpha's blood runs in my veins. Three days passed since I and Quinn had fought over the engagement ceremony. Immediately after their argument, I uploaded a profile on a dating site, expressing my need for a contract husband just for the engagement ceremony. I continuously pressed the refresh button on my computer but had no bites, and I was running out of time. The engagement ceremony was tomorrow. While I was in the bathroom, a notification bell sounded on my computer. I rushed to it to check the message. It was from an anonymous commenter and said, βI have time tomorrow. How much would I be paid? Hit me up.β Chapter 6 The next morning, Sophia knocked on my door. βMadam Evelyn. It's morning. Please wake up.β I turned in my bed, then rose and stretched with a smile. It was my engagement day and Quinn and Alex were in for a surprise. I was almost giddy with the prospect, especially since Iβv done my own investigation and learned that the omega waiter whoβd poisoned me five nights ago had done it under the commands of one of the βhigher upsβ. It turned out that higher up had been Quinn. I smirked in bliss as my mind went back to the message I had received from the anonymous man whoβd agreed to take part in my engagement today. We had agreed on his entrance to the engagement party and how much I would pay him for his appearance, while I figured out the best way to get rid of my adulterous stepmom and treacherous ex-fiancΓ©e. Sophia pulled me from my thoughts, saying, βYour breakfast is served downstairs.β I looked at her. βWhy downstairs? I do not want to have breakfast while seeing their faces. I made sure I made myself clear a few days back.β I said with my eyebrows raised. βI apologize,β said Sophia, bowing her head. βThe madam wanted you to have breakfast with the family downstairs.β I rubbed my temple. βAll right. Iβll join them.β Only because I didnβt want them to ruin this beautiful morning for me. βJust run my bath for me.β Sophia nodded and headed to the bathroom. Thirty minutes later, I walked down the stairs confidently, even with the long scar running across my face.. Alex stared, looking pained, as I walked into the room. Too bad youβre not marrying me, huh, as-shole? He stabbed at his sausages, likely angry at himself for ruining his plan to inherit the Carson fortune, using me, was now thwarted badly. Quinn noticed Alexβs face and she cleared her throat βWelcome to the table, Eve,β she said to me. I looked at her, said nothing and sat down beside my step brother. βCongratulations on your engagement party, Sis,β said Kevin, handing me a small box. I nodded curtly and took the box from him. I opened it and saw a small bracelet. βThank you,β I said and went back to eating. Silence permeated the breakfast table. Afterward, Alex left the room, looking like he was going to go brood. Quinn seemed excited about the prospect of marrying me off, probably figuring she could finally have Alex, Carson, and the house to herself. She was in for a serious surprise. I had plans to make their lives miserable for making a fool of me. Kevin was the only one who seemed neutral. As the preparations for the engagement party began in earnest, I left to go upstairs and battle with my hair, clothes, and makeup. A short while later, after my hair had been arranged with pins and diamond hair accessories, I heard a soft knock on my bedroom door. βCan I come in?β I heard Kelvin ask. βYeah sure.β I said and he walked in. His face held surprise when he saw me, then gulped and looked away. I looked extremely attractive today, so he was probably wondering if they had all looked down on me because I was always dressed plainly. βI donβt have all day, Kevin,β I said as he continued to stand there mute. βSo spill it.β He sighed. βI'm sorry about what my mom did to you, and I know it's shameless of me to ask, but can you please let it go? If the elders find out this party isn't an engagement ceremony for you and Alex, and it's because he cheated on you with my mom, my mom will lose her dignity and respect as a woman in our pack.β βI have no plans to tell the elders why Alex and I arenβt getting married, and you shouldnβt be begging for forgiveness on your momβs behalf. If she needed it, she would have asked for it herself. Now, is that all you wanted? And why are you suddenly so humble and calm toward me when youβre normally so cold and arrogant?β Kevin shrugged, then turned to the room, glancing back once before he walked out. My attendants went back to preparing me for the party. After a couple of more hours, I was ready, but filled with nerves because my arranged partner hadnβt yet arrived. Quinn texted me, βYou should come down with that omega now. The partyβs about to begin.β I bit my fingers in fright. But then my phone pinged with a text message from my anonymous partner. βIβm here,β it said. I let out a sigh of relief. With renewed confidence, I strutted out of my room and down to the party pavilion. I texted him to walk into the compound and go to the pavilion, then raced to meet him. When I arrived at the entrance, Quinn and Alex were already there. Only that the stranger who exited the car wasnβt a complete stranger. He approached me. βHello, my love,β he said, then locked kiss on my li-ps. I was shocked, though my body remained rigid as my brain tried to figure out what was happening. When our li-ps separated, he said, βAre you happy to see me?β He smiled and leaned in toward my ear. βWasnβt very nice of you to leave the other night, and without even bothering to ask my name, too. It's Kian, by the way, Kian Sylvester,β he whispered. βHow did you find me?β I whispered back. βCoincidence, or maybe youβd call it fate, my beautiful. But before we continue our banter, won't you introduce me to your family?β I straightened myself. βOf course,β I said, still trying to absorb the fact that my paid partner for the day was the man I had spent my very first night with. I turned and took in my stepmotherβs expression. The look of shock there in her face satisfied me. I smiled. Anybody could see Kian wasn't just a random omega. Even though I knew little about him, I could feel his powerful aura. I shifted my gaze from Quinn to encompass everyone there. βElders, Mother, Brother, this is Kian Sylvester, the man Iβm set to marry,β I announced with a small smile. βWhat is the meaning of this?β Quinn asked. βWho is this good-for-nothing man you have brought home to marry?β Silence descended on the crowd. βDo not say another insulting word toward my woman,β Kian said in an authoritative voice. βDo you hear me?β He scoffed. βYou call me a nobody? Well, ask Alex here who I am.β He turned to Alex. βWonβt you tell them, Brother?β he asked with a smile. Wait, I don't remember Alex having a brother. Did he??? Alex folded his hands into fists. βWhat are you doing here?β he asked through clenched teeth. βI thought that was clearβ¦ Iβm here to ask for my womanβs hand in marriage.β He smirked mischievously. βOh, Iβm sorry. Did you think I wouldnβt amount to anything after Father kicked me out?β Alex glared at him. βGo back to wherever youβve been hiding all these years before I tear your fcking face off.β βYou will not address our Alpha in such a manner, you scumbag.β Kianβs aide inserted himself between Kian and Alex. He turned to face the now murmuring crowd. I stood transfixed. He was an alpha? And Alexβs brother? Oh, the moon goddess! βThis is Alpha Kian Sylvester of the Blood Moon Pack, the strongest pack on this continent. Pay your respects properly.β Kianβs aide addressed the crowd. | Start Reading | 1 | https://facebook.com/61558999080853 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1714719600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879827 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410728 | 1723321803 | 995 | 2115068452192199 | 1 | 7.5946080672893E+15 | 1715583600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120210797601370002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πRead the next chaptersπ | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1716634519 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438221346_347076918382053_5509872404599054561_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=sisTEz4NT9EQ7kNvgHKLxoB&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCtqMSOg0KYjS4Qe6YSMcVwv7m8-3gjX2xmRdEJ4QbNtQ&oe=66729A9D | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438240590_982215810240924_7779339330704555568_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=k8YDPZIgCtIQ7kNvgEe3WoY&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDgQf2PDgTNWbeeCeovqRzYZ15FNuJAKpZSDMwPWPKx8w&oe=6672A3E0 | 0 | 3 | I had never seen Felix like this - fury was written all over his face, and his lanky figure was trembling slightly. I've known Felix since we were born. Our mothers were best friends and they were trying to pair us up again just now. I had a crush on him, and he always treated me kindly. But now, he glared at me and spat, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around! That's why they misunderstood! Stay away from me!" I hadn't expected him to say something like that. I stared at him dumbfounded. Both my parents and Felix's parents ceased their conversation about our wedding and future. Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? I'm my own man. I'll never marry her, so you all can just stop trying to pair us up!" Felix shouted as he glared at everyone in the house. His eyes were filled with hate. It made me want to curl up into a ball out of embarrassment. The house remained completely silent. Everyone's gaze was on me, and I could feel my heart throbbing in pain. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. He had trampled all over my dignity and self-worth in front of his whole family and mineβ¦ My father, usually calm, flushed crimson at Felix's harsh words, his fists clenched. Mom, too, looked angry and embarrassed, jaw agape, her expression one of disbelief. Uncle Austin, Felix's father, slapped Felix, scolding, "You rebellious boy! Who taught you to behave like that?" The impact of slap sent Felix reeling, and he hit his head on the corner of the wall. Felix slumped to the floor in pain, leaving an unmistakable streak of red on the white walls. Aunt Mel rushed forward with concern, "Felix, my son! Are you alright?" Felix shot me a scathing glare as if I had committed an unspeakable crime. "Are you happy now, Luna?" he spat. I stared back at him with wide eyes, tears streaming down my face and onto the floor. Even though I liked him, that didn't mean he could throw wild accusations and embarrass me as he pleased! I liked him, but I, too, had my sense of dignity! If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I would gladly change! "I'm sorry, Felix. I never thought that my actions would have bugged you so much," I forced the humiliation down as I continued, "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix." I bit my lip hard, and the sharp tang of blood exploded across my tongue. I, Luna Lawson, also swear to myself - I won't endure the same humiliation AGAIN! | Massive story | 670 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715410800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879867 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410733 | 1723321803 | 995 | 1402556640428550 | 1 | 2.8823912318998E+15 | 1716706800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 219004054622622 | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | 120210888594870646 | befant.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πAttention! Do not read in publicοΌπ | https://befant.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=11504&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1716446512 | 2.1900405462262E+14 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442485268_417302314557004_1623455597791525274_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ZKlLdgWgBaEQ7kNvgFEDALn&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDhvfqX1BlGJmtdbWyLQzE6lFecnCOHnMvyZjX28W4B3A&oe=6672C0B6 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442480714_993193531797256_1849337189330138636_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=9IBxx-WTtfYQ7kNvgFF3xlK&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAN5-xdfbbs_L0zw_lzRWrH1BLA1A7tthBE9IOohDm8OQ&oe=6672AA3E | 0 | 3 | My sister Cassandra bullied me for years and married Alpha King Alexander, the most powerful man in our country. She had a perfect marriage and family. Mom, Dad, and Alexander all loved her. But she died in childbirth. Everything turned upside down. I was forced to take her place to solidify our packβs relationship with the royals. Although I had hope for Alexander, I knew he never wanted me. "You really are trying to replace her, aren't you?" he said quietly, his voice laced with hate. "No, I swear I'm not," His cold fingers lifted my chin, forcing my eyes to meet his. "You know, I promised your sister I would never love another woman." His words pierced through me. The pain of losing Cassandra, even after two years, was still fresh, and I knew that Alexander's heart belonged to her and always would. "And I will keep that promise to her", he added. "I always know that," I whispered, trying to keep my voice steady despite the tears threatening to spill over. "I don't want to come between you and her memory." "Then tell me why you're wearing your sisterβs clothes." His words were still cold and questioning. "I'm sorry, I didn't want to do it, my mom forced me to wear this dress." I tried to explain, "Please believe me." "How could I believe someone who tried to seduce me at your sister's funeral?" The pressure from Alexander made me breathless. "No. No. I never thought of doing this. It was a misunderstanding." I shook my head desperately and argued for myself. "You're not worthy of wearing this dress." Alexander turned to leave. Painful marriage and the crime of poisoning my sister ruined my life again. I ran away with my babies and discovered my true identity, the princess of the neighbouring kingdom. βWho are you?βAlexander demanded from the masked woman in front of him βAlpha Alexander, you have the wrong person. My name is Fay," "You make me feel so familiar," He insisted, reaching for my mask to see my face. "No!" A hand stopped him β it was Alpha Victor's Beta Allen, "Don't touch her!" He growled, grabbing Allenβs collar threateningly. "Alpha Alexander, I'm sorry but I think you misunderstood. She is my wife, Fay" Beta Allen revealed, shocking him to the core. | Galaxy in the Story | 301 | https://facebook.com/61555427913037 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716447600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879873 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410733 | 1723321803 | 995 | 3652610685000724 | 1 | 1.1526254957867E+15 | 1716620400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 219004054622622 | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | 120210888594870646 | befant.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πAttention! Do not read in publicοΌπ | https://befant.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=11504&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1716446512 | 2.1900405462262E+14 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442485268_417302314557004_1623455597791525274_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ZKlLdgWgBaEQ7kNvgFEDALn&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDhvfqX1BlGJmtdbWyLQzE6lFecnCOHnMvyZjX28W4B3A&oe=6672C0B6 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442480714_993193531797256_1849337189330138636_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=9IBxx-WTtfYQ7kNvgFF3xlK&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAN5-xdfbbs_L0zw_lzRWrH1BLA1A7tthBE9IOohDm8OQ&oe=6672AA3E | 0 | 3 | My sister Cassandra bullied me for years and married Alpha King Alexander, the most powerful man in our country. She had a perfect marriage and family. Mom, Dad, and Alexander all loved her. But she died in childbirth. Everything turned upside down. I was forced to take her place to solidify our packβs relationship with the royals. Although I had hope for Alexander, I knew he never wanted me. "You really are trying to replace her, aren't you?" he said quietly, his voice laced with hate. "No, I swear I'm not," His cold fingers lifted my chin, forcing my eyes to meet his. "You know, I promised your sister I would never love another woman." His words pierced through me. The pain of losing Cassandra, even after two years, was still fresh, and I knew that Alexander's heart belonged to her and always would. "And I will keep that promise to her", he added. "I always know that," I whispered, trying to keep my voice steady despite the tears threatening to spill over. "I don't want to come between you and her memory." "Then tell me why you're wearing your sisterβs clothes." His words were still cold and questioning. "I'm sorry, I didn't want to do it, my mom forced me to wear this dress." I tried to explain, "Please believe me." "How could I believe someone who tried to seduce me at your sister's funeral?" The pressure from Alexander made me breathless. "No. No. I never thought of doing this. It was a misunderstanding." I shook my head desperately and argued for myself. "You're not worthy of wearing this dress." Alexander turned to leave. Painful marriage and the crime of poisoning my sister ruined my life again. I ran away with my babies and discovered my true identity, the princess of the neighbouring kingdom. βWho are you?βAlexander demanded from the masked woman in front of him βAlpha Alexander, you have the wrong person. My name is Fay," "You make me feel so familiar," He insisted, reaching for my mask to see my face. "No!" A hand stopped him β it was Alpha Victor's Beta Allen, "Don't touch her!" He growled, grabbing Allenβs collar threateningly. "Alpha Alexander, I'm sorry but I think you misunderstood. She is my wife, Fay" Beta Allen revealed, shocking him to the core. | Galaxy in the Story | 301 | https://facebook.com/61555427913037 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716447600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879877 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410734 | 1723321803 | 995 | 3652610685000724 | 1 | 1.1526254957867E+15 | 1716620400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 219004054622622 | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | 120210888594870646 | befant.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πAttention! Do not read in publicοΌπ | https://befant.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=11504&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1716446512 | 2.1900405462262E+14 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442485268_417302314557004_1623455597791525274_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ZKlLdgWgBaEQ7kNvgFEDALn&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDhvfqX1BlGJmtdbWyLQzE6lFecnCOHnMvyZjX28W4B3A&oe=6672C0B6 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442480714_993193531797256_1849337189330138636_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=9IBxx-WTtfYQ7kNvgFF3xlK&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAN5-xdfbbs_L0zw_lzRWrH1BLA1A7tthBE9IOohDm8OQ&oe=6672AA3E | 0 | 3 | My sister Cassandra bullied me for years and married Alpha King Alexander, the most powerful man in our country. She had a perfect marriage and family. Mom, Dad, and Alexander all loved her. But she died in childbirth. Everything turned upside down. I was forced to take her place to solidify our packβs relationship with the royals. Although I had hope for Alexander, I knew he never wanted me. "You really are trying to replace her, aren't you?" he said quietly, his voice laced with hate. "No, I swear I'm not," His cold fingers lifted my chin, forcing my eyes to meet his. "You know, I promised your sister I would never love another woman." His words pierced through me. The pain of losing Cassandra, even after two years, was still fresh, and I knew that Alexander's heart belonged to her and always would. "And I will keep that promise to her", he added. "I always know that," I whispered, trying to keep my voice steady despite the tears threatening to spill over. "I don't want to come between you and her memory." "Then tell me why you're wearing your sisterβs clothes." His words were still cold and questioning. "I'm sorry, I didn't want to do it, my mom forced me to wear this dress." I tried to explain, "Please believe me." "How could I believe someone who tried to seduce me at your sister's funeral?" The pressure from Alexander made me breathless. "No. No. I never thought of doing this. It was a misunderstanding." I shook my head desperately and argued for myself. "You're not worthy of wearing this dress." Alexander turned to leave. Painful marriage and the crime of poisoning my sister ruined my life again. I ran away with my babies and discovered my true identity, the princess of the neighbouring kingdom. βWho are you?βAlexander demanded from the masked woman in front of him βAlpha Alexander, you have the wrong person. My name is Fay," "You make me feel so familiar," He insisted, reaching for my mask to see my face. "No!" A hand stopped him β it was Alpha Victor's Beta Allen, "Don't touch her!" He growled, grabbing Allenβs collar threateningly. "Alpha Alexander, I'm sorry but I think you misunderstood. She is my wife, Fay" Beta Allen revealed, shocking him to the core. | Galaxy in the Story | 301 | https://facebook.com/61555427913037 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716447600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879367 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410683 | 1723321804 | 995 | 885751373391564 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 26448950205 | 0 | Free People | 6557918176448 | freepeople.com | Shop Now | 37974 | NONE | dpa | Ruched Seamless Shorts | $38 | https://www.freepeople.com/shop/ruched-seamless-shorts/?color=001&size=XS%2FS&type=STANDARD | 1718393531 | 26448950205 | Free People | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448261124_404035412632590_5629898659360079405_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Exv_oDtCgncQ7kNvgHxYA4t&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAlFTF-N1vl48WWYadSHozQteO7EWdi7c9Z0GUjQ08Osw&oe=66729E32 | person_profile | 0 | Free People | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448441737_448873858085819_3700902483057447922_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=bl0-cGBV-FoQ7kNvgHBkgJz&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAmcGqRHExIWm8NZVoKgFDNeLwTMSK01YuZ5Mh6VSODmw&oe=6672BE43 | 0 | 3 | Celebrate Summer! Free express shipping on all orders! Shop now. | Free People | 1746939 | https://facebook.com/FreePeople | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1718348400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879351 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410682 | 1723321804 | 995 | 435591232731351 | 2 | 3.4343185901975E+15 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 114071638271220 | 0 | Mane Strong | 120210850530700443 | shop.thesuperiormane.com | Shop now | NONE | video | Say Goodbye To Bald Spots - 50% OFF! | https://shop.thesuperiormane.com/ras-a | 1718252438 | 1.1407163827122E+14 | Mane Strong | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448323131_1504859346814364_6607060534447360493_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=cLoY_2ognMcQ7kNvgE3c9V_&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYC9TaN_p92tXpaLFX4kaaNsWwMrr0qTJfucaM4Islxqrg&oe=66729E97 | person_profile | 0 | Mane | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448335790_1493708098235045_4531131182391066588_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=S1l-RRCWAkkQ7kNvgFlvjao&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBT8rX7ImAVaiLPPhoO-cyiQHV6IA-iD3vTCqbaKrwYRg&oe=667299C7 | 0 | 3 | "Even at 50, my charm was undeniable, but my hair? It needed a miracle. Then Mane's Root Activator Shampoo changed all that! Now, I'm mesmerizing women with my thicker, more luxurious mane. It's like my hair has its own fan club! Thanks to Mane, I'm not just turning heads; I'm getting dates." Luke F., Verified Buyer β <br /> <br /> Get 50% OFF today only, no code required. Click [Shop Now] to get yours today! π | Mane Strong | 5233 | https://facebook.com/manestronger | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1718262000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879369 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410683 | 1723321804 | 995 | 885751373391564 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 26448950205 | 0 | Free People | 6557918176448 | freepeople.com | Shop Now | 37974 | NONE | dpa | Ruched Seamless Shorts | $38 | https://www.freepeople.com/shop/ruched-seamless-shorts/?color=001&size=XS%2FS&type=STANDARD | 1718393531 | 26448950205 | Free People | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448261124_404035412632590_5629898659360079405_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Exv_oDtCgncQ7kNvgHxYA4t&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAlFTF-N1vl48WWYadSHozQteO7EWdi7c9Z0GUjQ08Osw&oe=66729E32 | person_profile | 0 | Free People | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448441737_448873858085819_3700902483057447922_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=bl0-cGBV-FoQ7kNvgHBkgJz&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAmcGqRHExIWm8NZVoKgFDNeLwTMSK01YuZ5Mh6VSODmw&oe=6672BE43 | 0 | 3 | Celebrate Summer! Free express shipping on all orders! Shop now. | Free People | 1746939 | https://facebook.com/FreePeople | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1718348400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879831 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410728 | 1723321804 | 995 | 480124741257496 | 1 | 1.7277413576323E+15 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 219004054622622 | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | 120209611805750689 | wwwedb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πAttention! Do not read in publicοΌπ | https://wwwedb.com/market/meganovel/13?lpid=11783&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717743552 | 2.1900405462262E+14 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447260728_1518945155389917_2874266976111342341_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=g0H6jXhQP3sQ7kNvgGXGGZL&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYD5RKLxmmvz3_WMQm6M7TyxkgQmm5IfWgwhhyK_F2vFIg&oe=6672BD2F | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447272334_8058147917584464_4203412527007476159_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ookoAxwxG_QQ7kNvgE9thCo&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCeO_9K7nk0lXXIJiyjXCwWONM-nS-S5ZtufKX8Y6JJ9A&oe=6672A008 | 0 | 3 | One Neah βWhere the heck is she?β I hear the Beta scream. I already knew Beta Kyle was talking about me, the only servant of the house. I groan and get to my feet, grabbing the cleaning basket and taking it with me. The moment Beta Kyle sees me, he strides towards me and his hand slices against my cheek. I donβt make a sound. Years of experience has taught me to keep my mouth shut at all times and only speak when spoken too, even if what they are doing to me hurts. βAlpha Trey and I are expecting company and you still have not cleaned the office like you were asked.β Beta Kyle spits at me I nod my head and my hand tightens on the cleaning basket. If I could just find the courage to swing it at his head, it would make my day. I resisted, he was stronger than me and I didnβt need locking up for another week with no food. My stomach already hurt enough. βWe are trying to make a good impression on Alpha Dane. Do you not understand how important it is for us to join ourselves with his pack?!β I donβt answer, I know it's a trick, to try and get me to say something so that he can give himself a reason to punish me. I keep my eyes low so that I didnβt have to look at his face. Alpha Dane, I had only ever heard rumours about him. Words exchanged between the other pack members when I was in the room. From what I gathered, he was a ruthless man, a Wolf feared by others. He didnβt mess around and he had the largest pack. βHe is the Alpha of Black Shadow, the biggest pack in the world, we need him!β Beta Kyle continues. Yet he doesnβt tell me why. We had never been attacked and we had never attacked anyone, so why did we need another pack to help us? He places his hands on my shoulders, digging his nails into my thinning skin and turns me around, kicking me in the but as he shoves me towards the office. βUseless Wolf.β He mutters as he moves away. Quietly closing the door, I lean back against it, observing the already clean office. There was nothing out of place, it looked perfectly fine for a meeting with this so-called powerful Alpha. Closing my eyes, I slide down to the floor. I hated this house. I thought that when I turned eighteen, I could finally escape, but four years later, here I still am, a slave in my own home. Doing all the dirty tasks for my brother, Alpha Trey and the pack. While my ex mate, Beta Kyle waltzes around reminding me of how worthless I am. Someone clears their throat and I freeze, I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair, just around the corner. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of drink. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that donβt quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door as my heart pounded. βIs this the way you greet all Alphaβs?β His deep voice rumbles through the room, there was an edge of amusement to his tone. βIβm sorry.β I whisper, getting to my feet. βIβ¦I thought I was alone.β I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. He doesnβt introduce himself either, why should he? βCome forward.β He orders and I already feel a lump forming in my throat. Alpha Trey was going to finish me. I step around the corner, doing as Iβm told, allowing him to see me properly. I close my eyes, expecting the worst. βYou smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?β I nod, though I couldnβt tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they found out about me. βI would prefer it if you spoke to me.β He growls, βIβm not in the mood to play games.β βYes.β I whisper. I couldnβt help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? βWhy do you smell strange? And how is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.β βIβ¦..β I hated the question. βSpit it out, I havenβt got all day!β He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldnβt scent him. I knew why I hadnβt been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever wanted or liked to do. They never let me tell my side of the story. All they do is laugh and mock me. βYou should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. Itβs rude to not look at them. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?β His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them, there was no way I was making eye contact. βMy Wolf abilities were bound,β I mutter. Twice, I wanted to add. Twice my abilities were bound. But he probably wasnβt interested in that part. He leans forward, carefully placing his glass on the small table next to the chair. I could feel him staring at me, βWhy would someone do that?β If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. βIt was a punishment.β I whisper. It wasnβt far from the entire truth but it was the simplest answer I could give. Thereβs a twitch in his cheek. Was he angry to hear of such a punishment? Or maybe, just like the others, he was amused by it. I couldnβt tell. The door swings open and my brother screeches at me βNeah, what the heck are you doing in my office?β He turns to the crimson eyed man. βI am so sorry that my sister is bothering you, Alpha Dane.β Crap, it was him. My brother spins around, his hand stretching out to hit me. I close my eyes, bracing myself, ready to feel the burn. βI wouldnβt do that if I were you.β Alpha Daneβs voice rumbles through the room. Peeking through slits, I see Alpha Dane has risen to his feet, his hand coiled around my brother's wrist. He was taller than my brother, more muscly too. βNeah,β My name rolls off of his tongue, βwas kindly showing me to your office, Alpha Trey, as you failed to meet me at the front of your house like I requested. I was lucky someone was present, at least someone understands the importance of this deal.β What? I had no idea what he was talking about. And he had no reason to lie for me. My brother glares at me, clenching his jaw tight. I was going to pay for this later. I would have to try and steal some food. βGo and get Beta Kyle.β Alpha Trey seethes. βTell him that our guest is here.β I nod my head and hurry from the room, the last thing I wanted was to be caught between bickering men. βBeta Kyle,β I whisper as I enter the dining hall. He instantly glares at me with his dark eyes. I had spoken without being spoken to. βAlpha Trey is in the office with Alpha Dane. I was sent to inform you.β He slams the newspaper down on the table and glares at me as he walks by. βYouβre lucky that the Alpha sent you to get me, otherwise you wouldn't be seeing sunlight for a few days.β Pausing behind me, he yanks my head back, locking his fingers in my hair, leaning in close to me, I feel his hot breath on my skin. He doesnβt speak, it was just his way of proving that he could do what he wants when he wants. I try to keep myself busy so I can stay as far away from the office as possible. My peace doesnβt last long when I hear my brother calling out to me. Quietly, I pad towards the office and plaster a smile on my face as I open the door. βNeah, go get the champagne and some glasses, we are celebrating.β I bow my head and hurry to the drinks cabinet. Quickly finding what my brother has asked for. As I re-enter the office, I can feel Alpha Dane watching my every move, even the hairs on the back of my neck stand up. No one ever watches me this closely. Approaching the small table by Alpha Danes chair, I start to fill the glasses. He takes the champagne bottle from me, telling me he is more than capable of filling his own glass. I feel my cheeks flame, not from embarrassment, but because I knew that I would be punished for this. I should have been quicker. I should have filled the glasses before entering the office. I should haveβ¦. My brain freezes when I see my brother glaring at me. βNeah is your sister, correct?β Alpha Dane questions my brother. βShe is.β Alpha Trey mutters with disgust. He looks away from me to focus on the man asking questions. βWhy do you treat her like vermin?β Straight to the point, my brother wouldnβt like that. He only liked sharing information on his terms. No one had spoken to my brother about his treatment of me because everyone took great joy in beating me. I didnβt know what to do. I couldnβt move but I knew I had to get out of there. If this deal goes to pot because of me, then that would be my fault too. βNeah was responsible for our parents' death.β Alpha Trey spits I closed my eyes, battling back the tears that were threatening to break free. βResponsible how?β Alpha Daneβs voice rumbles through me. He was definitely angry. βShe served them Wolfsbane.β Two Neah Donβt make a sound. Donβt make a sound. I knew Alpha Dane was studying me. They all did, no one could ever quite believe how someone could do something so disgusting as poisoning their own parents. I stood there, with my head hanging low, wishing for the ground to open up and suck me in. There are movements around me. He was standing directly in front of me. With a rough finger he tilts my face up towards his, forcing me to look at him. Slowly, his hand latches onto my throat but he doesnβt squeeze. βYou poisoned your parents?β βI was six.β I splutter. βI just made them lemonade.β My voice comes out all squeaky as I try to defend myself. I could barely remember my parents, but I could remember all the guilt I had been made to feel since that day. His crimson eyes flash to my brothers. βHardly seems fair to blame a six year old.β βA six year old should know the difference between plants.β Alpha Trey snaps βSounds to me like she was set up.β Alpha Dane shrugs his shoulders, letting go of my throat. βWe all know that standard wolfsbane doesnβt affect us anymore. We evolved from that thing centuries ago.β What? What did he mean? Wolfsbane wasnβt lethal. It had been drummed into me since I could walk. βWhich only leaves Blood of Wolfsbane.β Alpha Dane mutters βYou werenβt there, Alpha Dane.β My brother muttered through gritted teeth as his eyes narrowed to slits. βIt was Wolfsbane.β He nods his head. βYou are right, I was not present.β Great, now there was someone else who could remind me of something I had done by accident, years ago. βBut tell me this, where would a six year old get Blood of Wolfsbane?β βI didnβt ask you here to talk about my slave!β Alpha Trey spits. βOr what happened to my parents.β Alpha Dane grabs his leather jacket from the chair. Unlike other Alphaβs he seemed to dress more casually. A simple black tee and jeans covered his huge frame. And unlike other Alphaβs, his arms are bare of tattoos, not a single bit of ink poked out anywhere. βYouβre right and now I have a few things to mull over.β βI thought we agreed.β My brother exclaims βNothing has been signed. Now I will show myself out.β The moment he is out of the office, both my brother and Beta Kyle round on me. βWhat the heck did you say to him?β My brother demands, slamming a hand into my stomach. βN..nothing. Well, he just asked me why I smelled funny.β βDid you tell him?β Beta Kyle demands. He was practically spitting in my face. I hated him. I hated him so much that I had vowed to one day get my revenge and rip his stomach out through his mouth. βWELL?β My brother yells when I donβt immediately respond and smacks me across the side of the head. My head involuntarily moves up and down. βBut I didnβt say it was you.β I tried to sound strong and confident but it just comes out as a whisper. If they werenβt Wolves, they probably wouldnβt have heard me. My brother's hand locks into my black hair as he yanks my head back, sending a shooting pain through my skull. βIf you have ruined this, you wonβt see daylight again.β He drags me by my hair from the office and down the hallway towards the basement door. βPleaseβ¦.β I beg. βHe was an Alphaβ¦Iβ¦ I had to answer him.β My cheeks burn with my tears as he flings the door open. On the other side of the door is Alpha Dane. He is leaning against the wall with his arms folded, staring out at us. My brother's hand falls from my hair, relieving the pressure on the back of my skull.. βAlpha Dane, I thought you had left.β Alpha Trey murmurs angrily. βI said I would show myself out. I thought I had found the door, but instead I find a basement, riddled in your sister's strange scent. Is this how you treat your family?β βAs I said,β my brother holds his ground, βShe is responsible for the death of my parents, so yes, this is what she deserves.β βYou should keep your nose out of other packs' business!β Beta Kyle adds. Alpha Dane laughs. βIf I agree to this deal, everything about your business becomes my business. So tell me, what would your punishment be for her? No food, locked away for a week, beatings?β βWe donβtβ¦.β βReally?β He cocks a brow, βYou really expect me to believe that you would have just let her sleep? I have already stopped you from hitting her once. " His eyes roam over me. "She is underfed, bags hover under her tired blue eyes. For a sister of an Alpha, she is certainly not treated like one. Regardless of what she allegedly did when she was a pup.β βShe did do it!β Alpha Trey seethes βAnd she has nothing to do with our deal.β βThatβs for me to decide.β His crimson eyes flicker around the hallway. βWhere is your mate? I would be interested to know how she feels about this.β I close my eyes, silently begging my brother not to call his Luna. Luna Cassandra is worse than Beta Kyle and Alpha Trey together. βOn second thoughts, why bother her. Iβm certain she is just as vile as you.β He sneers I peer through slits to see his crimson eyes on me. There was no reason for him to defend me and yet he was. I was a nobody, no one special. Just who everyone called a traitor. Only instead of being given a death sentence, my brother had decided to make me spend my life suffering. βI have a proposition for you, Alpha Trey.β Alpha Dane is smirking at my brother βWe have already agreed on terms.β βWell, Iβm adding one. And if you donβt agree, you will not get my help. Instead, you will become my enemy. And we both know, you donβt want that.β βI take it that your new terms have something to do with her?β Alpha Trey mutters through clenched teeth. βYou would be correct. Let me take her away to my pack and then you, Trey will have a deal.β Me? Why would he want me? As my brother and his Beta discuss me, Alpha Dane is still studying me. His look made me nervous. What could someone like him possibly want with me? βDeal.β Alpha Trey sticks out his hand for Alpha Dane to shake. He doesnβt take it, instead his crimson eyes shift from me to my brother. βI will have paperwork drawn up and will return tomorrow.β He reaches a hand out and cups my face, βEnsure you have everything packed.β He drags his thumb across my bottom lip and strides to the opposite end of the hallway and straight to the front door. He knew exactly where the front door was, so what was he up to? He pauses at the door. βIf I find out any one of you has laid a hand on her. The contract will be the last thing you need to worry about.β He struts out, slamming the door behind him. βGet out of my sight!β My brother snaps at me. Hurrying away, I make my way up the stairs and into my tiny bedroom. It was practically empty, the only things I had were a few changes of clothes. It would take me less than a minute to pack By morning, I hadnβt slept. Alpha Danes questions were on repeat and why was I so interesting to a Wolf like him. There was a reason he had the biggest pack. They were known for their fighting abilities, thatβs why my brother wanted to link Moonshine with Alpha Danes pack, but where did I fit in to all this? And what o earth is Blood of Wolfsbane? Three Dane βTenth brideβs the charm.β Jenson mocks as the driver pulls up in front of Moonshines packhouse. βShut up!β Eric snaps at him βBoth of you shut your mouths. Before you say something you regret!β βHe will never learn.β My wolf, Aero muses. The driver pulls open the door. βJust give me a second, I need to speak to my men.β The door closes and neither one of them speaks. βShe isnβt like the others. Donβt speak to her, donβt look at her. And you Jenson, keep your hands to yourself or you might just lose them this time.β I was more rattled than usual. Neah was different to the previous selected mates. I didnβt know what it was or whether it was because I was used to confident women, but there was something about her. And Aero appeared to like her too, more than any of the others. I had to have her. βI mean it!β I snap at Jenson's smug face, βBeing my brother wonβt change my mind!β He runs his fingers over his lips as though he was zipping them shut. They follow me from the car. Standing in front of the old packhouse, all three of us stare up at it. Because until a month ago, I knew nothing about them and even after my visit, all I had learned was the Alpha is a beast. My knuckles hammer on the door. Itβs barely open an inch when I force myself through making his Beta stumble back. I spot her straight away, hiding herself behind a corner. βAre you ready?β I call out. βIf you just want toβ¦..β Beta Kyle starts. βI was not talking to you. I was speaking to Neah.β The expression on Beta Kyleβs face was a picture. His jaw hung open and his eyes are wide. He clearly had never been told what to do, even by his Alpha. Neah steps out from her hiding spot, clutching a barely full carrier bag. She drags her teeth across her bottom lip and nods her head. βWhere are the rest of your things? I told you everything needs to be packedβ βThatβs all she has.β Trey snorts as he makes his appearance. βThatβs it?β I stare at him. βThatβs all her belongings? Sheβs what, in her early twenties and thatβs all she has?β βWhat more does she need?!β His Beta sneers. βKill him, let me rip out his throat and he will regret the day he crossed us.β βWhat are you waiting for?β I hear a horrible shrill voice that seems to vibrate through the floors. Looking away from the Beta, I see a woman holding on to a statue of herself that sat at the bottom of the stairs. Her blonde hair hung in waves around her face as her green eyes studied me and she sways her hips as she moves to Trey. I noticed Neahβs reaction yesterday. When I asked Trey where his mate was. Her whole body had tensed up in fear. She was afraid of this woman and I wanted to know why. βTake her Alpha Dane. Iβm sure she will be as useful a slave to you as she is to us.β Her shrill voice goes straight through me. βLook at the silly girl, sheβs going to pass out.β The blonde bimbo laughs βYou donβt get to talk about her like that anymore.β I glare at the blonde, βShe is not your toy. She is not your slave and I suggest that you, Alpha Trey keep your wife in check. There is only so much disobedience that I will tolerate.β βDISOBEDIENCE!β The woman screeches just as Neahβs hip hits the floor. βHow dare you! If anyone is disobedient, itβs that rat in the corner.β βWho the heck is she calling a rat?β Aero growls βYou should make yourself familiar with our agreement.β I snap. βIt seems your mate has not told you everything.β Waving Eric forward, he pulls a thick wad of paper from the folder under his arm. The contract that I have drawn up. βAll that for your help?β His mateβs eyes are wide βI donβt do half-witted contracts.β Taking the contract from Eric, I shove it against Treyβs chest βShall we go to the office?β Trey leads the way with his mate clinging on to him and his Beta hurrying behind. My men follow them while I stay behind to check on my new mate. βYou are more than welcome to join us, after all, you are involved in this deal. Or my car is outfront, you can take your stuff and wait there for me.β βAre those my only options?β she whispers, keeping her eyes low βFor now. Personally, I think you should sit in with us. It will give me great pleasure in pissing off that mate of your brothers.β She keeps her blue eyes low as she continues to clutch that bag of hers. This close to her, I could really see how ill she looked. Even her heart beat is slow, like itβs fighting to hang on to life. βSo what will it be?β βIβ¦.β Her head rotates between the front door and the direction of the office. βIβ¦.. The office I guess.β βGood choice.β I hold out a hand for her but she doesnβt take it. Pushing herself up to her feet. She wobbles a little, but steadies herself. Walking a few steps behind her, I see the evil glares she receives from Trey and the other two idiots as she enters the office.. βTake a seat.β I whisper as I walk past her. My hand grazes her lower back and she immediately tenses up. She stands, frozen to the spot. Only her eyes dart about when she shakes her head. βSit!β I say it a little louder βShe doesnβt have that privilege here!β The blonde snaps, with her lips curved up in amusement βSitting is not a privilege.β I growl, wondering what else they were forcing her to do. I couldnβt see any bruises on her arms or legs, a good sign, I hoped. βIt better be!β Aero paces in my head. He wanted her out of this place as much as I did. The blonde physically recoils in her seat. Her mouth falls wide open, shocked that I had said something. βAnd I suggest,β I look at Trey, βYou tell your mate to keep her mouth shut. Or I can shut it for her.β βAlpha Dane, you are in my homeβ¦..β βAnd you want my help, correct?β The three of them were fuming. No one liked being told what to do in their own home, yet they were doing just that to Neah. I point to the empty chair between Jenson and Eric and she finally sits down. βLetβs just get this done.β Trey snaps, βThe sooner she is gone, the happier I can be.β βYou should read the contract.β I muse βI agreed that you could take her as part of our deal.β βIdiot!β Eric murmurs. He knew as well as I did that contracts should be read before they are signed They sign without reading and practically throw the contract back at me. βDone.β Trey mutters βGood, you can get her out of my house.β Treyβs mate screeches. If I had it my way, I would just take Neah, then I wouldnβt have to put up with the twidles, but this way, they canβt have her back. Even if they begged. A contract was a contract and it was impossible for them to get out of. Getting to my feet, I hold a hand out to Neah, βCome, we are leaving this rat hole before I lose my temper.β Her warm fingers slip into my hand as she rises to her feet. Her other hand clutches the bag to her chest as she walks with me to the front door. She doesnβt even look back to say goodbye and that confirmed everything I needed to know. She hated them as much as they hated her. She pauses at the open front door, her hand falling from mine. Her blue eyes are wide as she stares at the limo. βCome.β I instruct Eric and Jenson are standing behind her, watching her curiously. βIs she okay?β Eric links me. βNeah?β I step in front of her and she doesnβt move. She seems to be staring right through me. βItβs time to go.β βOkay.β Her lips barely move She takes a step forward, almost as if she is in slow motion. Her hands grip the door frame, her knuckles turn white as her heartbeat increases. Her lips part a little and her hand falls from the door frame just as her eyes roll to the back of her head. βIβve got you.β I mutter, catching her just before she hits the floor. Her entire body tenses up as I lift her and carry her to the car. She was so weak and was even lighter than I expected. She probably didnβt weigh much more than a small child. Jenson and Eric get in the car first. Jenson cocks his eyebrow at me and has a smirk plastered to his face as I slide in with Neah on my lap. βKeep your thoughts to yourself, Jenson!β I hold her close, listening to her breathe and her heart as it slowed. Letting my fingers comb through her dark hair as she becomes a little more with it. Suddenly, she sits up right, moving away from me and trying to make herself as small as possible. Deciding not to force her to do anything, I keep my attention on my Beta and my brother, talking about pack stuff while casting a glance over to her every so often to make sure she was alright. βCome.β I mutter as the limo comes to a stop. I donβt wait for the driver and get out myself, holding a hand out for her. βIβm fine.β She speaks at last while glancing at the others and shuffles herself forward to the open door. She stares up at my home, gasping a little. It was easily three times the size of her previous home and I hoped that she would be happy here. That I could provide her with a life that was better than her last. βLet me give you a tour.β I suggest as she continues to clutch that carrier bag to her chest. She follows me in, not speaking a word. I had no idea if she was listening to what I was saying or not βThe omegas swap out on a rotational basis. Good for the youngsters to learn some responsibilities before they get proper jobs.β I tell her while showing her the dining hall with a table long enough to fit twenty people around. We move through to the kitchen. Where I point out a board on the wall. βIf there is anything you need, you just add it to the board and it will be ordered in.β Her brow furrows and still she says nothing. Picking up a pen, I smile. Maybe she felt intimidated by me. βSo tell me, what do you need because there is no way you are living under my roof with just the things that are in that bag.β Her dazzling blue eyes dart around the room βWell?β I ask. βI donβt need anything.β She whispers Sighing, I start scribbling things down. Underwear, jeans, workout clothes, dresses, shoes, anything I can think of that will cover her for a few days. Holding the pen between my teeth, I grab her around the waist. My thumbs meet just above her belly button and my fingers touch her spine. She was so thin, how was she even alive? Four Dane She looked like a deer caught in headlights as I write her size down. She was tinier than I thought. Skin and bone. If I had moved my hands up any higher, I would have felt every rib sticking out. It sickened me, she should be strong, powerful, she had Alpha blood running through her veins. I also saw how she scrunched her face up when I measured her. It wasnβt fear, it was pain. She was hiding something underneath the baggy maids dress. βI know you want to say something, so just say it. Iβm not interested in the crap Trey drummed into you. You donβt have to wait until someone asks you a question. You are free to say what you want. Are you injured?" "No." She was lying, I could feel it. She shakes her head as if it would confirm her answer and a lock of her black hair falls from the band that was supposed to be holding it back. Neah was going to be a tough girl to crack. A life of being starved had made her quite protective over herself. I will make Trey pay for what he has done to her. βYou have to say something, Neah. I cannot read your mind. When I mark you, at least I will know what you are feeling.β βMark me?β I didnβt think her eyes could get any wider. βYes, I will mark you.β She was completely and utterly shocked by the idea. Her pink lips part a little as she continues to stare at me. I thought she knew. I thought that was why she came so willingly. My Beta had kept asking me if I was certain I wanted her as my bride. There was no doubt about it, she had a strange scent but something was luring me to her. I couldnβt take my eyes off of her when I first saw her. My Wolf Aero was going mad for her too. Though he hadnβt said a word about her. Annoyed with me for not taking her home with us yesterday. βYouβ¦.You brought me so that you could mark me.β She takes a step back, walking into the kitchen island. She winces a little and quickly covers up her pain, relaxing her face.. βIf Trey had bothered reading the contract, he would have discovered that you are to be my bride, not a slave. He would also have read that if he or his ridiculously silly mate tried doing anything to you going forward, that pack would become mine, or rather, yours. I never bought you, Neah, you were always destined to be mine.β βIβm a murderer.β She gasps. βWhy would someone like you want me for a bride?β βBloodβ Aero growls interrupting my thoughts. I glance down at her baggy dress. A blood stain had appeared right where I had my hands wrapped around her. βWhatβs that? Are you injured?β I demand, I had barely touched her. She covers the stain with her hand. βItβs nothing. Itβs just a cut that I keep knocking and it opens up again. I forget itβs there.β Forget? How could she forget a wound? βWhy isnβt she healing?β I feel Aeroβs panic. βSheβs been with us less than two hours and already she has some form of injury.β His need to protect her was strong. It hadnβt occurred to me that her lack of abilities included not being able to heal. I would have to find someone who could reverse the binding and soon. βShow me!β βItβs fine.β She mumbles I was already so sick of hearing that phrase. βItβs not optional.β I mutter. βIf you wonβt show me, I will have to find a way to look, myself.β Her heart skips a beat. She looks around the kitchen. βCan.... can we go somewhere more private?β βPrivate?β I didnβt really do privacy. What Wolf did?! She bobs her head but still keeps her focus slightly off of me. Almost afraid to look me directly in the eyes. βOffice,β Aero mutters. βI was just going to suggest that!β I snap back at my Wolf. I feel his eyes roll as he retreats to some dark corner of my mind. βThis way.β I gesture to the door. Neah waits for me and follows closely behind. The scent of blood steadily grew stronger, it was more than just a cut. I already knew that. In the office, I hit the remote and the blinds start to drop, blocking out the sunlight. Neah hesitates and slowly begins to unfasten the buttons of the dress but only where the large blood stain was. Keeping everything else covered from me. She pulls the dress to one side. The wound was about four inches long and already fairly infected. βSee, itβs fine.β she whispers. βYou need to stop saying that.β She closes her mouth and starts to fasten the buttons. βNo,β I grabbed her hands, I had caught sight of another bruise. βLet me see the rest of them.β It wasnβt optional. She gasps as my fingers rip apart the rest of the buttons. Her sports bra had seen better days, just the same as her underwear. But it was the bruising I was most concerned about. Bruise upon bruise, scars that had come from whips. Her hip bones and ribs stuck out too. Turning her around, and pulling the dress from her, I find that her back is just the same. Yet interestingly, there was nothing above her chest and nothing below her thighs. Her arms were completely bare of wounds too. There was only one reason why someone would do that. To either hide what they were doing to someone, or to keep up appearances. They didnβt want guests to see. More importantly, they didnβt want me to see, considering the meeting was arranged over a month ago. She fumbles with the dress, pulling it tightly around her thin frame. βYou need to see a doctor.β βItβs β¦..β she trails off when she sees the anger on my face. βIt always heals, eventually.β βDid Trey do this?β I mutter with my teeth gritted and gesture to her body She lowers her blue eyes. βCassandra?β She still doesnβt answer me. βThat prick that follows Trey around? All three of them?β She pulls her dress tighter around her and silently nods. She brings her hand up to her face, brushing her cheek, wiping away an escaped tear. βAnyone else?β βThe pack.β She whispers. βIβm going to kill them all.β Aero growls. He will have to get in line, βBecause of what you allegedly did to your parents.β She nods. βI donβt believe you were responsible.β She tilts her head up towards me, her brow knits together as her eyes finally find mine. βBecause of Blood of Wolfsbane?" Five Neah βIβ¦I donβt know what Blood of Wolfsbane is?β I whisper He frowns at me. βYour brother said you knew the difference between plants.β βIβ¦β I didnβt have an answer. I couldnβt remember, not fully. βBlood of Wolfsbane is Wolfsbane fed by our blood. The leaves will have a red hue to them. I canβt imagine a child would know what it is because it is not freely grown. Your brotherβs story doesnβt add up.β βOh.β βI wonβt stop until I find out who did this, Neah.β His crimson eyes narrow. βI will make them pay for the suffering you have endured.β He sits on the edge of his desk, studying me. βRight now, you do need to see someone about the infection.β I kept my mouth closed, I was still trying to process his news of me being set up. Why had my brother never considered it? βCome, I will show you our bedroom. You can shower before we see the pack doctor.β Frozen to the spot, I donβt move. Did he just say βour bedroom,β? As in, we are sharing a bedroom? I guess he thinks he can mke love with me whenever he wants if Iβm his contract bride. A shiver runs down my spine at the thought. Glancing up, I see him watching me. He is stood at the open door, waiting for me. Ensuring my dress has me covered, I step out into the hallway. No one was around and the hallways were quiet. As we moved, Alpha Dane would tell me what each room was, but he seemed more focussed on getting me to the bedroom. His bedroom is huge, with massive windows, just like the rest of the house. The bed sat pressed up against the wall. All around it, thin drapes hung from the ceiling, but they were tied back at each bed post. What surprised me the most was that the bath and the shower were in the same room. Only the toilet was in a small room to the side of the shower. No privacy, whatsoever. Though, he didnβt seem to care about that. He makes me jump when I feel his warm breath on my skin. βYou donβt need to be afraid.β I may not be able to smell him, but he would be able to scent the changes in my emotions. Crossing the room, he pulls open the glass door to the shower and turns it on. The moment he closes the door, the steam of the shower quickly fogs up the glass. And still, I find myself afraid. He gave me no clue as to what he was expecting from me. βHey,β His rough fingers tip my face up. βItβs just you and me and for now, I will let you shower in peace.β Walking away, he pulls his phone out of his pocket and messes around with it before placing it on the bedside table. βThe alarm is set for ten minutes. I will come back then. I will bring you something to wear so just stay in the towel. Understand?β He stares at me, waiting for an answer and I just nod. A ten minute shower. I was lucky if I got a minute shower back home and the water was always cold. He moves to the door and with his hand resting on the door knob he looks back over his shoulder at me. βI really wish you would talk more, Neah.β Alpha Dane leaves me in peace and I make a mad dash for the shower as if Iβm in some kind of fantasy land and this was all a dream. Maybe it was, maybe I was about to wake up in the basement of my home. The smells of the soaps and shampoos are divine as I lather them into myself. And my hair has never felt so clean. The wound on my stomach stung as the hot water hit it, but I didnβt care, it was worth it. Someone in the room clears their throat and I freeze. Thanking the steam for keeping me semi hidden. βNeah, are you done? The alarm went off five minutes ago.β Alpha Daneβs voice seems louder in here. I had been so caught up in the freedom of a simple shower that I hadnβt even heard the alarm or the Alpha come back into the room. βComing.β I mutter, turning off the water and pulling a towel around me to hide the hideousness underneath. Stepping out, I already see that my ripped dress, underwear and worn sandals had been removed from the floor. Alpha Dane sits on the end of the bed with what looked like folded clothes on his lap and a pair of trainers. βItβs not much, as we donβt have anyone with as small a waist as you.β He smiles as he hands over the clothes. A matching navy blue sweatshirt and joggers. βYou will have to make do without the underwear for now. Should be here first thing tomorrow.β He watches me with a cocked eyebrow as I pull the joggers on and tug the sweatshirt over my head before removing the towel. Maybe he was used to the women parading themselves in front of him, or throwing themselves at him because he has power, but I wasnβt like that. βLetβs go.β He rises to his feet and this time, I follow him. Something told me that if I didnβt get this wound looked at, it would put him in a bad mood. The pack doctor was young, unlike the one back home who was old and afraid to let anyone take over from him. She smiles at us as we enter the pack hospital and rewraps her dark hair into a bun. βRaven, this is Neah.β Alpha Dane introduces me with a grin. I keep my eyes low as I hear Raven say, βAlpha Dane, what seems to be the problem apart from the strange smell she has brought with her.β It didnβt sound like a hurtful comment like I was used to, but more a comment of curiosity. βShe will tell you herself when she finds her tongue.β βI have a wound.β I whisper. βAnd you are not healing?β Raven asks, confused βI donβt have my Wolf.β I hated saying it. It was just a constant reminder that I did not fit in. βHer Wolf was bound when she was a kid.β Alpha Dane tells her. βThatβs why her scent is strange. Her Wolf is there, locked away, waiting to be freed.β My eyes flicker up only to find him staring straight back at me. I had always believed that my Wolf was gone. Not that she was trapped. Ravenβs dark eyes hover on me. βWow, okay.β She grabs my hand. βThis way, letβs take a look at this wound of yours.β She leads me into an empty room and asks me to lay on the bed and to show her my wound. Pulling up the sweatshirt, just enough for her to see the wound. Her eyes widen, a flicker of rage passing over them as she takes in the infected wound and the bruising that surrounds it. Her fingers carefully press around the wound. βHow long ago?β βA few days.β I mutter, though I wasnβt sure. Every beating blurred into another one. Any day that I wasnβt hit was a good day. Raven shakes her head. βThis is longer than a few days ago, the infection has had at least a week to develop.β βNeah, you need to tell us the truth.β Alpha Dane orders βI donβt know.β βNEAH!β His deep voice rumbles through me and I close my eyes, fearing his anger. Anger brought punishment, punishment brought pain. βI swear, I donβt know. The beatings, they happen so often that they just kind ofβ¦. Iβm never not bruised.β Thereβs silence and I was too afraid to open my eyes. Alpha Trey had said it over and over, that if anyone found out, he would make my life a misery, more than it already was. I used to wonder who would ever find out that didnβt already know. Now here I was, sitting in another packβs hospital, revealing the truth. βHeal her!β Alpha Dane shouts after what seems like forever. He storms from the room, pulling a phone out of his pocket. βYou will have to forgive my brother. His temper is short, especially when it comes to things like this.β Raven mutters as she gently inspects my wound βYour brother?β I whisper, opening my eyes βAh, I see he informed you. Iβm guessing he didnβt tell you that Jenson is our brother too?β I shake my head, Iβm guessing Jenson was one of the men that came to my brother's house. She chuckles. βJenson is considered to be our brotherβs Gamma.β βGamma?β I had never heard of the term. βYep and Alpha Dane has a love/hate for me working here. He wants me to represent our family, but he knows this is what Iβm good at.β She grabs a pot of cream from the cupboard. βNow this needs to be applied three times a day. It should clear up the infection, if it hasnβt changed in a couple of days, I will take another look. My brother is waiting for you out front.β βThanks.β I mumble, taking the pot of cream from her. I looked at the label, but couldnβt read it. I had never learned to read. She bobs her head at me as I hurry out to find Alpha Dane on his phone, snapping at someone. He hangs up as soon as he sees me and asks what Raven said. βCream, three times a day.β I show him the pot and he takes it from me. βGood, come.β He strides off and I have to run to keep up with him. I follow him through the house and into the office. βShow me.β He orders, pulling the lid off the pot. It wasnβt going to be negotiable, not when he had used the same tone moments before he ripped my dress open earlier. Slowly lifting my sweatshirt, he crouches down in front of me and gently smothers the wound in the cold cream. βI donβt want you to lie to me, Neah. Not ever. If you canβt remember, that is what you need to tell me. Is that clear? I donβt want to have to guess what you mean.β βOkay.β I couldnβt say anything else, I was too focussed on the warmth of his hands. One presses against my lower back, holding me steady while the other gently rubs cream into my wound. The only touch I had received from another man was a beating. βStop holding your breath.β He tells me, getting to his feet. βI am not going to hurt you.β It seemed impossible to believe given my history. The act, the words coming from him, it just didnβt feel real. | Galaxy in the Story | 301 | https://facebook.com/61555427913037 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717743600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879377 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410683 | 1723321804 | 995 | 277783365363020 | 11 | 1.0031649581254E+15 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 123481120996569 | 0 | CariFree | 120210229436560417 | www.carifree.com/father's-day | Shop Now | NONE | dco | Celebrate Dad with a Healthy Smile β 10% Off With HAPPYDADS | Keep Dad's smile shining bright with CariFree Gel 1100. Our nano-hydroxyapatite formula fights cavities and promotes overall dental health π¦·. CariFree Gel 1100 not only strengthens enamel but also helps prevent future dental issues, making it the perfect gift for Father's Day. Show Dad how much you care with the gift of lasting oral health. Order today and save with this special offer! | https://carifree.com/product/gel-1100/ | 1718392083 | 1.2348112099657E+14 | CariFree | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448248503_1620230182108081_8377705390332873225_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=BICU3Rzl4acQ7kNvgFsMGgA&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDBh-Q5Ql5QXAOMqzLI3C0wbmnvIUILewC1CkIhaO9Wxg&oe=6672BE4A | person_profile | 0 | CariFree | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448245551_795268429030401_3894684251357994738_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Nt6pb8738SEQ7kNvgH-B_jE&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBztGDaVAZlsbAYuSXtyI0_qOrRdefAmEOsui-N4UQ6Fw&oe=6672A1A8 | 0 | 3 | This Father's Day, show Dad you care with the gift of a healthier smile π. CariFree Gel 1100, our advanced cavity prevention formula, is now 10% off! Made with nano-hydroxyapatite, CariFree toothpaste strengthens teeth and protects against cavities, ensuring Dad's smile stays bright and healthy π. Whether Dad is always on the go or enjoys a quiet evening at home, CariFree is the perfect addition to his daily routine. Donβt miss this limited-time offer to give Dad the best in dental care. Order now and save 10% with code HAPPYDADS at checkout! | CariFree | 6267 | https://facebook.com/CariFree | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1718348400 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879415 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410685 | 1723321804 | 995 | 1111542586591821 | 2 | 3.9518835014886E+14 | 1717398000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 308744682317431 | 0 | Amazing dramaapp | 120210211339460233 | fblp.drama-time.com | Watch More | NONE | dco | Download Nowπππ | https://fblp.drama-time.com/IY6bS7-0530-EN-668636.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=1749262542004264962 | 1717167732 | 3.0874468231743E+14 | Amazing dramaapp | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/445370170_939571347949573_7395819333494214654_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=lTqK46MWVOEQ7kNvgGHcWEA&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDozmFF1fXExac0VRCFWA3ivHXze3apS5EgX_P-CqZCdg&oe=6672980D | person_profile | 0 | Amazing dramaapp | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/445235337_478825357922824_3831513101680749515_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=mAoA4qz1S3oQ7kNvgEbkoy1&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCAWE8ERgRHLoeImvdK9svyLsrhJ2MMerIsyASbWqooZQ&oe=6672C478 | 0 | 3 | My Mom is a Big Shot ONLY on Drama Time.π¬ Don't miss out! Watch the series you've been wanting to see. No regrets, just pure entertainment! #Must SeeTV #No Regrets #Watch Now | Amazing dramaapp | 26 | https://facebook.com/61559003640620 | 0 | WATCH_MORE | 1717225200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879420 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410685 | 1723321805 | 995 | 1605179996693847 | 1 | 8.2374082252888E+14 | 1717398000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 308744682317431 | 0 | Amazing dramaapp | 120210211357610233 | fblp.drama-time.com | Watch More | NONE | dco | Download Nowπππ | https://fblp.drama-time.com/IY6bS7-0530-EN-668636.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=1749262542004264962 | 1717167747 | 3.0874468231743E+14 | Amazing dramaapp | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447216330_1013646530491723_6471114213187782855_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=kYDQIkC2fLcQ7kNvgF-Qy1L&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBMdFzdjdic6IXa-yJ05wdmj5oO9oUyE6JfKa6gBSUc6A&oe=6672BC0E | person_profile | 0 | Amazing dramaapp | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447306763_437503968996030_3535214343164963730_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Mt2i_7rPjLgQ7kNvgEaFiF5&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYA4GeU6IZKcODHKg9SnLT5JUDyB9CnJ8d6GwCKGW1uYgQ&oe=6672C308 | 0 | 3 | My Mom is a Big Shot ONLY on Drama Time.π¬ Don't miss out! Watch the series you've been wanting to see. No regrets, just pure entertainment! #Must SeeTV #No Regrets #Watch Now | Amazing dramaapp | 26 | https://facebook.com/61559003640620 | 0 | WATCH_MORE | 1717225200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879427 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410685 | 1723321805 | 995 | 2159638524434546 | 1 | 9.6143829566379E+14 | 1717484400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 308744682317431 | 0 | Amazing dramaapp | 120210212795140233 | fblp.drama-time.com | Watch More | NONE | dco | Download Nowπππ | https://fblp.drama-time.com/IY6bS7-0530-EN-668636.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=1777998279593623554 | 1717170198 | 3.0874468231743E+14 | Amazing dramaapp | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/445235329_669837955327704_2089153290860508039_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=x0G8U_liIwkQ7kNvgHEz_uN&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAXLg-dHuYowDDtA_bcLCCABn_DDjRYXC7qgIwzC330KA&oe=66729CC6 | person_profile | 0 | Amazing dramaapp | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/445417710_3306161976359767_2112175207822166929_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=c1zMxSHhsygQ7kNvgEUSNhK&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBOeeuIxRBDMPvxpMTmVEWDuL8iRL6aC7iiKSVKuDnyIw&oe=6672B7E1 | 0 | 3 | My Mom is a Big Shot ONLY on Drama Time.π¬ Don't miss out! Watch the series you've been wanting to see. No regrets, just pure entertainment! #Must SeeTV #No Regrets #Watch Now | Amazing dramaapp | 26 | https://facebook.com/61559003640620 | 0 | WATCH_MORE | 1717225200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879430 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410685 | 1723321805 | 995 | 416526867943445 | 1 | 7.6142898584583E+14 | 1717138800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 337782656077360 | 0 | Happy Drama Catching Up | 120212457540530592 | fblp.drama-time.com | Watch More | NONE | dco | Download Nowπππ | https://fblp.drama-time.com/Gm09h7-0524-EN-694790.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=1777998279593623554 | 1716974468 | 3.3778265607736E+14 | Happy Drama Catching Up | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/445372749_806966594400367_8328680758778900513_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=6WkkU54eBlMQ7kNvgEzKyLc&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDYfuqIPxsjjapVd5vo2ig5JAAzqsFYuCzC_JpExU2lug&oe=66729FDA | person_profile | 0 | Happy Drama Catching Up | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/445517830_981120310045018_357273464333431315_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=QroaYOh1EzMQ7kNvgGzBrG5&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAkgh7tA7yo04mxRwNsub0cexNcK9z8A_WHndYV0gwZiQ&oe=6672BBF1 | 0 | 3 | Reborn - I am the Protagonist ONLY on Miiow TV.π¬ Don't miss out! Watch the series you've been wanting to see. No regrets, just pure entertainment! #Must SeeTV #No Regrets #Watch Now | Happy Drama Catching Up | 13 | https://facebook.com/61559368364181 | 0 | WATCH_MORE | 1716966000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879513 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410690 | 1723321805 | 995 | 345924945175506 | 17 | 4.0432693580309E+14 | 1716706800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 342924965562549 | 0 | Random Reading | 120211511879180002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πRead the next chaptersπ | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715765000 | 3.4292496556255E+14 | Random Reading | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/435922042_247479561755579_3821431404594820167_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=nE-xcpCRFGQQ7kNvgEfKZT9&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBJeZyYE3h8dCQPrEYbRlpN1rYGD4UiCmm_vtZ3RVK93A&oe=6672C788 | person_profile | 0 | Random Reading | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436197202_765438095699980_1525197823077953944_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=z0L5gnt-ND4Q7kNvgGji8Ss&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYD7CD-CwJ5p5YX30VimVQrwGnmzPWqX979uoxbURL0mGw&oe=6672C1E1 | 0 | 3 | I had never seen Felix like this - fury was written all over his face, and his lanky figure was trembling slightly. I've known Felix since we were born. Our mothers were best friends and they were trying to pair us up again just now. I had a crush on him, and he always treated me kindly. But now, he glared at me and spat, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around! That's why they misunderstood! Stay away from me!" I hadn't expected him to say something like that. I stared at him dumbfounded. Both my parents and Felix's parents ceased their conversation about our wedding and future. Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? I'm my own man. I'll never marry her, so you all can just stop trying to pair us up!" Felix shouted as he glared at everyone in the house. His eyes were filled with hate. It made me want to curl up into a ball out of embarrassment. The house remained completely silent. Everyone's gaze was on me, and I could feel my heart throbbing in pain. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. He had trampled all over my dignity and self-worth in front of his whole family and mineβ¦ My father, usually calm, flushed crimson at Felix's harsh words, his fists clenched. Mom, too, looked angry and embarrassed, jaw agape, her expression one of disbelief. Uncle Austin, Felix's father, slapped Felix, scolding, "You rebellious boy! Who taught you to behave like that?" The impact of slap sent Felix reeling, and he hit his head on the corner of the wall. Felix slumped to the floor in pain, leaving an unmistakable streak of red on the white walls. Aunt Mel rushed forward with concern, "Felix, my son! Are you alright?" Felix shot me a scathing glare as if I had committed an unspeakable crime. "Are you happy now, Luna?" he spat. I stared back at him with wide eyes, tears streaming down my face and onto the floor. Even though I liked him, that didn't mean he could throw wild accusations and embarrass me as he pleased! I liked him, but I, too, had my sense of dignity! If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I would gladly change! "I'm sorry, Felix. I never thought that my actions would have bugged you so much," I forced the humiliation down as I continued, "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix." I bit my lip hard, and the sharp tang of blood exploded across my tongue. I, Luna Lawson, also swear to myself - I won't endure the same humiliation AGAIN! | Random Reading | 9 | https://facebook.com/61559743679549 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716447600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879521 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410691 | 1723321805 | 995 | 404621832409719 | 28 | 9.6783316154479E+14 | 1716534000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120210797601370002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πRead the next chaptersπ | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1716634519 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438221346_347076918382053_5509872404599054561_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=sisTEz4NT9EQ7kNvgHKLxoB&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCtqMSOg0KYjS4Qe6YSMcVwv7m8-3gjX2xmRdEJ4QbNtQ&oe=66729A9D | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438240590_982215810240924_7779339330704555568_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=k8YDPZIgCtIQ7kNvgEe3WoY&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDgQf2PDgTNWbeeCeovqRzYZ15FNuJAKpZSDMwPWPKx8w&oe=6672A3E0 | 0 | 3 | I had never seen Felix like this - fury was written all over his face, and his lanky figure was trembling slightly. I've known Felix since we were born. Our mothers were best friends and they were trying to pair us up again just now. I had a crush on him, and he always treated me kindly. But now, he glared at me and spat, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around! That's why they misunderstood! Stay away from me!" I hadn't expected him to say something like that. I stared at him dumbfounded. Both my parents and Felix's parents ceased their conversation about our wedding and future. Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? I'm my own man. I'll never marry her, so you all can just stop trying to pair us up!" Felix shouted as he glared at everyone in the house. His eyes were filled with hate. It made me want to curl up into a ball out of embarrassment. The house remained completely silent. Everyone's gaze was on me, and I could feel my heart throbbing in pain. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. He had trampled all over my dignity and self-worth in front of his whole family and mineβ¦ My father, usually calm, flushed crimson at Felix's harsh words, his fists clenched. Mom, too, looked angry and embarrassed, jaw agape, her expression one of disbelief. Uncle Austin, Felix's father, slapped Felix, scolding, "You rebellious boy! Who taught you to behave like that?" The impact of slap sent Felix reeling, and he hit his head on the corner of the wall. Felix slumped to the floor in pain, leaving an unmistakable streak of red on the white walls. Aunt Mel rushed forward with concern, "Felix, my son! Are you alright?" Felix shot me a scathing glare as if I had committed an unspeakable crime. "Are you happy now, Luna?" he spat. I stared back at him with wide eyes, tears streaming down my face and onto the floor. Even though I liked him, that didn't mean he could throw wild accusations and embarrass me as he pleased! I liked him, but I, too, had my sense of dignity! If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I would gladly change! "I'm sorry, Felix. I never thought that my actions would have bugged you so much," I forced the humiliation down as I continued, "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix." I bit my lip hard, and the sharp tang of blood exploded across my tongue. I, Luna Lawson, also swear to myself - I won't endure the same humiliation AGAIN! | Massive story | 670 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716361200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879541 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410693 | 1723321805 | 995 | 785695356970863 | 1 | 1.8811915023045E+15 | 1718002800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 144939265372419 | 0 | Indulge in story | 120214343181970348 | shgjfh.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πRead the next chaptersπ | https://shgjfh.com/market/meganovel/13?lpid=11844&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717762144 | 1.4493926537242E+14 | Indulge in story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447256994_962585992003167_5083994497026705008_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=xvSiU4eM0HIQ7kNvgGaLPgU&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDfHZvL4fwCX9_hfvxj2Lbnpddf0pG1uD9Gqv9GoXUxJw&oe=6672B331 | person_profile | 0 | Indulge in story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447590700_1016773316708518_420838429285916977_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=KYgitKO0u2cQ7kNvgF55Rj_&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDyXqxq5I-PXqx461m_CajttJGgWqxofCm2izR9EzU9dg&oe=6672B6AD | 0 | 3 | The roads were soaked. It had been raining for a whole day in Southbury. Aria Carver's backpack was thrown out of the door by the butler in disdain. "Mr. Kent doesn't want to see you, Ms. Carver. So, I have to say some words in his stead. Your birth parents are in the countryside. Your father's last name is Carver. "The Kent family mistook you for their daughter in the past. But now that Ms. Lily has been found, I hope that you can do what's best for everyone and stop contacting the Kent family." The butler, Alfred Dun, took out a card. "Here's 10,000. Mr. Kent instructed me to give it to you as compensation." "No need." Aria didn't even look at the card as she picked up her backpack. Alfred looked at her in disdain. She didn't want the money? Was she acting tough? She should really think about her circumstances. The Kents had found their real daughter. They wouldn't want a country bumpkin like her anymore. She was an embarrassment. "As you wish, Ms. Carver." Alfred closed the door with a loud bang. Aria paid him no mind. She only took a black backpack when she left the Kent Residence. She stood proud and tall. She left the Kent Residence without taking anything that didn't belong to her. The rain falling on her made her look a little defeated. The people on the second floor saw her and started snickering. They didn't care if she could hear them. "She's finally gone." "I know right? I was so afraid that she might not want to go back to the countryside, and would try to stay with us." Aria didn't respond, but a sneer appeared on her face. Were the Kents ignorant? Yes, they were. Aria chewed on a gummy absentmindedly. She had a head of long and glossy black hair. Her face was a little pale, but it didn't make her look weak. Instead, she looked quite mysterious. β¦ At the same time, the Carver family was having an international meeting at their home in Janovin. Warren Carver sat at the head of the table. He held a cane in his hands and looked really intimidating. "It's been so many years. Is there still no leads on your sister?" He was talking to his six grandsons. The Carver family was the wealthiest in Janovin. The six scions of the family were all very remarkable people. Any single one of them would cause a stir if they went out in the open. At that moment, they all looked saddened. Longing and sorrow filled their eyes. They were the ones that lost their youngest sister back then. She was only a baby when she went missing. She never caused a fuss and was always very adorable. It had been 18 years. They had never stopped looking since. All the leads went cold at a secluded village in the mountains. They had no idea how many times the human traffickers moved their baby sister around. "Grandpa, let's keep looking. We will definitely find her!" Suddenly, a chubby man, Frank Levin, rushed into the room with some documents in his hand. He panted as he said, "Mr. Chairman! Little Ms. Carver has been found!" Warren, who was usually composed, stood up immediately. He was so excited that his hands were shaking. "Where is she? Send someone to pick her up right now!" Frank handed the documents over. "She's in Southbury. We're still looking into her exact location." "Then let's go to Southbury! Get a car ready!" Warren was very excited. β¦ It was evening in Southbury. Aria, who had been kicked out of the Kent Residence, didn't go to the countryside. She waited for the rain to stop before she headed back to the place she was staying at. It was a very insignificant neighborhood. When she was parking her car, someone called out to her, "You're back, Aria." "Yeah. I'm back." Aria smiled. Maria Goode, a fruit vendor, handed her an apple. "I haven't seen you in two weeks. No one else could help me with my arthritis." "Don't forget about me, Aria. My hand always trembles when I'm playing chess." Everyone knew that Aria was a very beloved figure in the Elmer district. Some retired government officials loved to chat with her as she treated their conditions. The place might look plain and simple on the surface, but there was more than met the eye. The person who talked about his hand was Jasper Garland, a former national chess champion. Aria didn't delve into the identities of the other residents. She chose to live in this neighborhood because it was a nice place. Chapter 2 More Than Meets the Eye "I'll offer treatment for everyone at the community square tomorrow." Then, Aria reminded them, "Remember to take the medicine. Don't stay up late to watch soap operas. They won't end so soon." "The Tiara" was all the rage in the Elmer district at that time. All the older men and women were hooked on it. A lot of them looked guilty after Aria said that. "Weβ¦We will sleep at 10:00 pm from now on." In the past, no one could have imagined that this group of people would be so obedient to one person. A lot of them had made great contributions to the country. Even their identities were kept a secret. Elmer district's community manager, Joel Hayes, had been hoping that Aria would come back sooner. He could finally breathe a sigh of relief. "Dr. Carver, I have been keeping an eye on your house. I've not allowed anyone to approach your property." "Thanks for the hard work." Aria bowed slightly and handed him an apple. Joel accepted the apple with a smile. "It's no trouble at all. I trust you won't be leaving anytime soon?" A community manager like him could never keep the neighborhood's residents under control. "Yeah. I won't be leaving," Aria said as she took the key. Joel replied joyfully, "That's wonderful! I'll leave you be so you can unpack your stuff. Let me know if you need anything." Aria nodded. She inserted the key and opened the door after Joel left. The lock was very old. It didn't seem like there was anything special about it. But after she undid the first lock, an LCD lock appeared before her. "Confirmation to proceed with iris scan." Aria said casually, "Do it." "Proceeding with iris scan. Please wait." "Iris scan completed. Welcome home, master." It was a very classy computerized voice that hadn't been activated for some time. The metal door opened automatically with a "clack". The house was instantly illuminated. There was a bookshelf that was about six feet tall which was filled with medical books and containers with herbs in them. There was a lot of greenery at the door. Most of them were herbs. All of them were labeled. In the middle of the living room sat a very cool-looking black and red motorcycle. Aria walked over to the kitchen and took a bottle of water from the fridge. She wanted to drink some water and watch some TV. Suddenly, the phone that was charging on her desk rang. It was a custom ringtone. "Richie Carver, wakey wakey, It's time for work! Richie Carver, wakey wakey, It's time for work! Richieβ" Aria took the call when it was about to ring for the third time. "Speak." "Boss, there's a huge job in Southbury. Should we take it?" Aria took a sip of the water. "What's it about?" "The richest man in Janovin is looking for his long-lost granddaughter. They say she's in Southbury. It shouldn't be hard to find her. This job pays a lot." Aria yawned. "Not interested." "Hold on! Please wait, boss! There's another one. The type you like! It's also a huge job!" The person on the other end of the call was very servile. Aria placed her chin on the palm lazily. "Tell me about it." "The York family of Janovin is looking for you. They're offering 10 million for you to treat a patient. "They also said that people who can find you or provide information about you will be rewarded as well. They're so stacked!" "Why are they so generous?" Aria went into work mode immediately. She tapped the phone and said, "Send me the details of the job." "Sure thing!" The next moment, the floor-to-ceiling windows became a screen, and the job information was projected on it. The York family had been around for ages. They had protected the country for generations. If Aria's memory served correctly, they even lived in the Guardian Mansion once. The York family had sent out invitations to quite a few renowned doctors. The invitation was in effect for a week. The location for the consultation was set at the Caesar Hotel in Southbury. They wanted to get a doctor who would be able to treat the illness of Landon York, who was in charge of the York family operations. There wasn't much description of Landon's condition. They only mentioned that he had been frail for a long time and that his condition couldn't be revealed to the public. It seemed like there was more than met the eye. Aria stretched her legs. "I'll take this job." Chapter 3 Saving Someone on the Streets "You have a good eye, boss! I'll prepare an account to receive payment from the Yorks!" Aria said calmly, "No need to rush. Let me sleep first. Do it tomorrow." Other than making money, Aria's biggest interest was treating all sorts of rare diseases. This job from the York family was a nice one for her. Honestly, she was probably the only person who wasn't fazed by the York's visit to Southbury. All of the prominent families in the city were scrambling into action. A family like the Kents had to reach out to everyone they knew and utilize all of their connections in an attempt to get an invitation from the Yorks. Even regular people were talking about how the city was especially lively that month. First, the richest man in Janovin came to look for his granddaughter. Then, the York family came to receive treatment. Some said that the Yorks came to Southbury because the legendary Whiz Doctor was in town. There were a lot of rumors about the Whiz Doctor, but some of them were quite outlandish. This time, the Whiz Doctor might actually appear due to the York family's invitation. β¦ The following morning, Aria woke up late. Like any other working adult, she didn't feel like leaving her cool and comfortable room or her cozy bed to get out into the morning sun. But she had to work. So, she got up and washed her face. Without putting any makeup on, she grabbed her bag and left. In order to avoid the morning rush, she scanned a shared bicycle. "Are you heading out to work, Aria?" "Yeah." She was greeting everyone along the way and also had a piece of toast in her mouth given to her by Kenneth Kane. She rode the bicycle steadily without rushing and merged into traffic after a while. β¦ After 30 minutes, Aria arrived at Southbury's renowned Caesar Hotel. Everyone at the entrance and the lobby looked very busy. In the past few days, almost all of the luxury cars in the city gathered at the hotel. In comparison, Aria stood out a lot as the only person who came on a shared bicycle. As soon as she came to a stop, Jose Garcia, a security guard, came over to chase her away. "Get lost, you broke college student. The hotel is not open to the public today." She planted one foot on the ground and met his gaze. Then, she said coolly, "I'm here to save someone's life." "You? Save someone's life?" Jose burst into laughter. "Young lady, you're still so young, but you're quite the braggart." Aria paused for a moment. Then, she showed him proof of her accepting the job on her phone. "Please tell the people inside that Dr. Whiz has arrived." "Dr. Whiz? You can call me Dr. Genius!" Jose gave her an impatient look. "I've seen many invitations. You're the first one to show it on the phoneβ¦" Jose noticed a luxury car rolling up as he spoke. So, he waved at Aria. "Go. Get out of the way." Then, he rushed over to the car and opened the door. "Welcome, Dr. Gunther and Ms. Kent. I'll inform the staff to prepare some tea for you." The people in the car just nodded at him. They didn't even reply. But Jose had a big smile on his face like he had won the lottery. The car drove past Aria. Lily looked out the window and recognized Aria. Her gaze wavered slightly. The old woman next to her, Salome Gunther, asked, "What's wrong, Lily?" She smiled softly. "Nothing." Aria's gaze remained calm. She walked away resolutely. There was even an amused expression on her face. She used to be someone who held people's lives in her hands, yet she had become the target of another person's shunning. Oh, how the mighty had fallen. Aria pursed her lips. She offered treatment to patients based on her mood and would never help those who were greedy or selfish. She had decided to give up on offering treatment to the York family's patient. So, she took out her phone and was about to reject the job. Suddenly, someone on the sidewalk screamed. "Oh, no! Someone has fainted!" People started flocking toward the voice. "Oh, God! It's a child!" "His face is so paleβ¦" Hearing the commotion, Aria didn't hesitate at all. She parked her bicycle and rushed toward the crowd. The little boy on the ground was only three or four years old. His forehead was drenched. It seemed like he had been sweating profusely. A woman named Francine Gibson grabbed a man in a white lab coat. "Young man, you're a doctor, right? Please save the boy." "No can do, lady. The kid's family isn't here. I can't make any decisions without consulting them." The man in the lab coat, Jimmy Cornell, added with disdain, "Besides, I don't provide treatment to just anyone." Aria heard the exchange between the two of them. She pushed through the crowd and said in a professional manner, "Please give the boy some space. Let the air flow through. The patient needs fresh air." Her tone sounded so authoritative that no one doubted her. Then, she crouched down and placed her fingers on the boy's neck. Francine said anxiously, "Young lady, how old are you? Can you really make him better?" Chapter 4 Doubt "That's right, young lady. We should probably call an ambulance. This boy appears to be lost. I called out for some time just now, but no one came over," an old man said. He was concerned that Aria might be blamed if anything happened to the boy. Aria quickly unbuttoned the boy's coat and brought him to some shade. "Don't worry. I'm a licensed doctor." Then, she opened her bag and took out a medical kit. It was equipped with needles and scalpels of all sizes, all arranged neatly in rows. Aria felt the boy's pulse again. "Stop it! How can you simply touch the patient?" Jimmy yelled. He couldn't allow Aria to do as she pleased. She ignored him and continued to monitor the boy's pulse and heart rate. Jimmy sneered. "I'm Jimmy Cornell, currently studying at Janovin Medical University. My mentor is Dr. Salome Gunther. I'm not just a random bystander. You say you're a licensed doctor? How old are you?" Aria continued to ignore him. Her focus was on the boy. She took out a needle and began to sterilize it. "I'm talking to you! Even that old man knows we should wait for an ambulance. Why can't you get it through your head?" This was the first time Jimmy had been completely ignored by someone. Aria had one knee to the ground. Her demeanor was cool and emotionless. "Do nothing and wait for the ambulance? Wait as the optimal treatment period passes by? Is that what your mentor taught you?" "Who said we should do nothing while we wait for the ambulance? You're the one delaying treatment with those needles. Please don't show off your pseudo-science methods, and let me perform CPR on the patient." Aria shot him a cold glare after she heard what he said. Who would've thought that such a pretty young lady could have such a vicious gaze? "He has a heat stroke. Do you think CPR would help? What a worthless doctor," Aria said as she applied pressure to the boy's fingers. Her tone was glacial. Jimmy lost his cool immediately. "Who are you calling worthless? Do you even know who my mentor is?" He had just received an award overseas for his medical skills. He was incredulous at the woman's audacity to doubt his abilities. "I'm not interested in your mentor. Move." Jimmy's eyes turned bloodshot. "I'll let it slide this time since you're just a lowly traditional medicine practitioner. His lips are turning blue. It's a heart issue." "Hypoxia and ischemia might impact the respiratory system and cause the lips to turn blue." Aria looked at Jimmy with a cold stare, then added, "But a heat stroke can cause that symptom, too. The difference is that his pulse is steady. Moreover, his lips are parched. "It's clear that he had been exposed to high temperatures for a prolonged period. You don't even look at these symptoms, yet you claim to be a medical student?" "That's true. You have to look at the symptoms first. I was taught that too," someone in the crowd agreed with Aria. Then, people in the crowd started chattering. "It seems like the Janovin Medical University isn't anything special at all." "That young lady is way more reliable. I noticed she was quite professional when taking the boy's pulse." Jimmy couldn't take the humiliation anymore. "Alright. So, he has a heat stroke. Will your acupuncture cure him of it? If so, why are we even learning modern medicine?" "You can't represent everyone else who practices modern medicine." Aria glared at him icily. "I'll say it one more time. Move." There were two types of people she hated the mostβthose who looked down on traditional medicine and lousy doctors getting in the way of her treatment. "Sure, I'll move. I'd like to see how skilled you are." Jimmy crossed his arms. "If you can heal him with these needles, I'll get on my knees and apologize to you." "I'm looking forward to that." Aria located the acupuncture points and raised her hand. Chapter 5 Acupuncture Works Aria stuck the first needle into the boy without any hesitation. The boy immediately frowned. It was like he was regaining his consciousness. It looked like he was struggling as his brows furrowed even deeper. Someone in the crowd yelled, "He's waking up!" Jimmy was stunned. His face grew pale. "This can't beβ¦" How did she pull that off? Just one needle? Could a person really regain consciousness from that? Aria raised her hand again. Her gaze was focused, and she looked very composed. She stuck the second needle into the boy's fingertips to draw some blood. Right after she did that, the boy opened his eyes. His pupils were dark and round, while his eyelashes were extraordinarily long. He glanced at Aria quietly, but his face was still quite pale. Everyone in the crowd was stunned. Francine spoke up, "Young lady, you healed with a few pokes of the needle?" Aria applied some light pressure on the needle. She saw that the bloodletting was done, so she removed the needle and pressed a cotton ball on the wound to stop the bleeding. "Madam, it's not that simple. Applying acupuncture to the fingertips can help with dissipating the heat. He was inflicted with heat stroke, which was caused by the high temperature. I just helped him cool down with acupuncture." "Spare me the theatrics. That kid hasn't spoken a word since he regained consciousness. You probably left him with some side effects with your treatment!" Jimmy snorted. Francine was a little annoyed. "The boy has already regained consciousness. Why are you talking about side effects? Are you just trying to get out of apologizing to the young lady?" "That's none of your business!" Jimmy looked at Francine and suddenly sneered. "I understand now. You're all in on this. You pulled me here, and she's trying to scam me. "This is an organized scam, isn't it? I knew traditional medicine practitioners were all fake." Aria's expression grew cold when she heard that. She was about to raise her hand. Then, the boy spoke up in a weak but icy tone, "Traditional medicine has always been an essential part of Celestria's culture. You're a lousy doctor, sir. You should put more effort into studying." "Youβ¦" Jimmy was at a loss for words. The boy spoke up right after he said he wasn't healed. The boy even spoke out against him. It was clear that the boy wasn't on his side. Francine burst out into laughter. "Hey, kid. He's talking about you. You should put more effort into studying." "I won't waste my breath with you bottom feeders anymore. You're just a group of peasants," Jimmy said in disdain. Aria flicked a needle in his direction. It brushed past his face and got stuck in a tree nearby. Such a violent display caused Jimmy to freeze up. Even his legs felt like they were about to give out. Aria smiled as she said casually, "Don't you think you've forgotten about something?" She was just a young woman, but she had a very vicious and commanding presence, which caused Jimmy to feel fear. He tried to keep his cool. "What did I forget?" "An apology," Aria said as she tapped on her phone. She looked devilishly charming. Jimmy didn't want to do that. So, he said arrogantly, "Everyone makes mistakes. I don't have any more time to waste with a traditional medicine practitioner like you." Francine couldn't stand his attitude anymore. "Is this how a student of Dr. Salome Gunther would act? You lost a bet to that young woman, and yet you refuse to apologize? Such ethicsβ¦" "What's wrong with my ethics? Who here can prove I lost a bet to her? None of you will ever have enough money to pay for Dr. Gunther's treatment. "Me being here and providing free medical services is an honor for all of you. How dare you peasants keep babbling about such nonsense? Don't you dare cause trouble here! Do you even know where you are right now?" Francine's hands trembled in anger. "Youβ¦ You!" Jimmy snorted. He looked at all of them with utter disdain. They were in a modern society. He didn't believe that Aria would dare to do anything to him. Chapter 6 Teaching Him a Lesson Jimmy had always thought that the common folk were beneath him. He didn't notice that Aria's gaze changed as she looked up. Viciousness and contempt filled her eyes. She casually toyed with a piece of candy in her palm. Then, she flicked toward Jimmy. He felt his knee give out as he fell to the ground. "Ah!" The pain caused him to frown. He tried to get up but realized that he couldn't move his body at all. He couldn't talk, and his hands wouldn't budge. It felt like his movements had been sealed with the attack. Aria walked up to him and said calmly, "As a medical student, you failed miserably at determining the patient's symptoms, and you even declared a verdict without a second thought. "Being a doctor doesn't mean you're better than anyone else. It's a job for you to help people in need. You're unskilled and unethical. Now that you're on your knees, I'll accept your apology. Consider this a lesson I'm teaching you in your mentor's stead." "You!" Jimmy's eyes were filled with hatred. Aria leaned in and whispered in his ear. "Since you're such a shameless person, it'll probably be okay if you remain on your knees here for a couple of hours." "What did you do to me? I want to call the cops! I have been assaulted!" Jimmy yelled. Aria smiled. "And who can prove anything? Mr. Cornell, you got on your knees yourself. I didn't even touch you." "I know right? He deserves that!" The people in the crowd felt great satisfaction seeing Jimmy in that state. "The young lady didn't do anything. Stop lying!" That was the truth. He was the one who refused to help the boy. He was also the one who was running his mouth after Aria provided treatment for the boy. He was also the one who had been cursing at everyone in the crowd and was shameless enough to refuse to apologize. He was a true disgrace to the medical profession. Did he really think he could just say all those things without repercussions? He even tried to blame Aria for his condition. The women in the crowd started to yell, "Everyone, come and take a look! There's an unskilled medical student here. He's on his knees to apologize right now!" "You! All of you!" Jimmy's face was flushed, and his breath was labored. That was why people didn't mess with the ordinary citizens who were brave, kind, and despised delinquency. Jimmy was a fool for being so domineering in front of them. The more people looked at him, the lower Jimmy's head hung. He wished the ground would open up and swallow him up. He was afraid that someone would recognize him. The malice in his eyes grew as he looked at Aria. They were both in the medical industry. So, they were bound to meet again someday. He swore he would get back at her the next time they met. Aria didn't spare him another glance. Besides, if they crossed paths again, she didn't mind breaking his legs. Quite a lot of the older people in the crowd asked for Aria's contact information. They had seen how she performed acupuncture on the boy. It was clear that she was an extremely skilled doctor. They were determined to secure her contact information. Aria didn't turn any of them down, so she added them to her contacts. Francine asked enthusiastically, "Young lady, you were so skilled with the needles. Is there a traditional medicine practitioner in your family?" Aria thought about Georgina Harris, the woman who used to be her grandmother while she was living with the Kents. Georgina was the only one who showed her any kindness. She came up with a solid reason. "Yes. My grandmother practices traditional medicine. She runs a care center." "No wonder. I'll introduce some clients to her soon!" "Sure." Aria thanked Francine politely. Aria didn't have the airs of a renowned doctor at all. She was a legend hiding in plain sight. The boy hadn't spoken at all since he talked to Jimmy. He just sat there quietly as he observed everything. His eyes were very bright, and he looked really adorable. After she finished talking to everyone else, Aria looked at him. "Are you still lightheaded?" He shook his head. Then, he looked up at Aria. "Miss, I'm Miles. Thanks for saving me. If it weren't for you, I would've been dead." Miles York's voice was very sweet. His eyes were round, and his face was very smooth and cute. He did a cute little bow when he thanked Aria. "Your name is Miles? Where is your family?" Aria asked with a raised eyebrow. "They're all inside!" Miles said as he pointed behind him at the Caesar Hotel. Not just anyone could get in there at the moment. Chapter 7 Saved Someone Important People in the crowd exclaimed in surprise and started talking. "Everyone in Caesar Hotel today is quite important. I heard that there are a lot of prominent medical families in there." "Then this boyβ¦" Aria wasn't surprised at all. After all, Miles was very well-dressed. The watch he was wearing on his wrist was quite expensive as well. "Remember to bring bodyguards when you come out next time," Aria said as she packed her medical kit up. When Miles realized that she was leaving, he clung to her leg. Aria couldn't get on the bicycle, so she looked down at him. Miles didn't speak. He just held on to her sleeve. He took a step whenever she did. They were going nowhere like that. She stopped in her tracks. "I'll take you back to your parents." "Okay!" Miles got what he wanted. He nodded and said, "I'll have my parents thank you properly, miss." Aria adjusted his collar for him. "No need for that. I don't take payment for helping kids." "Andβ¦" Miles shifted his gaze. "Do you have a boyfriend, miss?" Aria stood up straight. "No." "Then, I'll ask my brother, Landon, to be your boyfriend as thanks." Miles smiled as he started describing Landon. "Landon doesn't like to talk, but he's very handsome. He makes a lot of money, too. It'll be good for your ego if you go out with him. A lot of pretty ladies want to marry him, you know." Aria smiled when she heard that. "I have no plans of getting married right now." "Okay," Miles replied with disappointment as he drooped his head. He continued walking with Aria dejectedly. When they arrived at the hotel entrance, he looked at Aria enthusiastically and said, "Miss, why don't you meet with Landon first? You should make your decision after you see him." He was sure that Aria would fall for Landon when she saw him. He was a very handsome man, after all. Aria smiled. "You're trying so hard to promote your brother to me. Does he know about this?" "He's always sick. Everyone in the family has been telling him to get married. You're such a skilled doctor, and you're pretty, too. I'm sure a lot of people want to be your boyfriend. So, I'm just trying to get you to give Landon a chance." Aria looked at his parched lips. Then, she went to buy him a bottle of water and some crackers. "Stop talking so much. You're still recovering." Miles was very obedient. He ate whatever Aria gave him. He couldn't open the bottle himself, so he raised it up to Aria and said weakly, "Please help me open it." Landon's assistant, Troy Jepson, came to meet Miles and was shocked to see what was happening. He was sure that the woman with Miles was that imposter that the Kents kicked out. Why was Miles with her? He even asked her to help him open his bottle. Did he change his entire personality? Something flashed in Troy's eyes, but he quickly suppressed his emotions. He knew who Aria was, but she didn't know him. Troy took care not to expose his identity as he walked up to them in a hurry. "Mr. Miles! I've finally found you. I'm so glad you're okay." "This pretty lady saved me," Miles said as he held Aria's hand. He had a defiant look on his face. It was like he was finally himself again. Troy politely said, "Thanks, Ms. Carver." Aria looked at him calmly. "He already thanked me." Her attitude made it hard for Troy to grasp the situation. So, he said to Miles, "Mr. Miles, Mr. Landon called in some favors to track you down. He's in the car right now. He didn't even take his afternoon meds yet." Miles looked up in surprise. He didn't expect Landon to come out here personally. | Indulge in story | 598 | https://facebook.com/61552702618591 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717830000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879549 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410693 | 1723321805 | 995 | 785695356970863 | 1 | 1.8811915023045E+15 | 1718002800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 144939265372419 | 0 | Indulge in story | 120214343181970348 | shgjfh.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πRead the next chaptersπ | https://shgjfh.com/market/meganovel/13?lpid=11844&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717762144 | 1.4493926537242E+14 | Indulge in story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447256994_962585992003167_5083994497026705008_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=xvSiU4eM0HIQ7kNvgGaLPgU&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDfHZvL4fwCX9_hfvxj2Lbnpddf0pG1uD9Gqv9GoXUxJw&oe=6672B331 | person_profile | 0 | Indulge in story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447590700_1016773316708518_420838429285916977_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=KYgitKO0u2cQ7kNvgF55Rj_&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDyXqxq5I-PXqx461m_CajttJGgWqxofCm2izR9EzU9dg&oe=6672B6AD | 0 | 3 | The roads were soaked. It had been raining for a whole day in Southbury. Aria Carver's backpack was thrown out of the door by the butler in disdain. "Mr. Kent doesn't want to see you, Ms. Carver. So, I have to say some words in his stead. Your birth parents are in the countryside. Your father's last name is Carver. "The Kent family mistook you for their daughter in the past. But now that Ms. Lily has been found, I hope that you can do what's best for everyone and stop contacting the Kent family." The butler, Alfred Dun, took out a card. "Here's 10,000. Mr. Kent instructed me to give it to you as compensation." "No need." Aria didn't even look at the card as she picked up her backpack. Alfred looked at her in disdain. She didn't want the money? Was she acting tough? She should really think about her circumstances. The Kents had found their real daughter. They wouldn't want a country bumpkin like her anymore. She was an embarrassment. "As you wish, Ms. Carver." Alfred closed the door with a loud bang. Aria paid him no mind. She only took a black backpack when she left the Kent Residence. She stood proud and tall. She left the Kent Residence without taking anything that didn't belong to her. The rain falling on her made her look a little defeated. The people on the second floor saw her and started snickering. They didn't care if she could hear them. "She's finally gone." "I know right? I was so afraid that she might not want to go back to the countryside, and would try to stay with us." Aria didn't respond, but a sneer appeared on her face. Were the Kents ignorant? Yes, they were. Aria chewed on a gummy absentmindedly. She had a head of long and glossy black hair. Her face was a little pale, but it didn't make her look weak. Instead, she looked quite mysterious. β¦ At the same time, the Carver family was having an international meeting at their home in Janovin. Warren Carver sat at the head of the table. He held a cane in his hands and looked really intimidating. "It's been so many years. Is there still no leads on your sister?" He was talking to his six grandsons. The Carver family was the wealthiest in Janovin. The six scions of the family were all very remarkable people. Any single one of them would cause a stir if they went out in the open. At that moment, they all looked saddened. Longing and sorrow filled their eyes. They were the ones that lost their youngest sister back then. She was only a baby when she went missing. She never caused a fuss and was always very adorable. It had been 18 years. They had never stopped looking since. All the leads went cold at a secluded village in the mountains. They had no idea how many times the human traffickers moved their baby sister around. "Grandpa, let's keep looking. We will definitely find her!" Suddenly, a chubby man, Frank Levin, rushed into the room with some documents in his hand. He panted as he said, "Mr. Chairman! Little Ms. Carver has been found!" Warren, who was usually composed, stood up immediately. He was so excited that his hands were shaking. "Where is she? Send someone to pick her up right now!" Frank handed the documents over. "She's in Southbury. We're still looking into her exact location." "Then let's go to Southbury! Get a car ready!" Warren was very excited. β¦ It was evening in Southbury. Aria, who had been kicked out of the Kent Residence, didn't go to the countryside. She waited for the rain to stop before she headed back to the place she was staying at. It was a very insignificant neighborhood. When she was parking her car, someone called out to her, "You're back, Aria." "Yeah. I'm back." Aria smiled. Maria Goode, a fruit vendor, handed her an apple. "I haven't seen you in two weeks. No one else could help me with my arthritis." "Don't forget about me, Aria. My hand always trembles when I'm playing chess." Everyone knew that Aria was a very beloved figure in the Elmer district. Some retired government officials loved to chat with her as she treated their conditions. The place might look plain and simple on the surface, but there was more than met the eye. The person who talked about his hand was Jasper Garland, a former national chess champion. Aria didn't delve into the identities of the other residents. She chose to live in this neighborhood because it was a nice place. Chapter 2 More Than Meets the Eye "I'll offer treatment for everyone at the community square tomorrow." Then, Aria reminded them, "Remember to take the medicine. Don't stay up late to watch soap operas. They won't end so soon." "The Tiara" was all the rage in the Elmer district at that time. All the older men and women were hooked on it. A lot of them looked guilty after Aria said that. "Weβ¦We will sleep at 10:00 pm from now on." In the past, no one could have imagined that this group of people would be so obedient to one person. A lot of them had made great contributions to the country. Even their identities were kept a secret. Elmer district's community manager, Joel Hayes, had been hoping that Aria would come back sooner. He could finally breathe a sigh of relief. "Dr. Carver, I have been keeping an eye on your house. I've not allowed anyone to approach your property." "Thanks for the hard work." Aria bowed slightly and handed him an apple. Joel accepted the apple with a smile. "It's no trouble at all. I trust you won't be leaving anytime soon?" A community manager like him could never keep the neighborhood's residents under control. "Yeah. I won't be leaving," Aria said as she took the key. Joel replied joyfully, "That's wonderful! I'll leave you be so you can unpack your stuff. Let me know if you need anything." Aria nodded. She inserted the key and opened the door after Joel left. The lock was very old. It didn't seem like there was anything special about it. But after she undid the first lock, an LCD lock appeared before her. "Confirmation to proceed with iris scan." Aria said casually, "Do it." "Proceeding with iris scan. Please wait." "Iris scan completed. Welcome home, master." It was a very classy computerized voice that hadn't been activated for some time. The metal door opened automatically with a "clack". The house was instantly illuminated. There was a bookshelf that was about six feet tall which was filled with medical books and containers with herbs in them. There was a lot of greenery at the door. Most of them were herbs. All of them were labeled. In the middle of the living room sat a very cool-looking black and red motorcycle. Aria walked over to the kitchen and took a bottle of water from the fridge. She wanted to drink some water and watch some TV. Suddenly, the phone that was charging on her desk rang. It was a custom ringtone. "Richie Carver, wakey wakey, It's time for work! Richie Carver, wakey wakey, It's time for work! Richieβ" Aria took the call when it was about to ring for the third time. "Speak." "Boss, there's a huge job in Southbury. Should we take it?" Aria took a sip of the water. "What's it about?" "The richest man in Janovin is looking for his long-lost granddaughter. They say she's in Southbury. It shouldn't be hard to find her. This job pays a lot." Aria yawned. "Not interested." "Hold on! Please wait, boss! There's another one. The type you like! It's also a huge job!" The person on the other end of the call was very servile. Aria placed her chin on the palm lazily. "Tell me about it." "The York family of Janovin is looking for you. They're offering 10 million for you to treat a patient. "They also said that people who can find you or provide information about you will be rewarded as well. They're so stacked!" "Why are they so generous?" Aria went into work mode immediately. She tapped the phone and said, "Send me the details of the job." "Sure thing!" The next moment, the floor-to-ceiling windows became a screen, and the job information was projected on it. The York family had been around for ages. They had protected the country for generations. If Aria's memory served correctly, they even lived in the Guardian Mansion once. The York family had sent out invitations to quite a few renowned doctors. The invitation was in effect for a week. The location for the consultation was set at the Caesar Hotel in Southbury. They wanted to get a doctor who would be able to treat the illness of Landon York, who was in charge of the York family operations. There wasn't much description of Landon's condition. They only mentioned that he had been frail for a long time and that his condition couldn't be revealed to the public. It seemed like there was more than met the eye. Aria stretched her legs. "I'll take this job." Chapter 3 Saving Someone on the Streets "You have a good eye, boss! I'll prepare an account to receive payment from the Yorks!" Aria said calmly, "No need to rush. Let me sleep first. Do it tomorrow." Other than making money, Aria's biggest interest was treating all sorts of rare diseases. This job from the York family was a nice one for her. Honestly, she was probably the only person who wasn't fazed by the York's visit to Southbury. All of the prominent families in the city were scrambling into action. A family like the Kents had to reach out to everyone they knew and utilize all of their connections in an attempt to get an invitation from the Yorks. Even regular people were talking about how the city was especially lively that month. First, the richest man in Janovin came to look for his granddaughter. Then, the York family came to receive treatment. Some said that the Yorks came to Southbury because the legendary Whiz Doctor was in town. There were a lot of rumors about the Whiz Doctor, but some of them were quite outlandish. This time, the Whiz Doctor might actually appear due to the York family's invitation. β¦ The following morning, Aria woke up late. Like any other working adult, she didn't feel like leaving her cool and comfortable room or her cozy bed to get out into the morning sun. But she had to work. So, she got up and washed her face. Without putting any makeup on, she grabbed her bag and left. In order to avoid the morning rush, she scanned a shared bicycle. "Are you heading out to work, Aria?" "Yeah." She was greeting everyone along the way and also had a piece of toast in her mouth given to her by Kenneth Kane. She rode the bicycle steadily without rushing and merged into traffic after a while. β¦ After 30 minutes, Aria arrived at Southbury's renowned Caesar Hotel. Everyone at the entrance and the lobby looked very busy. In the past few days, almost all of the luxury cars in the city gathered at the hotel. In comparison, Aria stood out a lot as the only person who came on a shared bicycle. As soon as she came to a stop, Jose Garcia, a security guard, came over to chase her away. "Get lost, you broke college student. The hotel is not open to the public today." She planted one foot on the ground and met his gaze. Then, she said coolly, "I'm here to save someone's life." "You? Save someone's life?" Jose burst into laughter. "Young lady, you're still so young, but you're quite the braggart." Aria paused for a moment. Then, she showed him proof of her accepting the job on her phone. "Please tell the people inside that Dr. Whiz has arrived." "Dr. Whiz? You can call me Dr. Genius!" Jose gave her an impatient look. "I've seen many invitations. You're the first one to show it on the phoneβ¦" Jose noticed a luxury car rolling up as he spoke. So, he waved at Aria. "Go. Get out of the way." Then, he rushed over to the car and opened the door. "Welcome, Dr. Gunther and Ms. Kent. I'll inform the staff to prepare some tea for you." The people in the car just nodded at him. They didn't even reply. But Jose had a big smile on his face like he had won the lottery. The car drove past Aria. Lily looked out the window and recognized Aria. Her gaze wavered slightly. The old woman next to her, Salome Gunther, asked, "What's wrong, Lily?" She smiled softly. "Nothing." Aria's gaze remained calm. She walked away resolutely. There was even an amused expression on her face. She used to be someone who held people's lives in her hands, yet she had become the target of another person's shunning. Oh, how the mighty had fallen. Aria pursed her lips. She offered treatment to patients based on her mood and would never help those who were greedy or selfish. She had decided to give up on offering treatment to the York family's patient. So, she took out her phone and was about to reject the job. Suddenly, someone on the sidewalk screamed. "Oh, no! Someone has fainted!" People started flocking toward the voice. "Oh, God! It's a child!" "His face is so paleβ¦" Hearing the commotion, Aria didn't hesitate at all. She parked her bicycle and rushed toward the crowd. The little boy on the ground was only three or four years old. His forehead was drenched. It seemed like he had been sweating profusely. A woman named Francine Gibson grabbed a man in a white lab coat. "Young man, you're a doctor, right? Please save the boy." "No can do, lady. The kid's family isn't here. I can't make any decisions without consulting them." The man in the lab coat, Jimmy Cornell, added with disdain, "Besides, I don't provide treatment to just anyone." Aria heard the exchange between the two of them. She pushed through the crowd and said in a professional manner, "Please give the boy some space. Let the air flow through. The patient needs fresh air." Her tone sounded so authoritative that no one doubted her. Then, she crouched down and placed her fingers on the boy's neck. Francine said anxiously, "Young lady, how old are you? Can you really make him better?" Chapter 4 Doubt "That's right, young lady. We should probably call an ambulance. This boy appears to be lost. I called out for some time just now, but no one came over," an old man said. He was concerned that Aria might be blamed if anything happened to the boy. Aria quickly unbuttoned the boy's coat and brought him to some shade. "Don't worry. I'm a licensed doctor." Then, she opened her bag and took out a medical kit. It was equipped with needles and scalpels of all sizes, all arranged neatly in rows. Aria felt the boy's pulse again. "Stop it! How can you simply touch the patient?" Jimmy yelled. He couldn't allow Aria to do as she pleased. She ignored him and continued to monitor the boy's pulse and heart rate. Jimmy sneered. "I'm Jimmy Cornell, currently studying at Janovin Medical University. My mentor is Dr. Salome Gunther. I'm not just a random bystander. You say you're a licensed doctor? How old are you?" Aria continued to ignore him. Her focus was on the boy. She took out a needle and began to sterilize it. "I'm talking to you! Even that old man knows we should wait for an ambulance. Why can't you get it through your head?" This was the first time Jimmy had been completely ignored by someone. Aria had one knee to the ground. Her demeanor was cool and emotionless. "Do nothing and wait for the ambulance? Wait as the optimal treatment period passes by? Is that what your mentor taught you?" "Who said we should do nothing while we wait for the ambulance? You're the one delaying treatment with those needles. Please don't show off your pseudo-science methods, and let me perform CPR on the patient." Aria shot him a cold glare after she heard what he said. Who would've thought that such a pretty young lady could have such a vicious gaze? "He has a heat stroke. Do you think CPR would help? What a worthless doctor," Aria said as she applied pressure to the boy's fingers. Her tone was glacial. Jimmy lost his cool immediately. "Who are you calling worthless? Do you even know who my mentor is?" He had just received an award overseas for his medical skills. He was incredulous at the woman's audacity to doubt his abilities. "I'm not interested in your mentor. Move." Jimmy's eyes turned bloodshot. "I'll let it slide this time since you're just a lowly traditional medicine practitioner. His lips are turning blue. It's a heart issue." "Hypoxia and ischemia might impact the respiratory system and cause the lips to turn blue." Aria looked at Jimmy with a cold stare, then added, "But a heat stroke can cause that symptom, too. The difference is that his pulse is steady. Moreover, his lips are parched. "It's clear that he had been exposed to high temperatures for a prolonged period. You don't even look at these symptoms, yet you claim to be a medical student?" "That's true. You have to look at the symptoms first. I was taught that too," someone in the crowd agreed with Aria. Then, people in the crowd started chattering. "It seems like the Janovin Medical University isn't anything special at all." "That young lady is way more reliable. I noticed she was quite professional when taking the boy's pulse." Jimmy couldn't take the humiliation anymore. "Alright. So, he has a heat stroke. Will your acupuncture cure him of it? If so, why are we even learning modern medicine?" "You can't represent everyone else who practices modern medicine." Aria glared at him icily. "I'll say it one more time. Move." There were two types of people she hated the mostβthose who looked down on traditional medicine and lousy doctors getting in the way of her treatment. "Sure, I'll move. I'd like to see how skilled you are." Jimmy crossed his arms. "If you can heal him with these needles, I'll get on my knees and apologize to you." "I'm looking forward to that." Aria located the acupuncture points and raised her hand. Chapter 5 Acupuncture Works Aria stuck the first needle into the boy without any hesitation. The boy immediately frowned. It was like he was regaining his consciousness. It looked like he was struggling as his brows furrowed even deeper. Someone in the crowd yelled, "He's waking up!" Jimmy was stunned. His face grew pale. "This can't beβ¦" How did she pull that off? Just one needle? Could a person really regain consciousness from that? Aria raised her hand again. Her gaze was focused, and she looked very composed. She stuck the second needle into the boy's fingertips to draw some blood. Right after she did that, the boy opened his eyes. His pupils were dark and round, while his eyelashes were extraordinarily long. He glanced at Aria quietly, but his face was still quite pale. Everyone in the crowd was stunned. Francine spoke up, "Young lady, you healed with a few pokes of the needle?" Aria applied some light pressure on the needle. She saw that the bloodletting was done, so she removed the needle and pressed a cotton ball on the wound to stop the bleeding. "Madam, it's not that simple. Applying acupuncture to the fingertips can help with dissipating the heat. He was inflicted with heat stroke, which was caused by the high temperature. I just helped him cool down with acupuncture." "Spare me the theatrics. That kid hasn't spoken a word since he regained consciousness. You probably left him with some side effects with your treatment!" Jimmy snorted. Francine was a little annoyed. "The boy has already regained consciousness. Why are you talking about side effects? Are you just trying to get out of apologizing to the young lady?" "That's none of your business!" Jimmy looked at Francine and suddenly sneered. "I understand now. You're all in on this. You pulled me here, and she's trying to scam me. "This is an organized scam, isn't it? I knew traditional medicine practitioners were all fake." Aria's expression grew cold when she heard that. She was about to raise her hand. Then, the boy spoke up in a weak but icy tone, "Traditional medicine has always been an essential part of Celestria's culture. You're a lousy doctor, sir. You should put more effort into studying." "Youβ¦" Jimmy was at a loss for words. The boy spoke up right after he said he wasn't healed. The boy even spoke out against him. It was clear that the boy wasn't on his side. Francine burst out into laughter. "Hey, kid. He's talking about you. You should put more effort into studying." "I won't waste my breath with you bottom feeders anymore. You're just a group of peasants," Jimmy said in disdain. Aria flicked a needle in his direction. It brushed past his face and got stuck in a tree nearby. Such a violent display caused Jimmy to freeze up. Even his legs felt like they were about to give out. Aria smiled as she said casually, "Don't you think you've forgotten about something?" She was just a young woman, but she had a very vicious and commanding presence, which caused Jimmy to feel fear. He tried to keep his cool. "What did I forget?" "An apology," Aria said as she tapped on her phone. She looked devilishly charming. Jimmy didn't want to do that. So, he said arrogantly, "Everyone makes mistakes. I don't have any more time to waste with a traditional medicine practitioner like you." Francine couldn't stand his attitude anymore. "Is this how a student of Dr. Salome Gunther would act? You lost a bet to that young woman, and yet you refuse to apologize? Such ethicsβ¦" "What's wrong with my ethics? Who here can prove I lost a bet to her? None of you will ever have enough money to pay for Dr. Gunther's treatment. "Me being here and providing free medical services is an honor for all of you. How dare you peasants keep babbling about such nonsense? Don't you dare cause trouble here! Do you even know where you are right now?" Francine's hands trembled in anger. "Youβ¦ You!" Jimmy snorted. He looked at all of them with utter disdain. They were in a modern society. He didn't believe that Aria would dare to do anything to him. Chapter 6 Teaching Him a Lesson Jimmy had always thought that the common folk were beneath him. He didn't notice that Aria's gaze changed as she looked up. Viciousness and contempt filled her eyes. She casually toyed with a piece of candy in her palm. Then, she flicked toward Jimmy. He felt his knee give out as he fell to the ground. "Ah!" The pain caused him to frown. He tried to get up but realized that he couldn't move his body at all. He couldn't talk, and his hands wouldn't budge. It felt like his movements had been sealed with the attack. Aria walked up to him and said calmly, "As a medical student, you failed miserably at determining the patient's symptoms, and you even declared a verdict without a second thought. "Being a doctor doesn't mean you're better than anyone else. It's a job for you to help people in need. You're unskilled and unethical. Now that you're on your knees, I'll accept your apology. Consider this a lesson I'm teaching you in your mentor's stead." "You!" Jimmy's eyes were filled with hatred. Aria leaned in and whispered in his ear. "Since you're such a shameless person, it'll probably be okay if you remain on your knees here for a couple of hours." "What did you do to me? I want to call the cops! I have been assaulted!" Jimmy yelled. Aria smiled. "And who can prove anything? Mr. Cornell, you got on your knees yourself. I didn't even touch you." "I know right? He deserves that!" The people in the crowd felt great satisfaction seeing Jimmy in that state. "The young lady didn't do anything. Stop lying!" That was the truth. He was the one who refused to help the boy. He was also the one who was running his mouth after Aria provided treatment for the boy. He was also the one who had been cursing at everyone in the crowd and was shameless enough to refuse to apologize. He was a true disgrace to the medical profession. Did he really think he could just say all those things without repercussions? He even tried to blame Aria for his condition. The women in the crowd started to yell, "Everyone, come and take a look! There's an unskilled medical student here. He's on his knees to apologize right now!" "You! All of you!" Jimmy's face was flushed, and his breath was labored. That was why people didn't mess with the ordinary citizens who were brave, kind, and despised delinquency. Jimmy was a fool for being so domineering in front of them. The more people looked at him, the lower Jimmy's head hung. He wished the ground would open up and swallow him up. He was afraid that someone would recognize him. The malice in his eyes grew as he looked at Aria. They were both in the medical industry. So, they were bound to meet again someday. He swore he would get back at her the next time they met. Aria didn't spare him another glance. Besides, if they crossed paths again, she didn't mind breaking his legs. Quite a lot of the older people in the crowd asked for Aria's contact information. They had seen how she performed acupuncture on the boy. It was clear that she was an extremely skilled doctor. They were determined to secure her contact information. Aria didn't turn any of them down, so she added them to her contacts. Francine asked enthusiastically, "Young lady, you were so skilled with the needles. Is there a traditional medicine practitioner in your family?" Aria thought about Georgina Harris, the woman who used to be her grandmother while she was living with the Kents. Georgina was the only one who showed her any kindness. She came up with a solid reason. "Yes. My grandmother practices traditional medicine. She runs a care center." "No wonder. I'll introduce some clients to her soon!" "Sure." Aria thanked Francine politely. Aria didn't have the airs of a renowned doctor at all. She was a legend hiding in plain sight. The boy hadn't spoken at all since he talked to Jimmy. He just sat there quietly as he observed everything. His eyes were very bright, and he looked really adorable. After she finished talking to everyone else, Aria looked at him. "Are you still lightheaded?" He shook his head. Then, he looked up at Aria. "Miss, I'm Miles. Thanks for saving me. If it weren't for you, I would've been dead." Miles York's voice was very sweet. His eyes were round, and his face was very smooth and cute. He did a cute little bow when he thanked Aria. "Your name is Miles? Where is your family?" Aria asked with a raised eyebrow. "They're all inside!" Miles said as he pointed behind him at the Caesar Hotel. Not just anyone could get in there at the moment. Chapter 7 Saved Someone Important People in the crowd exclaimed in surprise and started talking. "Everyone in Caesar Hotel today is quite important. I heard that there are a lot of prominent medical families in there." "Then this boyβ¦" Aria wasn't surprised at all. After all, Miles was very well-dressed. The watch he was wearing on his wrist was quite expensive as well. "Remember to bring bodyguards when you come out next time," Aria said as she packed her medical kit up. When Miles realized that she was leaving, he clung to her leg. Aria couldn't get on the bicycle, so she looked down at him. Miles didn't speak. He just held on to her sleeve. He took a step whenever she did. They were going nowhere like that. She stopped in her tracks. "I'll take you back to your parents." "Okay!" Miles got what he wanted. He nodded and said, "I'll have my parents thank you properly, miss." Aria adjusted his collar for him. "No need for that. I don't take payment for helping kids." "Andβ¦" Miles shifted his gaze. "Do you have a boyfriend, miss?" Aria stood up straight. "No." "Then, I'll ask my brother, Landon, to be your boyfriend as thanks." Miles smiled as he started describing Landon. "Landon doesn't like to talk, but he's very handsome. He makes a lot of money, too. It'll be good for your ego if you go out with him. A lot of pretty ladies want to marry him, you know." Aria smiled when she heard that. "I have no plans of getting married right now." "Okay," Miles replied with disappointment as he drooped his head. He continued walking with Aria dejectedly. When they arrived at the hotel entrance, he looked at Aria enthusiastically and said, "Miss, why don't you meet with Landon first? You should make your decision after you see him." He was sure that Aria would fall for Landon when she saw him. He was a very handsome man, after all. Aria smiled. "You're trying so hard to promote your brother to me. Does he know about this?" "He's always sick. Everyone in the family has been telling him to get married. You're such a skilled doctor, and you're pretty, too. I'm sure a lot of people want to be your boyfriend. So, I'm just trying to get you to give Landon a chance." Aria looked at his parched lips. Then, she went to buy him a bottle of water and some crackers. "Stop talking so much. You're still recovering." Miles was very obedient. He ate whatever Aria gave him. He couldn't open the bottle himself, so he raised it up to Aria and said weakly, "Please help me open it." Landon's assistant, Troy Jepson, came to meet Miles and was shocked to see what was happening. He was sure that the woman with Miles was that imposter that the Kents kicked out. Why was Miles with her? He even asked her to help him open his bottle. Did he change his entire personality? Something flashed in Troy's eyes, but he quickly suppressed his emotions. He knew who Aria was, but she didn't know him. Troy took care not to expose his identity as he walked up to them in a hurry. "Mr. Miles! I've finally found you. I'm so glad you're okay." "This pretty lady saved me," Miles said as he held Aria's hand. He had a defiant look on his face. It was like he was finally himself again. Troy politely said, "Thanks, Ms. Carver." Aria looked at him calmly. "He already thanked me." Her attitude made it hard for Troy to grasp the situation. So, he said to Miles, "Mr. Miles, Mr. Landon called in some favors to track you down. He's in the car right now. He didn't even take his afternoon meds yet." Miles looked up in surprise. He didn't expect Landon to come out here personally. | Indulge in story | 598 | https://facebook.com/61552702618591 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717830000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879577 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410695 | 1723321806 | 995 | 1123587355422972 | 1 | 7.6990506525411E+14 | 1718089200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 273913162469522 | 0 | New world publications | 120212928768730170 | wwwedb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πAttention! Do not read in publicοΌπ | https://wwwedb.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11782&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717757425 | 2.7391316246952E+14 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959759_1311554859802432_4227718076479884991_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GwKF1hWO7f4Q7kNvgGcgnOa&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAaDJ90YtTRVgl1h4Qq29YmZWIZCVWKY5MqqmnLhItL8w&oe=6672A69D | person_profile | 0 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959270_7187349571370885_4976612476689122460_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=NNss872fdPgQ7kNvgE-PVII&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAp0ikcilFTLm0se1WcAfumGS3USCJAFn0NgxepicFnPw&oe=6672B455 | 0 | 3 | The clearing of a throat makes me jump. I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of alcohol. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that donβt quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door. Shrinking down to the ground. βIs this the way you greet all Alphaβs?β His deep voice rumbles through the room, an edge of amusement to his tone. βIβm sorry.β I whisper, getting to my feet. βIβ¦I thought I was alone.β I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. βCome forward.β He orders. Alpha Trey was going to kill me. I do as Iβm told. Allowing him to see me properly and I am met with narrowed crimson eyes. I close my own eyes, expecting the worst. βYou smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?β My head moved up and down, though I couldnβt tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they discovered the truth about me. βI would prefer it if you spoke to me.β He growls, βIβm not in the mood to play games.β βYes.β I whisper. βI amβ¦I am a Wolf.β I couldnβt help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? I wasnβt sure how much more my body could take. βHow is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.β βIβ¦..β I hated the question. βI havenβt got all day!β He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldnβt scent him. I knew why I hadnβt been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever liked to do. They never hear my side of the story. All they do is accept Alpha Trey's word as the truth. βYou should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?β His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them. There was no way I was making direct eye contact. βMy Wolf abilities were bound.β βWhy?β If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. βIt was a punishment.β βFor what?β βFor killing my parents.β | New world publications | 9 | https://facebook.com/61557831245498 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717743600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879587 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410695 | 1723321806 | 995 | 1126652285269237 | 1 | 9.8335474649662E+14 | 1718089200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 273913162469522 | 0 | New world publications | 120212928768730170 | wwwedb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πAttention! Do not read in publicοΌπ | https://wwwedb.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11782&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717757425 | 2.7391316246952E+14 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959759_1311554859802432_4227718076479884991_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GwKF1hWO7f4Q7kNvgGcgnOa&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAaDJ90YtTRVgl1h4Qq29YmZWIZCVWKY5MqqmnLhItL8w&oe=6672A69D | person_profile | 0 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959270_7187349571370885_4976612476689122460_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=NNss872fdPgQ7kNvgE-PVII&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAp0ikcilFTLm0se1WcAfumGS3USCJAFn0NgxepicFnPw&oe=6672B455 | 0 | 3 | The clearing of a throat makes me jump. I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of alcohol. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that donβt quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door. Shrinking down to the ground. βIs this the way you greet all Alphaβs?β His deep voice rumbles through the room, an edge of amusement to his tone. βIβm sorry.β I whisper, getting to my feet. βIβ¦I thought I was alone.β I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. βCome forward.β He orders. Alpha Trey was going to kill me. I do as Iβm told. Allowing him to see me properly and I am met with narrowed crimson eyes. I close my own eyes, expecting the worst. βYou smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?β My head moved up and down, though I couldnβt tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they discovered the truth about me. βI would prefer it if you spoke to me.β He growls, βIβm not in the mood to play games.β βYes.β I whisper. βI amβ¦I am a Wolf.β I couldnβt help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? I wasnβt sure how much more my body could take. βHow is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.β βIβ¦..β I hated the question. βI havenβt got all day!β He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldnβt scent him. I knew why I hadnβt been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever liked to do. They never hear my side of the story. All they do is accept Alpha Trey's word as the truth. βYou should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?β His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them. There was no way I was making direct eye contact. βMy Wolf abilities were bound.β βWhy?β If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. βIt was a punishment.β βFor what?β βFor killing my parents.β | New world publications | 9 | https://facebook.com/61557831245498 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717830000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879591 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410695 | 1723321806 | 995 | 1126652285269237 | 1 | 9.8335474649662E+14 | 1718089200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 273913162469522 | 0 | New world publications | 120212928768730170 | wwwedb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πAttention! Do not read in publicοΌπ | https://wwwedb.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11782&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717757425 | 2.7391316246952E+14 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959759_1311554859802432_4227718076479884991_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GwKF1hWO7f4Q7kNvgGcgnOa&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAaDJ90YtTRVgl1h4Qq29YmZWIZCVWKY5MqqmnLhItL8w&oe=6672A69D | person_profile | 0 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959270_7187349571370885_4976612476689122460_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=NNss872fdPgQ7kNvgE-PVII&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAp0ikcilFTLm0se1WcAfumGS3USCJAFn0NgxepicFnPw&oe=6672B455 | 0 | 3 | The clearing of a throat makes me jump. I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of alcohol. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that donβt quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door. Shrinking down to the ground. βIs this the way you greet all Alphaβs?β His deep voice rumbles through the room, an edge of amusement to his tone. βIβm sorry.β I whisper, getting to my feet. βIβ¦I thought I was alone.β I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. βCome forward.β He orders. Alpha Trey was going to kill me. I do as Iβm told. Allowing him to see me properly and I am met with narrowed crimson eyes. I close my own eyes, expecting the worst. βYou smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?β My head moved up and down, though I couldnβt tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they discovered the truth about me. βI would prefer it if you spoke to me.β He growls, βIβm not in the mood to play games.β βYes.β I whisper. βI amβ¦I am a Wolf.β I couldnβt help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? I wasnβt sure how much more my body could take. βHow is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.β βIβ¦..β I hated the question. βI havenβt got all day!β He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldnβt scent him. I knew why I hadnβt been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever liked to do. They never hear my side of the story. All they do is accept Alpha Trey's word as the truth. βYou should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?β His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them. There was no way I was making direct eye contact. βMy Wolf abilities were bound.β βWhy?β If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. βIt was a punishment.β βFor what?β βFor killing my parents.β | New world publications | 9 | https://facebook.com/61557831245498 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717830000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879595 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410696 | 1723321806 | 995 | 1147578309846881 | 1 | 9.3716217476051E+14 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 273913162469522 | 0 | New world publications | 120212928768730170 | wwwedb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πAttention! Do not read in publicοΌπ | https://wwwedb.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11782&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717757425 | 2.7391316246952E+14 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959759_1311554859802432_4227718076479884991_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GwKF1hWO7f4Q7kNvgGcgnOa&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAaDJ90YtTRVgl1h4Qq29YmZWIZCVWKY5MqqmnLhItL8w&oe=6672A69D | person_profile | 0 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959270_7187349571370885_4976612476689122460_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=NNss872fdPgQ7kNvgE-PVII&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAp0ikcilFTLm0se1WcAfumGS3USCJAFn0NgxepicFnPw&oe=6672B455 | 0 | 3 | The clearing of a throat makes me jump. I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of alcohol. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that donβt quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door. Shrinking down to the ground. βIs this the way you greet all Alphaβs?β His deep voice rumbles through the room, an edge of amusement to his tone. βIβm sorry.β I whisper, getting to my feet. βIβ¦I thought I was alone.β I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. βCome forward.β He orders. Alpha Trey was going to kill me. I do as Iβm told. Allowing him to see me properly and I am met with narrowed crimson eyes. I close my own eyes, expecting the worst. βYou smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?β My head moved up and down, though I couldnβt tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they discovered the truth about me. βI would prefer it if you spoke to me.β He growls, βIβm not in the mood to play games.β βYes.β I whisper. βI amβ¦I am a Wolf.β I couldnβt help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? I wasnβt sure how much more my body could take. βHow is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.β βIβ¦..β I hated the question. βI havenβt got all day!β He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldnβt scent him. I knew why I hadnβt been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever liked to do. They never hear my side of the story. All they do is accept Alpha Trey's word as the truth. βYou should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?β His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them. There was no way I was making direct eye contact. βMy Wolf abilities were bound.β βWhy?β If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. βIt was a punishment.β βFor what?β βFor killing my parents.β | New world publications | 9 | https://facebook.com/61557831245498 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718089200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879602 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410696 | 1723321806 | 995 | 1446131629599107 | 1 | 9.3528040839923E+14 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 273913162469522 | 0 | New world publications | 120212928768730170 | wwwedb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πAttention! Do not read in publicοΌπ | https://wwwedb.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11782&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717757425 | 2.7391316246952E+14 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959759_1311554859802432_4227718076479884991_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GwKF1hWO7f4Q7kNvgGcgnOa&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAaDJ90YtTRVgl1h4Qq29YmZWIZCVWKY5MqqmnLhItL8w&oe=6672A69D | person_profile | 0 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959270_7187349571370885_4976612476689122460_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=NNss872fdPgQ7kNvgE-PVII&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAp0ikcilFTLm0se1WcAfumGS3USCJAFn0NgxepicFnPw&oe=6672B455 | 0 | 3 | The clearing of a throat makes me jump. I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of alcohol. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that donβt quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door. Shrinking down to the ground. βIs this the way you greet all Alphaβs?β His deep voice rumbles through the room, an edge of amusement to his tone. βIβm sorry.β I whisper, getting to my feet. βIβ¦I thought I was alone.β I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. βCome forward.β He orders. Alpha Trey was going to kill me. I do as Iβm told. Allowing him to see me properly and I am met with narrowed crimson eyes. I close my own eyes, expecting the worst. βYou smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?β My head moved up and down, though I couldnβt tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they discovered the truth about me. βI would prefer it if you spoke to me.β He growls, βIβm not in the mood to play games.β βYes.β I whisper. βI amβ¦I am a Wolf.β I couldnβt help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? I wasnβt sure how much more my body could take. βHow is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.β βIβ¦..β I hated the question. βI havenβt got all day!β He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldnβt scent him. I knew why I hadnβt been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever liked to do. They never hear my side of the story. All they do is accept Alpha Trey's word as the truth. βYou should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?β His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them. There was no way I was making direct eye contact. βMy Wolf abilities were bound.β βWhy?β If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. βIt was a punishment.β βFor what?β βFor killing my parents.β | New world publications | 9 | https://facebook.com/61557831245498 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717830000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879609 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410696 | 1723321806 | 995 | 1446131629599107 | 1 | 9.3528040839923E+14 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 273913162469522 | 0 | New world publications | 120212928768730170 | wwwedb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πAttention! Do not read in publicοΌπ | https://wwwedb.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11782&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717757425 | 2.7391316246952E+14 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959759_1311554859802432_4227718076479884991_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GwKF1hWO7f4Q7kNvgGcgnOa&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAaDJ90YtTRVgl1h4Qq29YmZWIZCVWKY5MqqmnLhItL8w&oe=6672A69D | person_profile | 0 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959270_7187349571370885_4976612476689122460_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=NNss872fdPgQ7kNvgE-PVII&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAp0ikcilFTLm0se1WcAfumGS3USCJAFn0NgxepicFnPw&oe=6672B455 | 0 | 3 | The clearing of a throat makes me jump. I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of alcohol. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that donβt quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door. Shrinking down to the ground. βIs this the way you greet all Alphaβs?β His deep voice rumbles through the room, an edge of amusement to his tone. βIβm sorry.β I whisper, getting to my feet. βIβ¦I thought I was alone.β I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. βCome forward.β He orders. Alpha Trey was going to kill me. I do as Iβm told. Allowing him to see me properly and I am met with narrowed crimson eyes. I close my own eyes, expecting the worst. βYou smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?β My head moved up and down, though I couldnβt tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they discovered the truth about me. βI would prefer it if you spoke to me.β He growls, βIβm not in the mood to play games.β βYes.β I whisper. βI amβ¦I am a Wolf.β I couldnβt help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? I wasnβt sure how much more my body could take. βHow is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.β βIβ¦..β I hated the question. βI havenβt got all day!β He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldnβt scent him. I knew why I hadnβt been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever liked to do. They never hear my side of the story. All they do is accept Alpha Trey's word as the truth. βYou should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?β His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them. There was no way I was making direct eye contact. βMy Wolf abilities were bound.β βWhy?β If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. βIt was a punishment.β βFor what?β βFor killing my parents.β | New world publications | 9 | https://facebook.com/61557831245498 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717830000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879613 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410696 | 1723321806 | 995 | 1828612057649255 | 1 | 9.7304891769959E+14 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 273913162469522 | 0 | New world publications | 120212928768730170 | wwwedb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πAttention! Do not read in publicοΌπ | https://wwwedb.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11782&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717757425 | 2.7391316246952E+14 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959759_1311554859802432_4227718076479884991_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GwKF1hWO7f4Q7kNvgGcgnOa&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAaDJ90YtTRVgl1h4Qq29YmZWIZCVWKY5MqqmnLhItL8w&oe=6672A69D | person_profile | 0 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959270_7187349571370885_4976612476689122460_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=NNss872fdPgQ7kNvgE-PVII&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAp0ikcilFTLm0se1WcAfumGS3USCJAFn0NgxepicFnPw&oe=6672B455 | 0 | 3 | The clearing of a throat makes me jump. I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of alcohol. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that donβt quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door. Shrinking down to the ground. βIs this the way you greet all Alphaβs?β His deep voice rumbles through the room, an edge of amusement to his tone. βIβm sorry.β I whisper, getting to my feet. βIβ¦I thought I was alone.β I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. βCome forward.β He orders. Alpha Trey was going to kill me. I do as Iβm told. Allowing him to see me properly and I am met with narrowed crimson eyes. I close my own eyes, expecting the worst. βYou smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?β My head moved up and down, though I couldnβt tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they discovered the truth about me. βI would prefer it if you spoke to me.β He growls, βIβm not in the mood to play games.β βYes.β I whisper. βI amβ¦I am a Wolf.β I couldnβt help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? I wasnβt sure how much more my body could take. βHow is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.β βIβ¦..β I hated the question. βI havenβt got all day!β He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldnβt scent him. I knew why I hadnβt been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever liked to do. They never hear my side of the story. All they do is accept Alpha Trey's word as the truth. βYou should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?β His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them. There was no way I was making direct eye contact. βMy Wolf abilities were bound.β βWhy?β If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. βIt was a punishment.β βFor what?β βFor killing my parents.β | New world publications | 9 | https://facebook.com/61557831245498 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718175600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879639 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410699 | 1723321806 | 995 | 7599646173405331 | 4 | 8.1189217383301E+14 | 1716793200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120211846693390779 | qweasdzxconline.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πRead the next chaptersπ | https://qweasdzxconline.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11090&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715085862 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438129100_1146045226739178_2601865360875538189_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pgaM6op9EH4Q7kNvgFvStUz&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAnzNXAdVZ3R4dAiEpauXywjYljw4eXW7quZ6rvyHSXBw&oe=6672A490 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440747644_315502774915635_6353252339687881796_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YicSkuGzOiMQ7kNvgEoi2bQ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAN9i2X9Y9MK7cgBix3paDsplYdUdBGGi_LOwLoSJKKaQ&oe=6672CB97 | 0 | 3 | π"Ned Fletcher, with how you're treating Angie right now, aren't you worried that you're going to regret it when you finally regain your memories one day? You loved her so much before and you two got married for love! Despite you forgetting your feelings about her, how could you post so many indecent photos of her on social media?" Ned spoke nonchalantly, saying, "Why are you still holding me hostage with morals and principles? She was the one who framed me by lowly methods. I was just warning her. If Ingrid hadn't asked me to stop, I'd have gone even further! By the way, show your respect to Ingrid. Sheβs not a new girl but my only one forever and never!" Angeline Emmerson heard the talk standing outside the door. She used to be treated ever so lovingly by Ned in the past. Angeline felt her eyes reddening and filling with tears. The Ned she knew had died in the car accident that happened four years ago. The one inside was merely a stranger! Angeline inhaled deeply. Then, she pushed the door open. Ned looked up and saw her entering. "Who brought you here?" Angeline stared at Ned and said, "I've already made a police report regarding your spiked drink at the event and your spreading of my photos for revenge." Hearing this, everyone's reactions differed from one another. Angeline continued, "Ned Fletcher, it's true that I wanted to try rekindling our relationship, but I would never have stooped so low as to do those disgusting things to you. I didn't want to let go of this relationship because I was worried that the Ned I knew would return someday and blame me for giving up on him so easily," Angeline placed the divorce agreement she'd been hugging onto the table. "I tried my best, but I'm tired now. Ned Fletcher, I'm giving up on you. I don't want you anymore." Ned's eyes traveled from the divorce agreement to Angeline's face. There was a hint of surprise in his cold eyes. "Let's finalize the divorce after the police have cleared my name and you have publicly apologized to me." | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716274800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879667 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410701 | 1723321806 | 995 | 459835549897918 | 1 | 8.1371474369554E+14 | 1717398000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 144939265372419 | 0 | Indulge in story | 120212123041180002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πRead the next chaptersπ | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717156295 | 1.4493926537242E+14 | Indulge in story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447188158_427615253376044_1467412671752920547_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=jzL6Oa7-ii0Q7kNvgGCyckJ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYC2sJ_M5ES4pqvFdNz-SKj_5tvqa9Ru1TPF1lbMSI84qg&oe=6672BB43 | person_profile | 0 | Indulge in story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447187806_1591240261718800_9124110637169545735_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=D2ubYjH7fCAQ7kNvgHRaYDl&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAQa0MxUi0kNJhNxJS1vo1Zf69FgLlTpfw8zOhSYMbNdw&oe=6672A518 | 0 | 3 | My crush actually flipped the table and humiliated me in front of our whole family! During dinner, everyone was engaged in an enthusiastic discussion about my wedding to Felix. I've known Felix since we were born. I liked himβa lot, and he's always been nice and gentle to me. So I was stunned when he suddenly erupted. He shot to his feet and glared at me, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around, but I can't say or do anything about it! Stay away from me! Stop following me around!β In that instant, the room turned dead silent. I could feel the blood rush to my head, making my face flush and my ears ring. I have never seen Felix like this. His words were no different from a stinging slap in my face, and he had done it right in front of everyone. Tears welled up in my eyes, and it felt as if my breath had caught in my throat, making it hard for me to breathe. "Felix, I..." But he wasn't done yet. "If it weren't for you shamelessly pestering me all the time, they wouldn't try to pair us up!" I forced myself to suppress the hurt I felt and tried to reason with him. "Felix, listen to me. I just likeβ" "Don't call me that. I hate it when you call my name. Keep your feelings to yourself and leave me be. I don't need your affection. "In fact, they're nothing more than shackles to me. I don't want to be associated with you in any wayβnot ever," Felix interrupted. His words were venomous, and his eyes were filled with a cold hatred that made me shiver. It was like he was looking at a piece of trash. My heart ached, and I found myself gasping for breath. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet in the end, it was all my fault? My eyes were filled with tears, but I bit my lip hard to prevent my tears from falling. I didn't do anything wrong, so I couldn't allow myself to cry. He shouldn't have allowed me to get caught up in my presumptuous thoughts and feelings about our relationship, only to accuse me of shamelessly clinging to him. I was not shameless. I just loved him. If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I swore I would make him regret it! | Indulge in story | 598 | https://facebook.com/61552702618591 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717225200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879676 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410702 | 1723321806 | 995 | 1674901933251031 | 1 | 1.3730294167281E+15 | 1716966000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 342924965562549 | 0 | Random Reading | 120211964994730002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πRead the next chaptersπ | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1716635684 | 3.4292496556255E+14 | Random Reading | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/445179828_1231353154512704_2683978688725298454_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=oUjgDFvFI6cQ7kNvgFni6B6&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCXYZlXnH85BsC2YQavWKN1l2Y9_qP8ZyEeihC-g3d_aQ&oe=6672BBC4 | person_profile | 0 | Random Reading | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/444167427_431984266361305_92450316753065691_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=BfvNcSsxrvAQ7kNvgEXP0vD&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBysFQF0r3_NI-6qY4o-0S6MsuFhajRNPf1EAsZIaLPwg&oe=6672B8DB | 0 | 3 | I am Luna Lawson, and Felix White is my neighbor. From the moment we were born, the elders in our families had us engaged to one another. I've been sure of one thing my whole lifeβI'm Felix's future wife. Ever since I could walk on my own, I shadowed him wherever he went. Ever since I could speak, the word that I said the most was his name. Ever since I understood what love was, he took root in my heart, and my feelings for him kept growing. I liked himβa lot. However, that was just my own opinion, and Felix had a mind of his own. By the time we turn 18, at a family dinner party at his house, our mothers were discussing our marriage when he suddenly shot to his feet. He glared at me and spat, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around, but I can't say or do anything about it! Stay away from me! Stop following me around! I will never marry you!" In that instant, the room turned dead silent. His words were no different from accusing me of being a shameless simp, and he had done it right in front of everyone. His angry father then gave him a loud slap, sending him slumping to the floor. Felix shot me a scathing glare as if I was the sinner. "Are you happy now, Luna?" he spat. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. I forced the humiliation down as I continued, "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix." ... One year later, he brings a young lady to me. He gives her a tender and loving gaze, saying, "This is my girlfriend, Lily." I say, "Okay." Later, Felix says, "Lulu, Lili says she feels insecure because you've remained single this whole time." And so, I start dating Felix's older brother, Colin White. At first, I think he's pure of heart and free from desire, but after we get together, he starts seducing me with everything he's got. I try to flee, but he chases after me. When I get mad, he coaxes me. He laughs when I scold him and feeds me when I'm hungry. He also holds me when I'm cold β¦ I tell him, "Colin, stay away from me. It's so hot." He locks me in his embrace and smiles devilishly. "Be good. Let me give you another kiss." | Random Reading | 9 | https://facebook.com/61559743679549 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716706800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879678 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410702 | 1723321806 | 995 | 1674901933251031 | 1 | 1.3730294167281E+15 | 1716966000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 342924965562549 | 0 | Random Reading | 120211964994730002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πRead the next chaptersπ | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1716635684 | 3.4292496556255E+14 | Random Reading | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/445179828_1231353154512704_2683978688725298454_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=oUjgDFvFI6cQ7kNvgFni6B6&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCXYZlXnH85BsC2YQavWKN1l2Y9_qP8ZyEeihC-g3d_aQ&oe=6672BBC4 | person_profile | 0 | Random Reading | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/444167427_431984266361305_92450316753065691_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=BfvNcSsxrvAQ7kNvgEXP0vD&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBysFQF0r3_NI-6qY4o-0S6MsuFhajRNPf1EAsZIaLPwg&oe=6672B8DB | 0 | 3 | I am Luna Lawson, and Felix White is my neighbor. From the moment we were born, the elders in our families had us engaged to one another. I've been sure of one thing my whole lifeβI'm Felix's future wife. Ever since I could walk on my own, I shadowed him wherever he went. Ever since I could speak, the word that I said the most was his name. Ever since I understood what love was, he took root in my heart, and my feelings for him kept growing. I liked himβa lot. However, that was just my own opinion, and Felix had a mind of his own. By the time we turn 18, at a family dinner party at his house, our mothers were discussing our marriage when he suddenly shot to his feet. He glared at me and spat, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around, but I can't say or do anything about it! Stay away from me! Stop following me around! I will never marry you!" In that instant, the room turned dead silent. His words were no different from accusing me of being a shameless simp, and he had done it right in front of everyone. His angry father then gave him a loud slap, sending him slumping to the floor. Felix shot me a scathing glare as if I was the sinner. "Are you happy now, Luna?" he spat. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. I forced the humiliation down as I continued, "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix." ... One year later, he brings a young lady to me. He gives her a tender and loving gaze, saying, "This is my girlfriend, Lily." I say, "Okay." Later, Felix says, "Lulu, Lili says she feels insecure because you've remained single this whole time." And so, I start dating Felix's older brother, Colin White. At first, I think he's pure of heart and free from desire, but after we get together, he starts seducing me with everything he's got. I try to flee, but he chases after me. When I get mad, he coaxes me. He laughs when I scold him and feeds me when I'm hungry. He also holds me when I'm cold β¦ I tell him, "Colin, stay away from me. It's so hot." He locks me in his embrace and smiles devilishly. "Be good. Let me give you another kiss." | Random Reading | 9 | https://facebook.com/61559743679549 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716706800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879687 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410704 | 1723321806 | 995 | 302398159575876 | 6 | 7.9376878362617E+15 | 1716274800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120211846693390779 | qweasdzxconline.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πRead the next chaptersπ | https://qweasdzxconline.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11090&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715085862 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438129100_1146045226739178_2601865360875538189_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pgaM6op9EH4Q7kNvgFvStUz&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAnzNXAdVZ3R4dAiEpauXywjYljw4eXW7quZ6rvyHSXBw&oe=6672A490 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440747644_315502774915635_6353252339687881796_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YicSkuGzOiMQ7kNvgEoi2bQ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAN9i2X9Y9MK7cgBix3paDsplYdUdBGGi_LOwLoSJKKaQ&oe=6672CB97 | 0 | 3 | π"Ned Fletcher, with how you're treating Angie right now, aren't you worried that you're going to regret it when you finally regain your memories one day? You loved her so much before and you two got married for love! Despite you forgetting your feelings about her, how could you post so many indecent photos of her on social media?" Ned spoke nonchalantly, saying, "Why are you still holding me hostage with morals and principles? She was the one who framed me by lowly methods. I was just warning her. If Ingrid hadn't asked me to stop, I'd have gone even further! By the way, show your respect to Ingrid. Sheβs not a new girl but my only one forever and never!" Angeline Emmerson heard the talk standing outside the door. She used to be treated ever so lovingly by Ned in the past. Angeline felt her eyes reddening and filling with tears. The Ned she knew had died in the car accident that happened four years ago. The one inside was merely a stranger! Angeline inhaled deeply. Then, she pushed the door open. Ned looked up and saw her entering. "Who brought you here?" Angeline stared at Ned and said, "I've already made a police report regarding your spiked drink at the event and your spreading of my photos for revenge." Hearing this, everyone's reactions differed from one another. Angeline continued, "Ned Fletcher, it's true that I wanted to try rekindling our relationship, but I would never have stooped so low as to do those disgusting things to you. I didn't want to let go of this relationship because I was worried that the Ned I knew would return someday and blame me for giving up on him so easily," Angeline placed the divorce agreement she'd been hugging onto the table. "I tried my best, but I'm tired now. Ned Fletcher, I'm giving up on you. I don't want you anymore." Ned's eyes traveled from the divorce agreement to Angeline's face. There was a hint of surprise in his cold eyes. "Let's finalize the divorce after the police have cleared my name and you have publicly apologized to me." | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715670000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879704 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410708 | 1723321806 | 995 | 350229604734306 | 16 | 9.8242705956723E+14 | 1715324400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120211846693390779 | qweasdzxconline.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πRead the next chaptersπ | https://qweasdzxconline.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11090&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715085862 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438129100_1146045226739178_2601865360875538189_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pgaM6op9EH4Q7kNvgFvStUz&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAnzNXAdVZ3R4dAiEpauXywjYljw4eXW7quZ6rvyHSXBw&oe=6672A490 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440747644_315502774915635_6353252339687881796_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YicSkuGzOiMQ7kNvgEoi2bQ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAN9i2X9Y9MK7cgBix3paDsplYdUdBGGi_LOwLoSJKKaQ&oe=6672CB97 | 0 | 3 | π"Ned Fletcher, with how you're treating Angie right now, aren't you worried that you're going to regret it when you finally regain your memories one day? You loved her so much before and you two got married for love! Despite you forgetting your feelings about her, how could you post so many indecent photos of her on social media?" Ned spoke nonchalantly, saying, "Why are you still holding me hostage with morals and principles? She was the one who framed me by lowly methods. I was just warning her. If Ingrid hadn't asked me to stop, I'd have gone even further! By the way, show your respect to Ingrid. Sheβs not a new girl but my only one forever and never!" Angeline Emmerson heard the talk standing outside the door. She used to be treated ever so lovingly by Ned in the past. Angeline felt her eyes reddening and filling with tears. The Ned she knew had died in the car accident that happened four years ago. The one inside was merely a stranger! Angeline inhaled deeply. Then, she pushed the door open. Ned looked up and saw her entering. "Who brought you here?" Angeline stared at Ned and said, "I've already made a police report regarding your spiked drink at the event and your spreading of my photos for revenge." Hearing this, everyone's reactions differed from one another. Angeline continued, "Ned Fletcher, it's true that I wanted to try rekindling our relationship, but I would never have stooped so low as to do those disgusting things to you. I didn't want to let go of this relationship because I was worried that the Ned I knew would return someday and blame me for giving up on him so easily," Angeline placed the divorce agreement she'd been hugging onto the table. "I tried my best, but I'm tired now. Ned Fletcher, I'm giving up on you. I don't want you anymore." Ned's eyes traveled from the divorce agreement to Angeline's face. There was a hint of surprise in his cold eyes. "Let's finalize the divorce after the police have cleared my name and you have publicly apologized to me." | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879709 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410709 | 1723321806 | 995 | 472704218538310 | 12 | 8.4162250112428E+14 | 1715929200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120211846693390779 | qweasdzxconline.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πRead the next chaptersπ | https://qweasdzxconline.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11090&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715085862 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438129100_1146045226739178_2601865360875538189_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pgaM6op9EH4Q7kNvgFvStUz&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAnzNXAdVZ3R4dAiEpauXywjYljw4eXW7quZ6rvyHSXBw&oe=6672A490 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440747644_315502774915635_6353252339687881796_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YicSkuGzOiMQ7kNvgEoi2bQ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAN9i2X9Y9MK7cgBix3paDsplYdUdBGGi_LOwLoSJKKaQ&oe=6672CB97 | 0 | 3 | π"Ned Fletcher, with how you're treating Angie right now, aren't you worried that you're going to regret it when you finally regain your memories one day? You loved her so much before and you two got married for love! Despite you forgetting your feelings about her, how could you post so many indecent photos of her on social media?" Ned spoke nonchalantly, saying, "Why are you still holding me hostage with morals and principles? She was the one who framed me by lowly methods. I was just warning her. If Ingrid hadn't asked me to stop, I'd have gone even further! By the way, show your respect to Ingrid. Sheβs not a new girl but my only one forever and never!" Angeline Emmerson heard the talk standing outside the door. She used to be treated ever so lovingly by Ned in the past. Angeline felt her eyes reddening and filling with tears. The Ned she knew had died in the car accident that happened four years ago. The one inside was merely a stranger! Angeline inhaled deeply. Then, she pushed the door open. Ned looked up and saw her entering. "Who brought you here?" Angeline stared at Ned and said, "I've already made a police report regarding your spiked drink at the event and your spreading of my photos for revenge." Hearing this, everyone's reactions differed from one another. Angeline continued, "Ned Fletcher, it's true that I wanted to try rekindling our relationship, but I would never have stooped so low as to do those disgusting things to you. I didn't want to let go of this relationship because I was worried that the Ned I knew would return someday and blame me for giving up on him so easily," Angeline placed the divorce agreement she'd been hugging onto the table. "I tried my best, but I'm tired now. Ned Fletcher, I'm giving up on you. I don't want you anymore." Ned's eyes traveled from the divorce agreement to Angeline's face. There was a hint of surprise in his cold eyes. "Let's finalize the divorce after the police have cleared my name and you have publicly apologized to me." | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715583600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879715 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410711 | 1723321807 | 995 | 472704218538310 | 12 | 8.4162250112428E+14 | 1715929200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120211846693390779 | qweasdzxconline.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πRead the next chaptersπ | https://qweasdzxconline.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11090&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715085862 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438129100_1146045226739178_2601865360875538189_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pgaM6op9EH4Q7kNvgFvStUz&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAnzNXAdVZ3R4dAiEpauXywjYljw4eXW7quZ6rvyHSXBw&oe=6672A490 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440747644_315502774915635_6353252339687881796_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YicSkuGzOiMQ7kNvgEoi2bQ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAN9i2X9Y9MK7cgBix3paDsplYdUdBGGi_LOwLoSJKKaQ&oe=6672CB97 | 0 | 3 | π"Ned Fletcher, with how you're treating Angie right now, aren't you worried that you're going to regret it when you finally regain your memories one day? You loved her so much before and you two got married for love! Despite you forgetting your feelings about her, how could you post so many indecent photos of her on social media?" Ned spoke nonchalantly, saying, "Why are you still holding me hostage with morals and principles? She was the one who framed me by lowly methods. I was just warning her. If Ingrid hadn't asked me to stop, I'd have gone even further! By the way, show your respect to Ingrid. Sheβs not a new girl but my only one forever and never!" Angeline Emmerson heard the talk standing outside the door. She used to be treated ever so lovingly by Ned in the past. Angeline felt her eyes reddening and filling with tears. The Ned she knew had died in the car accident that happened four years ago. The one inside was merely a stranger! Angeline inhaled deeply. Then, she pushed the door open. Ned looked up and saw her entering. "Who brought you here?" Angeline stared at Ned and said, "I've already made a police report regarding your spiked drink at the event and your spreading of my photos for revenge." Hearing this, everyone's reactions differed from one another. Angeline continued, "Ned Fletcher, it's true that I wanted to try rekindling our relationship, but I would never have stooped so low as to do those disgusting things to you. I didn't want to let go of this relationship because I was worried that the Ned I knew would return someday and blame me for giving up on him so easily," Angeline placed the divorce agreement she'd been hugging onto the table. "I tried my best, but I'm tired now. Ned Fletcher, I'm giving up on you. I don't want you anymore." Ned's eyes traveled from the divorce agreement to Angeline's face. There was a hint of surprise in his cold eyes. "Let's finalize the divorce after the police have cleared my name and you have publicly apologized to me." | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715583600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879717 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410711 | 1723321807 | 995 | 472704218538310 | 12 | 8.4162250112428E+14 | 1715929200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120211846693390779 | qweasdzxconline.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πRead the next chaptersπ | https://qweasdzxconline.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11090&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715085862 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438129100_1146045226739178_2601865360875538189_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pgaM6op9EH4Q7kNvgFvStUz&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAnzNXAdVZ3R4dAiEpauXywjYljw4eXW7quZ6rvyHSXBw&oe=6672A490 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440747644_315502774915635_6353252339687881796_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YicSkuGzOiMQ7kNvgEoi2bQ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAN9i2X9Y9MK7cgBix3paDsplYdUdBGGi_LOwLoSJKKaQ&oe=6672CB97 | 0 | 3 | π"Ned Fletcher, with how you're treating Angie right now, aren't you worried that you're going to regret it when you finally regain your memories one day? You loved her so much before and you two got married for love! Despite you forgetting your feelings about her, how could you post so many indecent photos of her on social media?" Ned spoke nonchalantly, saying, "Why are you still holding me hostage with morals and principles? She was the one who framed me by lowly methods. I was just warning her. If Ingrid hadn't asked me to stop, I'd have gone even further! By the way, show your respect to Ingrid. Sheβs not a new girl but my only one forever and never!" Angeline Emmerson heard the talk standing outside the door. She used to be treated ever so lovingly by Ned in the past. Angeline felt her eyes reddening and filling with tears. The Ned she knew had died in the car accident that happened four years ago. The one inside was merely a stranger! Angeline inhaled deeply. Then, she pushed the door open. Ned looked up and saw her entering. "Who brought you here?" Angeline stared at Ned and said, "I've already made a police report regarding your spiked drink at the event and your spreading of my photos for revenge." Hearing this, everyone's reactions differed from one another. Angeline continued, "Ned Fletcher, it's true that I wanted to try rekindling our relationship, but I would never have stooped so low as to do those disgusting things to you. I didn't want to let go of this relationship because I was worried that the Ned I knew would return someday and blame me for giving up on him so easily," Angeline placed the divorce agreement she'd been hugging onto the table. "I tried my best, but I'm tired now. Ned Fletcher, I'm giving up on you. I don't want you anymore." Ned's eyes traveled from the divorce agreement to Angeline's face. There was a hint of surprise in his cold eyes. "Let's finalize the divorce after the police have cleared my name and you have publicly apologized to me." | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715583600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879727 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410713 | 1723321807 | 995 | 478272224667453 | 1 | 9.8867341249763E+14 | 1715497200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120208322655090240 | beokn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πRead the next chaptersπ | https://beokn.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=11222&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715247646 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441959051_459948103069197_1403971259308613209_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=1TSfEhiF8D4Q7kNvgEsEyd9&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCPNRByqeAZCHU6FMOpZDTMDfP5mY-xNTPdLThPIEzSTA&oe=6672B59C | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441520392_1857443494727194_4363879934185925189_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=QPeoCanp0RMQ7kNvgGSYpS5&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAiCFpH1dTSMHzenkisoYvpFPTfZKxTYULLfGfWMJ5I7Q&oe=6672A42A | 0 | 3 | Melody Swanson had her cell phone's torch turned on to light the path to a white cottage amidst the lavenders. The night breeze was chilly, but all she had on was a white, sleeveless nightgown and lounge slippers. Her expression lifted when she saw she was getting close to the cottage. But the next second, someone reached out from the bushes beside her and gripped her right shoulder tightly. She yelped in shock, dropping her phone onto the ground. The faint light disappeared. The next thing she knew, she was dragged into a hot embrace. "I'll give you a million for one night!" The man's voice rang out behind her. It was deep and smooth. Melody's heart raced at this plot twist. Before she knew it, she'd been flipped onto her front and pinned to the ground amidst the sea of flowers. She widened her eyes and flailed, trying to escape. "No, wait! You've got the wrong person!" "Stop moving, sweetheart. Or are you that desperate for it?" the man rasped. "Let me go!" Melody struggled harder, but the man's tall and toned figure held her in place as he flipped her onto her back. She started feeling scared. She widened her eyes even more, but all she could see were the stars in the sky behind the man's head. There was barely enough light for her to see the man's chiseled featuresβthe desire burning in his eyes was clear as day, though. It was almost as bright as the stars above. Melody tried her best to escape but to no avail. Pain shot through her; the man leaned down to kiss her and swallow her cries. After a long while, he spoke again. His voice was alluring and hoarse. "You're so sweet, darling. I'll give you a million for another round. How about that?" "You're a monster!" Melody's voice was also hoarse from her crying. How could he do something like this to her in such a saintly place? The wind lifted her dress, stained purple by the lavenders they'd crushed underneath them. The scent was oddly intoxicating. They were in Violetville, which was famous for its sea of lavenders. It was so picturesque that many film companies had been attracted to film there. It gradually turned into a filming base. Recently, John Wales, an internationally renowned director, brought a crew of award-winning actors and actresses to Violetville to film a huge production. He'd happened to catch sight of Melody, who was home from college for the holidays. He'd invited her to play the role of an important side character. Melody hadn't expected her sister, Queenie Swanson, to trick her out of the house in the middle of the night upon hearing the news. Queenie had locked the door and refused to open it no matter how she pleaded. Their parents heard everything but did nothing to stop Queenie. The words Queenie had said not too long ago were still reverberating in Melody's mind. "You were capable of catching that director's eye, weren't you? Is it because you've already slept with him? What are you still doing here, then? Go sleep in his hotel room! I won't open the door for you, so get lost!" With no place to go, Melody had no choice but to take shelter in the white cottage amidst the sea of flowers, which was only meant for sightseeing. She hadn't expected to experience something like this, though. Her family's betrayal and the man's advances made her tears flow. They wet the flowers crushed underneath her body. Melody didn't know how long it would take for the man to be sated; it was as if he would never tire. When the sky started turning bright, he finally stopped. He released her hands, which he'd kept pinned in place. Melody immediately grabbed the nearest object and smashed it over the man's head. He'd been saying, "Tell me your name, sweetβ" Melody smashed a rock on his head before he could finish. He didn't manage to dodge itβperhaps he was too relaxed after having had his fill of her. Chapter 2 The man swayed on the spot from the impact. Melody pushed him away; he lay there, looking up at her blearily. She lifted the rock, intending to strike him again. This was self-defense! But the words echoed hollowly in her mindβshe couldn't do itβshe couldn't take his life. Even of a monster, it would stain her forever. Ultimately, she threw the bloodied rock aside and staggered to her feet. She took a step and happened to kick her phone. Melody picked it up and pulled out the cash tucked underneath her phone case. It was the change she'd gotten after doing some grocery shopping. She threw it at the man and snarled, "Listen upβI bought your services for one night, and that's your fee. Keep the change! And don't think it's too little. That's all you're worth!" With that, she turned and stumbled out of the sea of lavenders. The man's vision was already starting to blur. The blood trickled down his forehead and over his eyes. It dyed his vision red as he watched Melody walk away from him. The color of the flowers' stains on her nightgown seemed to mix with the blood in his eyes, giving him the impression that the flowers were blossoming. He was reminded of the night they'd just had together. "Don't goβ¦" he mumbled, reaching for her. But the darkness overtook him. The luxury watch on his wrist gleamed as his hand fell to the ground limply. β¦ Two months later, there was an uproar at the Swanson residence. "You're expecting a baby before marriage! You're a disgrace to the Swanson family! Get out of here!" Horace Swanson shoved Melody away furiously. "This is a small town, and the people here are all good, honest people. How could you pick up all these bad habits from those celebrities whose private lives are so messed up? Leave now! I'll just act like I never gave birth to you!" Susan Lett waved a hand, looking utterly disappointed. "You should leave, Melody. If the neighbors hear about this, how do you expect Mom and Dad to continue living here? I'm not married yet, you know. I don't want you to affect my reputation." Queenie stabbed an apple slice with a toothpick and ate it. She sat on the couch, looking like she was enjoying the show. Melody pointed at her. "Queenie's the one who locked me out of the house that night because she wanted to get the chance to be in that film! That's why I ended up getting assaulted. Why do you guys refuse to believe me?" Horace stood up and stormed over to her, giving her a hard slap. "Shut up, you imbecile! You're the one who did something so shameless, yet you're still trying to push the blame onto your sister! Don't ever step foot in here again!" "I raised your sister myself, so I know how kind and loving she is. How can you say that about her?" Susan pulled Queenie, who looked aggrieved, into her arms. She gave Melody, who'd fallen to the floor from Horace's slap, a reproachful look. "Is it really like Madam Williams said, Mom? Am I not your daughter? Is that why you won't believe me?" Melody didn't want to cry, but the tears refused to stay in her eyes. They streamed down her face. "Youβ¦ Of course you're my daughter! That's why I know what a bad apple you are! How dare you try to blame me when your misbehavior? Leave! Now!" "Fine! I'll go!" Melody staggered to her feet and walked out the door, looking resolute and lonely. β¦ Five years passed in the blink of an eye. Ford Manor was located among a cluster of villas halfway up a mountain in Tottenstone. Ethan Ford was having the same dream again. The woman in his dream wore a white dress, as usual. She had a long, silky smooth hair. He couldn't see her face, though. She didn't seem to enjoy his ministrationsβshe cried and pleaded with him to let her go, but he couldn't stop himself from sinking deeper. He held her close. In the next second, he opened his eyes and woke up from the dream. Chapter 3 It was this dream again. Ethan had experienced it almost every night for the past five years. No other woman had managed to arouse him since that incidentβonly the woman in his dreams could. He'd had the same dream for 1,826 days, including today. Even if he was already used to it, Ethan was still irritated. He wiped the sweat from his face; even his hair was damp. He got out of bed. His perfect figure was like a model's, but his face was more handsome than any model could ever have. His demeanor was cold, regal, and domineering. Ethan took a moment to compose himself. He strode to the bathroom after pushing the steamy images out of his mind. The butler, Bill Jones, heard this and came into the room. He quickly changed the soiled sheets. He'd just finished when Ethan came out of the bathroom with nothing but a towel around his waist. As soon as he graced the room with his toned figure, the atmosphere turned somewhat sensual. Bill stood there with his head bowed. When he saw Ethan head to the wardrobe, he said, "Ms. Wendy Nielson called to invite you out for dinner, Mr. Ford. Should I make arrangements? It's high time you let loose and have some fun, sir." Wendy was the daughter of a politician and one of the most well-known socialites in the region. She'd invited Ethan out countless times since running into him at a banquet a year ago. Ethan grabbed a black shirt and put it on, his back muscles rolling as he did so. He didn't even turn back as he said, "You're too noisy." Bill knew this meant Ethan was turning down the invitation. He didn't dare say anything else. 40 minutes later, Ethan strode out of the villa. His assistant, James Sawyer, hurriedly opened the door to a luxury car parked outside. Ethan got into the car elegantly. As the car drove past the main gates, Ethan glanced at the rearview mirror to see two bodyguards stop a woman in a cap and tracksuit. She tried to run after the car; her ponytail swung with her actions. Ethan retracted his gaze and said to James, "Tell the bodyguards they're out of jobs if I see any strangers as soon as I leave the house again." Sweat beaded on James' forehead. "Yes, sir." "Have you found anything on that woman from five years ago?" Ethan tugged on his tie, his eyes cold. He didn't even need to look at anyone to make them shudder. James stuttered, "N-Not yet, sir." "I'll give you another month. If you can't find anything, you can get lost, too!" Unbeknownst to Ethan, the woman he was searching for was behind him. Her figure became smaller and smaller in the rearview mirror. "Mr. Ford, don't go!" Melody finally liberated herself from the bodyguards, but she wasn't in time to catch up with the car. She wanted to run after it, but the bodyguards stopped her again. Amidst the tussle, she fell to the floor and landed on her arm. Pain shot through her. She raised her head to look at the car, but it was long gone. Oh no! It had already been a monthβshe'd staked out every place that Ethan could possibly be at, but someone had stopped her every time. She couldn't even get close to him. It had taken all her connections to get Ethan's address; she'd waited outside for him from 3:00 am onward for several days in a row. Still, she'd failed to even get close to him, let alone speak to him. "Mr. Sawyer just called us. If you show up here again tomorrow, you'll have to pay!" one of the bodyguards warned. Melody looked back at them and pleaded, "Can you please just let me see Mr. Ford? I only have a few things to say to himβit'll only take five minutes! It's about something important, I swear. This has to do with someone's life!" Chapter 4 "Every woman who wants to see Mr. Ford says they need him to save lives! He's not interested in you, okay? There's no point throwing yourself at him," one bodyguard snapped. "Get lost! Don't come here anymore!" another said. They looked like they would resort to violence if Melody refused to leave. She had no choice but to get up and trudge down the mountain, looking glum. "It's rare to see such a gorgeous woman. I'm sure she'd be set for life if she were to go after some other rich kid. Too bad she's greedyβdoesn't she realize where she is? Even Phoebe Shaw, that award-winning actress, isn't worthy of shining Mr. Ford's shoes, let alone her!" one bodyguard said. "You're right about her not knowing her place, but I have to say that she's a lot prettier than Phoebe Shaw," the other said. They continued chatting as they headed into the villa. β¦ It was already the afternoon by the time Melody returned to the hospital. She saw Clive Zimmerman's attending physician, Tom Filbert, come out of the hospital room before Clive's. She hurried over to him. "Dr. Filbert, how has Clive been recently?" "Oh, Mrs. Zimmerman. I've already made your husband's condition clear to youβwe need to find a matching donor as soon as possible for the bone marrow transplant. Otherwiseβ¦" Tom shook his head. Melody paled. Tom continued, "The hospital's been searching for a matching donor, but your husband's condition is deteriorating too quickly. He's running out of time. "As his family, you need to work with us. Try to think of any relatives he might have and bring them to the hospital so we can check their bone marrow. Maybe one of them might be a matchβ¦" Melody paled even more. Tom continued talking, but she couldn't really hear him anymore. She asked with difficulty, "How long does he still have if we can't find a donor?" Tom shook his head. "The bone marrow transplant has to be done within a month. Otherwise, he'll only have three to five months at most." Melody clenched her jaw; her expression became resolute. "I've already found a bone marrow that matches Clive's, but the person hasn't agreed to become a donor yet. I'll find a way to persuade him! "Please make the necessary arrangements for the transplant, Dr. Filbert. I'll bring the donor over before the surgery!" "That's great! I'll arrange for the transplant to be done in ten days, then. Remember to bring the donor over as soon as possibleβhe needs to be checked before the surgery." "Alright." Melody nodded. But once Tom was gone, she slumped against the wall weakly. What was she going to do? The surgery was in ten days, but she'd made zero progress. She hadn't even gotten close to Ethan, let alone persuaded him to donate his bone marrow to Clive. Ethan was the wealthiest man in Emperia, after all. A hair on his head was worth more than most other individuals' lives. Even if she did manage to speak to him, how was she going to get him to agree to help Clive? What was she going to do? Melody approached Clive's hospital room. Before she opened the door, she heard her children, Jacob and Jamie Swanson, singing. They were singing an Enolian song that had been dedicated to the singer's father. Melody peeped inside through the window on the door. Jacob and Jamie wore identical uniforms as they stood hand-in-hand before the window. The sunlight shone down on them, and they swayed on the spot while singing. Clive sat up in bed, also basking in the sunlight as he clapped his hands to the beat of the song. The hospital gown he had on looked too big for him because of the weight he'd lost, and he looked rather haggard. It didn't take away from his good looks, though. There was a gentle smile on his face. He didn't look like a patient who was on the brink of death. Instead, he looked like a patron of the artsβone who was enjoying a grand musical. Melody's eyes turned red. She turned away to dry her tears. Chapter 5 Five years ago, Melody had been kicked out of her home without a penny. At the time, she'd already carried Jacob and Jamie. When she'd been backed into a corner, Clive had taken her in. Not only had he helped her quit school, but he'd also taken care of her the whole time. Later, he'd even offered to marry her so that Jacob and Jamie wouldn't end up becoming illegitimate children. He'd helped her too many times to count over the yearsβshe had to repay him. His parents and relatives were all dead, and he now had serious disease. If she were to give up on him, he could only wait for death to take him. He was still so young and outstanding; this wasn't the end he deserved! No matter what, Melody had to convince Ethan to donate his bone marrow to Clive. She didn't care how difficult it would be! β¦ That night, Melody hid in a storage room at Privo Country Club, Tottenstone's most exclusive club. An auction was being held there that night, and it had taken her some time to find out that Ethan would be in attendance. Anyone who could get an invitation to the auction had to be a bigwig in Emperia's business world or an influential politician; Melody was neither, so she didn't have an invitation. Fortunately, she'd heard about the organizers of the auction holding something of a show for young women at the very end of the auction. It was supposed to be a show, but it was more like the young women were auctioning off their first time. Like regular auctions, the highest bidder would get. As long as Melody could blend in with them, she would have the chance to get to Ethan. At the moment, the young women who were being auctioned were standing by in the waiting room opposite the storage room. Melody was waiting for a chance to sneak in when she suddenly heard a muffled conversation outside. "Come with me!" "Listen to me, Ned. I came here willinglyβas long as someone bids on me tonight, we'll have money for your mother's medical bills. It's worth giving up my cherry to save her life!" "I don't need you to sacrifice yourself for me like this, Elaine! I love you! I've managed to get the money, so let's go!" "Really?" "Yeah!" "That's great! Let's go!" The footsteps faded into the distance. Melody came out of the storage room. She picked up the clothes and name tag that read "Elaine Johnson" from the floor and smiled as she looked down the corridor. She wished the couple all the best and also thanked them for this opportunity. An hour later, Melody stood barefoot on the marble floor, wearing only a bikini as she waited for her turn. "Next, let's welcome the beautiful Ms. Elaine Johnson, our eighth participant of the night! She's still a college student, everyone." The host's voice rang out on the other side of the curtain. Suddenly, Melody hesitated. She'd never worn anything so revealing in public before. "Get in there! What are you doing?" When an employee saw her standing there dazedly, he pushed her. She was caught off guard and stumbled onto the stage. The blinding spotlight landed on her; she could sense countless men staring at her. Melody stood there stiffly, so helpless that she was unable to move. Ethan wasn't the slightest bit interested in these things. He'd intended to leave immediately after the auction was over, but Wayne Smith of Ditham Corporation had approached him for a chat. He'd answered him perfunctorily while glancing at the stage. Then, he saw Melody. He narrowed his eyes and sat up, the laziness he'd earlier displayed fading from sight. The lights reflected off Melody's fair skin; they made her look like she was almost glowing. She didn't strut and show her stuff like those women before her. Instead, she stood there with her head bowed so no one could see what she looked like. All they could see was her silky smooth hair. But to Ethan, the sight of her was enough to arouse him. It was like a fire had started burning in him. On stage, Melody remained silent, feeling pierced by the men's gazes. They made her feel like she was standing there in her birthday suit. Chapter 6 Melody knew she couldn't act like this. She was here to look for Ethan; she had to save Clive's life! She couldn't act like this! She clenched her jaw and raised her head, revealing her innocent yet sensual face to the crowd. After a round of gasps, auction paddles flew into the air. "100,000!" "200,000!" "500,000!" "580,000!" β¦ Melody couldn't hear the sound of the bidding anymoreβshe was too anxious to track Ethan down. He was the wealthiest man in Emperia and the CEO of Regalia International, so he frequently made headlines. She'd long since committed his handsome face to memory. But before she could locate him, she felt a strong sense of oppression coming her way. She instinctively looked at the direction from which it had come. Then, she met a man's gaze. His eyes were cold and calm, yet there seemed to be molten lava buried within them. She could sense his kingly demeanor as his eyes threatened to suck her in. Melody lowered her head. He was terrifying. When Ethan saw her drop her head to avoid his gaze, he smirked. Wayne noticed this and stopped talking to glance at the stage. Then, his eyes lit up, and he chuckled. "She's a gorgeous one, isn't she? Are you interested in her, Mr. Ford?" Ethan didn't answer. Instead, he lifted a hand. James hurried forward to await his instruction. "I want her!" Ethan said. Then, he stood up and strode off. Several people had been bidding on Melody, but they stopped when they saw Ethan stand up. They got to their feet simultaneously to see him off. James hurriedly held up the auction paddle in his hand. He didn't even need to call out a priceβno one else would dare bid on Melody. Who would dare to do so now that they knew Ethan was interested in her? They'd be getting themselves a one-way ticket to bankruptcy if they were to try to fight him for her. On stage, the host cried excitedly, "Oh! Mr. Ford's won the auction for our lovely Ms. Johnson! Looks like someone's in luck!" Melody didn't know how she was led off stage. She followed the employees dazedly and asked them incredulously, "Is Mr. Ford really the one who bid on me? Mr. Ethan Ford? The CEO of Regalia International?" The employees could totally understand why she was acting like this. Anyone would be out of their minds with joy if Ethan were to pick them. "Would there be anyone else with that name? Congratulations, miss. Come with me, please. I'll take you to get your clothes changed. We don't want to keep Mr. Ford waiting." "She's so lucky!" "It's not like she has such a great figure. She's not even that pretty!" "Why didn't he pick me? That was Ethan Ford! I would've paid to be with him!" "Yeah, keep dreaming. You wouldn't be worthy of him even if you were to give up everything you own! Didn't you hear about the granddaughter of some country's leader trying and failing to spend a night with Mr. Ford? She offered to pay him a hefty sum, too!" β¦ As Melody followed the employees away, she heard the other women participating in the auction whispering among themselves about her. None of their words registered, though. She was still in disbelief that she'd succeeded just like that. Things had gone so smoothly! How was she going to beg him to agree to donate his bone marrow? Would he be moved if she were to get on her knees before him? Ten minutes later, Melody had changed into a white strappy minidress and a matching pair of 4-inch heels. She was brought to the 28th floor. | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715324400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879728 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410713 | 1723321807 | 995 | 478272224667453 | 1 | 9.8867341249763E+14 | 1715497200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120208322655090240 | beokn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πRead the next chaptersπ | https://beokn.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=11222&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715247646 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441959051_459948103069197_1403971259308613209_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=1TSfEhiF8D4Q7kNvgEsEyd9&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCPNRByqeAZCHU6FMOpZDTMDfP5mY-xNTPdLThPIEzSTA&oe=6672B59C | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441520392_1857443494727194_4363879934185925189_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=QPeoCanp0RMQ7kNvgGSYpS5&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAiCFpH1dTSMHzenkisoYvpFPTfZKxTYULLfGfWMJ5I7Q&oe=6672A42A | 0 | 3 | Melody Swanson had her cell phone's torch turned on to light the path to a white cottage amidst the lavenders. The night breeze was chilly, but all she had on was a white, sleeveless nightgown and lounge slippers. Her expression lifted when she saw she was getting close to the cottage. But the next second, someone reached out from the bushes beside her and gripped her right shoulder tightly. She yelped in shock, dropping her phone onto the ground. The faint light disappeared. The next thing she knew, she was dragged into a hot embrace. "I'll give you a million for one night!" The man's voice rang out behind her. It was deep and smooth. Melody's heart raced at this plot twist. Before she knew it, she'd been flipped onto her front and pinned to the ground amidst the sea of flowers. She widened her eyes and flailed, trying to escape. "No, wait! You've got the wrong person!" "Stop moving, sweetheart. Or are you that desperate for it?" the man rasped. "Let me go!" Melody struggled harder, but the man's tall and toned figure held her in place as he flipped her onto her back. She started feeling scared. She widened her eyes even more, but all she could see were the stars in the sky behind the man's head. There was barely enough light for her to see the man's chiseled featuresβthe desire burning in his eyes was clear as day, though. It was almost as bright as the stars above. Melody tried her best to escape but to no avail. Pain shot through her; the man leaned down to kiss her and swallow her cries. After a long while, he spoke again. His voice was alluring and hoarse. "You're so sweet, darling. I'll give you a million for another round. How about that?" "You're a monster!" Melody's voice was also hoarse from her crying. How could he do something like this to her in such a saintly place? The wind lifted her dress, stained purple by the lavenders they'd crushed underneath them. The scent was oddly intoxicating. They were in Violetville, which was famous for its sea of lavenders. It was so picturesque that many film companies had been attracted to film there. It gradually turned into a filming base. Recently, John Wales, an internationally renowned director, brought a crew of award-winning actors and actresses to Violetville to film a huge production. He'd happened to catch sight of Melody, who was home from college for the holidays. He'd invited her to play the role of an important side character. Melody hadn't expected her sister, Queenie Swanson, to trick her out of the house in the middle of the night upon hearing the news. Queenie had locked the door and refused to open it no matter how she pleaded. Their parents heard everything but did nothing to stop Queenie. The words Queenie had said not too long ago were still reverberating in Melody's mind. "You were capable of catching that director's eye, weren't you? Is it because you've already slept with him? What are you still doing here, then? Go sleep in his hotel room! I won't open the door for you, so get lost!" With no place to go, Melody had no choice but to take shelter in the white cottage amidst the sea of flowers, which was only meant for sightseeing. She hadn't expected to experience something like this, though. Her family's betrayal and the man's advances made her tears flow. They wet the flowers crushed underneath her body. Melody didn't know how long it would take for the man to be sated; it was as if he would never tire. When the sky started turning bright, he finally stopped. He released her hands, which he'd kept pinned in place. Melody immediately grabbed the nearest object and smashed it over the man's head. He'd been saying, "Tell me your name, sweetβ" Melody smashed a rock on his head before he could finish. He didn't manage to dodge itβperhaps he was too relaxed after having had his fill of her. Chapter 2 The man swayed on the spot from the impact. Melody pushed him away; he lay there, looking up at her blearily. She lifted the rock, intending to strike him again. This was self-defense! But the words echoed hollowly in her mindβshe couldn't do itβshe couldn't take his life. Even of a monster, it would stain her forever. Ultimately, she threw the bloodied rock aside and staggered to her feet. She took a step and happened to kick her phone. Melody picked it up and pulled out the cash tucked underneath her phone case. It was the change she'd gotten after doing some grocery shopping. She threw it at the man and snarled, "Listen upβI bought your services for one night, and that's your fee. Keep the change! And don't think it's too little. That's all you're worth!" With that, she turned and stumbled out of the sea of lavenders. The man's vision was already starting to blur. The blood trickled down his forehead and over his eyes. It dyed his vision red as he watched Melody walk away from him. The color of the flowers' stains on her nightgown seemed to mix with the blood in his eyes, giving him the impression that the flowers were blossoming. He was reminded of the night they'd just had together. "Don't goβ¦" he mumbled, reaching for her. But the darkness overtook him. The luxury watch on his wrist gleamed as his hand fell to the ground limply. β¦ Two months later, there was an uproar at the Swanson residence. "You're expecting a baby before marriage! You're a disgrace to the Swanson family! Get out of here!" Horace Swanson shoved Melody away furiously. "This is a small town, and the people here are all good, honest people. How could you pick up all these bad habits from those celebrities whose private lives are so messed up? Leave now! I'll just act like I never gave birth to you!" Susan Lett waved a hand, looking utterly disappointed. "You should leave, Melody. If the neighbors hear about this, how do you expect Mom and Dad to continue living here? I'm not married yet, you know. I don't want you to affect my reputation." Queenie stabbed an apple slice with a toothpick and ate it. She sat on the couch, looking like she was enjoying the show. Melody pointed at her. "Queenie's the one who locked me out of the house that night because she wanted to get the chance to be in that film! That's why I ended up getting assaulted. Why do you guys refuse to believe me?" Horace stood up and stormed over to her, giving her a hard slap. "Shut up, you imbecile! You're the one who did something so shameless, yet you're still trying to push the blame onto your sister! Don't ever step foot in here again!" "I raised your sister myself, so I know how kind and loving she is. How can you say that about her?" Susan pulled Queenie, who looked aggrieved, into her arms. She gave Melody, who'd fallen to the floor from Horace's slap, a reproachful look. "Is it really like Madam Williams said, Mom? Am I not your daughter? Is that why you won't believe me?" Melody didn't want to cry, but the tears refused to stay in her eyes. They streamed down her face. "Youβ¦ Of course you're my daughter! That's why I know what a bad apple you are! How dare you try to blame me when your misbehavior? Leave! Now!" "Fine! I'll go!" Melody staggered to her feet and walked out the door, looking resolute and lonely. β¦ Five years passed in the blink of an eye. Ford Manor was located among a cluster of villas halfway up a mountain in Tottenstone. Ethan Ford was having the same dream again. The woman in his dream wore a white dress, as usual. She had a long, silky smooth hair. He couldn't see her face, though. She didn't seem to enjoy his ministrationsβshe cried and pleaded with him to let her go, but he couldn't stop himself from sinking deeper. He held her close. In the next second, he opened his eyes and woke up from the dream. Chapter 3 It was this dream again. Ethan had experienced it almost every night for the past five years. No other woman had managed to arouse him since that incidentβonly the woman in his dreams could. He'd had the same dream for 1,826 days, including today. Even if he was already used to it, Ethan was still irritated. He wiped the sweat from his face; even his hair was damp. He got out of bed. His perfect figure was like a model's, but his face was more handsome than any model could ever have. His demeanor was cold, regal, and domineering. Ethan took a moment to compose himself. He strode to the bathroom after pushing the steamy images out of his mind. The butler, Bill Jones, heard this and came into the room. He quickly changed the soiled sheets. He'd just finished when Ethan came out of the bathroom with nothing but a towel around his waist. As soon as he graced the room with his toned figure, the atmosphere turned somewhat sensual. Bill stood there with his head bowed. When he saw Ethan head to the wardrobe, he said, "Ms. Wendy Nielson called to invite you out for dinner, Mr. Ford. Should I make arrangements? It's high time you let loose and have some fun, sir." Wendy was the daughter of a politician and one of the most well-known socialites in the region. She'd invited Ethan out countless times since running into him at a banquet a year ago. Ethan grabbed a black shirt and put it on, his back muscles rolling as he did so. He didn't even turn back as he said, "You're too noisy." Bill knew this meant Ethan was turning down the invitation. He didn't dare say anything else. 40 minutes later, Ethan strode out of the villa. His assistant, James Sawyer, hurriedly opened the door to a luxury car parked outside. Ethan got into the car elegantly. As the car drove past the main gates, Ethan glanced at the rearview mirror to see two bodyguards stop a woman in a cap and tracksuit. She tried to run after the car; her ponytail swung with her actions. Ethan retracted his gaze and said to James, "Tell the bodyguards they're out of jobs if I see any strangers as soon as I leave the house again." Sweat beaded on James' forehead. "Yes, sir." "Have you found anything on that woman from five years ago?" Ethan tugged on his tie, his eyes cold. He didn't even need to look at anyone to make them shudder. James stuttered, "N-Not yet, sir." "I'll give you another month. If you can't find anything, you can get lost, too!" Unbeknownst to Ethan, the woman he was searching for was behind him. Her figure became smaller and smaller in the rearview mirror. "Mr. Ford, don't go!" Melody finally liberated herself from the bodyguards, but she wasn't in time to catch up with the car. She wanted to run after it, but the bodyguards stopped her again. Amidst the tussle, she fell to the floor and landed on her arm. Pain shot through her. She raised her head to look at the car, but it was long gone. Oh no! It had already been a monthβshe'd staked out every place that Ethan could possibly be at, but someone had stopped her every time. She couldn't even get close to him. It had taken all her connections to get Ethan's address; she'd waited outside for him from 3:00 am onward for several days in a row. Still, she'd failed to even get close to him, let alone speak to him. "Mr. Sawyer just called us. If you show up here again tomorrow, you'll have to pay!" one of the bodyguards warned. Melody looked back at them and pleaded, "Can you please just let me see Mr. Ford? I only have a few things to say to himβit'll only take five minutes! It's about something important, I swear. This has to do with someone's life!" Chapter 4 "Every woman who wants to see Mr. Ford says they need him to save lives! He's not interested in you, okay? There's no point throwing yourself at him," one bodyguard snapped. "Get lost! Don't come here anymore!" another said. They looked like they would resort to violence if Melody refused to leave. She had no choice but to get up and trudge down the mountain, looking glum. "It's rare to see such a gorgeous woman. I'm sure she'd be set for life if she were to go after some other rich kid. Too bad she's greedyβdoesn't she realize where she is? Even Phoebe Shaw, that award-winning actress, isn't worthy of shining Mr. Ford's shoes, let alone her!" one bodyguard said. "You're right about her not knowing her place, but I have to say that she's a lot prettier than Phoebe Shaw," the other said. They continued chatting as they headed into the villa. β¦ It was already the afternoon by the time Melody returned to the hospital. She saw Clive Zimmerman's attending physician, Tom Filbert, come out of the hospital room before Clive's. She hurried over to him. "Dr. Filbert, how has Clive been recently?" "Oh, Mrs. Zimmerman. I've already made your husband's condition clear to youβwe need to find a matching donor as soon as possible for the bone marrow transplant. Otherwiseβ¦" Tom shook his head. Melody paled. Tom continued, "The hospital's been searching for a matching donor, but your husband's condition is deteriorating too quickly. He's running out of time. "As his family, you need to work with us. Try to think of any relatives he might have and bring them to the hospital so we can check their bone marrow. Maybe one of them might be a matchβ¦" Melody paled even more. Tom continued talking, but she couldn't really hear him anymore. She asked with difficulty, "How long does he still have if we can't find a donor?" Tom shook his head. "The bone marrow transplant has to be done within a month. Otherwise, he'll only have three to five months at most." Melody clenched her jaw; her expression became resolute. "I've already found a bone marrow that matches Clive's, but the person hasn't agreed to become a donor yet. I'll find a way to persuade him! "Please make the necessary arrangements for the transplant, Dr. Filbert. I'll bring the donor over before the surgery!" "That's great! I'll arrange for the transplant to be done in ten days, then. Remember to bring the donor over as soon as possibleβhe needs to be checked before the surgery." "Alright." Melody nodded. But once Tom was gone, she slumped against the wall weakly. What was she going to do? The surgery was in ten days, but she'd made zero progress. She hadn't even gotten close to Ethan, let alone persuaded him to donate his bone marrow to Clive. Ethan was the wealthiest man in Emperia, after all. A hair on his head was worth more than most other individuals' lives. Even if she did manage to speak to him, how was she going to get him to agree to help Clive? What was she going to do? Melody approached Clive's hospital room. Before she opened the door, she heard her children, Jacob and Jamie Swanson, singing. They were singing an Enolian song that had been dedicated to the singer's father. Melody peeped inside through the window on the door. Jacob and Jamie wore identical uniforms as they stood hand-in-hand before the window. The sunlight shone down on them, and they swayed on the spot while singing. Clive sat up in bed, also basking in the sunlight as he clapped his hands to the beat of the song. The hospital gown he had on looked too big for him because of the weight he'd lost, and he looked rather haggard. It didn't take away from his good looks, though. There was a gentle smile on his face. He didn't look like a patient who was on the brink of death. Instead, he looked like a patron of the artsβone who was enjoying a grand musical. Melody's eyes turned red. She turned away to dry her tears. Chapter 5 Five years ago, Melody had been kicked out of her home without a penny. At the time, she'd already carried Jacob and Jamie. When she'd been backed into a corner, Clive had taken her in. Not only had he helped her quit school, but he'd also taken care of her the whole time. Later, he'd even offered to marry her so that Jacob and Jamie wouldn't end up becoming illegitimate children. He'd helped her too many times to count over the yearsβshe had to repay him. His parents and relatives were all dead, and he now had serious disease. If she were to give up on him, he could only wait for death to take him. He was still so young and outstanding; this wasn't the end he deserved! No matter what, Melody had to convince Ethan to donate his bone marrow to Clive. She didn't care how difficult it would be! β¦ That night, Melody hid in a storage room at Privo Country Club, Tottenstone's most exclusive club. An auction was being held there that night, and it had taken her some time to find out that Ethan would be in attendance. Anyone who could get an invitation to the auction had to be a bigwig in Emperia's business world or an influential politician; Melody was neither, so she didn't have an invitation. Fortunately, she'd heard about the organizers of the auction holding something of a show for young women at the very end of the auction. It was supposed to be a show, but it was more like the young women were auctioning off their first time. Like regular auctions, the highest bidder would get. As long as Melody could blend in with them, she would have the chance to get to Ethan. At the moment, the young women who were being auctioned were standing by in the waiting room opposite the storage room. Melody was waiting for a chance to sneak in when she suddenly heard a muffled conversation outside. "Come with me!" "Listen to me, Ned. I came here willinglyβas long as someone bids on me tonight, we'll have money for your mother's medical bills. It's worth giving up my cherry to save her life!" "I don't need you to sacrifice yourself for me like this, Elaine! I love you! I've managed to get the money, so let's go!" "Really?" "Yeah!" "That's great! Let's go!" The footsteps faded into the distance. Melody came out of the storage room. She picked up the clothes and name tag that read "Elaine Johnson" from the floor and smiled as she looked down the corridor. She wished the couple all the best and also thanked them for this opportunity. An hour later, Melody stood barefoot on the marble floor, wearing only a bikini as she waited for her turn. "Next, let's welcome the beautiful Ms. Elaine Johnson, our eighth participant of the night! She's still a college student, everyone." The host's voice rang out on the other side of the curtain. Suddenly, Melody hesitated. She'd never worn anything so revealing in public before. "Get in there! What are you doing?" When an employee saw her standing there dazedly, he pushed her. She was caught off guard and stumbled onto the stage. The blinding spotlight landed on her; she could sense countless men staring at her. Melody stood there stiffly, so helpless that she was unable to move. Ethan wasn't the slightest bit interested in these things. He'd intended to leave immediately after the auction was over, but Wayne Smith of Ditham Corporation had approached him for a chat. He'd answered him perfunctorily while glancing at the stage. Then, he saw Melody. He narrowed his eyes and sat up, the laziness he'd earlier displayed fading from sight. The lights reflected off Melody's fair skin; they made her look like she was almost glowing. She didn't strut and show her stuff like those women before her. Instead, she stood there with her head bowed so no one could see what she looked like. All they could see was her silky smooth hair. But to Ethan, the sight of her was enough to arouse him. It was like a fire had started burning in him. On stage, Melody remained silent, feeling pierced by the men's gazes. They made her feel like she was standing there in her birthday suit. Chapter 6 Melody knew she couldn't act like this. She was here to look for Ethan; she had to save Clive's life! She couldn't act like this! She clenched her jaw and raised her head, revealing her innocent yet sensual face to the crowd. After a round of gasps, auction paddles flew into the air. "100,000!" "200,000!" "500,000!" "580,000!" β¦ Melody couldn't hear the sound of the bidding anymoreβshe was too anxious to track Ethan down. He was the wealthiest man in Emperia and the CEO of Regalia International, so he frequently made headlines. She'd long since committed his handsome face to memory. But before she could locate him, she felt a strong sense of oppression coming her way. She instinctively looked at the direction from which it had come. Then, she met a man's gaze. His eyes were cold and calm, yet there seemed to be molten lava buried within them. She could sense his kingly demeanor as his eyes threatened to suck her in. Melody lowered her head. He was terrifying. When Ethan saw her drop her head to avoid his gaze, he smirked. Wayne noticed this and stopped talking to glance at the stage. Then, his eyes lit up, and he chuckled. "She's a gorgeous one, isn't she? Are you interested in her, Mr. Ford?" Ethan didn't answer. Instead, he lifted a hand. James hurried forward to await his instruction. "I want her!" Ethan said. Then, he stood up and strode off. Several people had been bidding on Melody, but they stopped when they saw Ethan stand up. They got to their feet simultaneously to see him off. James hurriedly held up the auction paddle in his hand. He didn't even need to call out a priceβno one else would dare bid on Melody. Who would dare to do so now that they knew Ethan was interested in her? They'd be getting themselves a one-way ticket to bankruptcy if they were to try to fight him for her. On stage, the host cried excitedly, "Oh! Mr. Ford's won the auction for our lovely Ms. Johnson! Looks like someone's in luck!" Melody didn't know how she was led off stage. She followed the employees dazedly and asked them incredulously, "Is Mr. Ford really the one who bid on me? Mr. Ethan Ford? The CEO of Regalia International?" The employees could totally understand why she was acting like this. Anyone would be out of their minds with joy if Ethan were to pick them. "Would there be anyone else with that name? Congratulations, miss. Come with me, please. I'll take you to get your clothes changed. We don't want to keep Mr. Ford waiting." "She's so lucky!" "It's not like she has such a great figure. She's not even that pretty!" "Why didn't he pick me? That was Ethan Ford! I would've paid to be with him!" "Yeah, keep dreaming. You wouldn't be worthy of him even if you were to give up everything you own! Didn't you hear about the granddaughter of some country's leader trying and failing to spend a night with Mr. Ford? She offered to pay him a hefty sum, too!" β¦ As Melody followed the employees away, she heard the other women participating in the auction whispering among themselves about her. None of their words registered, though. She was still in disbelief that she'd succeeded just like that. Things had gone so smoothly! How was she going to beg him to agree to donate his bone marrow? Would he be moved if she were to get on her knees before him? Ten minutes later, Melody had changed into a white strappy minidress and a matching pair of 4-inch heels. She was brought to the 28th floor. | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715324400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879736 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410715 | 1723321807 | 995 | 949279386902962 | 7 | 1.4895026953017E+15 | 1716188400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120211846693390779 | qweasdzxconline.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πRead the next chaptersπ | https://qweasdzxconline.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11090&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715085862 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438129100_1146045226739178_2601865360875538189_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pgaM6op9EH4Q7kNvgFvStUz&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAnzNXAdVZ3R4dAiEpauXywjYljw4eXW7quZ6rvyHSXBw&oe=6672A490 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440747644_315502774915635_6353252339687881796_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YicSkuGzOiMQ7kNvgEoi2bQ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAN9i2X9Y9MK7cgBix3paDsplYdUdBGGi_LOwLoSJKKaQ&oe=6672CB97 | 0 | 3 | π"Ned Fletcher, with how you're treating Angie right now, aren't you worried that you're going to regret it when you finally regain your memories one day? You loved her so much before and you two got married for love! Despite you forgetting your feelings about her, how could you post so many indecent photos of her on social media?" Ned spoke nonchalantly, saying, "Why are you still holding me hostage with morals and principles? She was the one who framed me by lowly methods. I was just warning her. If Ingrid hadn't asked me to stop, I'd have gone even further! By the way, show your respect to Ingrid. Sheβs not a new girl but my only one forever and never!" Angeline Emmerson heard the talk standing outside the door. She used to be treated ever so lovingly by Ned in the past. Angeline felt her eyes reddening and filling with tears. The Ned she knew had died in the car accident that happened four years ago. The one inside was merely a stranger! Angeline inhaled deeply. Then, she pushed the door open. Ned looked up and saw her entering. "Who brought you here?" Angeline stared at Ned and said, "I've already made a police report regarding your spiked drink at the event and your spreading of my photos for revenge." Hearing this, everyone's reactions differed from one another. Angeline continued, "Ned Fletcher, it's true that I wanted to try rekindling our relationship, but I would never have stooped so low as to do those disgusting things to you. I didn't want to let go of this relationship because I was worried that the Ned I knew would return someday and blame me for giving up on him so easily," Angeline placed the divorce agreement she'd been hugging onto the table. "I tried my best, but I'm tired now. Ned Fletcher, I'm giving up on you. I don't want you anymore." Ned's eyes traveled from the divorce agreement to Angeline's face. There was a hint of surprise in his cold eyes. "Let's finalize the divorce after the police have cleared my name and you have publicly apologized to me." | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716015600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879739 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410716 | 1723321807 | 995 | 1192109398592306 | 1 | 4.0292955941254E+14 | 1718175600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 273913162469522 | 0 | New world publications | 120212168974220747 | beokn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | π₯π₯Click to read the next chapter for freeπ | https://beokn.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=11845&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717848761 | 2.7391316246952E+14 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447489360_1570538763510112_7450994158117535812_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=sG-1DGY2qhoQ7kNvgE3wzaL&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCLpuG9GkwmWkdjtbiBo9PWbZ_jmEtG3YPpqyR8JPBJAQ&oe=6672B0CC | person_profile | 0 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447282104_397151349972868_7799700873941453060_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Fr2zviCh3VsQ7kNvgE67yn1&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBn4Y1l5PBBEfgguAwnIgmVCeZqjCZUcEpioQh8P6e-5g&oe=6672BE82 | 0 | 3 | Lexi could sense the man was staring at her swollen right cheek. It didn't seem like he would take his eyes off her anytime. "I know I'm so pretty that people can't help but gawk at me." Claude's lips curved up. "You look very familiar." Lexi's eyes remained on the climbing numbers on the elevator's digital display. "That's a tacky way to hit on someone." "I've never needed to hit on anyone." Claude flashed a reticent smile. "I'm only stating the truth. There was a laziness and silkiness to his voice. Lexi looked ahead at the elevator's mirrored walls and took in Claude, who stood to her left. She didn't recall ever interacting with him, much less meeting him. To her surprise, Claude suddenly approached her. His intimidating presence overwhelmed her so much that she took a few steps back. "Can I help you?" she questioned with a stiff voice. Lexi held her breath. They were so close to each other that she could smell the faint pine scent from his body. "Do you really not recognize me?" Claude asked. "I don't." Claude straightened his back and peered down at her. When the elevator door opened on the tenth floor, he stepped aside. Doubt gnawed at her heart. She could have sworn she didn't know the man, but why did he seem to know her? β¦ That night, Lexi had a dream. She dreamt of the night from two months ago. The wild night left her all sweaty. Zachary held her waist and tried out several positions with her. It left Lexi limp with barely any energy left. Not to mention, she was so drunk that she was in a daze. When Lexi woke, she massaged her forehead. The dream she had turned out to be a tad frightening. The man she slept with two months ago was Zachary. Yet, for some reason, he got replaced by the man from the elevator in her dream. | New world publications | 9 | https://facebook.com/61557831245498 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717916400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879740 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410716 | 1723321807 | 995 | 1192109398592306 | 1 | 4.0292955941254E+14 | 1718175600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 273913162469522 | 0 | New world publications | 120212168974220747 | beokn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | π₯π₯Click to read the next chapter for freeπ | https://beokn.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=11845&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717848761 | 2.7391316246952E+14 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447489360_1570538763510112_7450994158117535812_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=sG-1DGY2qhoQ7kNvgE3wzaL&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCLpuG9GkwmWkdjtbiBo9PWbZ_jmEtG3YPpqyR8JPBJAQ&oe=6672B0CC | person_profile | 0 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447282104_397151349972868_7799700873941453060_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Fr2zviCh3VsQ7kNvgE67yn1&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBn4Y1l5PBBEfgguAwnIgmVCeZqjCZUcEpioQh8P6e-5g&oe=6672BE82 | 0 | 3 | Lexi could sense the man was staring at her swollen right cheek. It didn't seem like he would take his eyes off her anytime. "I know I'm so pretty that people can't help but gawk at me." Claude's lips curved up. "You look very familiar." Lexi's eyes remained on the climbing numbers on the elevator's digital display. "That's a tacky way to hit on someone." "I've never needed to hit on anyone." Claude flashed a reticent smile. "I'm only stating the truth. There was a laziness and silkiness to his voice. Lexi looked ahead at the elevator's mirrored walls and took in Claude, who stood to her left. She didn't recall ever interacting with him, much less meeting him. To her surprise, Claude suddenly approached her. His intimidating presence overwhelmed her so much that she took a few steps back. "Can I help you?" she questioned with a stiff voice. Lexi held her breath. They were so close to each other that she could smell the faint pine scent from his body. "Do you really not recognize me?" Claude asked. "I don't." Claude straightened his back and peered down at her. When the elevator door opened on the tenth floor, he stepped aside. Doubt gnawed at her heart. She could have sworn she didn't know the man, but why did he seem to know her? β¦ That night, Lexi had a dream. She dreamt of the night from two months ago. The wild night left her all sweaty. Zachary held her waist and tried out several positions with her. It left Lexi limp with barely any energy left. Not to mention, she was so drunk that she was in a daze. When Lexi woke, she massaged her forehead. The dream she had turned out to be a tad frightening. The man she slept with two months ago was Zachary. Yet, for some reason, he got replaced by the man from the elevator in her dream. | New world publications | 9 | https://facebook.com/61557831245498 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717916400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879741 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410716 | 1723321807 | 995 | 1192109398592306 | 1 | 4.0292955941254E+14 | 1718175600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 273913162469522 | 0 | New world publications | 120212168974220747 | beokn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | π₯π₯Click to read the next chapter for freeπ | https://beokn.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=11845&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717848761 | 2.7391316246952E+14 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447489360_1570538763510112_7450994158117535812_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=sG-1DGY2qhoQ7kNvgE3wzaL&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCLpuG9GkwmWkdjtbiBo9PWbZ_jmEtG3YPpqyR8JPBJAQ&oe=6672B0CC | person_profile | 0 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447282104_397151349972868_7799700873941453060_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Fr2zviCh3VsQ7kNvgE67yn1&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBn4Y1l5PBBEfgguAwnIgmVCeZqjCZUcEpioQh8P6e-5g&oe=6672BE82 | 0 | 3 | Lexi could sense the man was staring at her swollen right cheek. It didn't seem like he would take his eyes off her anytime. "I know I'm so pretty that people can't help but gawk at me." Claude's lips curved up. "You look very familiar." Lexi's eyes remained on the climbing numbers on the elevator's digital display. "That's a tacky way to hit on someone." "I've never needed to hit on anyone." Claude flashed a reticent smile. "I'm only stating the truth. There was a laziness and silkiness to his voice. Lexi looked ahead at the elevator's mirrored walls and took in Claude, who stood to her left. She didn't recall ever interacting with him, much less meeting him. To her surprise, Claude suddenly approached her. His intimidating presence overwhelmed her so much that she took a few steps back. "Can I help you?" she questioned with a stiff voice. Lexi held her breath. They were so close to each other that she could smell the faint pine scent from his body. "Do you really not recognize me?" Claude asked. "I don't." Claude straightened his back and peered down at her. When the elevator door opened on the tenth floor, he stepped aside. Doubt gnawed at her heart. She could have sworn she didn't know the man, but why did he seem to know her? β¦ That night, Lexi had a dream. She dreamt of the night from two months ago. The wild night left her all sweaty. Zachary held her waist and tried out several positions with her. It left Lexi limp with barely any energy left. Not to mention, she was so drunk that she was in a daze. When Lexi woke, she massaged her forehead. The dream she had turned out to be a tad frightening. The man she slept with two months ago was Zachary. Yet, for some reason, he got replaced by the man from the elevator in her dream. | New world publications | 9 | https://facebook.com/61557831245498 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717916400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879758 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410719 | 1723321807 | 995 | 216463318195471 | 1 | 3.5079396395983E+14 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 1475434976107462 | 0 | Weiss Property Management | 120207717711510579 | weisspm.com | Contact Us | NONE | carousel | Expertise You Can Trust | Enhance your curb appeal | https://weisspm.com/lawn-mowing-and-landscaping/?utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=display&utm_campaign=sr_transform_your_property_with_weiss_property &utm_term={{ad.id}}&utm_content=4656879-e32-n-m-c{{campaign.id}}-g{{adset.id}}-a{{ad.id}}-u-cat-k-mod | 1710771508 | 1.4754349761075E+15 | Weiss Property Management | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/433883042_3571553513062526_408461915678430278_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=WrrehUSk_oIQ7kNvgGRgiUK&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCfOBCCKjrGLIOwVt2IpJO0VyFaAGg7Jki57vMrCQ2HKA&oe=6672C647 | person_profile | 0 | 0 | 3 | Enhance your curb appeal | Weiss Property Management | 809 | https://facebook.com/weisspm1 | 0 | CONTACT_US | 1710831600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879765 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410721 | 1723321808 | 995 | 1361528064521212 | 1 | 7.4287710132688E+14 | 1715410800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 250753834794512 | 0 | Read freely | 120208075188720056 | beokn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | β€οΈπWhat happens nextπClick Here to read onπ | https://beokn.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=11230&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717941362 | 2.5075383479451E+14 | Read freely | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/422079631_823590829824839_4719608256142825580_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=X0arSR329ugQ7kNvgFznJUe&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBCybnyEjPstfL-T8Ns-_chW2Zg5909W9W-lMZXE8xwkg&oe=6672CB06 | person_profile | 0 | Read freely | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441057328_1702104656985535_4588455529970348064_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=5anZ9pA6410Q7kNvgG9aKIE&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCRB-k4bkzqrpLp8SCU41jIJSVrD8mXEJ_6VsTi8QlSuA&oe=6672C68A | 0 | 3 | Yvette Snyder stood at the entrance of the hospital, her body frail, clutching a report in her thin hands. Three words on the report stood out: "No conception detected". "You've been married for three years. How are you not conceived?" Her mother, Yara Cadwell, demanded, jabbing a finger in Yvette's face disappointedly. Yara was dressed lavishly and wore high heels. "Why are you so useless? If you don't get conceived soon, the Lanes are going to kick you out of the family. What's going to happen to our family then?" Yvette looked at Yara blankly. She had a lot to say, but the words were stuck in her throat. In the end, all she could manage was, "I'm sorry." "I don't want you to be sorry. I want you to give birth to Xavier's child. Do you understand me?" Yvette's throat felt tight; she didn't know how to answer Yara. In their three years of marriage, her husband, Xavier Lane, had never slept with her. How could she ever have his child? Yara stared at Yvette. The latter's weak demeanor was so unlike her own. Finally, she said coldly before leaving, "If you really can't give him a child, then find him a woman who can. At least he'll appreciate you for that." Yvette stared after Yara's retreating figure in disbelief. Had her own mother just told her to find another woman for her husband to sleep with? ... As Yvette made her journey home, she couldn't stop thinking about Yara's parting words. Suddenly, a loud ringing in her ear drowned out her thoughts. She knew that her condition had worsened. Just then, she received a message on her phone. It was from Xavier, and the content was the same as always. "I'm not coming home tonight." In the past three years they had been married, Xavier had never spent the night at home before. He had never so much as touched Yvette either. Yvette could remember their wedding night three years ago. He had told her, "Since your family is bold enough to trick me into marrying you, you'd better be prepared to spend the rest of your life in loneliness." Three years ago, the Snyder and Lane families had decided to form an alliance through marriage. Both families had agreed to mutually beneficial terms in the agreement. But when the day of the wedding came around, the Snyder family went back on their word and transferred all of their assets away, including the billions that Xavier had paid to marry Yvette. Yvette's eyes dulled at the memory. She replied to Xavier's text with her usual response: "Okay." Without her realizing it, the report she was holding got scrunched up in her hands. When she got home, Yvette tossed the report into the trash can. Every month, around this time, she would feel unusually lethargic. Yvette didn't prepare dinner for herself. She just leaned back on the couch, blearily drifting in and out of sleep. The rumbling in her ear persisted. That was another reason why Xavier hated herβshe was hard of hearing, which, to the rich and powerful, was no better than being crippled. Xavier would never allow her to carry his child. β¦ At 5 o'clock in the morning, the pendulum clock on the wall chimed dully. Xavier would be home in an hour. Yvette realized too late that she had fallen asleep on the couch. She got up hastily and went to the kitchen to prepare Xavier's breakfast. Xavier was a meticulous man who was strict about punctuality, not only with himself but also with the people around him. He arrived home at six o'clock sharp. Xavier was a tall and handsome man. Clad in a smart tailored suit, his demeanor was quiet and reserved, yet undoubtedly masculine. However, to Yvette, he was cold and distant. Xavier didn't even look at Yvette. He walked right past her to look at the food on the table and said with a scoff, "You do this every day. Are you a nanny or what?" Over the past three years, Yvette had been doing the same things over and over again. She wore the same dark clothes and replied to his messages with the same singular word. If it hadn't been for the business alliance and the Snyders' deceit, Xavier would never have married a woman like Yvette. At the word "nanny", the rumbling in Yvette's ears returned. She swallowed, feeling a lump in her throat, and said bravely, "Xav, do you have someone that you like?" Her sudden question surprised Xavier. His eyes darkened. "What do you mean by that?" Yvette raised her head and stared at him, swallowing the bile rising in the back of her throat. "If you love someone else, you can be with herβ" Before she could finish, Xavier interrupted her. "You're mad." ... After Xavier left, Yvette sat on the balcony alone, staring out into the cold rain. The sound of the raindrops drifted in and out of clarity. She took off her hearing aids, letting the world around her fall into silence. A month ago, her doctor had told her, "Ms. Snyder, there's been a pathological change in your auditory nerves and some of your cranial nerves, causing your hearing to worsen. If this goes on, you may lose your hearing completely." Not used to a silent world, Yvette went to the living room and turned on the television. She turned up the volume to the max, which allowed her to hear some sound. By coincidence, the television was showing an interview with Daphne Reyes, an internationally renowned singer known for her love songs. Yvette's hands trembled slightly as she gripped the remote control. Daphne was Xavier's first love. It had been a long time since Yvette had seen her, but Daphne was still as pretty as ever. She was confident and relaxed in front of the cameras, unlike the shy and frightened young woman who had begged the Snyders for sponsorship in the past. When the interviewer asked Daphne why she had returned to her home country, her answer was bold. "I came home to get my first love back." The remote control slipped out of Yvette's hands. Her heart also fell to her stomach. Flustered, Yvette turned off the television and went to the table to clean up the uneaten breakfast. When she got to the kitchen, she found that Xavier had forgotten to take his phone. She picked it up and saw the unread messages on the lock screen. "Xav, you must have been unhappy over the past few years, right?" "I know you don't love her. How about we meet up tonight? I've missed you." Yvette stared blankly at the messages until the screen went dark again. Then, she called a cab to Xavier's office. On the way, she stared out of the window. The rain fell incessantly. It felt like it would never stop. Xavier never liked it when Yvette visited him at his office, so whenever she was there, she would take the service elevator from the loading bay. When Xavier's assistant, Mark Xyrax, saw her, he just greeted her impassively, "Ms. Snyder." No one around Xavier considered Yvette his wife. She was nothing but a smear on his reputation. When Xavier saw Yvette bringing him his phone, he frowned. She was always like this. No matter what he forgot, be it his lunch, his documents, a shirt, or even an umbrella, she would bring them to him. "I thought I told you that you didn't need to deliver my things to me yourself." Yvette froze. "Sorry, I forgot." Since when had her memory been so bad? Maybe she had panicked after seeing Daphne's message and became afraid that Xavier would disappear from her life suddenly. Before she left, she looked back at Xavier. Unable to help herself, she blurted out, "Xav, do you still like Daphne?" Xavier thought that Yvette had been behaving rather strangely lately. She kept forgetting things and asking weird questions. How could a person like her be his wife? Impatiently, he replied, "If you have so much free time, go find yourself something to do." Yvette had tried getting a job before, but Xavier's mother, Shannon Guetta, had reprimanded her without holding back. "Do you want the whole world to know that Xav married a disabled woman with hearing issues?" Therefore, Yvette had given up on finding a job and focused on her fruitless life as "Mrs. Lane" at Dewberry Estate. β¦ At home, she sat alone until nightfall. She couldn't sleep. Just then, the phone on her bedside table rang loudly. It was a call from an unfamiliar number. Yvette picked up the call. A familiar voice, yet one she dreaded, sounded from the other end. "Is this Yvvy? Xav is drunk. Can you come pick him up?" When Yvette arrived at Sternhow Club, she heard loud coaxing and jeering from the wealthy heirs inside the private room. "Daph, didn't you say you came back to get our dear Mr. Lane back into your arms? This is your chance now. Go on, tell him how you feel!" Daphne was a pretty woman who was popular wherever she went. She was also Xavier's first love, so the rich young men of the upper crust were happy to push the two together. Daphne wasn't shy at all. She turned to Xavier and said without any reservations, "I like you, Xav. Please be with me again." That was what Yvette heard when she arrived at the door of the private room. Inside, the other people were urging Xavier to answer Daphne. His best friend, Tristan Shaw, was the most vocal among them. "Xav, you've been waiting for Daphne for three years. She's back now. So, go on, answer her!" Yvette stood frozen outside the door. Her heart was pounding. Just then, one of the men pulled the door open. "Ms. Snyder?" Chapter 2 Everyone in the private room looked over at the door. For a moment, the room was eerily silent. Yvette immediately caught sight of Xavier in the middle of the room. His eyes were clear and bright. He was clearly not drunk. She knew that she had been tricked by Daphne. When Xavier saw Yvette, his pupils constricted. Everyone else in the room looked awkward, including Tristan, who had been the most vocal in getting Xavier to accept Daphne's confession earlier. Yvette shouldn't have gone there. Daphne was the first to break the silence. "Please don't get the wrong idea, Yvvy. Tristan was joking. Xavier and I are just friends." Before Yvette could answer, Xavier stood up impatiently. "There's no need to explain it to her." Then, he stalked over to Yvette. "What are you doing here?" "I thought you were drunk, so I came to take you home," Yvette answered truthfully. Xavier scoffed. "You really didn't retain anything I told you, did you?" Lowering his voice, he said softly so that only she could hear him, "Are you here to remind everyone that I was tricked into marrying you three years ago? Did you think they forgot?" Yvette was stunned. Xavier gave her a cold look. "Stop seeking attention. You're only making me hate you more." With that, he turned away, leaving Yvette standing alone. Yvette stared after his retreating figure, unable to snap out of her shock. None of the other scions in the room took pity on her when they saw Xavier ignoring her. Tristan even had no qualms in telling Daphne, who was feigning distress, "You're too kind, Daphne. You didn't need to explain anything. "If Yvette hadn't scammed Xav, he would've married you in the first place. You wouldn't have needed to suffer abroad as well." Despite the constant ringing in her ears, Yvette could still hear every word clearly. She knew better than anyone that even if Xavier hadn't married her, he wouldn't have married Daphne. Daphne was a nobody with no background, after all. Daphne was well aware of this as well. That was why she had chosen to break up with Xavier and leave the country. How had everything turned out to be Yvette's fault? When Yvette left Sternhow Club with her umbrella, she felt as if she had been enveloped by darkness. Just then, a lithe figure appeared beside her. It was Daphne. She was decked out in fine clothes, complete with high heels. She looked smug. "It's a cold night, isn't it? So, how does it feel to get scoffed at by Xavier after you came all the way here at this time to get him?" Yvette didn't answer her, but Daphne didn't mind her silence. She just continued speaking. "I do pity you, you know. You've never experienced true love before, have you? "Do you know that when I was with Xav, he would cook for me himself? When I was sick, he would drop everything and stay with me. "Has Xav ever told you he loves you? He used to say that to me all the timeβ¦" Yvette listened to Daphne's rambling quietly, her mind going over the past three years she had been married to Xavier. He had never so much as stepped into the kitchen during that time. When she had gotten sick, he had never comforted her. He had never told her he loved her either. β¦ That night, Yvette couldn't fall asleep. She had only just found out that the man she had loved for the past 12 years had once loved another with all his heart, in the spectacular way that only young people could. At that moment, she realized that it was time for her to give him up. She had a sleepless night. The next morning, Xavier returned home. The glare he gave her was cold. "How attached are you to the Lane family's money, to me, your money-making robot?" he demanded. Yvette was stunned. She didn't know what had gotten into him so early in the morning. Instinctively, she said, "I never wanted your money." She had only ever wanted Xavier. Xavier laughed in disdain. "Then, why did your mother come to my office and beg me to give you a child?" Yvette was stunned. She stared into Xavier's eyes. It was only then that she realized that he wasn't angry about what had happened last night. Xavier had no desire to waste his breath on her. "If you want to continue staying with me and keep your family afloat, tell your mother to behave herself!" ... In the end, Yvette didn't need to look for Yara. Yara found Yvette instead. She was no longer cold and distant; she gripped Yvette's hands and said gently, "Yvvy, you should ask Xavier to give you a child. He doesn't have to do it biologically. He could do it through scientific measures." Scientific measures. Yvette stared at Yara in shock as the latter continued, "Daphne told me that Xavier hasn't slept with you in the past three years." That was the last straw for Yvette. She didn't know why Xavier would tell Daphne about that. Maybe he really loved Daphne a lot. With that thought, she suddenly felt relieved. "Just let it go, Mom." Yara paused. She frowned. "What?" "I'm tired. I want to get a divorceβ" Before she could finish, Yara slapped her hard across the face. The kind, motherly facade was gone in an instant. She jabbed a finger at Yvette and gritted out, "You have no right to ask for a divorce! "Without the Lane family, what do you think you're going to do? Who's going to remarry a disabled divorcee like you?" Yvette felt her body go numb. Yara had never liked Yvette, even when the latter had been a child. Yara had been a famous dancer. The fact that she had given birth to a daughter with hearing issues was one of her biggest regrets. Therefore, she had sent Yvette away to be taken care of by a nanny. She had only allowed Yvette to return home when the latter started school. People used to tell Yvette that every mother loved their child. So, she had done everything she could to excel at everything in hopes of making Yara happy. Despite her hearing issues, she had been at the top of her class in dance, music, and art classes. But no matter how hard she tried, Yara still didn't consider her a good daughter. In Yara's words, Yvette wasn't "complete". Not only physically, but also in love and familial relationships. After Yara left, Yvette used some makeup to cover up the red print on her face. Then, she packed her bags quietly. Even after three years of married life, all her personal belongings fit into a single suitcase. After she finished packing up, she gathered her courage and sent Xavier a message. "Are you free tonight? I need to talk to you." Xavier didn't reply to her. Yvette's eyes darkened. She knew that he didn't want to reply to her messages. All she could do was wait for him to come home in the morning. She had thought that he wouldn't come home that night, but he got back at midnight. Yvette wasn't asleep at the time. She went up to him and took his coat and bag from him with familiarity in her actions. It was as if they were a normal married couple. Xavier's cold voice broke the peace. "Don't send me inane texts again." As Yvette held Xavier's coat, her hand trembled slightly. "I won't do it again," she mumbled. Xavier didn't notice anything wrong with her tone. He went straight to his study. Generally, if he came home, he would stay holed up in his study. He probably thought that someone who was hard of hearing would live in a silent world. Either that, or he simply didn't care about Yvette. That would explain why he got straight to discussing his acquisition of Snyder Group in his study as if nothing was wrong. When Yvette brought him some soup, she heard Xavier animatedly discussing work with his employees. He was talking about the acquisition of Snyder Group, her father, James Snyder's company. She didn't know how to feel about that. She knew that her brother, Terrence Synder, was useless at running a business, so it was only a matter of time before Snyder Group fell. However, she had never thought that her own husband would be the first to cause Snyder Group's downfall. "Xav," she interrupted. Xavier was slightly startled. Out of guilt, or maybe some other emotion, he quickly hung up the phone and closed his laptop. Feigning ignorance, Yvette walked into the study and placed the bowl in front of him. "Have some soup, then get to bed soon. Your health is more important than work." For some reason, Xavier felt himself relax when he heard her soft voice. She probably hadn't heard anything. Feeling conflicted, he stopped Yvette before she could leave. "You said you wanted to talk to me. What is it?" Hearing this, Yvette turned back to look at him. Softly, she said, "I just wanted to ask if you're free in the morning so we can go and file for divorce." Chapter 3 Yvette's voice was calm and impassive, as though divorce were a menial matter to her. Xavier's pupils contracted. "What did you just say?" Over the last three years, no matter what he had done, Yvette had never brought up divorce. In truth, Xavier knew that Yvette loved him. Her eyes, which were usually dull and empty, were clear and bright now. "I'm sorry for being a burden over the last few years, Mr. Lane. We should get divorced." Xavier clenched his fists unconsciously. "You heard what I said earlier, didn't you? Snyder Group was already failing; it won't matter whether I buy it or someone else does. What are you trying to do by bringing up divorce? "Is it because you want money? Or a child? Or do you want me to leave Snyder Group alone?" he asked coldly. "Don't forget that I don't love you. Your threats won't work on me!" At that moment, he seemed like a stranger to Yvette. A lump formed in her throat as her ears began throbbing. Even though she was wearing her hearing aids, she could barely hear what Xavier was saying. She could only answer his last question. "I don't want anything." Afraid that he would notice something wrong with her, Yvette left the study in a hurry. As he watched her leave, Xavier felt frustrated for some reason. He had never felt like this before. Not one to hold in his emotions, he flipped the table over. The bowl of soup that Yvette had brought him spilled all over the ground. ... Back in her own room, Yvette forced herself to swallow a handful of pills. She reached up to touch her ear. As she retracted her fingers, she saw crimson blood on them. Thanks to the medicine, her hearing recovered a little by the time it was dawn. Yvette stared blankly at the soft rays of sunlight streaming from the window. "The rain has stopped," she said quietly to herself. Xavier didn't leave the manor that day. He was in the living room bright and early, settled on the couch, waiting for Yvette to apologize and express her regret to him. This wasn't the first time Yvette had lost her temper with him. However, after every tantrum, she would apologize to him before long. Xavier figured that it would be the same this time around. Soon, he saw Yvette coming out of her room, all freshened up. She wore her usual dark-colored clothes. She dragged a suitcase with one hand while holding a piece of paper in the other. She handed the paper to him. It was a divorce agreement. "Let me know when you have time, Xav." With that, she left the manor, pulling her suitcase behind her. It was bright and sunny outside. Yvette felt as if she had gotten a new chance at life. Meanwhile, Xavier sat frozen on the couch, still clutching the divorce agreement in his hand. It took him a long time to come back to his senses. It was Saturday. Usually, around this time of the year, Xavier would take Yvette back to his hometown to pay respects to his ancestors. During this time, they would have to endure strange looks from his extended family. However, he was alone that day, which made him extraordinarily happy. At Lane Mansion, Shannon and the rest of the Lanes were surprised to see him alone. In the past, Yvette had always been the first one to turn up every year and the last to leave since she had been trying to please everyone. Why wasn't she there today? Shanon frowned and asked Xavier, "Where's Yvette, Xav?" Xavier's expression turned cold. "She wanted a divorce and left me." Everyone fell silent in disbelief when he said that. Shannon was shocked. She knew that Yvette probably loved Xavier more than anything in the world, only surpassed by his own parents. Seven years ago, Yvette had even protected Xavier with her own body when someone had attempted to stab him. Four years ago, not long after the two had gotten engaged, something had happened to Xavier while he had been on a business trip in Dibay. Everyone had been convinced that he was dead, but Yvette had refused to believe that. She had dropped everything and gone to the foreign city just to look for him. Then, after they had gotten married, Yvette had taken care of almost everything in his life with meticulous precision, including being polite to everyone around him, even his secretaries. She had always been afraid of offending them. Yvette clearly couldn't live without Xavier. So, why had she suggested getting a divorce? Shannon had no idea, but she was glad that Yvette had finally decided to let Xavier go. "She's not worthy to be your wife anyway. It's a good thing that you're divorcing her. She doesn't deserve you," she said The others immediately chimed in. "Yeah, you're young and handsome, Xav. You're in your best years now. Yvette's been dragging you down all this time!" Instantly, the gathering turned into a slander fest. They spoke of Yvette as if she were an unforgivable criminal. Xavier should have felt happy that they were defending him, but for some reason, he found their words too sharp and crass. He left Lane Mansion earlier than usual and made his way back to Dewberry Estate. The sky was just starting to darken when he arrived home. He opened the door and entered the manor. When he saw nothing but darkness, he remembered, with a start, that Yvette had left. He changed into his house slippers and tossed his coat into the washer. For some reason, he felt unusually exhausted today. He went to the wine cellar to get a bottle of wine so that he could celebrate Yvette's leaving. However, when he got to the wine cellar and saw the locked door, he realized too late that he didn't have the key. He didn't like strangers in his house, so there were no maids or servants at Dewberry Estate. Ever since he had married Yvette, she had been the one taking care of the household affairs. He could only go back to his room. Picking up his phone, he scrolled through his messages only to find work-related texts. Yvette hadn't called or texted him to apologize at all. Tossing his phone aside, he got up and headed over to the kitchen. When he opened the door of the fridge, he was stunned. Apart from food, there were also a lot of supplements. He picked one of the bags up and read the instructions on it. "Take five times a day for incapable of conceived." He took a whiff of the supplement. It smelled disgusting. He recalled that Yvette always smelled strange. So, this was why. He scoffed silently. They had never slept, so no matter how much medicine she took, she would never have gotten conceived. ... Meanwhile, over in a dark and dinky hotel, Yvette opened her eyes blearily. Her head was pounding. The world was silent. She knew, then, that her condition had worsened again. Before this, she had still been able to hear some sounds, even without her hearing aids. She pushed herself up and felt around on the bedside table until she found her medicine. She popped the pills in her mouth, tasting their bitterness. The day before, she had left Dewberry Estate, which had been her home for the past three years. At first, she had gone to her parents' house, Snyder Residence. However, at the door, she had overheard Yara and Terrence discussing how they would marry her off to an old man if the Lanes kicked her out. Yvette had blanked upon hearing that. It was then that she finally realized that she had no place to call home anymore. Even though she hadn't eaten anything in two days, she still didn't feel hungry. However, it was too quiet. The silence scared her. It had been raining more frequently in Tirion this year than it had in previous years. Yvette stared out at the passing pedestrians. Most of them were paired up or in groups. She was the only one alone. She bought a bus ticket heading out of the city. She decided to go to her nanny's house in the countryside. Viola Xenos, her nanny, had taken care of her when she was a child. It was already 9:00 pm when Yvette got there. When Viola saw Yvette, she looked pleasantly surprised. Yvette teared up when she saw Viola's warm smile. She reached out to her and hugged her. "Viola." Due to health issues, Viola had never married and didn't have children of her own. Yvette was closer to her than she was to her own mother. That night, Yvette cuddled up in Viola's embrace, just like she had when she was a child. Viola wrapped her arms around Yvette, only to realize that the latter was very thin. She pressed a hand on the Yvette's bony back, trembling uncontrollably. Forcing herself to calm down, she asked cautiously, "Has Xavier been treating you well, Yvvy?" Yvette felt a sharp pain in her throat when she heard Xavier's name. She wanted to lie to Viola and tell her that Xavier had treated her well, but she knew that Viola wasn't silly. Since she had already made up her mind to leave him, there was no need to lie to herself or to the people who loved her any longer. "The person he loves has returned. I've decided to let him go and divorce him." Viola was stunned. She couldn't believe her ears. Yvette had told her multiple times before that she wanted to spend the rest of her life with Xavier. Not knowing what else to say, she comforted Yvette by telling her that there were plenty of other fish in the sea. There was bound to be one who would love her. Yvette just nodded silently. The buzzing in her ears drowned out Viola's comforting voice. That night, she managed to get a good night's sleep, which was rare. However, when she woke up, she was greeted with the alarming sight of blood staining the spot where her head had laid on the pillow. Yvette touched her right ear. Her fingers felt sticky. She looked at her hand. It was covered in blood. Chapter 4 Even Yvette's hearing aids were stained red. Her pupils contracted, and she quickly grabbed some tissues to wipe her ear. Then, she stripped the bedsheets and washed them. She was afraid that Viola would worry about her if she found out that her illness was worsening. So, she cleaned up the mess and found an excuse to bid goodbye to Viola. Before she left, she placed a part of her savings on the bedside table without telling Viola. Viola walked Yvette to the bus stop and waved goodbye reluctantly. β¦ After Yvette left, Viola couldn't stop thinking about how thin the former was. Unable to just sit by, she called Lane Group. When the secretary heard that Viola was Yvette's nanny and wanted to speak to Xavier, she transferred the call to Xavier's line. It was the third day after Yvette had left Xavier. It was also the first time in three days that he had received a call about her. Sitting behind his desk, he felt exceptionally pleased. Just as he had expected, Yvette wouldn't be able to last more than three days without himβor so he thought. Viola's voice came through the other line, sounding weighed with age. "Mr. Lane, I am Yvvy's nanny. I've been taking care of her since she was a baby. "Please, I beg you, treat her well. Don't hurt her more than you already have. She's not as strong as she seems on the surface. "When she was born, Mrs. Snyder left her in my care because she didn't like that Yvvy is hard of hearing. Yvvy only returned home when she had to start going to school. "The Snyders have never treated her as one of their own. Apart from Mr. Snyder, everyone else treated her like she was a maid. "You and Mr. Snyder are the most important people she has in this world. I'm begging you, please. Please be kind to her." Xavier's mood darkened when he heard what Viola said. "Did she tell you to give me this sob story because she didn't want to face me herself?" he asked coldly. "Why should I care about her life? If you ask me, she deserved everything she got!" That said, he hung up the phone without waiting for an answer. Viola had heard Yvette gushing about how nice Xavier was to her. So, it was only then that she realized the truthβXavier wasn't a good man at all. He wasn't a good husband to Yvette. ... Yvette sat on the bus, heading home. Just then, her phone vibrated. It was a message from Xavier. "You said you wanted to get divorced, right? I'll see you at 10:00 am tomorrow." Yvette stared at the text blankly for a while before replying, "Okay." Just one word. It infuriated Xavier and completely ruined his mood. Unable to work anymore, he called up his friends and invited them out for drinks. Daphne was also at the club when he arrived. "I'm not going home until I'm drunk!" she declared. Tristan sat down beside Xavier. He couldn't help asking curiously, "How's Deaf Yvvy?" Xavier raised an eyebrow at him. "There's no need to talk about her ever again. We're filing for divorce tomorrow." Tristan was stunned. He couldn't believe his ears. "Really?" Beside them, Daphne brightened. She poured out a shot for him. "Congrats on getting back your freedom, Xav!" Xavier drank a lot that night. Daphne offered to send him home, but he rejected her suggestion. "No need. It's not appropriate." If he and Yvette were going to get divorced tomorrow, she might come home that night. Daphne wasn't happy about the rejection. "Why? You're divorcing her anyway. Why wouldn't it be appropriate? Are you still scared that she might find out about our relationship?" Their relationship? Xavier narrowed his eyes. "You're overthinking this." He got into his own car. Out of consideration, he also called a cab to send Daphne home. On the drive home, he kept unlocking his phone to check if Yvette had sent him any messages. She hadn't. When he reached Dewberry Estate, it was dark. With a stormy expression, Xavier opened the door and turned on the light. Yvette was nowhere to be seen. She hadn't come home. The manor was left exactly the way it had been when she had left. Still feeling the effects of the wine, Xavier threw himself heavily onto the couch and soon fell asleep. In his nightmares, Yvette was covered in blood, but there was a smile on her face. "I don't love you anymore, Xav," she said. When Xavier jolted awake, the sky outside had just brightened up. He rubbed his forehead and went to the bathroom to freshen himself up. Then, he changed into a smart suit and made his way to the courthouse. At the entrance of the courthouse, he spotted Yvette standing under a tree not far off. As usual, she was dressed in dark-colored clothes. From the distance, she looked incredibly frail and thin as she stood amid the drizzle. It was as if a single gust of wind could knock her over. Xavier could still remember how young and lively she had been when they had first gotten married. She hadn't been as thin and gloomy back then. Holding an umbrella, he walked toward Yvette. It took her a few moments to notice him. Xiaver hadn't changed much over the last three years. He was as handsome and as confident as ever, with the added hint of matureness that came with age. Yvette was a little dazed. The last three years felt like a blink in time to her, yet she also seemed to have exhausted a whole lifetime. Xavier stalked over to Yvette and gazed at her coldly. He was waiting for her to apologize to him. She had been sulking enough. It was time to put an end to this. However, Yvette just said, "I'm sorry to pull you away from your work. Let's go in." Xavier stiffened, but he quickly recovered. "Don't regret this." With that, he turned and headed into the courthouse. Yvette stared after him sadly. Would she regret this? She didn't know either. In the courthouse, the judge asked them if they were sure about going through with the divorce. Yvette's answer was firm. "Yes." Her determined expression frustrated Xavier. After filing for divorce, they still had to return to the courthouse in a month. If they didn't show up, then the divorce would be considered null. As they left the courthouse, Yvette looked at Xavier, her expression unusually calm. "I'll see you next month. Take care." With that, she stepped out into the rain, hailed a cab, and left. Xavier was left standing on the spot. He didn't know how to feel as he watched her car leave. Relieved, probably. Relieved that he wouldn't need to put up with her any longer or endure others' ridicule for having a disabled wife. ... In the cab, Yvette leaned against the window and stared blankly at the rain droplets on the glass. In the rearview mirror, the driver suddenly saw blood dripping from her ear. He was shocked by the sight. "Miss? Miss!" Yvette didn't answer him. The driver hastily stopped the car. Yvette was confused. They weren't at her destination yet. Why had they stopped? She looked over at the driver and saw him mouthing silently. She realized that she had gone deaf again. "I'm sorry, I can't hear you. What are you saying?" In the end, the driver had to type out what he wanted to say on his phone so that he could tell her about her bleeding ear. Yvette reached out belatedly and felt the warm sensation in her ear. She was used to it now. "It's alright. This happens all the time. I'm fine." She was hard of hearing, but her ears hadn't bled like this before. Two years ago, at a gathering, Tristan had pushed her into a swimming pool. Yvette didn't know how to swim, so she had almost drowned. At the same time, her eardrums had also expanded due to the pressure. She had been sent to the hospital, but the damage had been done. At the time, she had been told that everything was fine. Why was this happening again? The cab driver was still worried, so he dropped her off at the hospital she told him. After thanking him, Yvette went into the hospital on her own. This time, she saw her usual doctor, Tom Jensen. "Dr. Jensen, my memory has been rather bad lately. I kept forgetting what I'm doing," she said. When she had woken up at the hotel that morning, it had taken her a long time to remember that she had to file for divorce with Xavier. Tom looked at her latest report worriedly. "Ms. Snyder, I think you should consider getting tested for other things. Specifically, mental health issues." Mental healthβ¦ Following Tom's recommendation, Yvette went and got a psychiatric diagnosis. She was diagnosed with depression. It turned out that patients with severe depression often experienced memory loss. Before heading back to the hotel, Yvette stopped and bought a notebook and a pen. She wrote down everything that had happened lately. She placed the notebook right beside her bed so that it would be the first thing she saw when she woke up in the morning. News of her and Xavier's divorce spread quickly. That night, Yara called her multiple times, but she didn't hear anything. β¦ When she woke up the next morning, she saw a barrage of texts from Yara. "Where are you?" "Who do you think you are? Even if you're getting a divorce, Xavier should have been the one to ask for it!" "You're such a jinx! Back when you got married, your dad got into a car crash and died. What's going to happen now that you're getting divorced? Do you want Snyder Group to go bankrupt? Is that it?" Yvette stared at the messages. She was used to the verbal bully by now. She typed out a reply. "Mom, it's time that we live by our own merits. We shouldn't depend on others so much." Yara's response was swift. "You're such an ingrate! I shouldn't have given birth to you in the first place!" Yvette didn't bother replying to that. She placed her phone aside. She just had to wait a month. Once the divorce was finalized, she would be able to leave Tirion and start a new life. β¦ Yvette's health worsened over the next few days. She often found herself completely deaf. Sometimes, it took a very long time for her hearing to go back to normal. Her memory was deteriorating too. On the bright side, even though her hearing loss was incurable, at least she could do something about the depression. She tried everything she could to keep herself happy. She busied herself by registering as a volunteer online. She spent time taking care of abandoned old people and orphans. Helping them made her feel like she had a reason to continue living. A few days later, Yvette woke up in the morning and checked her notebook as usual. Then, she got ready to head out to the orphanage. When she picked up her phone, she saw several unread messages. There were messages from Terrance and Yara, as well as Daphne. She opened the texts one by one. Yara: "As you wished, Snyder Group is no more." Terrence: "Keep hiding. You're the most cowardly and cruel person I've ever seen." Daphne: "My condolences, Yvette. Actually, I think Snyder Group would thrive better under Xav." Daphne: "Since your family has helped me so much in the past, do let me know if you need anything. I'll help you if I can." Yvette had no idea what was happening. She closed the messaging app. Almost immediately, she got a notification about the latest news. Chapter 5 Yvette watched the news and saw the press conference held by Lane Group. It was an announcement that Xavier had successfully acquired Snyder Group. James' company no longer existed in the world. β¦ Things on Xavier's end had been extra pleasant lately. He had acquired Snyder Group and gotten his revenge. "The Snyder family finally got what they deserved for tricking you into that marriage three years ago." Tristan chuckled. Yet, he changed the topic in the next instant. He asked Xavier, "Xav, has Deaf Yvvy approached you during the past few days?" Xavier froze halfway through signing a document. He didn't know why, but people around him kept mentioning Yvette these days. "No," he replied coldly. That shocked Tristan. After all, how could Yvette not do anything when something this massive had happened to her family? With that in mind, he spoke again. "Could it be that she's finally come around? I heard her family has been looking everywhere for her. Nobody knows where she's goneβ" He kept blabbering on. Xavier frowned, feeling utterly annoyed. "Get out!" Tristan jolted. That was when he realized that Xavier was furious. Not daring to say another word, Tristan bolted out of the CEO's office. Once outside, he took his phone and called his assistant, Avery Fitzpatrick. "Have you found Yvette?" "Yes, she's in a small hotel in Hexim Pass," answered Avery. Tristan had Avery send him the location before he drove there. He refused to let Yvette off the hook so easily. So what if she was willing to divorce Xavier now? She had already prevented Xavier and Daphne from being together for over three years! Besides, Daphne had saved Tristan's life once, so he owed her. It rained outside. Yvette finished her volunteer work and picked up her medication from the hospital. Then, she held an umbrella while walking back to the hotel. There were very few people on the road. Tristan drove his car but kept his eyes on Yvette's slim back. He deliberately sped up as he drove past her, sending a puddle of rainwater splashing onto her. Yvette shot him a blank stare. Tristan happened to meet her emotionless gaze through his rearview mirror. He didn't know why, but he felt inexplicably nervous. Yvette recognized Tristan's luxurious, dark gray Bugatti. Yet, she retracted her gaze and pretended not to notice him. Even so, Tristan refused to stop there. He deliberately slowed his car and followed her. "Hey, Deaf Yvvy. So, you have a temper now, huh? "You're not even going to greet me now? Didn't you used to love greeting me? Didn't you enjoy tickling my fancy?" Yvette remained stoic while the former mocked her. She used to do everything to win over those around Xavier, including his friends. It was all because she liked him. She had figured that Xavier's family and friends would one day accept her. Alas, it seemed she had been too naΓ―ve. At the previous gathering, Tristan had declared that he was Daphne's friend. He couldn't care less about maintaining his gentlemanly, upper-class image when siding with Daphne. He had insulted Yvette and called her shameless. In the end, he had also thrown her into the pool, leaving her to die. Since then, Yvette had steered clear of him. Upon receiving no reaction or response from Yvette, Tristan stopped the car, opened the door, and strolled toward her. He grabbed her arm and asked, "What stunts are you planning to pull this time?" Yvette's arm hurt, so she looked up at him. "I don't know what you're saying." She wanted to pry his hand off her arm, but he flung her aside. "Don't touch me with your filthy hands!" Tristan bellowed. Yvette stumbled backward before falling to the ground with a loud thud. Tristan froze on the spot in slight disbelief. It baffled him to see Yvette resorting to such tricks. He had only pushed her with a slight force, so how could she fall like that? Seeing people looking their way, he nervously got back into his car. Still, he gave her a warning before driving away. "Don't mess with Daph just because you're a disabled person, Yvette! "She's different from you. It's taken her a lot of effort to get to where she is now, so you'd better not disrupt her and Xav's relationship again!" After driving away, he even told the Snyder family where Yvette was staying. Yvette's hands and knees were scraped when she fell. It hurt so much that she couldn't stand for a long time. Deep down, she didn't understand why Tristan was so blind to what was right and wrong. She recalled risking her life to rescue him from a car that had been about to explode four years ago. His face had been covered in blood, and his eyes hadn't been visible. However, he had spoken in the warmest voice. He had said, "Thank you. I promise I'll repay you someday." Yvette couldn't help but bitterly wonder if this was his way of repaying her. β¦ Once Yvette returned to the hotel, she took a shower and applied medication to her scraped skin. Then, she lay down in a daze. The fall hardened her determination to leave Xavier for good. β¦ The sun was shining brightly outside when Yvette woke up. She got up and headed to the living area, only to see Yara sitting on the couch, wearing a formal dress. Yara didn't seem to care one bit that Yvette had just woken up. She picked the document off the coffee table and handed it to the latter. "Take a good look at this. It's the backup plan I've selected for you." Yvette accepted the document but saw the title "prenuptial agreement" on the cover. She flipped through the pages while reading the contents aloud. "Ms. Yvette Snyder will marry Mr. Liam Lorimer. As his wife, she'll devote herself to him and look after him until the end of his life. Liam will look after Yvette's family, which includes maintaining their quality of life. He'll also provide 300 million as funds for the Snyder family." Following that, the document stated Liam's details. He was an entrepreneur from the older generation in Tirion. He was 78 years old that year. Yvette's mind tensed. At that moment, Yara spoke up again. "Mr. Lorimer has expressed that he doesn't mind that you were married before. "He'll help revive our family's reputation from the ashes, as long as you marry him. Come on, dearest. You wouldn't let me and Terrence down, right?" Yvette's face paled even more. "I can't agree to what you're asking of me." Yara had never imagined that Yvette would reject her so candidly. She blew up in a fit of rage at once. "What right do you have to refuse? I gave you life!" Hearing that, Yvette met Yara's gaze. "How about I return my life to you? Would that mean I no longer owe you?" "What did you say?" Yara shrilled. Yvette's pale lips moved as she said, "If I returned my life to you, would it mean you'd no longer be my mother? And I'll no longer be indebted to you for giving birth to me?" Yara sneered, not believing Yvette would dare do such a thing. "Okay, then. I won't force you to marry Mr. Lorimer if you give your life back to me. But the question is, do you have the guts to do it?" "Give me a month." Yvette seemed determined. In Yara's eyes, Yvette seemed like a crazed person. She warned, "You'd best not threaten me by only saying you'll end your life. We're not that close, so I don't care if you die. However, you must sign this document if you're too afraid to end your life." β¦ Yvette had suppressed all her emotions to the brim and needed to vent somewhere. So, she went to a bar. She sat in a corner, drinking and watching the crowd happily dance in a daze. That was when a dashing man with striking eyes noticed Yvette, who was all alone. He approached and asked, "Yvette?" Yvette stared at the man but didn't recognize him. Still dazed, she asked, "Do you know how one can achieve happiness?" The man was confused. "What did you say?" Yvette continued drinking as she spoke. "The doctor says I'm ill and should try to be happier, but I can't make myself feel happyβ¦" That sparked discomfort in the man, Claude Lander. He wondered if Yvette had forgotten about him. Also, he was confused by what she saidβsomething about being ill and needing to be happier. "You shouldn't be in a place like this if you want to be happy. Why don't I drive you home?" Claude spoke in a gentle tone. A smile curved across Yvette's face as she looked at him. "You're a good person." Complex emotions stirred in Claude when he saw her bitter smile. He wondered what she had been through these past few years. Why did she seem so sorrowful? Meanwhile, Xavier was also at the bar. After settling the divorce papers, he had let himself loose every night. On top of that, he hadn't returned to Dewberry Estate in a long time. It was getting late. When the crowd was about to leave, Daphne noticed a familiar figure in a corner of the bar. She exclaimed, "Isn't that Yvvy?" Xavier glanced in the direction Daphne was staring in and saw a man merrily chatting with Yvette. His expression soured at once. He was disappointed in Yvette for getting drunk at a bar and chatting up another man. He felt like he had thought too highly of her before. "Should we go and check up on her, Xav?" asked Daphne. "No," was all Xavier said before speedily leaving. On the other hand, Yvette declined Claude's offer. "There's no need to trouble yourself. I can go home on my own." Claude was still worried about Yvette, so he ran after her when he noticed her leaving the bar. "Do you really not remember me?" Yvette gazed at him but couldn't recall who he was. "It's Chubbs. Have you forgotten?" Claude reminded her. Only then did Yvette remember her friend, Chubbs, whom she met when she had been living with Viola in the countryside. Back then, Claude had been chubbier and nowhere near Yvette's height. Yet, his six-foot-two-inch frame now towered over her. He had even grown to have handsome features. "I remember now! You've changed so much. I didn't even recognize you!" said Yvette. Meeting an old friend away from home was a pleasant thing. But only a slight smile curved on Yvette's face. That upset Claude. "Come on. I'll drive you home," Claude stated. When he dropped her off, he was shocked to learn she lived in a run-down hotel. Yvette shifted in embarrassment. "Sorry, it's not a glamorous place. Please don't tell Viola I'm living in such a place. I don't want her to worry." Claude nodded. Since it was getting late, it was unwise for him to stay longer. So, he left after telling Yvette he would visit her the next day. He didn't notice the matte black car lingering in a dark area beneath the hotel as he walked out. Now that Claude had left, Yvette felt dizzy and had an upset stomach from drinking too much. That was when someone knocked hard on the door. Yvette had just opened the door when Xavier grabbed her wrist. He exerted so much strength on her slender wrist that it felt close to snapping in half. "You've made me look at you in a new light, Yvette!" Xavier snarled while shutting and locking the door. He then forcefully led her to the couch. He sneered with words as sharp and lethal as a blade, "So, you've already settled on which family you'll marry into next, huh? I knew you wouldn't be so willing to let me go for no reason!" Yvette didn't know why he had come over, nor did she know how he had seen Claude. She was only briefly dazed. Once she snapped out of it, she shot a furious look at Xavier and didn't bother explaining herself to him. The rims of her eyes reddened. "You and I aren't that different from each other." The Snyder family had tricked Xavier into marrying Yvette. However, Xavier had treated her coldly for three years while remaining entangled with his first love. Neither Xavier nor Yvette was a better person than the other. Xavier had also drunk some wine, so he reeked of it. Eyes reddening, he pinched Yvette's chin and spoke with a dangerously low voice. "Who is he? When did you guys meet?" That was the first time Yvette had seen him behave like this. She suddenly chuckled. "Are you jealous?" Xavier's gaze grew tense as he scoffed. "You're unworthy of such a reaction." Yvette became choked up. That was when Xavier leaned in domineeringly and continued interrogating her. "Has he already touched you? Huh?" In her three years of marriage, Yvette had given up on her work and declined to meet her friends whenever they had occasionally invited her out. She had done so to obey the Lane family's rules. But now Xavier was suspicious of her. Relief washed over Yvette just then. She questioned him back, "What do you think?" That utterly angered Xavier, and his heated hands started travelling down her body. | Read freely | 18 | https://facebook.com/61557986570531 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715324400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879775 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410722 | 1723321808 | 995 | 1457265871529992 | 1 | 1.3897169785739E+15 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 294527430678616 | 0 | Servall Martin | 120210487194700370 | servallpestcontrol.com | Contact Us | NONE | carousel | Gutter Solutions For Dry Homes | Gutter guard protection! | https://www.servallpestcontrol.com/ | 1710172974 | 2.9452743067862E+14 | Servall Martin | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/432252311_735374178788446_4142605466614271796_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=CTx34oaYgSoQ7kNvgEJhunK&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBUxhuh9N1YzzO8BAdPPrv8b0WYYrIKRPFpmozz17nb3g&oe=6672B1E4 | person_profile | 0 | Servall Martin | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/432280469_2714175705398879_4118516942423375862_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=rJWzuZvnIUgQ7kNvgHJTzqq&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYA6vMBrv3miKn6a8h0Gawqfdb9JHNQBvSzgIK0MOnEPCQ&oe=66729E38 | 0 | 3 | Gutter guard protection! | Servall Martin | 1238 | https://facebook.com/ServallMartin | 0 | CONTACT_US | 1710572400 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879531 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410692 | 1723321808 | 995 | 468089762273303 | 1 | 1.6919708815392E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 273913162469522 | 0 | New world publications | 120212928768730170 | wwwedb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πAttention! Do not read in publicοΌπ | https://wwwedb.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11782&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717757425 | 2.7391316246952E+14 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959759_1311554859802432_4227718076479884991_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GwKF1hWO7f4Q7kNvgGcgnOa&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAaDJ90YtTRVgl1h4Qq29YmZWIZCVWKY5MqqmnLhItL8w&oe=6672A69D | person_profile | 0 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959270_7187349571370885_4976612476689122460_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=NNss872fdPgQ7kNvgE-PVII&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAp0ikcilFTLm0se1WcAfumGS3USCJAFn0NgxepicFnPw&oe=6672B455 | 0 | 3 | The clearing of a throat makes me jump. I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of alcohol. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that donβt quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door. Shrinking down to the ground. βIs this the way you greet all Alphaβs?β His deep voice rumbles through the room, an edge of amusement to his tone. βIβm sorry.β I whisper, getting to my feet. βIβ¦I thought I was alone.β I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. βCome forward.β He orders. Alpha Trey was going to kill me. I do as Iβm told. Allowing him to see me properly and I am met with narrowed crimson eyes. I close my own eyes, expecting the worst. βYou smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?β My head moved up and down, though I couldnβt tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they discovered the truth about me. βI would prefer it if you spoke to me.β He growls, βIβm not in the mood to play games.β βYes.β I whisper. βI amβ¦I am a Wolf.β I couldnβt help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? I wasnβt sure how much more my body could take. βHow is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.β βIβ¦..β I hated the question. βI havenβt got all day!β He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldnβt scent him. I knew why I hadnβt been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever liked to do. They never hear my side of the story. All they do is accept Alpha Trey's word as the truth. βYou should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?β His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them. There was no way I was making direct eye contact. βMy Wolf abilities were bound.β βWhy?β If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. βIt was a punishment.β βFor what?β βFor killing my parents.β | New world publications | 9 | https://facebook.com/61557831245498 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718089200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879438 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 3/9/25, 11:46 AM | 1718410685 | 1741538781 | 995 | 848409443859422 | 1 | 9.591200126715E+14 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 163805856980135 | 0 | Horizon Science Academy Cincinnati | 120211618856930343 | www.hsapk2.org | Apply now | NONE | video | Unlock Your Childβs Potential | Join us and dream big. | https://www.hsapk2.org/ | 1718138871 | 1.6380585698014E+14 | Horizon Science Academy Cincinnati | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448136489_987589559472904_8367793262890166345_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=9TjVccx60igQ7kNvgEtZxMG&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCL4Lb06ME84UfyRp1v21Y4mhLaEaB7DZVC7SmXvG47eA&oe=6672AED9 | person_profile | 0 | Horizon Science Academy Cincinnati | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448248020_846484203960369_8783886301845663906_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=wlirCg_Sx6AQ7kNvgEBGOB-&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCfaKbAhxc-IqUAwh8O--HWOXs4DqMFxnwBAEJWqsLZYA&oe=6672C233 | 0 | 3 | With a focus on STEM and college prep, we help students reach their potential. Our non-selective enrollment welcomes all backgrounds. | Horizon Science Academy Cincinnati | 495 | https://facebook.com/hsacincy | 0 | APPLY_NOW | 1718348400 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879448 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 6/7/25, 1:56 PM | 1718410685 | 1749322615 | 995 | 383320658047225 | 1 | 2.5126571789285E+15 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 108304702377057 | 0 | Rich Rachel Bentley | 120211073051940589 | cooolink.com | Download | NONE | image | Free download ποΈποΈποΈ | https://cooolink.com/w2a/lp/bangtoon/cooolinkBtComics2?utm_source=fb_onelink&utm_medium={{placement}}&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_adset_name={{adset.name}}&utm_ad_name={{ad.name}}&utm_adset_nameid={{adset.id}}&utm_ad_nameid={{ad.id}}&utm_campaignid={{campaign.id}}&utm_channel={{site_source_name}} | 1718363010 | 1.0830470237706E+14 | Rich Rachel Bentley | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448368794_1443541286289387_5493099155299198761_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=suhyF_q32DgQ7kNvgFpoZFR&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAaO7qGcoiNj8BCm4zgRaP7sZ76rYAnG3-1oPevtce92Q&oe=667297BF | person_profile | 0 | Rich Rachel Bentley | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448403592_1386176535383741_8237001015277748388_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ZYhWKv-lsFEQ7kNvgFZCxdz&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBc6SPecl9ar-G6r1jZ81cs--VjNilvD_Vbx785RYwtLw&oe=6672BE65 | 0 | 3 | This manga is definitely worth watching! πππ | Rich Rachel Bentley | 0 | https://facebook.com/61552807764867 | 0 | DOWNLOAD | 1718348400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879470 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 6/4/25, 6:18 AM | 1718410686 | 1749035928 | 995 | 1195784104708653 | 1 | 9.5113787622104E+15 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 108282622378515 | 0 | Claire Ryan Nina | 120211459501600017 | cooolink.com | Download | NONE | image | Free download ποΈποΈποΈ | https://cooolink.com/w2a/lp/bangtoon/cooolinkBtComics2?utm_source=fb_onelink&utm_medium={{placement}}&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_adset_name={{adset.name}}&utm_ad_name={{ad.name}}&utm_adset_nameid={{adset.id}}&utm_ad_nameid={{ad.id}}&utm_campaignid={{campaign.id}}&utm_channel={{site_source_name}} | 1718362800 | 1.0828262237852E+14 | Claire Ryan Nina | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448275194_703975335143488_1658878708037604479_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=RcMxd7aGdScQ7kNvgFya-qn&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDjhrIdh_eJfKKHVIMAcR5jNCL8cMTpNiKSeONFwLg-8A&oe=6672BEF3 | person_profile | 0 | Claire Ryan Nina | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448098504_420867520940819_8861462059346279749_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=B7ekFNVxFioQ7kNvgFW2HC8&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYD64NAOIpnNF59sG0a_MLGesiCHsclXUc9YxKg9DwGrCw&oe=6672B1F1 | 0 | 3 | This manga is definitely worth watching! πππ | Claire Ryan Nina | 0 | https://facebook.com/61552215344479 | 0 | DOWNLOAD | 1718348400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879437 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 6/8/25, 7:11 AM | 1718410685 | 1749384712 | 995 | 448619787793196 | 1 | 1.5124171362981E+15 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 163805856980135 | 0 | Horizon Science Academy Cincinnati | 120214845368610001 | es.horizondayton.org | Learn more | NONE | video | A World-Class STEM Education Awaits | Personalized education. | https://es.horizondayton.org/ | 1718131567 | 1.6380585698014E+14 | Horizon Science Academy Cincinnati | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448204388_770640221821131_5680029816295924654_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=0EBFgvTn89wQ7kNvgEhtUU4&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAITtii86ppvE6L8GKrrbywV_xg7VwpjvPHzXgeqHNukw&oe=6672BEC9 | person_profile | 0 | Horizon Science Academy Cincinnati | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448205511_771629544960929_2547789274177790867_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=h1le9-QNx2sQ7kNvgH7mElr&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDghmb-LLjKSEIfpTOJNdnGsLWDAst8NQd4tZ9OoMCyxA&oe=6672C15B | 0 | 3 | Enroll your child in a nurturing and innovative learning environment prioritizing academic excellence and student development. | Horizon Science Academy Cincinnati | 495 | https://facebook.com/hsacincy | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718348400 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879392 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 6/8/25, 4:02 PM | 1718410683 | 1749416542 | 995 | 1009154180733870 | 9 | 3.8416801106502E+14 | 1718175600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 108272370946537 | 0 | Fanscustom.com | 23856758333220292 | fanscustom.com | Shop now | NONE | image | FROM $24.99 | Buy Best Cheap Authentic Custom Baseball Gradient Fashion Jerseys Free Shipping, Womens Youth Mens Custom Baseball Gradient Fashion Jerseys For Sale, Build Your Own Baseball Gradient Fashion Jerseys Online. | https://www.fanscustom.com/collections/baseball-gradient-fashion | 1716443486 | 1.0827237094654E+14 | Fanscustom.com | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/363826097_1535668110584086_8262262699597251274_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=-MA5djWuTIYQ7kNvgHG0Vbc&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYD8GCPywW8MfxurQRKCScsspptM7K5Ed6_FARwhuWR0qw&oe=6672B1A8 | person_profile | 0 | FANSCUSTOM | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/363432872_300505545808979_3034973220938657523_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=2pFNwVokEv8Q7kNvgFpfvWd&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYC897Aak-xIn1FuvCJqozAMINggxCTHXyiGOjbJ-j4RTA&oe=6672C652 | 0 | 3 | πCustomize Your Name/Number/Logo<br /> β‘Use code FST10 to get 10% Off on your order<br /> π Order here π<a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Ftinyurl.com%2F2hnc2t4s&h=AT2Nv-OXLo7Yw0bJzwmzTb0SojgW2eKX_u2WVWtiKvr4b_TOBuRfGDA69WvqRwUt3aC3fUggsw1710BNwBCxirWvaAL6G-ov_36DjH94TLY676KCW6rrgBxST2Xo-zTWvGLtxXqD1tXANt_8x5yGf7oubym4kw" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">https://tinyurl.com/2hnc2t4s</a> | Fanscustom.com | 11520 | https://facebook.com/FansCustomShop | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1717138800 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879446 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 6/8/25, 4:02 PM | 1718410685 | 1749416547 | 995 | 334049636404441 | 1 | 8.1646403376584E+14 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 108255439048790 | 0 | Buchanan Freebery Blaine | 120208580822790482 | cooolink.com | Download | NONE | image | Free download ποΈποΈποΈ | https://cooolink.com/w2a/lp/bangtoon/cooolinkBtComics2?utm_source=fb_onelink&utm_medium={{placement}}&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_adset_name={{adset.name}}&utm_ad_name={{ad.name}}&utm_adset_nameid={{adset.id}}&utm_ad_nameid={{ad.id}}&utm_campaignid={{campaign.id}}&utm_channel={{site_source_name}} | 1718362660 | 1.0825543904879E+14 | Buchanan Freebery Blaine | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448341499_1017777546537454_7734641325255980472_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=sYy-oNrMdHMQ7kNvgEuLwrN&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYC45CiG70uUdF2dpaCl8UAz0cW7ipd1qWzjpWl6zWLNTg&oe=6672C052 | person_profile | 0 | Buchanan Freebery Blaine | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448184413_809714431103072_7126814860495591449_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=R3zz3Or8mxUQ7kNvgGXYfkG&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBedMx8YUTx19vkRV1J2Pamtnl-w4IU3gOhMAURWO0WDQ&oe=66729736 | 0 | 3 | This manga is definitely worth watching! πππ | Buchanan Freebery Blaine | 0 | https://facebook.com/61552547469039 | 0 | DOWNLOAD | 1718348400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879460 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 7/8/25, 2:13 PM | 1718410686 | 1752002008 | 995 | 838333711660700 | 1 | 1.9192743118284E+15 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 108304702377057 | 0 | Rich Rachel Bentley | 120211073065460589 | cooolink.com | Download | NONE | image | Free download ποΈποΈποΈ | https://cooolink.com/w2a/lp/bangtoon/cooolinkBtComics2?utm_source=fb_onelink&utm_medium={{placement}}&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_adset_name={{adset.name}}&utm_ad_name={{ad.name}}&utm_adset_nameid={{adset.id}}&utm_ad_nameid={{ad.id}}&utm_campaignid={{campaign.id}}&utm_channel={{site_source_name}} | 1718363041 | 1.0830470237706E+14 | Rich Rachel Bentley | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448368061_328739850273021_6732791524499250429_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=vHhkHqSetLwQ7kNvgEmiPjE&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYD5t9eFMcWsveUpIyhHxbvt5JFO000YBaz8Uu9W6mLWuQ&oe=6672C9D9 | person_profile | 0 | Rich Rachel Bentley | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448370839_767597468761467_3489933414520205095_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=qAJvvO07xg4Q7kNvgFRv1gD&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYA-tIHzcCRNF7faFO1OPfACqEpkZSUN5jQcfUEsHrUrgg&oe=6672B7F6 | 0 | 3 | This manga is definitely worth watching! πππ | Rich Rachel Bentley | 0 | https://facebook.com/61552807764867 | 0 | DOWNLOAD | 1718348400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879543 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410693 | 1723321808 | 995 | 785695356970863 | 1 | 1.8811915023045E+15 | 1718002800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 144939265372419 | 0 | Indulge in story | 120214343181970348 | shgjfh.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πRead the next chaptersπ | https://shgjfh.com/market/meganovel/13?lpid=11844&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717762144 | 1.4493926537242E+14 | Indulge in story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447256994_962585992003167_5083994497026705008_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=xvSiU4eM0HIQ7kNvgGaLPgU&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDfHZvL4fwCX9_hfvxj2Lbnpddf0pG1uD9Gqv9GoXUxJw&oe=6672B331 | person_profile | 0 | Indulge in story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447590700_1016773316708518_420838429285916977_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=KYgitKO0u2cQ7kNvgF55Rj_&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDyXqxq5I-PXqx461m_CajttJGgWqxofCm2izR9EzU9dg&oe=6672B6AD | 0 | 3 | The roads were soaked. It had been raining for a whole day in Southbury. Aria Carver's backpack was thrown out of the door by the butler in disdain. "Mr. Kent doesn't want to see you, Ms. Carver. So, I have to say some words in his stead. Your birth parents are in the countryside. Your father's last name is Carver. "The Kent family mistook you for their daughter in the past. But now that Ms. Lily has been found, I hope that you can do what's best for everyone and stop contacting the Kent family." The butler, Alfred Dun, took out a card. "Here's 10,000. Mr. Kent instructed me to give it to you as compensation." "No need." Aria didn't even look at the card as she picked up her backpack. Alfred looked at her in disdain. She didn't want the money? Was she acting tough? She should really think about her circumstances. The Kents had found their real daughter. They wouldn't want a country bumpkin like her anymore. She was an embarrassment. "As you wish, Ms. Carver." Alfred closed the door with a loud bang. Aria paid him no mind. She only took a black backpack when she left the Kent Residence. She stood proud and tall. She left the Kent Residence without taking anything that didn't belong to her. The rain falling on her made her look a little defeated. The people on the second floor saw her and started snickering. They didn't care if she could hear them. "She's finally gone." "I know right? I was so afraid that she might not want to go back to the countryside, and would try to stay with us." Aria didn't respond, but a sneer appeared on her face. Were the Kents ignorant? Yes, they were. Aria chewed on a gummy absentmindedly. She had a head of long and glossy black hair. Her face was a little pale, but it didn't make her look weak. Instead, she looked quite mysterious. β¦ At the same time, the Carver family was having an international meeting at their home in Janovin. Warren Carver sat at the head of the table. He held a cane in his hands and looked really intimidating. "It's been so many years. Is there still no leads on your sister?" He was talking to his six grandsons. The Carver family was the wealthiest in Janovin. The six scions of the family were all very remarkable people. Any single one of them would cause a stir if they went out in the open. At that moment, they all looked saddened. Longing and sorrow filled their eyes. They were the ones that lost their youngest sister back then. She was only a baby when she went missing. She never caused a fuss and was always very adorable. It had been 18 years. They had never stopped looking since. All the leads went cold at a secluded village in the mountains. They had no idea how many times the human traffickers moved their baby sister around. "Grandpa, let's keep looking. We will definitely find her!" Suddenly, a chubby man, Frank Levin, rushed into the room with some documents in his hand. He panted as he said, "Mr. Chairman! Little Ms. Carver has been found!" Warren, who was usually composed, stood up immediately. He was so excited that his hands were shaking. "Where is she? Send someone to pick her up right now!" Frank handed the documents over. "She's in Southbury. We're still looking into her exact location." "Then let's go to Southbury! Get a car ready!" Warren was very excited. β¦ It was evening in Southbury. Aria, who had been kicked out of the Kent Residence, didn't go to the countryside. She waited for the rain to stop before she headed back to the place she was staying at. It was a very insignificant neighborhood. When she was parking her car, someone called out to her, "You're back, Aria." "Yeah. I'm back." Aria smiled. Maria Goode, a fruit vendor, handed her an apple. "I haven't seen you in two weeks. No one else could help me with my arthritis." "Don't forget about me, Aria. My hand always trembles when I'm playing chess." Everyone knew that Aria was a very beloved figure in the Elmer district. Some retired government officials loved to chat with her as she treated their conditions. The place might look plain and simple on the surface, but there was more than met the eye. The person who talked about his hand was Jasper Garland, a former national chess champion. Aria didn't delve into the identities of the other residents. She chose to live in this neighborhood because it was a nice place. Chapter 2 More Than Meets the Eye "I'll offer treatment for everyone at the community square tomorrow." Then, Aria reminded them, "Remember to take the medicine. Don't stay up late to watch soap operas. They won't end so soon." "The Tiara" was all the rage in the Elmer district at that time. All the older men and women were hooked on it. A lot of them looked guilty after Aria said that. "Weβ¦We will sleep at 10:00 pm from now on." In the past, no one could have imagined that this group of people would be so obedient to one person. A lot of them had made great contributions to the country. Even their identities were kept a secret. Elmer district's community manager, Joel Hayes, had been hoping that Aria would come back sooner. He could finally breathe a sigh of relief. "Dr. Carver, I have been keeping an eye on your house. I've not allowed anyone to approach your property." "Thanks for the hard work." Aria bowed slightly and handed him an apple. Joel accepted the apple with a smile. "It's no trouble at all. I trust you won't be leaving anytime soon?" A community manager like him could never keep the neighborhood's residents under control. "Yeah. I won't be leaving," Aria said as she took the key. Joel replied joyfully, "That's wonderful! I'll leave you be so you can unpack your stuff. Let me know if you need anything." Aria nodded. She inserted the key and opened the door after Joel left. The lock was very old. It didn't seem like there was anything special about it. But after she undid the first lock, an LCD lock appeared before her. "Confirmation to proceed with iris scan." Aria said casually, "Do it." "Proceeding with iris scan. Please wait." "Iris scan completed. Welcome home, master." It was a very classy computerized voice that hadn't been activated for some time. The metal door opened automatically with a "clack". The house was instantly illuminated. There was a bookshelf that was about six feet tall which was filled with medical books and containers with herbs in them. There was a lot of greenery at the door. Most of them were herbs. All of them were labeled. In the middle of the living room sat a very cool-looking black and red motorcycle. Aria walked over to the kitchen and took a bottle of water from the fridge. She wanted to drink some water and watch some TV. Suddenly, the phone that was charging on her desk rang. It was a custom ringtone. "Richie Carver, wakey wakey, It's time for work! Richie Carver, wakey wakey, It's time for work! Richieβ" Aria took the call when it was about to ring for the third time. "Speak." "Boss, there's a huge job in Southbury. Should we take it?" Aria took a sip of the water. "What's it about?" "The richest man in Janovin is looking for his long-lost granddaughter. They say she's in Southbury. It shouldn't be hard to find her. This job pays a lot." Aria yawned. "Not interested." "Hold on! Please wait, boss! There's another one. The type you like! It's also a huge job!" The person on the other end of the call was very servile. Aria placed her chin on the palm lazily. "Tell me about it." "The York family of Janovin is looking for you. They're offering 10 million for you to treat a patient. "They also said that people who can find you or provide information about you will be rewarded as well. They're so stacked!" "Why are they so generous?" Aria went into work mode immediately. She tapped the phone and said, "Send me the details of the job." "Sure thing!" The next moment, the floor-to-ceiling windows became a screen, and the job information was projected on it. The York family had been around for ages. They had protected the country for generations. If Aria's memory served correctly, they even lived in the Guardian Mansion once. The York family had sent out invitations to quite a few renowned doctors. The invitation was in effect for a week. The location for the consultation was set at the Caesar Hotel in Southbury. They wanted to get a doctor who would be able to treat the illness of Landon York, who was in charge of the York family operations. There wasn't much description of Landon's condition. They only mentioned that he had been frail for a long time and that his condition couldn't be revealed to the public. It seemed like there was more than met the eye. Aria stretched her legs. "I'll take this job." Chapter 3 Saving Someone on the Streets "You have a good eye, boss! I'll prepare an account to receive payment from the Yorks!" Aria said calmly, "No need to rush. Let me sleep first. Do it tomorrow." Other than making money, Aria's biggest interest was treating all sorts of rare diseases. This job from the York family was a nice one for her. Honestly, she was probably the only person who wasn't fazed by the York's visit to Southbury. All of the prominent families in the city were scrambling into action. A family like the Kents had to reach out to everyone they knew and utilize all of their connections in an attempt to get an invitation from the Yorks. Even regular people were talking about how the city was especially lively that month. First, the richest man in Janovin came to look for his granddaughter. Then, the York family came to receive treatment. Some said that the Yorks came to Southbury because the legendary Whiz Doctor was in town. There were a lot of rumors about the Whiz Doctor, but some of them were quite outlandish. This time, the Whiz Doctor might actually appear due to the York family's invitation. β¦ The following morning, Aria woke up late. Like any other working adult, she didn't feel like leaving her cool and comfortable room or her cozy bed to get out into the morning sun. But she had to work. So, she got up and washed her face. Without putting any makeup on, she grabbed her bag and left. In order to avoid the morning rush, she scanned a shared bicycle. "Are you heading out to work, Aria?" "Yeah." She was greeting everyone along the way and also had a piece of toast in her mouth given to her by Kenneth Kane. She rode the bicycle steadily without rushing and merged into traffic after a while. β¦ After 30 minutes, Aria arrived at Southbury's renowned Caesar Hotel. Everyone at the entrance and the lobby looked very busy. In the past few days, almost all of the luxury cars in the city gathered at the hotel. In comparison, Aria stood out a lot as the only person who came on a shared bicycle. As soon as she came to a stop, Jose Garcia, a security guard, came over to chase her away. "Get lost, you broke college student. The hotel is not open to the public today." She planted one foot on the ground and met his gaze. Then, she said coolly, "I'm here to save someone's life." "You? Save someone's life?" Jose burst into laughter. "Young lady, you're still so young, but you're quite the braggart." Aria paused for a moment. Then, she showed him proof of her accepting the job on her phone. "Please tell the people inside that Dr. Whiz has arrived." "Dr. Whiz? You can call me Dr. Genius!" Jose gave her an impatient look. "I've seen many invitations. You're the first one to show it on the phoneβ¦" Jose noticed a luxury car rolling up as he spoke. So, he waved at Aria. "Go. Get out of the way." Then, he rushed over to the car and opened the door. "Welcome, Dr. Gunther and Ms. Kent. I'll inform the staff to prepare some tea for you." The people in the car just nodded at him. They didn't even reply. But Jose had a big smile on his face like he had won the lottery. The car drove past Aria. Lily looked out the window and recognized Aria. Her gaze wavered slightly. The old woman next to her, Salome Gunther, asked, "What's wrong, Lily?" She smiled softly. "Nothing." Aria's gaze remained calm. She walked away resolutely. There was even an amused expression on her face. She used to be someone who held people's lives in her hands, yet she had become the target of another person's shunning. Oh, how the mighty had fallen. Aria pursed her lips. She offered treatment to patients based on her mood and would never help those who were greedy or selfish. She had decided to give up on offering treatment to the York family's patient. So, she took out her phone and was about to reject the job. Suddenly, someone on the sidewalk screamed. "Oh, no! Someone has fainted!" People started flocking toward the voice. "Oh, God! It's a child!" "His face is so paleβ¦" Hearing the commotion, Aria didn't hesitate at all. She parked her bicycle and rushed toward the crowd. The little boy on the ground was only three or four years old. His forehead was drenched. It seemed like he had been sweating profusely. A woman named Francine Gibson grabbed a man in a white lab coat. "Young man, you're a doctor, right? Please save the boy." "No can do, lady. The kid's family isn't here. I can't make any decisions without consulting them." The man in the lab coat, Jimmy Cornell, added with disdain, "Besides, I don't provide treatment to just anyone." Aria heard the exchange between the two of them. She pushed through the crowd and said in a professional manner, "Please give the boy some space. Let the air flow through. The patient needs fresh air." Her tone sounded so authoritative that no one doubted her. Then, she crouched down and placed her fingers on the boy's neck. Francine said anxiously, "Young lady, how old are you? Can you really make him better?" Chapter 4 Doubt "That's right, young lady. We should probably call an ambulance. This boy appears to be lost. I called out for some time just now, but no one came over," an old man said. He was concerned that Aria might be blamed if anything happened to the boy. Aria quickly unbuttoned the boy's coat and brought him to some shade. "Don't worry. I'm a licensed doctor." Then, she opened her bag and took out a medical kit. It was equipped with needles and scalpels of all sizes, all arranged neatly in rows. Aria felt the boy's pulse again. "Stop it! How can you simply touch the patient?" Jimmy yelled. He couldn't allow Aria to do as she pleased. She ignored him and continued to monitor the boy's pulse and heart rate. Jimmy sneered. "I'm Jimmy Cornell, currently studying at Janovin Medical University. My mentor is Dr. Salome Gunther. I'm not just a random bystander. You say you're a licensed doctor? How old are you?" Aria continued to ignore him. Her focus was on the boy. She took out a needle and began to sterilize it. "I'm talking to you! Even that old man knows we should wait for an ambulance. Why can't you get it through your head?" This was the first time Jimmy had been completely ignored by someone. Aria had one knee to the ground. Her demeanor was cool and emotionless. "Do nothing and wait for the ambulance? Wait as the optimal treatment period passes by? Is that what your mentor taught you?" "Who said we should do nothing while we wait for the ambulance? You're the one delaying treatment with those needles. Please don't show off your pseudo-science methods, and let me perform CPR on the patient." Aria shot him a cold glare after she heard what he said. Who would've thought that such a pretty young lady could have such a vicious gaze? "He has a heat stroke. Do you think CPR would help? What a worthless doctor," Aria said as she applied pressure to the boy's fingers. Her tone was glacial. Jimmy lost his cool immediately. "Who are you calling worthless? Do you even know who my mentor is?" He had just received an award overseas for his medical skills. He was incredulous at the woman's audacity to doubt his abilities. "I'm not interested in your mentor. Move." Jimmy's eyes turned bloodshot. "I'll let it slide this time since you're just a lowly traditional medicine practitioner. His lips are turning blue. It's a heart issue." "Hypoxia and ischemia might impact the respiratory system and cause the lips to turn blue." Aria looked at Jimmy with a cold stare, then added, "But a heat stroke can cause that symptom, too. The difference is that his pulse is steady. Moreover, his lips are parched. "It's clear that he had been exposed to high temperatures for a prolonged period. You don't even look at these symptoms, yet you claim to be a medical student?" "That's true. You have to look at the symptoms first. I was taught that too," someone in the crowd agreed with Aria. Then, people in the crowd started chattering. "It seems like the Janovin Medical University isn't anything special at all." "That young lady is way more reliable. I noticed she was quite professional when taking the boy's pulse." Jimmy couldn't take the humiliation anymore. "Alright. So, he has a heat stroke. Will your acupuncture cure him of it? If so, why are we even learning modern medicine?" "You can't represent everyone else who practices modern medicine." Aria glared at him icily. "I'll say it one more time. Move." There were two types of people she hated the mostβthose who looked down on traditional medicine and lousy doctors getting in the way of her treatment. "Sure, I'll move. I'd like to see how skilled you are." Jimmy crossed his arms. "If you can heal him with these needles, I'll get on my knees and apologize to you." "I'm looking forward to that." Aria located the acupuncture points and raised her hand. Chapter 5 Acupuncture Works Aria stuck the first needle into the boy without any hesitation. The boy immediately frowned. It was like he was regaining his consciousness. It looked like he was struggling as his brows furrowed even deeper. Someone in the crowd yelled, "He's waking up!" Jimmy was stunned. His face grew pale. "This can't beβ¦" How did she pull that off? Just one needle? Could a person really regain consciousness from that? Aria raised her hand again. Her gaze was focused, and she looked very composed. She stuck the second needle into the boy's fingertips to draw some blood. Right after she did that, the boy opened his eyes. His pupils were dark and round, while his eyelashes were extraordinarily long. He glanced at Aria quietly, but his face was still quite pale. Everyone in the crowd was stunned. Francine spoke up, "Young lady, you healed with a few pokes of the needle?" Aria applied some light pressure on the needle. She saw that the bloodletting was done, so she removed the needle and pressed a cotton ball on the wound to stop the bleeding. "Madam, it's not that simple. Applying acupuncture to the fingertips can help with dissipating the heat. He was inflicted with heat stroke, which was caused by the high temperature. I just helped him cool down with acupuncture." "Spare me the theatrics. That kid hasn't spoken a word since he regained consciousness. You probably left him with some side effects with your treatment!" Jimmy snorted. Francine was a little annoyed. "The boy has already regained consciousness. Why are you talking about side effects? Are you just trying to get out of apologizing to the young lady?" "That's none of your business!" Jimmy looked at Francine and suddenly sneered. "I understand now. You're all in on this. You pulled me here, and she's trying to scam me. "This is an organized scam, isn't it? I knew traditional medicine practitioners were all fake." Aria's expression grew cold when she heard that. She was about to raise her hand. Then, the boy spoke up in a weak but icy tone, "Traditional medicine has always been an essential part of Celestria's culture. You're a lousy doctor, sir. You should put more effort into studying." "Youβ¦" Jimmy was at a loss for words. The boy spoke up right after he said he wasn't healed. The boy even spoke out against him. It was clear that the boy wasn't on his side. Francine burst out into laughter. "Hey, kid. He's talking about you. You should put more effort into studying." "I won't waste my breath with you bottom feeders anymore. You're just a group of peasants," Jimmy said in disdain. Aria flicked a needle in his direction. It brushed past his face and got stuck in a tree nearby. Such a violent display caused Jimmy to freeze up. Even his legs felt like they were about to give out. Aria smiled as she said casually, "Don't you think you've forgotten about something?" She was just a young woman, but she had a very vicious and commanding presence, which caused Jimmy to feel fear. He tried to keep his cool. "What did I forget?" "An apology," Aria said as she tapped on her phone. She looked devilishly charming. Jimmy didn't want to do that. So, he said arrogantly, "Everyone makes mistakes. I don't have any more time to waste with a traditional medicine practitioner like you." Francine couldn't stand his attitude anymore. "Is this how a student of Dr. Salome Gunther would act? You lost a bet to that young woman, and yet you refuse to apologize? Such ethicsβ¦" "What's wrong with my ethics? Who here can prove I lost a bet to her? None of you will ever have enough money to pay for Dr. Gunther's treatment. "Me being here and providing free medical services is an honor for all of you. How dare you peasants keep babbling about such nonsense? Don't you dare cause trouble here! Do you even know where you are right now?" Francine's hands trembled in anger. "Youβ¦ You!" Jimmy snorted. He looked at all of them with utter disdain. They were in a modern society. He didn't believe that Aria would dare to do anything to him. Chapter 6 Teaching Him a Lesson Jimmy had always thought that the common folk were beneath him. He didn't notice that Aria's gaze changed as she looked up. Viciousness and contempt filled her eyes. She casually toyed with a piece of candy in her palm. Then, she flicked toward Jimmy. He felt his knee give out as he fell to the ground. "Ah!" The pain caused him to frown. He tried to get up but realized that he couldn't move his body at all. He couldn't talk, and his hands wouldn't budge. It felt like his movements had been sealed with the attack. Aria walked up to him and said calmly, "As a medical student, you failed miserably at determining the patient's symptoms, and you even declared a verdict without a second thought. "Being a doctor doesn't mean you're better than anyone else. It's a job for you to help people in need. You're unskilled and unethical. Now that you're on your knees, I'll accept your apology. Consider this a lesson I'm teaching you in your mentor's stead." "You!" Jimmy's eyes were filled with hatred. Aria leaned in and whispered in his ear. "Since you're such a shameless person, it'll probably be okay if you remain on your knees here for a couple of hours." "What did you do to me? I want to call the cops! I have been assaulted!" Jimmy yelled. Aria smiled. "And who can prove anything? Mr. Cornell, you got on your knees yourself. I didn't even touch you." "I know right? He deserves that!" The people in the crowd felt great satisfaction seeing Jimmy in that state. "The young lady didn't do anything. Stop lying!" That was the truth. He was the one who refused to help the boy. He was also the one who was running his mouth after Aria provided treatment for the boy. He was also the one who had been cursing at everyone in the crowd and was shameless enough to refuse to apologize. He was a true disgrace to the medical profession. Did he really think he could just say all those things without repercussions? He even tried to blame Aria for his condition. The women in the crowd started to yell, "Everyone, come and take a look! There's an unskilled medical student here. He's on his knees to apologize right now!" "You! All of you!" Jimmy's face was flushed, and his breath was labored. That was why people didn't mess with the ordinary citizens who were brave, kind, and despised delinquency. Jimmy was a fool for being so domineering in front of them. The more people looked at him, the lower Jimmy's head hung. He wished the ground would open up and swallow him up. He was afraid that someone would recognize him. The malice in his eyes grew as he looked at Aria. They were both in the medical industry. So, they were bound to meet again someday. He swore he would get back at her the next time they met. Aria didn't spare him another glance. Besides, if they crossed paths again, she didn't mind breaking his legs. Quite a lot of the older people in the crowd asked for Aria's contact information. They had seen how she performed acupuncture on the boy. It was clear that she was an extremely skilled doctor. They were determined to secure her contact information. Aria didn't turn any of them down, so she added them to her contacts. Francine asked enthusiastically, "Young lady, you were so skilled with the needles. Is there a traditional medicine practitioner in your family?" Aria thought about Georgina Harris, the woman who used to be her grandmother while she was living with the Kents. Georgina was the only one who showed her any kindness. She came up with a solid reason. "Yes. My grandmother practices traditional medicine. She runs a care center." "No wonder. I'll introduce some clients to her soon!" "Sure." Aria thanked Francine politely. Aria didn't have the airs of a renowned doctor at all. She was a legend hiding in plain sight. The boy hadn't spoken at all since he talked to Jimmy. He just sat there quietly as he observed everything. His eyes were very bright, and he looked really adorable. After she finished talking to everyone else, Aria looked at him. "Are you still lightheaded?" He shook his head. Then, he looked up at Aria. "Miss, I'm Miles. Thanks for saving me. If it weren't for you, I would've been dead." Miles York's voice was very sweet. His eyes were round, and his face was very smooth and cute. He did a cute little bow when he thanked Aria. "Your name is Miles? Where is your family?" Aria asked with a raised eyebrow. "They're all inside!" Miles said as he pointed behind him at the Caesar Hotel. Not just anyone could get in there at the moment. Chapter 7 Saved Someone Important People in the crowd exclaimed in surprise and started talking. "Everyone in Caesar Hotel today is quite important. I heard that there are a lot of prominent medical families in there." "Then this boyβ¦" Aria wasn't surprised at all. After all, Miles was very well-dressed. The watch he was wearing on his wrist was quite expensive as well. "Remember to bring bodyguards when you come out next time," Aria said as she packed her medical kit up. When Miles realized that she was leaving, he clung to her leg. Aria couldn't get on the bicycle, so she looked down at him. Miles didn't speak. He just held on to her sleeve. He took a step whenever she did. They were going nowhere like that. She stopped in her tracks. "I'll take you back to your parents." "Okay!" Miles got what he wanted. He nodded and said, "I'll have my parents thank you properly, miss." Aria adjusted his collar for him. "No need for that. I don't take payment for helping kids." "Andβ¦" Miles shifted his gaze. "Do you have a boyfriend, miss?" Aria stood up straight. "No." "Then, I'll ask my brother, Landon, to be your boyfriend as thanks." Miles smiled as he started describing Landon. "Landon doesn't like to talk, but he's very handsome. He makes a lot of money, too. It'll be good for your ego if you go out with him. A lot of pretty ladies want to marry him, you know." Aria smiled when she heard that. "I have no plans of getting married right now." "Okay," Miles replied with disappointment as he drooped his head. He continued walking with Aria dejectedly. When they arrived at the hotel entrance, he looked at Aria enthusiastically and said, "Miss, why don't you meet with Landon first? You should make your decision after you see him." He was sure that Aria would fall for Landon when she saw him. He was a very handsome man, after all. Aria smiled. "You're trying so hard to promote your brother to me. Does he know about this?" "He's always sick. Everyone in the family has been telling him to get married. You're such a skilled doctor, and you're pretty, too. I'm sure a lot of people want to be your boyfriend. So, I'm just trying to get you to give Landon a chance." Aria looked at his parched lips. Then, she went to buy him a bottle of water and some crackers. "Stop talking so much. You're still recovering." Miles was very obedient. He ate whatever Aria gave him. He couldn't open the bottle himself, so he raised it up to Aria and said weakly, "Please help me open it." Landon's assistant, Troy Jepson, came to meet Miles and was shocked to see what was happening. He was sure that the woman with Miles was that imposter that the Kents kicked out. Why was Miles with her? He even asked her to help him open his bottle. Did he change his entire personality? Something flashed in Troy's eyes, but he quickly suppressed his emotions. He knew who Aria was, but she didn't know him. Troy took care not to expose his identity as he walked up to them in a hurry. "Mr. Miles! I've finally found you. I'm so glad you're okay." "This pretty lady saved me," Miles said as he held Aria's hand. He had a defiant look on his face. It was like he was finally himself again. Troy politely said, "Thanks, Ms. Carver." Aria looked at him calmly. "He already thanked me." Her attitude made it hard for Troy to grasp the situation. So, he said to Miles, "Mr. Miles, Mr. Landon called in some favors to track you down. He's in the car right now. He didn't even take his afternoon meds yet." Miles looked up in surprise. He didn't expect Landon to come out here personally. | Indulge in story | 598 | https://facebook.com/61552702618591 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717830000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879412 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410684 | 1723321819 | 995 | 949006196933375 | 4 | 1.8474876090456E+15 | 1713682800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 112869771908331 | 0 | FurHaven | 120210839648410237 | furhaven.co | Shop now | NONE | video | Free Worldwide Shipping! | βββββ 5/5 Reviews! | https://furhaven.co/products/crawling-crab-learning-toy-for-infants | 1712927784 | 1.1286977190833E+14 | FurHaven | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/435172890_810174554464881_3840244123437137377_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=2Dk7IJatNucQ7kNvgEAdOu3&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDoTwhihbb9nif-iQ-D4PdVVNyF1ZpJ_-VnOTZaotRBAQ&oe=6672997B | person_profile | 0 | Fur Haven | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/435199818_978593933935320_2431553962050734042_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=xfZEn0M49wEQ7kNvgEL4M8Z&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCDYTpOjnb_qWJQp5aC2YTgVhpWiAgxIX4uKyKKZBSIlw&oe=6672963C | 0 | 3 | Make playtime a developmental dance with the Crawling Crabβwhere every giggle is a step towards growth! π¦ | FurHaven | 43 | https://facebook.com/FurHavenn | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1713510000 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879496 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410687 | 1723321824 | 995 | 989063109520358 | 1 | 9.7705697704554E+14 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 214305385109285 | 0 | Delaney Worldwide | 120209559278060084 | delaneyworldwide.com | Learn More | NONE | carousel | Discover Effortless Relocations With Us | Choose us for stress-free moves! | https://www.delaneyworldwide.com/local-long-distance/ | 1715588930 | 2.1430538510928E+14 | Delaney Worldwide | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441450794_7441351729289684_4996825761901876544_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Gqx580w7YTAQ7kNvgEgN5BK&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDPE1JtfOQCvTojXQeSzAabpBNe_V8RIQoOrPmz0rHygw&oe=6672AADD | person_profile | 0 | Delaney Worldwide Inc | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440496763_742214424660267_3958153346325376394_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=-QQUxV3SEocQ7kNvgEV1ovs&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYB3aqBCARnHG6HXMZghhQVg1qh1Dg0KIkBP9pePtit3QA&oe=6672BDCF | 0 | 3 | Choose us for stress-free moves! | Delaney Worldwide | 2 | https://facebook.com/61557773368721 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716188400 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879408 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 7/21/25, 4:25 PM | 1718410684 | 1753133146 | 995 | 782274500640529 | 2 | 1.1645754482978E+15 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 222894657578380 | 0 | Ortho Shoppe | 120208414681460187 | theorthoshoppe.com | Shop now | NONE | video | Free Worldwide Shipping! | βββββ 5/5 Reviews! | https://theorthoshoppe.com/products/foot-massage-roller | 1717861406 | 2.2289465757838E+14 | Ortho Shoppe | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447893074_7568467296594324_6370906097967191307_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=zebI_foDc1sQ7kNvgHoj0YF&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAqj8qWg5m8-Wq7IBY6-T4x_2ibyoBxMP0DJNFbZGDXJg&oe=667296A4 | person_profile | 0 | TheOrthoShoppe | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447804666_475270144886196_4703503998021468795_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=K72l2myyIL0Q7kNvgFq_ksm&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDnbkNTYF9SIjEaafaPY_DwJPJuNYREHcTKlsmICPB1pw&oe=6672A0B2 | 0 | 3 | Soothe your feet and melt away pain with the Foot Massage Rollerβyour essential self-care companion! π | Ortho Shoppe | 7 | https://facebook.com/theorthoshoppes | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1718348400 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879733 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410715 | 1723321853 | 995 | 949279386902962 | 7 | 1.4895026953017E+15 | 1716188400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120211846693390779 | qweasdzxconline.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πRead the next chaptersπ | https://qweasdzxconline.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11090&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715085862 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438129100_1146045226739178_2601865360875538189_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pgaM6op9EH4Q7kNvgFvStUz&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAnzNXAdVZ3R4dAiEpauXywjYljw4eXW7quZ6rvyHSXBw&oe=6672A490 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440747644_315502774915635_6353252339687881796_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YicSkuGzOiMQ7kNvgEoi2bQ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAN9i2X9Y9MK7cgBix3paDsplYdUdBGGi_LOwLoSJKKaQ&oe=6672CB97 | 0 | 3 | π"Ned Fletcher, with how you're treating Angie right now, aren't you worried that you're going to regret it when you finally regain your memories one day? You loved her so much before and you two got married for love! Despite you forgetting your feelings about her, how could you post so many indecent photos of her on social media?" Ned spoke nonchalantly, saying, "Why are you still holding me hostage with morals and principles? She was the one who framed me by lowly methods. I was just warning her. If Ingrid hadn't asked me to stop, I'd have gone even further! By the way, show your respect to Ingrid. Sheβs not a new girl but my only one forever and never!" Angeline Emmerson heard the talk standing outside the door. She used to be treated ever so lovingly by Ned in the past. Angeline felt her eyes reddening and filling with tears. The Ned she knew had died in the car accident that happened four years ago. The one inside was merely a stranger! Angeline inhaled deeply. Then, she pushed the door open. Ned looked up and saw her entering. "Who brought you here?" Angeline stared at Ned and said, "I've already made a police report regarding your spiked drink at the event and your spreading of my photos for revenge." Hearing this, everyone's reactions differed from one another. Angeline continued, "Ned Fletcher, it's true that I wanted to try rekindling our relationship, but I would never have stooped so low as to do those disgusting things to you. I didn't want to let go of this relationship because I was worried that the Ned I knew would return someday and blame me for giving up on him so easily," Angeline placed the divorce agreement she'd been hugging onto the table. "I tried my best, but I'm tired now. Ned Fletcher, I'm giving up on you. I don't want you anymore." Ned's eyes traveled from the divorce agreement to Angeline's face. There was a hint of surprise in his cold eyes. "Let's finalize the divorce after the police have cleared my name and you have publicly apologized to me." | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716015600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879746 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410716 | 1723321854 | 995 | 393988696787729 | 134 | 1.8854502285745E+15 | 1717916400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 108401345691237 | 0 | JoyReels | 120206471639420590 | play.google.com | Watch more | NONE | video | Watch the whole series NOW! | https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.joyreels.video | 1714048912 | 1.0840134569124E+14 | JoyReels | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438204857_3774980206154972_7237058433935536135_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=OKDdbxcI6n8Q7kNvgGlnBBf&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYC9dwhuJWds4wox3YeY3rZpshgW7DLcdBu0NIG2gjVn_g&oe=6672C9AF | person_profile | 0 | JoyReels | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438231205_299938246533722_5103852333164820359_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=3m3PxqjWOwoQ7kNvgH5Xb6P&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBbfzzeCi6GsyTjFvUrFoHqWNPKzhG5e9GuThBsfdonEg&oe=6672BB56 | 0 | 3 | After humiliated by his bride-to-be on the wedding rehearsal but Adam was soon told his true identity as the heir of the richest family in the US. On the journey of returning as a CEO, taking over his familyβs business, our true heir gradually finds out his true love, who has been by his side from the very beginningβ¦ | JoyReels | 2321 | https://facebook.com/JoyReels02 | 0 | WATCH_MORE | 1714201200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879773 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410722 | 1723321857 | 995 | 1457265871529992 | 1 | 1.3897169785739E+15 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 294527430678616 | 0 | Servall Martin | 120210487194700370 | servallpestcontrol.com | Contact Us | NONE | carousel | Gutter Solutions For Dry Homes | Gutter guard protection! | https://www.servallpestcontrol.com/ | 1710172974 | 2.9452743067862E+14 | Servall Martin | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/432252311_735374178788446_4142605466614271796_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=CTx34oaYgSoQ7kNvgEJhunK&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBUxhuh9N1YzzO8BAdPPrv8b0WYYrIKRPFpmozz17nb3g&oe=6672B1E4 | person_profile | 0 | Servall Martin | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/432280469_2714175705398879_4118516942423375862_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=rJWzuZvnIUgQ7kNvgHJTzqq&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYA6vMBrv3miKn6a8h0Gawqfdb9JHNQBvSzgIK0MOnEPCQ&oe=66729E38 | 0 | 3 | Gutter guard protection! | Servall Martin | 1238 | https://facebook.com/ServallMartin | 0 | CONTACT_US | 1710572400 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879774 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410722 | 1723321857 | 995 | 1457265871529992 | 1 | 1.3897169785739E+15 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 294527430678616 | 0 | Servall Martin | 120210487194700370 | servallpestcontrol.com | Contact Us | NONE | carousel | Gutter Solutions For Dry Homes | Gutter guard protection! | https://www.servallpestcontrol.com/ | 1710172974 | 2.9452743067862E+14 | Servall Martin | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/432252311_735374178788446_4142605466614271796_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=CTx34oaYgSoQ7kNvgEJhunK&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBUxhuh9N1YzzO8BAdPPrv8b0WYYrIKRPFpmozz17nb3g&oe=6672B1E4 | person_profile | 0 | Servall Martin | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/432280469_2714175705398879_4118516942423375862_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=rJWzuZvnIUgQ7kNvgHJTzqq&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYA6vMBrv3miKn6a8h0Gawqfdb9JHNQBvSzgIK0MOnEPCQ&oe=66729E38 | 0 | 3 | Gutter guard protection! | Servall Martin | 1238 | https://facebook.com/ServallMartin | 0 | CONTACT_US | 1710572400 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879848 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410731 | 1723321859 | 995 | 861939552623158 | 1 | 1.8722349231897E+15 | 1717225200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120211846693390779 | qweasdzxconline.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πRead the next chaptersπ | https://qweasdzxconline.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11090&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715085862 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438129100_1146045226739178_2601865360875538189_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pgaM6op9EH4Q7kNvgFvStUz&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAnzNXAdVZ3R4dAiEpauXywjYljw4eXW7quZ6rvyHSXBw&oe=6672A490 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440747644_315502774915635_6353252339687881796_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YicSkuGzOiMQ7kNvgEoi2bQ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAN9i2X9Y9MK7cgBix3paDsplYdUdBGGi_LOwLoSJKKaQ&oe=6672CB97 | 0 | 3 | π"Ned Fletcher, with how you're treating Angie right now, aren't you worried that you're going to regret it when you finally regain your memories one day? You loved her so much before and you two got married for love! Despite you forgetting your feelings about her, how could you post so many indecent photos of her on social media?" Ned spoke nonchalantly, saying, "Why are you still holding me hostage with morals and principles? She was the one who framed me by lowly methods. I was just warning her. If Ingrid hadn't asked me to stop, I'd have gone even further! By the way, show your respect to Ingrid. Sheβs not a new girl but my only one forever and never!" Angeline Emmerson heard the talk standing outside the door. She used to be treated ever so lovingly by Ned in the past. Angeline felt her eyes reddening and filling with tears. The Ned she knew had died in the car accident that happened four years ago. The one inside was merely a stranger! Angeline inhaled deeply. Then, she pushed the door open. Ned looked up and saw her entering. "Who brought you here?" Angeline stared at Ned and said, "I've already made a police report regarding your spiked drink at the event and your spreading of my photos for revenge." Hearing this, everyone's reactions differed from one another. Angeline continued, "Ned Fletcher, it's true that I wanted to try rekindling our relationship, but I would never have stooped so low as to do those disgusting things to you. I didn't want to let go of this relationship because I was worried that the Ned I knew would return someday and blame me for giving up on him so easily," Angeline placed the divorce agreement she'd been hugging onto the table. "I tried my best, but I'm tired now. Ned Fletcher, I'm giving up on you. I don't want you anymore." Ned's eyes traveled from the divorce agreement to Angeline's face. There was a hint of surprise in his cold eyes. "Let's finalize the divorce after the police have cleared my name and you have publicly apologized to me." | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717138800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879458 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 7/21/25, 4:18 PM | 1718410686 | 1753132712 | 995 | 823844362601004 | 1 | 7.9444418949853E+14 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 108255439048790 | 0 | Buchanan Freebery Blaine | 120208580858110482 | cooolink.com | Download | NONE | image | Free download ποΈποΈποΈ | https://cooolink.com/w2a/lp/bangtoon/cooolinkBtComics2?utm_source=fb_onelink&utm_medium={{placement}}&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_adset_name={{adset.name}}&utm_ad_name={{ad.name}}&utm_adset_nameid={{adset.id}}&utm_ad_nameid={{ad.id}}&utm_campaignid={{campaign.id}}&utm_channel={{site_source_name}} | 1718362768 | 1.0825543904879E+14 | Buchanan Freebery Blaine | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448428633_1011330697216982_471193060713748283_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=5kM4GrzAypQQ7kNvgGVcDKA&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDFGkATJsTHjawn300MXCDD_4WrL5c0mSBA3jCKrYq2hQ&oe=667297FF | person_profile | 0 | Buchanan Freebery Blaine | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448048302_450355254395469_5312786957793251861_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=39p0FJwdJ1oQ7kNvgFy0Cce&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDV6KSbgbNuIy4Bnpi-a2tH-yXHuwxnAqaumLGFZdITtg&oe=6672A999 | 0 | 3 | This manga is definitely worth watching! πππ | Buchanan Freebery Blaine | 0 | https://facebook.com/61552547469039 | 0 | DOWNLOAD | 1718348400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879352 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 5/22/25, 7:31 AM | 1718410682 | 1747917084 | 995 | 507661931592260 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 26448950205 | 0 | Free People | 6557918338648 | freepeople.com | Shop Now | 37826 | NONE | dpa | Tea Length Seamless Slip | $34 | https://www.freepeople.com/shop/tea-length-seamless-slip-28811149/?color=001&size=M%2FL&type=STANDARD | 1718393619 | 26448950205 | Free People | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448454796_790642533171431_246363400341195569_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ofKbGbpD7D4Q7kNvgH--hcM&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBMCgQjQ2yeGkk1xTpsqbPr0t6HAHkXpsVmIBBV1cvmYQ&oe=66729B2D | person_profile | 0 | Free People | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448331591_1388426681826553_310515711492551933_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=DJcBwZgEPJoQ7kNvgHVD6Hn&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDn4L3noNHwnE6AWbAAdNXyOX9eZ1adO7FHrzildKujYQ&oe=6672B852 | 0 | 3 | Celebrate Summer! Free express shipping on all orders! Shop now. | Free People | 1746939 | https://facebook.com/FreePeople | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1718348400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879841 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:29 PM | 1718410729 | 1723321795 | 995 | 861939552623158 | 1 | 1.8722349231897E+15 | 1717225200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120211846693390779 | qweasdzxconline.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πRead the next chaptersπ | https://qweasdzxconline.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11090&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715085862 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438129100_1146045226739178_2601865360875538189_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pgaM6op9EH4Q7kNvgFvStUz&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAnzNXAdVZ3R4dAiEpauXywjYljw4eXW7quZ6rvyHSXBw&oe=6672A490 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440747644_315502774915635_6353252339687881796_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YicSkuGzOiMQ7kNvgEoi2bQ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAN9i2X9Y9MK7cgBix3paDsplYdUdBGGi_LOwLoSJKKaQ&oe=6672CB97 | 0 | 3 | π"Ned Fletcher, with how you're treating Angie right now, aren't you worried that you're going to regret it when you finally regain your memories one day? You loved her so much before and you two got married for love! Despite you forgetting your feelings about her, how could you post so many indecent photos of her on social media?" Ned spoke nonchalantly, saying, "Why are you still holding me hostage with morals and principles? She was the one who framed me by lowly methods. I was just warning her. If Ingrid hadn't asked me to stop, I'd have gone even further! By the way, show your respect to Ingrid. Sheβs not a new girl but my only one forever and never!" Angeline Emmerson heard the talk standing outside the door. She used to be treated ever so lovingly by Ned in the past. Angeline felt her eyes reddening and filling with tears. The Ned she knew had died in the car accident that happened four years ago. The one inside was merely a stranger! Angeline inhaled deeply. Then, she pushed the door open. Ned looked up and saw her entering. "Who brought you here?" Angeline stared at Ned and said, "I've already made a police report regarding your spiked drink at the event and your spreading of my photos for revenge." Hearing this, everyone's reactions differed from one another. Angeline continued, "Ned Fletcher, it's true that I wanted to try rekindling our relationship, but I would never have stooped so low as to do those disgusting things to you. I didn't want to let go of this relationship because I was worried that the Ned I knew would return someday and blame me for giving up on him so easily," Angeline placed the divorce agreement she'd been hugging onto the table. "I tried my best, but I'm tired now. Ned Fletcher, I'm giving up on you. I don't want you anymore." Ned's eyes traveled from the divorce agreement to Angeline's face. There was a hint of surprise in his cold eyes. "Let's finalize the divorce after the police have cleared my name and you have publicly apologized to me." | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717138800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879354 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:29 PM | 1718410682 | 1723321797 | 995 | 507661931592260 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 26448950205 | 0 | Free People | 6557918338648 | freepeople.com | Shop Now | 37826 | NONE | dpa | Tea Length Seamless Slip | $34 | https://www.freepeople.com/shop/tea-length-seamless-slip-28811149/?color=001&size=M%2FL&type=STANDARD | 1718393619 | 26448950205 | Free People | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448454796_790642533171431_246363400341195569_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ofKbGbpD7D4Q7kNvgH--hcM&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBMCgQjQ2yeGkk1xTpsqbPr0t6HAHkXpsVmIBBV1cvmYQ&oe=66729B2D | person_profile | 0 | Free People | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448331591_1388426681826553_310515711492551933_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=DJcBwZgEPJoQ7kNvgHVD6Hn&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDn4L3noNHwnE6AWbAAdNXyOX9eZ1adO7FHrzildKujYQ&oe=6672B852 | 0 | 3 | Celebrate Summer! Free express shipping on all orders! Shop now. | Free People | 1746939 | https://facebook.com/FreePeople | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1718348400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879385 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:29 PM | 1718410683 | 1723321797 | 995 | 1221844152519929 | 1 | 1.6536758687297E+15 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 137682100876 | 0 | Hassle Free Home Services | 6583402902170 | myhasslefreehome.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | Weβll take your to-do list. You take the weekend. Home management, repairs, and preventative care. | {{product.description}} | https://myhasslefreehome.com/?utm_source=meta&utm_medium=paid&utm_campaign=auto-placement-June-2024&utm_content=2024-06-14_ErikCEOExecTimeProblem | 1718396728 | 137682100876 | Hassle Free Home Services | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448397594_318202048019095_3021886480661866571_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=OszzC2UtLJkQ7kNvgH4wHGd&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCMx_1wHPNF6yGlm2BAGp_2nwKCm8tN5GXmqdotNlS9IA&oe=6672A389 | person_profile | 0 | Hassle Free Home Services | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448402186_825977045701722_6715641718647541900_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=wfPUqycO9ZYQ7kNvgGiM8Jt&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDEgIMyNiopud9QcrJhW4PhyA9bKTadrEVhMIJkEMI_6Q&oe=6672B4B1 | 0 | 3 | π« Your neighbors have worked with us for over 20 years. π Outsource home management to local professionals. | Hassle Free Home Services | 438 | https://facebook.com/hasslefreehomeservices | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718348400 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879519 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410690 | 1723321801 | 995 | 345924945175506 | 17 | 4.0432693580309E+14 | 1716706800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 342924965562549 | 0 | Random Reading | 120211511879180002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πRead the next chaptersπ | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715765000 | 3.4292496556255E+14 | Random Reading | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/435922042_247479561755579_3821431404594820167_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=nE-xcpCRFGQQ7kNvgEfKZT9&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBJeZyYE3h8dCQPrEYbRlpN1rYGD4UiCmm_vtZ3RVK93A&oe=6672C788 | person_profile | 0 | Random Reading | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436197202_765438095699980_1525197823077953944_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=z0L5gnt-ND4Q7kNvgGji8Ss&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYD7CD-CwJ5p5YX30VimVQrwGnmzPWqX979uoxbURL0mGw&oe=6672C1E1 | 0 | 3 | I had never seen Felix like this - fury was written all over his face, and his lanky figure was trembling slightly. I've known Felix since we were born. Our mothers were best friends and they were trying to pair us up again just now. I had a crush on him, and he always treated me kindly. But now, he glared at me and spat, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around! That's why they misunderstood! Stay away from me!" I hadn't expected him to say something like that. I stared at him dumbfounded. Both my parents and Felix's parents ceased their conversation about our wedding and future. Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? I'm my own man. I'll never marry her, so you all can just stop trying to pair us up!" Felix shouted as he glared at everyone in the house. His eyes were filled with hate. It made me want to curl up into a ball out of embarrassment. The house remained completely silent. Everyone's gaze was on me, and I could feel my heart throbbing in pain. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. He had trampled all over my dignity and self-worth in front of his whole family and mineβ¦ My father, usually calm, flushed crimson at Felix's harsh words, his fists clenched. Mom, too, looked angry and embarrassed, jaw agape, her expression one of disbelief. Uncle Austin, Felix's father, slapped Felix, scolding, "You rebellious boy! Who taught you to behave like that?" The impact of slap sent Felix reeling, and he hit his head on the corner of the wall. Felix slumped to the floor in pain, leaving an unmistakable streak of red on the white walls. Aunt Mel rushed forward with concern, "Felix, my son! Are you alright?" Felix shot me a scathing glare as if I had committed an unspeakable crime. "Are you happy now, Luna?" he spat. I stared back at him with wide eyes, tears streaming down my face and onto the floor. Even though I liked him, that didn't mean he could throw wild accusations and embarrass me as he pleased! I liked him, but I, too, had my sense of dignity! If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I would gladly change! "I'm sorry, Felix. I never thought that my actions would have bugged you so much," I forced the humiliation down as I continued, "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix." I bit my lip hard, and the sharp tang of blood exploded across my tongue. I, Luna Lawson, also swear to myself - I won't endure the same humiliation AGAIN! | Random Reading | 9 | https://facebook.com/61559743679549 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716447600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879779 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410723 | 1723321801 | 995 | 3257834227858415 | 1 | 3.7757143170999E+14 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 113222160318026 | 0 | Servall - Paris, TN | 120210481180440370 | servallpestcontrol.com | Contact Us | NONE | carousel | Protect Your Home With Proper Drainage | Expert gutter solutions! | https://www.servallpestcontrol.com/ | 1710166404 | 1.1322216031803E+14 | Servall - Paris, TN | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/431186519_1112968813354192_4278728201242244015_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=awMtziREd9YQ7kNvgGWtSfC&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBXqDE-kbyVLWLPb6qw0EdiwKOmKkyILgz6iAxm438vkQ&oe=6672A9C8 | person_profile | 0 | Servall - Paris, TN | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/431273553_338768775263175_8395586336125006700_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=a7B5Zmh1clwQ7kNvgE_eZ7W&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYB5YGMSvJXZvbu1oi6wW0LyyewDGqjNvBTdqP8JV_IxXg&oe=6672B7C8 | 0 | 3 | Expert gutter solutions! | Servall - Paris, TN | 643 | https://facebook.com/ServallParis | 0 | CONTACT_US | 1710572400 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879820 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410726 | 1723321803 | 995 | 2115068452192199 | 1 | 7.5946080672893E+15 | 1715583600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120210797601370002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πRead the next chaptersπ | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1716634519 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438221346_347076918382053_5509872404599054561_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=sisTEz4NT9EQ7kNvgHKLxoB&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCtqMSOg0KYjS4Qe6YSMcVwv7m8-3gjX2xmRdEJ4QbNtQ&oe=66729A9D | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438240590_982215810240924_7779339330704555568_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=k8YDPZIgCtIQ7kNvgEe3WoY&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDgQf2PDgTNWbeeCeovqRzYZ15FNuJAKpZSDMwPWPKx8w&oe=6672A3E0 | 0 | 3 | I had never seen Felix like this - fury was written all over his face, and his lanky figure was trembling slightly. I've known Felix since we were born. Our mothers were best friends and they were trying to pair us up again just now. I had a crush on him, and he always treated me kindly. But now, he glared at me and spat, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around! That's why they misunderstood! Stay away from me!" I hadn't expected him to say something like that. I stared at him dumbfounded. Both my parents and Felix's parents ceased their conversation about our wedding and future. Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? I'm my own man. I'll never marry her, so you all can just stop trying to pair us up!" Felix shouted as he glared at everyone in the house. His eyes were filled with hate. It made me want to curl up into a ball out of embarrassment. The house remained completely silent. Everyone's gaze was on me, and I could feel my heart throbbing in pain. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. He had trampled all over my dignity and self-worth in front of his whole family and mineβ¦ My father, usually calm, flushed crimson at Felix's harsh words, his fists clenched. Mom, too, looked angry and embarrassed, jaw agape, her expression one of disbelief. Uncle Austin, Felix's father, slapped Felix, scolding, "You rebellious boy! Who taught you to behave like that?" The impact of slap sent Felix reeling, and he hit his head on the corner of the wall. Felix slumped to the floor in pain, leaving an unmistakable streak of red on the white walls. Aunt Mel rushed forward with concern, "Felix, my son! Are you alright?" Felix shot me a scathing glare as if I had committed an unspeakable crime. "Are you happy now, Luna?" he spat. I stared back at him with wide eyes, tears streaming down my face and onto the floor. Even though I liked him, that didn't mean he could throw wild accusations and embarrass me as he pleased! I liked him, but I, too, had my sense of dignity! If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I would gladly change! "I'm sorry, Felix. I never thought that my actions would have bugged you so much," I forced the humiliation down as I continued, "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix." I bit my lip hard, and the sharp tang of blood exploded across my tongue. I, Luna Lawson, also swear to myself - I won't endure the same humiliation AGAIN! | Massive story | 670 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715410800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879573 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410695 | 1723321806 | 995 | 1123587355422972 | 1 | 7.6990506525411E+14 | 1718089200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 273913162469522 | 0 | New world publications | 120212928768730170 | wwwedb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πAttention! Do not read in publicοΌπ | https://wwwedb.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11782&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717757425 | 2.7391316246952E+14 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959759_1311554859802432_4227718076479884991_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GwKF1hWO7f4Q7kNvgGcgnOa&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAaDJ90YtTRVgl1h4Qq29YmZWIZCVWKY5MqqmnLhItL8w&oe=6672A69D | person_profile | 0 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959270_7187349571370885_4976612476689122460_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=NNss872fdPgQ7kNvgE-PVII&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAp0ikcilFTLm0se1WcAfumGS3USCJAFn0NgxepicFnPw&oe=6672B455 | 0 | 3 | The clearing of a throat makes me jump. I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of alcohol. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that donβt quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door. Shrinking down to the ground. βIs this the way you greet all Alphaβs?β His deep voice rumbles through the room, an edge of amusement to his tone. βIβm sorry.β I whisper, getting to my feet. βIβ¦I thought I was alone.β I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. βCome forward.β He orders. Alpha Trey was going to kill me. I do as Iβm told. Allowing him to see me properly and I am met with narrowed crimson eyes. I close my own eyes, expecting the worst. βYou smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?β My head moved up and down, though I couldnβt tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they discovered the truth about me. βI would prefer it if you spoke to me.β He growls, βIβm not in the mood to play games.β βYes.β I whisper. βI amβ¦I am a Wolf.β I couldnβt help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? I wasnβt sure how much more my body could take. βHow is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.β βIβ¦..β I hated the question. βI havenβt got all day!β He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldnβt scent him. I knew why I hadnβt been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever liked to do. They never hear my side of the story. All they do is accept Alpha Trey's word as the truth. βYou should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?β His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them. There was no way I was making direct eye contact. βMy Wolf abilities were bound.β βWhy?β If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. βIt was a punishment.β βFor what?β βFor killing my parents.β | New world publications | 9 | https://facebook.com/61557831245498 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717743600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879737 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410716 | 1723321807 | 995 | 949279386902962 | 7 | 1.4895026953017E+15 | 1716188400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120211846693390779 | qweasdzxconline.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πRead the next chaptersπ | https://qweasdzxconline.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11090&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715085862 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438129100_1146045226739178_2601865360875538189_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pgaM6op9EH4Q7kNvgFvStUz&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAnzNXAdVZ3R4dAiEpauXywjYljw4eXW7quZ6rvyHSXBw&oe=6672A490 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440747644_315502774915635_6353252339687881796_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YicSkuGzOiMQ7kNvgEoi2bQ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAN9i2X9Y9MK7cgBix3paDsplYdUdBGGi_LOwLoSJKKaQ&oe=6672CB97 | 0 | 3 | π"Ned Fletcher, with how you're treating Angie right now, aren't you worried that you're going to regret it when you finally regain your memories one day? You loved her so much before and you two got married for love! Despite you forgetting your feelings about her, how could you post so many indecent photos of her on social media?" Ned spoke nonchalantly, saying, "Why are you still holding me hostage with morals and principles? She was the one who framed me by lowly methods. I was just warning her. If Ingrid hadn't asked me to stop, I'd have gone even further! By the way, show your respect to Ingrid. Sheβs not a new girl but my only one forever and never!" Angeline Emmerson heard the talk standing outside the door. She used to be treated ever so lovingly by Ned in the past. Angeline felt her eyes reddening and filling with tears. The Ned she knew had died in the car accident that happened four years ago. The one inside was merely a stranger! Angeline inhaled deeply. Then, she pushed the door open. Ned looked up and saw her entering. "Who brought you here?" Angeline stared at Ned and said, "I've already made a police report regarding your spiked drink at the event and your spreading of my photos for revenge." Hearing this, everyone's reactions differed from one another. Angeline continued, "Ned Fletcher, it's true that I wanted to try rekindling our relationship, but I would never have stooped so low as to do those disgusting things to you. I didn't want to let go of this relationship because I was worried that the Ned I knew would return someday and blame me for giving up on him so easily," Angeline placed the divorce agreement she'd been hugging onto the table. "I tried my best, but I'm tired now. Ned Fletcher, I'm giving up on you. I don't want you anymore." Ned's eyes traveled from the divorce agreement to Angeline's face. There was a hint of surprise in his cold eyes. "Let's finalize the divorce after the police have cleared my name and you have publicly apologized to me." | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716015600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879544 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410693 | 1723321808 | 995 | 785695356970863 | 1 | 1.8811915023045E+15 | 1718002800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 144939265372419 | 0 | Indulge in story | 120214343181970348 | shgjfh.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πRead the next chaptersπ | https://shgjfh.com/market/meganovel/13?lpid=11844&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717762144 | 1.4493926537242E+14 | Indulge in story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447256994_962585992003167_5083994497026705008_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=xvSiU4eM0HIQ7kNvgGaLPgU&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDfHZvL4fwCX9_hfvxj2Lbnpddf0pG1uD9Gqv9GoXUxJw&oe=6672B331 | person_profile | 0 | Indulge in story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447590700_1016773316708518_420838429285916977_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=KYgitKO0u2cQ7kNvgF55Rj_&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDyXqxq5I-PXqx461m_CajttJGgWqxofCm2izR9EzU9dg&oe=6672B6AD | 0 | 3 | The roads were soaked. It had been raining for a whole day in Southbury. Aria Carver's backpack was thrown out of the door by the butler in disdain. "Mr. Kent doesn't want to see you, Ms. Carver. So, I have to say some words in his stead. Your birth parents are in the countryside. Your father's last name is Carver. "The Kent family mistook you for their daughter in the past. But now that Ms. Lily has been found, I hope that you can do what's best for everyone and stop contacting the Kent family." The butler, Alfred Dun, took out a card. "Here's 10,000. Mr. Kent instructed me to give it to you as compensation." "No need." Aria didn't even look at the card as she picked up her backpack. Alfred looked at her in disdain. She didn't want the money? Was she acting tough? She should really think about her circumstances. The Kents had found their real daughter. They wouldn't want a country bumpkin like her anymore. She was an embarrassment. "As you wish, Ms. Carver." Alfred closed the door with a loud bang. Aria paid him no mind. She only took a black backpack when she left the Kent Residence. She stood proud and tall. She left the Kent Residence without taking anything that didn't belong to her. The rain falling on her made her look a little defeated. The people on the second floor saw her and started snickering. They didn't care if she could hear them. "She's finally gone." "I know right? I was so afraid that she might not want to go back to the countryside, and would try to stay with us." Aria didn't respond, but a sneer appeared on her face. Were the Kents ignorant? Yes, they were. Aria chewed on a gummy absentmindedly. She had a head of long and glossy black hair. Her face was a little pale, but it didn't make her look weak. Instead, she looked quite mysterious. β¦ At the same time, the Carver family was having an international meeting at their home in Janovin. Warren Carver sat at the head of the table. He held a cane in his hands and looked really intimidating. "It's been so many years. Is there still no leads on your sister?" He was talking to his six grandsons. The Carver family was the wealthiest in Janovin. The six scions of the family were all very remarkable people. Any single one of them would cause a stir if they went out in the open. At that moment, they all looked saddened. Longing and sorrow filled their eyes. They were the ones that lost their youngest sister back then. She was only a baby when she went missing. She never caused a fuss and was always very adorable. It had been 18 years. They had never stopped looking since. All the leads went cold at a secluded village in the mountains. They had no idea how many times the human traffickers moved their baby sister around. "Grandpa, let's keep looking. We will definitely find her!" Suddenly, a chubby man, Frank Levin, rushed into the room with some documents in his hand. He panted as he said, "Mr. Chairman! Little Ms. Carver has been found!" Warren, who was usually composed, stood up immediately. He was so excited that his hands were shaking. "Where is she? Send someone to pick her up right now!" Frank handed the documents over. "She's in Southbury. We're still looking into her exact location." "Then let's go to Southbury! Get a car ready!" Warren was very excited. β¦ It was evening in Southbury. Aria, who had been kicked out of the Kent Residence, didn't go to the countryside. She waited for the rain to stop before she headed back to the place she was staying at. It was a very insignificant neighborhood. When she was parking her car, someone called out to her, "You're back, Aria." "Yeah. I'm back." Aria smiled. Maria Goode, a fruit vendor, handed her an apple. "I haven't seen you in two weeks. No one else could help me with my arthritis." "Don't forget about me, Aria. My hand always trembles when I'm playing chess." Everyone knew that Aria was a very beloved figure in the Elmer district. Some retired government officials loved to chat with her as she treated their conditions. The place might look plain and simple on the surface, but there was more than met the eye. The person who talked about his hand was Jasper Garland, a former national chess champion. Aria didn't delve into the identities of the other residents. She chose to live in this neighborhood because it was a nice place. Chapter 2 More Than Meets the Eye "I'll offer treatment for everyone at the community square tomorrow." Then, Aria reminded them, "Remember to take the medicine. Don't stay up late to watch soap operas. They won't end so soon." "The Tiara" was all the rage in the Elmer district at that time. All the older men and women were hooked on it. A lot of them looked guilty after Aria said that. "Weβ¦We will sleep at 10:00 pm from now on." In the past, no one could have imagined that this group of people would be so obedient to one person. A lot of them had made great contributions to the country. Even their identities were kept a secret. Elmer district's community manager, Joel Hayes, had been hoping that Aria would come back sooner. He could finally breathe a sigh of relief. "Dr. Carver, I have been keeping an eye on your house. I've not allowed anyone to approach your property." "Thanks for the hard work." Aria bowed slightly and handed him an apple. Joel accepted the apple with a smile. "It's no trouble at all. I trust you won't be leaving anytime soon?" A community manager like him could never keep the neighborhood's residents under control. "Yeah. I won't be leaving," Aria said as she took the key. Joel replied joyfully, "That's wonderful! I'll leave you be so you can unpack your stuff. Let me know if you need anything." Aria nodded. She inserted the key and opened the door after Joel left. The lock was very old. It didn't seem like there was anything special about it. But after she undid the first lock, an LCD lock appeared before her. "Confirmation to proceed with iris scan." Aria said casually, "Do it." "Proceeding with iris scan. Please wait." "Iris scan completed. Welcome home, master." It was a very classy computerized voice that hadn't been activated for some time. The metal door opened automatically with a "clack". The house was instantly illuminated. There was a bookshelf that was about six feet tall which was filled with medical books and containers with herbs in them. There was a lot of greenery at the door. Most of them were herbs. All of them were labeled. In the middle of the living room sat a very cool-looking black and red motorcycle. Aria walked over to the kitchen and took a bottle of water from the fridge. She wanted to drink some water and watch some TV. Suddenly, the phone that was charging on her desk rang. It was a custom ringtone. "Richie Carver, wakey wakey, It's time for work! Richie Carver, wakey wakey, It's time for work! Richieβ" Aria took the call when it was about to ring for the third time. "Speak." "Boss, there's a huge job in Southbury. Should we take it?" Aria took a sip of the water. "What's it about?" "The richest man in Janovin is looking for his long-lost granddaughter. They say she's in Southbury. It shouldn't be hard to find her. This job pays a lot." Aria yawned. "Not interested." "Hold on! Please wait, boss! There's another one. The type you like! It's also a huge job!" The person on the other end of the call was very servile. Aria placed her chin on the palm lazily. "Tell me about it." "The York family of Janovin is looking for you. They're offering 10 million for you to treat a patient. "They also said that people who can find you or provide information about you will be rewarded as well. They're so stacked!" "Why are they so generous?" Aria went into work mode immediately. She tapped the phone and said, "Send me the details of the job." "Sure thing!" The next moment, the floor-to-ceiling windows became a screen, and the job information was projected on it. The York family had been around for ages. They had protected the country for generations. If Aria's memory served correctly, they even lived in the Guardian Mansion once. The York family had sent out invitations to quite a few renowned doctors. The invitation was in effect for a week. The location for the consultation was set at the Caesar Hotel in Southbury. They wanted to get a doctor who would be able to treat the illness of Landon York, who was in charge of the York family operations. There wasn't much description of Landon's condition. They only mentioned that he had been frail for a long time and that his condition couldn't be revealed to the public. It seemed like there was more than met the eye. Aria stretched her legs. "I'll take this job." Chapter 3 Saving Someone on the Streets "You have a good eye, boss! I'll prepare an account to receive payment from the Yorks!" Aria said calmly, "No need to rush. Let me sleep first. Do it tomorrow." Other than making money, Aria's biggest interest was treating all sorts of rare diseases. This job from the York family was a nice one for her. Honestly, she was probably the only person who wasn't fazed by the York's visit to Southbury. All of the prominent families in the city were scrambling into action. A family like the Kents had to reach out to everyone they knew and utilize all of their connections in an attempt to get an invitation from the Yorks. Even regular people were talking about how the city was especially lively that month. First, the richest man in Janovin came to look for his granddaughter. Then, the York family came to receive treatment. Some said that the Yorks came to Southbury because the legendary Whiz Doctor was in town. There were a lot of rumors about the Whiz Doctor, but some of them were quite outlandish. This time, the Whiz Doctor might actually appear due to the York family's invitation. β¦ The following morning, Aria woke up late. Like any other working adult, she didn't feel like leaving her cool and comfortable room or her cozy bed to get out into the morning sun. But she had to work. So, she got up and washed her face. Without putting any makeup on, she grabbed her bag and left. In order to avoid the morning rush, she scanned a shared bicycle. "Are you heading out to work, Aria?" "Yeah." She was greeting everyone along the way and also had a piece of toast in her mouth given to her by Kenneth Kane. She rode the bicycle steadily without rushing and merged into traffic after a while. β¦ After 30 minutes, Aria arrived at Southbury's renowned Caesar Hotel. Everyone at the entrance and the lobby looked very busy. In the past few days, almost all of the luxury cars in the city gathered at the hotel. In comparison, Aria stood out a lot as the only person who came on a shared bicycle. As soon as she came to a stop, Jose Garcia, a security guard, came over to chase her away. "Get lost, you broke college student. The hotel is not open to the public today." She planted one foot on the ground and met his gaze. Then, she said coolly, "I'm here to save someone's life." "You? Save someone's life?" Jose burst into laughter. "Young lady, you're still so young, but you're quite the braggart." Aria paused for a moment. Then, she showed him proof of her accepting the job on her phone. "Please tell the people inside that Dr. Whiz has arrived." "Dr. Whiz? You can call me Dr. Genius!" Jose gave her an impatient look. "I've seen many invitations. You're the first one to show it on the phoneβ¦" Jose noticed a luxury car rolling up as he spoke. So, he waved at Aria. "Go. Get out of the way." Then, he rushed over to the car and opened the door. "Welcome, Dr. Gunther and Ms. Kent. I'll inform the staff to prepare some tea for you." The people in the car just nodded at him. They didn't even reply. But Jose had a big smile on his face like he had won the lottery. The car drove past Aria. Lily looked out the window and recognized Aria. Her gaze wavered slightly. The old woman next to her, Salome Gunther, asked, "What's wrong, Lily?" She smiled softly. "Nothing." Aria's gaze remained calm. She walked away resolutely. There was even an amused expression on her face. She used to be someone who held people's lives in her hands, yet she had become the target of another person's shunning. Oh, how the mighty had fallen. Aria pursed her lips. She offered treatment to patients based on her mood and would never help those who were greedy or selfish. She had decided to give up on offering treatment to the York family's patient. So, she took out her phone and was about to reject the job. Suddenly, someone on the sidewalk screamed. "Oh, no! Someone has fainted!" People started flocking toward the voice. "Oh, God! It's a child!" "His face is so paleβ¦" Hearing the commotion, Aria didn't hesitate at all. She parked her bicycle and rushed toward the crowd. The little boy on the ground was only three or four years old. His forehead was drenched. It seemed like he had been sweating profusely. A woman named Francine Gibson grabbed a man in a white lab coat. "Young man, you're a doctor, right? Please save the boy." "No can do, lady. The kid's family isn't here. I can't make any decisions without consulting them." The man in the lab coat, Jimmy Cornell, added with disdain, "Besides, I don't provide treatment to just anyone." Aria heard the exchange between the two of them. She pushed through the crowd and said in a professional manner, "Please give the boy some space. Let the air flow through. The patient needs fresh air." Her tone sounded so authoritative that no one doubted her. Then, she crouched down and placed her fingers on the boy's neck. Francine said anxiously, "Young lady, how old are you? Can you really make him better?" Chapter 4 Doubt "That's right, young lady. We should probably call an ambulance. This boy appears to be lost. I called out for some time just now, but no one came over," an old man said. He was concerned that Aria might be blamed if anything happened to the boy. Aria quickly unbuttoned the boy's coat and brought him to some shade. "Don't worry. I'm a licensed doctor." Then, she opened her bag and took out a medical kit. It was equipped with needles and scalpels of all sizes, all arranged neatly in rows. Aria felt the boy's pulse again. "Stop it! How can you simply touch the patient?" Jimmy yelled. He couldn't allow Aria to do as she pleased. She ignored him and continued to monitor the boy's pulse and heart rate. Jimmy sneered. "I'm Jimmy Cornell, currently studying at Janovin Medical University. My mentor is Dr. Salome Gunther. I'm not just a random bystander. You say you're a licensed doctor? How old are you?" Aria continued to ignore him. Her focus was on the boy. She took out a needle and began to sterilize it. "I'm talking to you! Even that old man knows we should wait for an ambulance. Why can't you get it through your head?" This was the first time Jimmy had been completely ignored by someone. Aria had one knee to the ground. Her demeanor was cool and emotionless. "Do nothing and wait for the ambulance? Wait as the optimal treatment period passes by? Is that what your mentor taught you?" "Who said we should do nothing while we wait for the ambulance? You're the one delaying treatment with those needles. Please don't show off your pseudo-science methods, and let me perform CPR on the patient." Aria shot him a cold glare after she heard what he said. Who would've thought that such a pretty young lady could have such a vicious gaze? "He has a heat stroke. Do you think CPR would help? What a worthless doctor," Aria said as she applied pressure to the boy's fingers. Her tone was glacial. Jimmy lost his cool immediately. "Who are you calling worthless? Do you even know who my mentor is?" He had just received an award overseas for his medical skills. He was incredulous at the woman's audacity to doubt his abilities. "I'm not interested in your mentor. Move." Jimmy's eyes turned bloodshot. "I'll let it slide this time since you're just a lowly traditional medicine practitioner. His lips are turning blue. It's a heart issue." "Hypoxia and ischemia might impact the respiratory system and cause the lips to turn blue." Aria looked at Jimmy with a cold stare, then added, "But a heat stroke can cause that symptom, too. The difference is that his pulse is steady. Moreover, his lips are parched. "It's clear that he had been exposed to high temperatures for a prolonged period. You don't even look at these symptoms, yet you claim to be a medical student?" "That's true. You have to look at the symptoms first. I was taught that too," someone in the crowd agreed with Aria. Then, people in the crowd started chattering. "It seems like the Janovin Medical University isn't anything special at all." "That young lady is way more reliable. I noticed she was quite professional when taking the boy's pulse." Jimmy couldn't take the humiliation anymore. "Alright. So, he has a heat stroke. Will your acupuncture cure him of it? If so, why are we even learning modern medicine?" "You can't represent everyone else who practices modern medicine." Aria glared at him icily. "I'll say it one more time. Move." There were two types of people she hated the mostβthose who looked down on traditional medicine and lousy doctors getting in the way of her treatment. "Sure, I'll move. I'd like to see how skilled you are." Jimmy crossed his arms. "If you can heal him with these needles, I'll get on my knees and apologize to you." "I'm looking forward to that." Aria located the acupuncture points and raised her hand. Chapter 5 Acupuncture Works Aria stuck the first needle into the boy without any hesitation. The boy immediately frowned. It was like he was regaining his consciousness. It looked like he was struggling as his brows furrowed even deeper. Someone in the crowd yelled, "He's waking up!" Jimmy was stunned. His face grew pale. "This can't beβ¦" How did she pull that off? Just one needle? Could a person really regain consciousness from that? Aria raised her hand again. Her gaze was focused, and she looked very composed. She stuck the second needle into the boy's fingertips to draw some blood. Right after she did that, the boy opened his eyes. His pupils were dark and round, while his eyelashes were extraordinarily long. He glanced at Aria quietly, but his face was still quite pale. Everyone in the crowd was stunned. Francine spoke up, "Young lady, you healed with a few pokes of the needle?" Aria applied some light pressure on the needle. She saw that the bloodletting was done, so she removed the needle and pressed a cotton ball on the wound to stop the bleeding. "Madam, it's not that simple. Applying acupuncture to the fingertips can help with dissipating the heat. He was inflicted with heat stroke, which was caused by the high temperature. I just helped him cool down with acupuncture." "Spare me the theatrics. That kid hasn't spoken a word since he regained consciousness. You probably left him with some side effects with your treatment!" Jimmy snorted. Francine was a little annoyed. "The boy has already regained consciousness. Why are you talking about side effects? Are you just trying to get out of apologizing to the young lady?" "That's none of your business!" Jimmy looked at Francine and suddenly sneered. "I understand now. You're all in on this. You pulled me here, and she's trying to scam me. "This is an organized scam, isn't it? I knew traditional medicine practitioners were all fake." Aria's expression grew cold when she heard that. She was about to raise her hand. Then, the boy spoke up in a weak but icy tone, "Traditional medicine has always been an essential part of Celestria's culture. You're a lousy doctor, sir. You should put more effort into studying." "Youβ¦" Jimmy was at a loss for words. The boy spoke up right after he said he wasn't healed. The boy even spoke out against him. It was clear that the boy wasn't on his side. Francine burst out into laughter. "Hey, kid. He's talking about you. You should put more effort into studying." "I won't waste my breath with you bottom feeders anymore. You're just a group of peasants," Jimmy said in disdain. Aria flicked a needle in his direction. It brushed past his face and got stuck in a tree nearby. Such a violent display caused Jimmy to freeze up. Even his legs felt like they were about to give out. Aria smiled as she said casually, "Don't you think you've forgotten about something?" She was just a young woman, but she had a very vicious and commanding presence, which caused Jimmy to feel fear. He tried to keep his cool. "What did I forget?" "An apology," Aria said as she tapped on her phone. She looked devilishly charming. Jimmy didn't want to do that. So, he said arrogantly, "Everyone makes mistakes. I don't have any more time to waste with a traditional medicine practitioner like you." Francine couldn't stand his attitude anymore. "Is this how a student of Dr. Salome Gunther would act? You lost a bet to that young woman, and yet you refuse to apologize? Such ethicsβ¦" "What's wrong with my ethics? Who here can prove I lost a bet to her? None of you will ever have enough money to pay for Dr. Gunther's treatment. "Me being here and providing free medical services is an honor for all of you. How dare you peasants keep babbling about such nonsense? Don't you dare cause trouble here! Do you even know where you are right now?" Francine's hands trembled in anger. "Youβ¦ You!" Jimmy snorted. He looked at all of them with utter disdain. They were in a modern society. He didn't believe that Aria would dare to do anything to him. Chapter 6 Teaching Him a Lesson Jimmy had always thought that the common folk were beneath him. He didn't notice that Aria's gaze changed as she looked up. Viciousness and contempt filled her eyes. She casually toyed with a piece of candy in her palm. Then, she flicked toward Jimmy. He felt his knee give out as he fell to the ground. "Ah!" The pain caused him to frown. He tried to get up but realized that he couldn't move his body at all. He couldn't talk, and his hands wouldn't budge. It felt like his movements had been sealed with the attack. Aria walked up to him and said calmly, "As a medical student, you failed miserably at determining the patient's symptoms, and you even declared a verdict without a second thought. "Being a doctor doesn't mean you're better than anyone else. It's a job for you to help people in need. You're unskilled and unethical. Now that you're on your knees, I'll accept your apology. Consider this a lesson I'm teaching you in your mentor's stead." "You!" Jimmy's eyes were filled with hatred. Aria leaned in and whispered in his ear. "Since you're such a shameless person, it'll probably be okay if you remain on your knees here for a couple of hours." "What did you do to me? I want to call the cops! I have been assaulted!" Jimmy yelled. Aria smiled. "And who can prove anything? Mr. Cornell, you got on your knees yourself. I didn't even touch you." "I know right? He deserves that!" The people in the crowd felt great satisfaction seeing Jimmy in that state. "The young lady didn't do anything. Stop lying!" That was the truth. He was the one who refused to help the boy. He was also the one who was running his mouth after Aria provided treatment for the boy. He was also the one who had been cursing at everyone in the crowd and was shameless enough to refuse to apologize. He was a true disgrace to the medical profession. Did he really think he could just say all those things without repercussions? He even tried to blame Aria for his condition. The women in the crowd started to yell, "Everyone, come and take a look! There's an unskilled medical student here. He's on his knees to apologize right now!" "You! All of you!" Jimmy's face was flushed, and his breath was labored. That was why people didn't mess with the ordinary citizens who were brave, kind, and despised delinquency. Jimmy was a fool for being so domineering in front of them. The more people looked at him, the lower Jimmy's head hung. He wished the ground would open up and swallow him up. He was afraid that someone would recognize him. The malice in his eyes grew as he looked at Aria. They were both in the medical industry. So, they were bound to meet again someday. He swore he would get back at her the next time they met. Aria didn't spare him another glance. Besides, if they crossed paths again, she didn't mind breaking his legs. Quite a lot of the older people in the crowd asked for Aria's contact information. They had seen how she performed acupuncture on the boy. It was clear that she was an extremely skilled doctor. They were determined to secure her contact information. Aria didn't turn any of them down, so she added them to her contacts. Francine asked enthusiastically, "Young lady, you were so skilled with the needles. Is there a traditional medicine practitioner in your family?" Aria thought about Georgina Harris, the woman who used to be her grandmother while she was living with the Kents. Georgina was the only one who showed her any kindness. She came up with a solid reason. "Yes. My grandmother practices traditional medicine. She runs a care center." "No wonder. I'll introduce some clients to her soon!" "Sure." Aria thanked Francine politely. Aria didn't have the airs of a renowned doctor at all. She was a legend hiding in plain sight. The boy hadn't spoken at all since he talked to Jimmy. He just sat there quietly as he observed everything. His eyes were very bright, and he looked really adorable. After she finished talking to everyone else, Aria looked at him. "Are you still lightheaded?" He shook his head. Then, he looked up at Aria. "Miss, I'm Miles. Thanks for saving me. If it weren't for you, I would've been dead." Miles York's voice was very sweet. His eyes were round, and his face was very smooth and cute. He did a cute little bow when he thanked Aria. "Your name is Miles? Where is your family?" Aria asked with a raised eyebrow. "They're all inside!" Miles said as he pointed behind him at the Caesar Hotel. Not just anyone could get in there at the moment. Chapter 7 Saved Someone Important People in the crowd exclaimed in surprise and started talking. "Everyone in Caesar Hotel today is quite important. I heard that there are a lot of prominent medical families in there." "Then this boyβ¦" Aria wasn't surprised at all. After all, Miles was very well-dressed. The watch he was wearing on his wrist was quite expensive as well. "Remember to bring bodyguards when you come out next time," Aria said as she packed her medical kit up. When Miles realized that she was leaving, he clung to her leg. Aria couldn't get on the bicycle, so she looked down at him. Miles didn't speak. He just held on to her sleeve. He took a step whenever she did. They were going nowhere like that. She stopped in her tracks. "I'll take you back to your parents." "Okay!" Miles got what he wanted. He nodded and said, "I'll have my parents thank you properly, miss." Aria adjusted his collar for him. "No need for that. I don't take payment for helping kids." "Andβ¦" Miles shifted his gaze. "Do you have a boyfriend, miss?" Aria stood up straight. "No." "Then, I'll ask my brother, Landon, to be your boyfriend as thanks." Miles smiled as he started describing Landon. "Landon doesn't like to talk, but he's very handsome. He makes a lot of money, too. It'll be good for your ego if you go out with him. A lot of pretty ladies want to marry him, you know." Aria smiled when she heard that. "I have no plans of getting married right now." "Okay," Miles replied with disappointment as he drooped his head. He continued walking with Aria dejectedly. When they arrived at the hotel entrance, he looked at Aria enthusiastically and said, "Miss, why don't you meet with Landon first? You should make your decision after you see him." He was sure that Aria would fall for Landon when she saw him. He was a very handsome man, after all. Aria smiled. "You're trying so hard to promote your brother to me. Does he know about this?" "He's always sick. Everyone in the family has been telling him to get married. You're such a skilled doctor, and you're pretty, too. I'm sure a lot of people want to be your boyfriend. So, I'm just trying to get you to give Landon a chance." Aria looked at his parched lips. Then, she went to buy him a bottle of water and some crackers. "Stop talking so much. You're still recovering." Miles was very obedient. He ate whatever Aria gave him. He couldn't open the bottle himself, so he raised it up to Aria and said weakly, "Please help me open it." Landon's assistant, Troy Jepson, came to meet Miles and was shocked to see what was happening. He was sure that the woman with Miles was that imposter that the Kents kicked out. Why was Miles with her? He even asked her to help him open his bottle. Did he change his entire personality? Something flashed in Troy's eyes, but he quickly suppressed his emotions. He knew who Aria was, but she didn't know him. Troy took care not to expose his identity as he walked up to them in a hurry. "Mr. Miles! I've finally found you. I'm so glad you're okay." "This pretty lady saved me," Miles said as he held Aria's hand. He had a defiant look on his face. It was like he was finally himself again. Troy politely said, "Thanks, Ms. Carver." Aria looked at him calmly. "He already thanked me." Her attitude made it hard for Troy to grasp the situation. So, he said to Miles, "Mr. Miles, Mr. Landon called in some favors to track you down. He's in the car right now. He didn't even take his afternoon meds yet." Miles looked up in surprise. He didn't expect Landon to come out here personally. | Indulge in story | 598 | https://facebook.com/61552702618591 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717830000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879546 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410693 | 1723321809 | 995 | 785695356970863 | 1 | 1.8811915023045E+15 | 1718002800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 144939265372419 | 0 | Indulge in story | 120214343181970348 | shgjfh.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πRead the next chaptersπ | https://shgjfh.com/market/meganovel/13?lpid=11844&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717762144 | 1.4493926537242E+14 | Indulge in story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447256994_962585992003167_5083994497026705008_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=xvSiU4eM0HIQ7kNvgGaLPgU&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDfHZvL4fwCX9_hfvxj2Lbnpddf0pG1uD9Gqv9GoXUxJw&oe=6672B331 | person_profile | 0 | Indulge in story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447590700_1016773316708518_420838429285916977_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=KYgitKO0u2cQ7kNvgF55Rj_&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDyXqxq5I-PXqx461m_CajttJGgWqxofCm2izR9EzU9dg&oe=6672B6AD | 0 | 3 | The roads were soaked. It had been raining for a whole day in Southbury. Aria Carver's backpack was thrown out of the door by the butler in disdain. "Mr. Kent doesn't want to see you, Ms. Carver. So, I have to say some words in his stead. Your birth parents are in the countryside. Your father's last name is Carver. "The Kent family mistook you for their daughter in the past. But now that Ms. Lily has been found, I hope that you can do what's best for everyone and stop contacting the Kent family." The butler, Alfred Dun, took out a card. "Here's 10,000. Mr. Kent instructed me to give it to you as compensation." "No need." Aria didn't even look at the card as she picked up her backpack. Alfred looked at her in disdain. She didn't want the money? Was she acting tough? She should really think about her circumstances. The Kents had found their real daughter. They wouldn't want a country bumpkin like her anymore. She was an embarrassment. "As you wish, Ms. Carver." Alfred closed the door with a loud bang. Aria paid him no mind. She only took a black backpack when she left the Kent Residence. She stood proud and tall. She left the Kent Residence without taking anything that didn't belong to her. The rain falling on her made her look a little defeated. The people on the second floor saw her and started snickering. They didn't care if she could hear them. "She's finally gone." "I know right? I was so afraid that she might not want to go back to the countryside, and would try to stay with us." Aria didn't respond, but a sneer appeared on her face. Were the Kents ignorant? Yes, they were. Aria chewed on a gummy absentmindedly. She had a head of long and glossy black hair. Her face was a little pale, but it didn't make her look weak. Instead, she looked quite mysterious. β¦ At the same time, the Carver family was having an international meeting at their home in Janovin. Warren Carver sat at the head of the table. He held a cane in his hands and looked really intimidating. "It's been so many years. Is there still no leads on your sister?" He was talking to his six grandsons. The Carver family was the wealthiest in Janovin. The six scions of the family were all very remarkable people. Any single one of them would cause a stir if they went out in the open. At that moment, they all looked saddened. Longing and sorrow filled their eyes. They were the ones that lost their youngest sister back then. She was only a baby when she went missing. She never caused a fuss and was always very adorable. It had been 18 years. They had never stopped looking since. All the leads went cold at a secluded village in the mountains. They had no idea how many times the human traffickers moved their baby sister around. "Grandpa, let's keep looking. We will definitely find her!" Suddenly, a chubby man, Frank Levin, rushed into the room with some documents in his hand. He panted as he said, "Mr. Chairman! Little Ms. Carver has been found!" Warren, who was usually composed, stood up immediately. He was so excited that his hands were shaking. "Where is she? Send someone to pick her up right now!" Frank handed the documents over. "She's in Southbury. We're still looking into her exact location." "Then let's go to Southbury! Get a car ready!" Warren was very excited. β¦ It was evening in Southbury. Aria, who had been kicked out of the Kent Residence, didn't go to the countryside. She waited for the rain to stop before she headed back to the place she was staying at. It was a very insignificant neighborhood. When she was parking her car, someone called out to her, "You're back, Aria." "Yeah. I'm back." Aria smiled. Maria Goode, a fruit vendor, handed her an apple. "I haven't seen you in two weeks. No one else could help me with my arthritis." "Don't forget about me, Aria. My hand always trembles when I'm playing chess." Everyone knew that Aria was a very beloved figure in the Elmer district. Some retired government officials loved to chat with her as she treated their conditions. The place might look plain and simple on the surface, but there was more than met the eye. The person who talked about his hand was Jasper Garland, a former national chess champion. Aria didn't delve into the identities of the other residents. She chose to live in this neighborhood because it was a nice place. Chapter 2 More Than Meets the Eye "I'll offer treatment for everyone at the community square tomorrow." Then, Aria reminded them, "Remember to take the medicine. Don't stay up late to watch soap operas. They won't end so soon." "The Tiara" was all the rage in the Elmer district at that time. All the older men and women were hooked on it. A lot of them looked guilty after Aria said that. "Weβ¦We will sleep at 10:00 pm from now on." In the past, no one could have imagined that this group of people would be so obedient to one person. A lot of them had made great contributions to the country. Even their identities were kept a secret. Elmer district's community manager, Joel Hayes, had been hoping that Aria would come back sooner. He could finally breathe a sigh of relief. "Dr. Carver, I have been keeping an eye on your house. I've not allowed anyone to approach your property." "Thanks for the hard work." Aria bowed slightly and handed him an apple. Joel accepted the apple with a smile. "It's no trouble at all. I trust you won't be leaving anytime soon?" A community manager like him could never keep the neighborhood's residents under control. "Yeah. I won't be leaving," Aria said as she took the key. Joel replied joyfully, "That's wonderful! I'll leave you be so you can unpack your stuff. Let me know if you need anything." Aria nodded. She inserted the key and opened the door after Joel left. The lock was very old. It didn't seem like there was anything special about it. But after she undid the first lock, an LCD lock appeared before her. "Confirmation to proceed with iris scan." Aria said casually, "Do it." "Proceeding with iris scan. Please wait." "Iris scan completed. Welcome home, master." It was a very classy computerized voice that hadn't been activated for some time. The metal door opened automatically with a "clack". The house was instantly illuminated. There was a bookshelf that was about six feet tall which was filled with medical books and containers with herbs in them. There was a lot of greenery at the door. Most of them were herbs. All of them were labeled. In the middle of the living room sat a very cool-looking black and red motorcycle. Aria walked over to the kitchen and took a bottle of water from the fridge. She wanted to drink some water and watch some TV. Suddenly, the phone that was charging on her desk rang. It was a custom ringtone. "Richie Carver, wakey wakey, It's time for work! Richie Carver, wakey wakey, It's time for work! Richieβ" Aria took the call when it was about to ring for the third time. "Speak." "Boss, there's a huge job in Southbury. Should we take it?" Aria took a sip of the water. "What's it about?" "The richest man in Janovin is looking for his long-lost granddaughter. They say she's in Southbury. It shouldn't be hard to find her. This job pays a lot." Aria yawned. "Not interested." "Hold on! Please wait, boss! There's another one. The type you like! It's also a huge job!" The person on the other end of the call was very servile. Aria placed her chin on the palm lazily. "Tell me about it." "The York family of Janovin is looking for you. They're offering 10 million for you to treat a patient. "They also said that people who can find you or provide information about you will be rewarded as well. They're so stacked!" "Why are they so generous?" Aria went into work mode immediately. She tapped the phone and said, "Send me the details of the job." "Sure thing!" The next moment, the floor-to-ceiling windows became a screen, and the job information was projected on it. The York family had been around for ages. They had protected the country for generations. If Aria's memory served correctly, they even lived in the Guardian Mansion once. The York family had sent out invitations to quite a few renowned doctors. The invitation was in effect for a week. The location for the consultation was set at the Caesar Hotel in Southbury. They wanted to get a doctor who would be able to treat the illness of Landon York, who was in charge of the York family operations. There wasn't much description of Landon's condition. They only mentioned that he had been frail for a long time and that his condition couldn't be revealed to the public. It seemed like there was more than met the eye. Aria stretched her legs. "I'll take this job." Chapter 3 Saving Someone on the Streets "You have a good eye, boss! I'll prepare an account to receive payment from the Yorks!" Aria said calmly, "No need to rush. Let me sleep first. Do it tomorrow." Other than making money, Aria's biggest interest was treating all sorts of rare diseases. This job from the York family was a nice one for her. Honestly, she was probably the only person who wasn't fazed by the York's visit to Southbury. All of the prominent families in the city were scrambling into action. A family like the Kents had to reach out to everyone they knew and utilize all of their connections in an attempt to get an invitation from the Yorks. Even regular people were talking about how the city was especially lively that month. First, the richest man in Janovin came to look for his granddaughter. Then, the York family came to receive treatment. Some said that the Yorks came to Southbury because the legendary Whiz Doctor was in town. There were a lot of rumors about the Whiz Doctor, but some of them were quite outlandish. This time, the Whiz Doctor might actually appear due to the York family's invitation. β¦ The following morning, Aria woke up late. Like any other working adult, she didn't feel like leaving her cool and comfortable room or her cozy bed to get out into the morning sun. But she had to work. So, she got up and washed her face. Without putting any makeup on, she grabbed her bag and left. In order to avoid the morning rush, she scanned a shared bicycle. "Are you heading out to work, Aria?" "Yeah." She was greeting everyone along the way and also had a piece of toast in her mouth given to her by Kenneth Kane. She rode the bicycle steadily without rushing and merged into traffic after a while. β¦ After 30 minutes, Aria arrived at Southbury's renowned Caesar Hotel. Everyone at the entrance and the lobby looked very busy. In the past few days, almost all of the luxury cars in the city gathered at the hotel. In comparison, Aria stood out a lot as the only person who came on a shared bicycle. As soon as she came to a stop, Jose Garcia, a security guard, came over to chase her away. "Get lost, you broke college student. The hotel is not open to the public today." She planted one foot on the ground and met his gaze. Then, she said coolly, "I'm here to save someone's life." "You? Save someone's life?" Jose burst into laughter. "Young lady, you're still so young, but you're quite the braggart." Aria paused for a moment. Then, she showed him proof of her accepting the job on her phone. "Please tell the people inside that Dr. Whiz has arrived." "Dr. Whiz? You can call me Dr. Genius!" Jose gave her an impatient look. "I've seen many invitations. You're the first one to show it on the phoneβ¦" Jose noticed a luxury car rolling up as he spoke. So, he waved at Aria. "Go. Get out of the way." Then, he rushed over to the car and opened the door. "Welcome, Dr. Gunther and Ms. Kent. I'll inform the staff to prepare some tea for you." The people in the car just nodded at him. They didn't even reply. But Jose had a big smile on his face like he had won the lottery. The car drove past Aria. Lily looked out the window and recognized Aria. Her gaze wavered slightly. The old woman next to her, Salome Gunther, asked, "What's wrong, Lily?" She smiled softly. "Nothing." Aria's gaze remained calm. She walked away resolutely. There was even an amused expression on her face. She used to be someone who held people's lives in her hands, yet she had become the target of another person's shunning. Oh, how the mighty had fallen. Aria pursed her lips. She offered treatment to patients based on her mood and would never help those who were greedy or selfish. She had decided to give up on offering treatment to the York family's patient. So, she took out her phone and was about to reject the job. Suddenly, someone on the sidewalk screamed. "Oh, no! Someone has fainted!" People started flocking toward the voice. "Oh, God! It's a child!" "His face is so paleβ¦" Hearing the commotion, Aria didn't hesitate at all. She parked her bicycle and rushed toward the crowd. The little boy on the ground was only three or four years old. His forehead was drenched. It seemed like he had been sweating profusely. A woman named Francine Gibson grabbed a man in a white lab coat. "Young man, you're a doctor, right? Please save the boy." "No can do, lady. The kid's family isn't here. I can't make any decisions without consulting them." The man in the lab coat, Jimmy Cornell, added with disdain, "Besides, I don't provide treatment to just anyone." Aria heard the exchange between the two of them. She pushed through the crowd and said in a professional manner, "Please give the boy some space. Let the air flow through. The patient needs fresh air." Her tone sounded so authoritative that no one doubted her. Then, she crouched down and placed her fingers on the boy's neck. Francine said anxiously, "Young lady, how old are you? Can you really make him better?" Chapter 4 Doubt "That's right, young lady. We should probably call an ambulance. This boy appears to be lost. I called out for some time just now, but no one came over," an old man said. He was concerned that Aria might be blamed if anything happened to the boy. Aria quickly unbuttoned the boy's coat and brought him to some shade. "Don't worry. I'm a licensed doctor." Then, she opened her bag and took out a medical kit. It was equipped with needles and scalpels of all sizes, all arranged neatly in rows. Aria felt the boy's pulse again. "Stop it! How can you simply touch the patient?" Jimmy yelled. He couldn't allow Aria to do as she pleased. She ignored him and continued to monitor the boy's pulse and heart rate. Jimmy sneered. "I'm Jimmy Cornell, currently studying at Janovin Medical University. My mentor is Dr. Salome Gunther. I'm not just a random bystander. You say you're a licensed doctor? How old are you?" Aria continued to ignore him. Her focus was on the boy. She took out a needle and began to sterilize it. "I'm talking to you! Even that old man knows we should wait for an ambulance. Why can't you get it through your head?" This was the first time Jimmy had been completely ignored by someone. Aria had one knee to the ground. Her demeanor was cool and emotionless. "Do nothing and wait for the ambulance? Wait as the optimal treatment period passes by? Is that what your mentor taught you?" "Who said we should do nothing while we wait for the ambulance? You're the one delaying treatment with those needles. Please don't show off your pseudo-science methods, and let me perform CPR on the patient." Aria shot him a cold glare after she heard what he said. Who would've thought that such a pretty young lady could have such a vicious gaze? "He has a heat stroke. Do you think CPR would help? What a worthless doctor," Aria said as she applied pressure to the boy's fingers. Her tone was glacial. Jimmy lost his cool immediately. "Who are you calling worthless? Do you even know who my mentor is?" He had just received an award overseas for his medical skills. He was incredulous at the woman's audacity to doubt his abilities. "I'm not interested in your mentor. Move." Jimmy's eyes turned bloodshot. "I'll let it slide this time since you're just a lowly traditional medicine practitioner. His lips are turning blue. It's a heart issue." "Hypoxia and ischemia might impact the respiratory system and cause the lips to turn blue." Aria looked at Jimmy with a cold stare, then added, "But a heat stroke can cause that symptom, too. The difference is that his pulse is steady. Moreover, his lips are parched. "It's clear that he had been exposed to high temperatures for a prolonged period. You don't even look at these symptoms, yet you claim to be a medical student?" "That's true. You have to look at the symptoms first. I was taught that too," someone in the crowd agreed with Aria. Then, people in the crowd started chattering. "It seems like the Janovin Medical University isn't anything special at all." "That young lady is way more reliable. I noticed she was quite professional when taking the boy's pulse." Jimmy couldn't take the humiliation anymore. "Alright. So, he has a heat stroke. Will your acupuncture cure him of it? If so, why are we even learning modern medicine?" "You can't represent everyone else who practices modern medicine." Aria glared at him icily. "I'll say it one more time. Move." There were two types of people she hated the mostβthose who looked down on traditional medicine and lousy doctors getting in the way of her treatment. "Sure, I'll move. I'd like to see how skilled you are." Jimmy crossed his arms. "If you can heal him with these needles, I'll get on my knees and apologize to you." "I'm looking forward to that." Aria located the acupuncture points and raised her hand. Chapter 5 Acupuncture Works Aria stuck the first needle into the boy without any hesitation. The boy immediately frowned. It was like he was regaining his consciousness. It looked like he was struggling as his brows furrowed even deeper. Someone in the crowd yelled, "He's waking up!" Jimmy was stunned. His face grew pale. "This can't beβ¦" How did she pull that off? Just one needle? Could a person really regain consciousness from that? Aria raised her hand again. Her gaze was focused, and she looked very composed. She stuck the second needle into the boy's fingertips to draw some blood. Right after she did that, the boy opened his eyes. His pupils were dark and round, while his eyelashes were extraordinarily long. He glanced at Aria quietly, but his face was still quite pale. Everyone in the crowd was stunned. Francine spoke up, "Young lady, you healed with a few pokes of the needle?" Aria applied some light pressure on the needle. She saw that the bloodletting was done, so she removed the needle and pressed a cotton ball on the wound to stop the bleeding. "Madam, it's not that simple. Applying acupuncture to the fingertips can help with dissipating the heat. He was inflicted with heat stroke, which was caused by the high temperature. I just helped him cool down with acupuncture." "Spare me the theatrics. That kid hasn't spoken a word since he regained consciousness. You probably left him with some side effects with your treatment!" Jimmy snorted. Francine was a little annoyed. "The boy has already regained consciousness. Why are you talking about side effects? Are you just trying to get out of apologizing to the young lady?" "That's none of your business!" Jimmy looked at Francine and suddenly sneered. "I understand now. You're all in on this. You pulled me here, and she's trying to scam me. "This is an organized scam, isn't it? I knew traditional medicine practitioners were all fake." Aria's expression grew cold when she heard that. She was about to raise her hand. Then, the boy spoke up in a weak but icy tone, "Traditional medicine has always been an essential part of Celestria's culture. You're a lousy doctor, sir. You should put more effort into studying." "Youβ¦" Jimmy was at a loss for words. The boy spoke up right after he said he wasn't healed. The boy even spoke out against him. It was clear that the boy wasn't on his side. Francine burst out into laughter. "Hey, kid. He's talking about you. You should put more effort into studying." "I won't waste my breath with you bottom feeders anymore. You're just a group of peasants," Jimmy said in disdain. Aria flicked a needle in his direction. It brushed past his face and got stuck in a tree nearby. Such a violent display caused Jimmy to freeze up. Even his legs felt like they were about to give out. Aria smiled as she said casually, "Don't you think you've forgotten about something?" She was just a young woman, but she had a very vicious and commanding presence, which caused Jimmy to feel fear. He tried to keep his cool. "What did I forget?" "An apology," Aria said as she tapped on her phone. She looked devilishly charming. Jimmy didn't want to do that. So, he said arrogantly, "Everyone makes mistakes. I don't have any more time to waste with a traditional medicine practitioner like you." Francine couldn't stand his attitude anymore. "Is this how a student of Dr. Salome Gunther would act? You lost a bet to that young woman, and yet you refuse to apologize? Such ethicsβ¦" "What's wrong with my ethics? Who here can prove I lost a bet to her? None of you will ever have enough money to pay for Dr. Gunther's treatment. "Me being here and providing free medical services is an honor for all of you. How dare you peasants keep babbling about such nonsense? Don't you dare cause trouble here! Do you even know where you are right now?" Francine's hands trembled in anger. "Youβ¦ You!" Jimmy snorted. He looked at all of them with utter disdain. They were in a modern society. He didn't believe that Aria would dare to do anything to him. Chapter 6 Teaching Him a Lesson Jimmy had always thought that the common folk were beneath him. He didn't notice that Aria's gaze changed as she looked up. Viciousness and contempt filled her eyes. She casually toyed with a piece of candy in her palm. Then, she flicked toward Jimmy. He felt his knee give out as he fell to the ground. "Ah!" The pain caused him to frown. He tried to get up but realized that he couldn't move his body at all. He couldn't talk, and his hands wouldn't budge. It felt like his movements had been sealed with the attack. Aria walked up to him and said calmly, "As a medical student, you failed miserably at determining the patient's symptoms, and you even declared a verdict without a second thought. "Being a doctor doesn't mean you're better than anyone else. It's a job for you to help people in need. You're unskilled and unethical. Now that you're on your knees, I'll accept your apology. Consider this a lesson I'm teaching you in your mentor's stead." "You!" Jimmy's eyes were filled with hatred. Aria leaned in and whispered in his ear. "Since you're such a shameless person, it'll probably be okay if you remain on your knees here for a couple of hours." "What did you do to me? I want to call the cops! I have been assaulted!" Jimmy yelled. Aria smiled. "And who can prove anything? Mr. Cornell, you got on your knees yourself. I didn't even touch you." "I know right? He deserves that!" The people in the crowd felt great satisfaction seeing Jimmy in that state. "The young lady didn't do anything. Stop lying!" That was the truth. He was the one who refused to help the boy. He was also the one who was running his mouth after Aria provided treatment for the boy. He was also the one who had been cursing at everyone in the crowd and was shameless enough to refuse to apologize. He was a true disgrace to the medical profession. Did he really think he could just say all those things without repercussions? He even tried to blame Aria for his condition. The women in the crowd started to yell, "Everyone, come and take a look! There's an unskilled medical student here. He's on his knees to apologize right now!" "You! All of you!" Jimmy's face was flushed, and his breath was labored. That was why people didn't mess with the ordinary citizens who were brave, kind, and despised delinquency. Jimmy was a fool for being so domineering in front of them. The more people looked at him, the lower Jimmy's head hung. He wished the ground would open up and swallow him up. He was afraid that someone would recognize him. The malice in his eyes grew as he looked at Aria. They were both in the medical industry. So, they were bound to meet again someday. He swore he would get back at her the next time they met. Aria didn't spare him another glance. Besides, if they crossed paths again, she didn't mind breaking his legs. Quite a lot of the older people in the crowd asked for Aria's contact information. They had seen how she performed acupuncture on the boy. It was clear that she was an extremely skilled doctor. They were determined to secure her contact information. Aria didn't turn any of them down, so she added them to her contacts. Francine asked enthusiastically, "Young lady, you were so skilled with the needles. Is there a traditional medicine practitioner in your family?" Aria thought about Georgina Harris, the woman who used to be her grandmother while she was living with the Kents. Georgina was the only one who showed her any kindness. She came up with a solid reason. "Yes. My grandmother practices traditional medicine. She runs a care center." "No wonder. I'll introduce some clients to her soon!" "Sure." Aria thanked Francine politely. Aria didn't have the airs of a renowned doctor at all. She was a legend hiding in plain sight. The boy hadn't spoken at all since he talked to Jimmy. He just sat there quietly as he observed everything. His eyes were very bright, and he looked really adorable. After she finished talking to everyone else, Aria looked at him. "Are you still lightheaded?" He shook his head. Then, he looked up at Aria. "Miss, I'm Miles. Thanks for saving me. If it weren't for you, I would've been dead." Miles York's voice was very sweet. His eyes were round, and his face was very smooth and cute. He did a cute little bow when he thanked Aria. "Your name is Miles? Where is your family?" Aria asked with a raised eyebrow. "They're all inside!" Miles said as he pointed behind him at the Caesar Hotel. Not just anyone could get in there at the moment. Chapter 7 Saved Someone Important People in the crowd exclaimed in surprise and started talking. "Everyone in Caesar Hotel today is quite important. I heard that there are a lot of prominent medical families in there." "Then this boyβ¦" Aria wasn't surprised at all. After all, Miles was very well-dressed. The watch he was wearing on his wrist was quite expensive as well. "Remember to bring bodyguards when you come out next time," Aria said as she packed her medical kit up. When Miles realized that she was leaving, he clung to her leg. Aria couldn't get on the bicycle, so she looked down at him. Miles didn't speak. He just held on to her sleeve. He took a step whenever she did. They were going nowhere like that. She stopped in her tracks. "I'll take you back to your parents." "Okay!" Miles got what he wanted. He nodded and said, "I'll have my parents thank you properly, miss." Aria adjusted his collar for him. "No need for that. I don't take payment for helping kids." "Andβ¦" Miles shifted his gaze. "Do you have a boyfriend, miss?" Aria stood up straight. "No." "Then, I'll ask my brother, Landon, to be your boyfriend as thanks." Miles smiled as he started describing Landon. "Landon doesn't like to talk, but he's very handsome. He makes a lot of money, too. It'll be good for your ego if you go out with him. A lot of pretty ladies want to marry him, you know." Aria smiled when she heard that. "I have no plans of getting married right now." "Okay," Miles replied with disappointment as he drooped his head. He continued walking with Aria dejectedly. When they arrived at the hotel entrance, he looked at Aria enthusiastically and said, "Miss, why don't you meet with Landon first? You should make your decision after you see him." He was sure that Aria would fall for Landon when she saw him. He was a very handsome man, after all. Aria smiled. "You're trying so hard to promote your brother to me. Does he know about this?" "He's always sick. Everyone in the family has been telling him to get married. You're such a skilled doctor, and you're pretty, too. I'm sure a lot of people want to be your boyfriend. So, I'm just trying to get you to give Landon a chance." Aria looked at his parched lips. Then, she went to buy him a bottle of water and some crackers. "Stop talking so much. You're still recovering." Miles was very obedient. He ate whatever Aria gave him. He couldn't open the bottle himself, so he raised it up to Aria and said weakly, "Please help me open it." Landon's assistant, Troy Jepson, came to meet Miles and was shocked to see what was happening. He was sure that the woman with Miles was that imposter that the Kents kicked out. Why was Miles with her? He even asked her to help him open his bottle. Did he change his entire personality? Something flashed in Troy's eyes, but he quickly suppressed his emotions. He knew who Aria was, but she didn't know him. Troy took care not to expose his identity as he walked up to them in a hurry. "Mr. Miles! I've finally found you. I'm so glad you're okay." "This pretty lady saved me," Miles said as he held Aria's hand. He had a defiant look on his face. It was like he was finally himself again. Troy politely said, "Thanks, Ms. Carver." Aria looked at him calmly. "He already thanked me." Her attitude made it hard for Troy to grasp the situation. So, he said to Miles, "Mr. Miles, Mr. Landon called in some favors to track you down. He's in the car right now. He didn't even take his afternoon meds yet." Miles looked up in surprise. He didn't expect Landon to come out here personally. | Indulge in story | 598 | https://facebook.com/61552702618591 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717830000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879548 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410693 | 1723321809 | 995 | 785695356970863 | 1 | 1.8811915023045E+15 | 1718002800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 144939265372419 | 0 | Indulge in story | 120214343181970348 | shgjfh.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πRead the next chaptersπ | https://shgjfh.com/market/meganovel/13?lpid=11844&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717762144 | 1.4493926537242E+14 | Indulge in story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447256994_962585992003167_5083994497026705008_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=xvSiU4eM0HIQ7kNvgGaLPgU&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDfHZvL4fwCX9_hfvxj2Lbnpddf0pG1uD9Gqv9GoXUxJw&oe=6672B331 | person_profile | 0 | Indulge in story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447590700_1016773316708518_420838429285916977_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=KYgitKO0u2cQ7kNvgF55Rj_&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDyXqxq5I-PXqx461m_CajttJGgWqxofCm2izR9EzU9dg&oe=6672B6AD | 0 | 3 | The roads were soaked. It had been raining for a whole day in Southbury. Aria Carver's backpack was thrown out of the door by the butler in disdain. "Mr. Kent doesn't want to see you, Ms. Carver. So, I have to say some words in his stead. Your birth parents are in the countryside. Your father's last name is Carver. "The Kent family mistook you for their daughter in the past. But now that Ms. Lily has been found, I hope that you can do what's best for everyone and stop contacting the Kent family." The butler, Alfred Dun, took out a card. "Here's 10,000. Mr. Kent instructed me to give it to you as compensation." "No need." Aria didn't even look at the card as she picked up her backpack. Alfred looked at her in disdain. She didn't want the money? Was she acting tough? She should really think about her circumstances. The Kents had found their real daughter. They wouldn't want a country bumpkin like her anymore. She was an embarrassment. "As you wish, Ms. Carver." Alfred closed the door with a loud bang. Aria paid him no mind. She only took a black backpack when she left the Kent Residence. She stood proud and tall. She left the Kent Residence without taking anything that didn't belong to her. The rain falling on her made her look a little defeated. The people on the second floor saw her and started snickering. They didn't care if she could hear them. "She's finally gone." "I know right? I was so afraid that she might not want to go back to the countryside, and would try to stay with us." Aria didn't respond, but a sneer appeared on her face. Were the Kents ignorant? Yes, they were. Aria chewed on a gummy absentmindedly. She had a head of long and glossy black hair. Her face was a little pale, but it didn't make her look weak. Instead, she looked quite mysterious. β¦ At the same time, the Carver family was having an international meeting at their home in Janovin. Warren Carver sat at the head of the table. He held a cane in his hands and looked really intimidating. "It's been so many years. Is there still no leads on your sister?" He was talking to his six grandsons. The Carver family was the wealthiest in Janovin. The six scions of the family were all very remarkable people. Any single one of them would cause a stir if they went out in the open. At that moment, they all looked saddened. Longing and sorrow filled their eyes. They were the ones that lost their youngest sister back then. She was only a baby when she went missing. She never caused a fuss and was always very adorable. It had been 18 years. They had never stopped looking since. All the leads went cold at a secluded village in the mountains. They had no idea how many times the human traffickers moved their baby sister around. "Grandpa, let's keep looking. We will definitely find her!" Suddenly, a chubby man, Frank Levin, rushed into the room with some documents in his hand. He panted as he said, "Mr. Chairman! Little Ms. Carver has been found!" Warren, who was usually composed, stood up immediately. He was so excited that his hands were shaking. "Where is she? Send someone to pick her up right now!" Frank handed the documents over. "She's in Southbury. We're still looking into her exact location." "Then let's go to Southbury! Get a car ready!" Warren was very excited. β¦ It was evening in Southbury. Aria, who had been kicked out of the Kent Residence, didn't go to the countryside. She waited for the rain to stop before she headed back to the place she was staying at. It was a very insignificant neighborhood. When she was parking her car, someone called out to her, "You're back, Aria." "Yeah. I'm back." Aria smiled. Maria Goode, a fruit vendor, handed her an apple. "I haven't seen you in two weeks. No one else could help me with my arthritis." "Don't forget about me, Aria. My hand always trembles when I'm playing chess." Everyone knew that Aria was a very beloved figure in the Elmer district. Some retired government officials loved to chat with her as she treated their conditions. The place might look plain and simple on the surface, but there was more than met the eye. The person who talked about his hand was Jasper Garland, a former national chess champion. Aria didn't delve into the identities of the other residents. She chose to live in this neighborhood because it was a nice place. Chapter 2 More Than Meets the Eye "I'll offer treatment for everyone at the community square tomorrow." Then, Aria reminded them, "Remember to take the medicine. Don't stay up late to watch soap operas. They won't end so soon." "The Tiara" was all the rage in the Elmer district at that time. All the older men and women were hooked on it. A lot of them looked guilty after Aria said that. "Weβ¦We will sleep at 10:00 pm from now on." In the past, no one could have imagined that this group of people would be so obedient to one person. A lot of them had made great contributions to the country. Even their identities were kept a secret. Elmer district's community manager, Joel Hayes, had been hoping that Aria would come back sooner. He could finally breathe a sigh of relief. "Dr. Carver, I have been keeping an eye on your house. I've not allowed anyone to approach your property." "Thanks for the hard work." Aria bowed slightly and handed him an apple. Joel accepted the apple with a smile. "It's no trouble at all. I trust you won't be leaving anytime soon?" A community manager like him could never keep the neighborhood's residents under control. "Yeah. I won't be leaving," Aria said as she took the key. Joel replied joyfully, "That's wonderful! I'll leave you be so you can unpack your stuff. Let me know if you need anything." Aria nodded. She inserted the key and opened the door after Joel left. The lock was very old. It didn't seem like there was anything special about it. But after she undid the first lock, an LCD lock appeared before her. "Confirmation to proceed with iris scan." Aria said casually, "Do it." "Proceeding with iris scan. Please wait." "Iris scan completed. Welcome home, master." It was a very classy computerized voice that hadn't been activated for some time. The metal door opened automatically with a "clack". The house was instantly illuminated. There was a bookshelf that was about six feet tall which was filled with medical books and containers with herbs in them. There was a lot of greenery at the door. Most of them were herbs. All of them were labeled. In the middle of the living room sat a very cool-looking black and red motorcycle. Aria walked over to the kitchen and took a bottle of water from the fridge. She wanted to drink some water and watch some TV. Suddenly, the phone that was charging on her desk rang. It was a custom ringtone. "Richie Carver, wakey wakey, It's time for work! Richie Carver, wakey wakey, It's time for work! Richieβ" Aria took the call when it was about to ring for the third time. "Speak." "Boss, there's a huge job in Southbury. Should we take it?" Aria took a sip of the water. "What's it about?" "The richest man in Janovin is looking for his long-lost granddaughter. They say she's in Southbury. It shouldn't be hard to find her. This job pays a lot." Aria yawned. "Not interested." "Hold on! Please wait, boss! There's another one. The type you like! It's also a huge job!" The person on the other end of the call was very servile. Aria placed her chin on the palm lazily. "Tell me about it." "The York family of Janovin is looking for you. They're offering 10 million for you to treat a patient. "They also said that people who can find you or provide information about you will be rewarded as well. They're so stacked!" "Why are they so generous?" Aria went into work mode immediately. She tapped the phone and said, "Send me the details of the job." "Sure thing!" The next moment, the floor-to-ceiling windows became a screen, and the job information was projected on it. The York family had been around for ages. They had protected the country for generations. If Aria's memory served correctly, they even lived in the Guardian Mansion once. The York family had sent out invitations to quite a few renowned doctors. The invitation was in effect for a week. The location for the consultation was set at the Caesar Hotel in Southbury. They wanted to get a doctor who would be able to treat the illness of Landon York, who was in charge of the York family operations. There wasn't much description of Landon's condition. They only mentioned that he had been frail for a long time and that his condition couldn't be revealed to the public. It seemed like there was more than met the eye. Aria stretched her legs. "I'll take this job." Chapter 3 Saving Someone on the Streets "You have a good eye, boss! I'll prepare an account to receive payment from the Yorks!" Aria said calmly, "No need to rush. Let me sleep first. Do it tomorrow." Other than making money, Aria's biggest interest was treating all sorts of rare diseases. This job from the York family was a nice one for her. Honestly, she was probably the only person who wasn't fazed by the York's visit to Southbury. All of the prominent families in the city were scrambling into action. A family like the Kents had to reach out to everyone they knew and utilize all of their connections in an attempt to get an invitation from the Yorks. Even regular people were talking about how the city was especially lively that month. First, the richest man in Janovin came to look for his granddaughter. Then, the York family came to receive treatment. Some said that the Yorks came to Southbury because the legendary Whiz Doctor was in town. There were a lot of rumors about the Whiz Doctor, but some of them were quite outlandish. This time, the Whiz Doctor might actually appear due to the York family's invitation. β¦ The following morning, Aria woke up late. Like any other working adult, she didn't feel like leaving her cool and comfortable room or her cozy bed to get out into the morning sun. But she had to work. So, she got up and washed her face. Without putting any makeup on, she grabbed her bag and left. In order to avoid the morning rush, she scanned a shared bicycle. "Are you heading out to work, Aria?" "Yeah." She was greeting everyone along the way and also had a piece of toast in her mouth given to her by Kenneth Kane. She rode the bicycle steadily without rushing and merged into traffic after a while. β¦ After 30 minutes, Aria arrived at Southbury's renowned Caesar Hotel. Everyone at the entrance and the lobby looked very busy. In the past few days, almost all of the luxury cars in the city gathered at the hotel. In comparison, Aria stood out a lot as the only person who came on a shared bicycle. As soon as she came to a stop, Jose Garcia, a security guard, came over to chase her away. "Get lost, you broke college student. The hotel is not open to the public today." She planted one foot on the ground and met his gaze. Then, she said coolly, "I'm here to save someone's life." "You? Save someone's life?" Jose burst into laughter. "Young lady, you're still so young, but you're quite the braggart." Aria paused for a moment. Then, she showed him proof of her accepting the job on her phone. "Please tell the people inside that Dr. Whiz has arrived." "Dr. Whiz? You can call me Dr. Genius!" Jose gave her an impatient look. "I've seen many invitations. You're the first one to show it on the phoneβ¦" Jose noticed a luxury car rolling up as he spoke. So, he waved at Aria. "Go. Get out of the way." Then, he rushed over to the car and opened the door. "Welcome, Dr. Gunther and Ms. Kent. I'll inform the staff to prepare some tea for you." The people in the car just nodded at him. They didn't even reply. But Jose had a big smile on his face like he had won the lottery. The car drove past Aria. Lily looked out the window and recognized Aria. Her gaze wavered slightly. The old woman next to her, Salome Gunther, asked, "What's wrong, Lily?" She smiled softly. "Nothing." Aria's gaze remained calm. She walked away resolutely. There was even an amused expression on her face. She used to be someone who held people's lives in her hands, yet she had become the target of another person's shunning. Oh, how the mighty had fallen. Aria pursed her lips. She offered treatment to patients based on her mood and would never help those who were greedy or selfish. She had decided to give up on offering treatment to the York family's patient. So, she took out her phone and was about to reject the job. Suddenly, someone on the sidewalk screamed. "Oh, no! Someone has fainted!" People started flocking toward the voice. "Oh, God! It's a child!" "His face is so paleβ¦" Hearing the commotion, Aria didn't hesitate at all. She parked her bicycle and rushed toward the crowd. The little boy on the ground was only three or four years old. His forehead was drenched. It seemed like he had been sweating profusely. A woman named Francine Gibson grabbed a man in a white lab coat. "Young man, you're a doctor, right? Please save the boy." "No can do, lady. The kid's family isn't here. I can't make any decisions without consulting them." The man in the lab coat, Jimmy Cornell, added with disdain, "Besides, I don't provide treatment to just anyone." Aria heard the exchange between the two of them. She pushed through the crowd and said in a professional manner, "Please give the boy some space. Let the air flow through. The patient needs fresh air." Her tone sounded so authoritative that no one doubted her. Then, she crouched down and placed her fingers on the boy's neck. Francine said anxiously, "Young lady, how old are you? Can you really make him better?" Chapter 4 Doubt "That's right, young lady. We should probably call an ambulance. This boy appears to be lost. I called out for some time just now, but no one came over," an old man said. He was concerned that Aria might be blamed if anything happened to the boy. Aria quickly unbuttoned the boy's coat and brought him to some shade. "Don't worry. I'm a licensed doctor." Then, she opened her bag and took out a medical kit. It was equipped with needles and scalpels of all sizes, all arranged neatly in rows. Aria felt the boy's pulse again. "Stop it! How can you simply touch the patient?" Jimmy yelled. He couldn't allow Aria to do as she pleased. She ignored him and continued to monitor the boy's pulse and heart rate. Jimmy sneered. "I'm Jimmy Cornell, currently studying at Janovin Medical University. My mentor is Dr. Salome Gunther. I'm not just a random bystander. You say you're a licensed doctor? How old are you?" Aria continued to ignore him. Her focus was on the boy. She took out a needle and began to sterilize it. "I'm talking to you! Even that old man knows we should wait for an ambulance. Why can't you get it through your head?" This was the first time Jimmy had been completely ignored by someone. Aria had one knee to the ground. Her demeanor was cool and emotionless. "Do nothing and wait for the ambulance? Wait as the optimal treatment period passes by? Is that what your mentor taught you?" "Who said we should do nothing while we wait for the ambulance? You're the one delaying treatment with those needles. Please don't show off your pseudo-science methods, and let me perform CPR on the patient." Aria shot him a cold glare after she heard what he said. Who would've thought that such a pretty young lady could have such a vicious gaze? "He has a heat stroke. Do you think CPR would help? What a worthless doctor," Aria said as she applied pressure to the boy's fingers. Her tone was glacial. Jimmy lost his cool immediately. "Who are you calling worthless? Do you even know who my mentor is?" He had just received an award overseas for his medical skills. He was incredulous at the woman's audacity to doubt his abilities. "I'm not interested in your mentor. Move." Jimmy's eyes turned bloodshot. "I'll let it slide this time since you're just a lowly traditional medicine practitioner. His lips are turning blue. It's a heart issue." "Hypoxia and ischemia might impact the respiratory system and cause the lips to turn blue." Aria looked at Jimmy with a cold stare, then added, "But a heat stroke can cause that symptom, too. The difference is that his pulse is steady. Moreover, his lips are parched. "It's clear that he had been exposed to high temperatures for a prolonged period. You don't even look at these symptoms, yet you claim to be a medical student?" "That's true. You have to look at the symptoms first. I was taught that too," someone in the crowd agreed with Aria. Then, people in the crowd started chattering. "It seems like the Janovin Medical University isn't anything special at all." "That young lady is way more reliable. I noticed she was quite professional when taking the boy's pulse." Jimmy couldn't take the humiliation anymore. "Alright. So, he has a heat stroke. Will your acupuncture cure him of it? If so, why are we even learning modern medicine?" "You can't represent everyone else who practices modern medicine." Aria glared at him icily. "I'll say it one more time. Move." There were two types of people she hated the mostβthose who looked down on traditional medicine and lousy doctors getting in the way of her treatment. "Sure, I'll move. I'd like to see how skilled you are." Jimmy crossed his arms. "If you can heal him with these needles, I'll get on my knees and apologize to you." "I'm looking forward to that." Aria located the acupuncture points and raised her hand. Chapter 5 Acupuncture Works Aria stuck the first needle into the boy without any hesitation. The boy immediately frowned. It was like he was regaining his consciousness. It looked like he was struggling as his brows furrowed even deeper. Someone in the crowd yelled, "He's waking up!" Jimmy was stunned. His face grew pale. "This can't beβ¦" How did she pull that off? Just one needle? Could a person really regain consciousness from that? Aria raised her hand again. Her gaze was focused, and she looked very composed. She stuck the second needle into the boy's fingertips to draw some blood. Right after she did that, the boy opened his eyes. His pupils were dark and round, while his eyelashes were extraordinarily long. He glanced at Aria quietly, but his face was still quite pale. Everyone in the crowd was stunned. Francine spoke up, "Young lady, you healed with a few pokes of the needle?" Aria applied some light pressure on the needle. She saw that the bloodletting was done, so she removed the needle and pressed a cotton ball on the wound to stop the bleeding. "Madam, it's not that simple. Applying acupuncture to the fingertips can help with dissipating the heat. He was inflicted with heat stroke, which was caused by the high temperature. I just helped him cool down with acupuncture." "Spare me the theatrics. That kid hasn't spoken a word since he regained consciousness. You probably left him with some side effects with your treatment!" Jimmy snorted. Francine was a little annoyed. "The boy has already regained consciousness. Why are you talking about side effects? Are you just trying to get out of apologizing to the young lady?" "That's none of your business!" Jimmy looked at Francine and suddenly sneered. "I understand now. You're all in on this. You pulled me here, and she's trying to scam me. "This is an organized scam, isn't it? I knew traditional medicine practitioners were all fake." Aria's expression grew cold when she heard that. She was about to raise her hand. Then, the boy spoke up in a weak but icy tone, "Traditional medicine has always been an essential part of Celestria's culture. You're a lousy doctor, sir. You should put more effort into studying." "Youβ¦" Jimmy was at a loss for words. The boy spoke up right after he said he wasn't healed. The boy even spoke out against him. It was clear that the boy wasn't on his side. Francine burst out into laughter. "Hey, kid. He's talking about you. You should put more effort into studying." "I won't waste my breath with you bottom feeders anymore. You're just a group of peasants," Jimmy said in disdain. Aria flicked a needle in his direction. It brushed past his face and got stuck in a tree nearby. Such a violent display caused Jimmy to freeze up. Even his legs felt like they were about to give out. Aria smiled as she said casually, "Don't you think you've forgotten about something?" She was just a young woman, but she had a very vicious and commanding presence, which caused Jimmy to feel fear. He tried to keep his cool. "What did I forget?" "An apology," Aria said as she tapped on her phone. She looked devilishly charming. Jimmy didn't want to do that. So, he said arrogantly, "Everyone makes mistakes. I don't have any more time to waste with a traditional medicine practitioner like you." Francine couldn't stand his attitude anymore. "Is this how a student of Dr. Salome Gunther would act? You lost a bet to that young woman, and yet you refuse to apologize? Such ethicsβ¦" "What's wrong with my ethics? Who here can prove I lost a bet to her? None of you will ever have enough money to pay for Dr. Gunther's treatment. "Me being here and providing free medical services is an honor for all of you. How dare you peasants keep babbling about such nonsense? Don't you dare cause trouble here! Do you even know where you are right now?" Francine's hands trembled in anger. "Youβ¦ You!" Jimmy snorted. He looked at all of them with utter disdain. They were in a modern society. He didn't believe that Aria would dare to do anything to him. Chapter 6 Teaching Him a Lesson Jimmy had always thought that the common folk were beneath him. He didn't notice that Aria's gaze changed as she looked up. Viciousness and contempt filled her eyes. She casually toyed with a piece of candy in her palm. Then, she flicked toward Jimmy. He felt his knee give out as he fell to the ground. "Ah!" The pain caused him to frown. He tried to get up but realized that he couldn't move his body at all. He couldn't talk, and his hands wouldn't budge. It felt like his movements had been sealed with the attack. Aria walked up to him and said calmly, "As a medical student, you failed miserably at determining the patient's symptoms, and you even declared a verdict without a second thought. "Being a doctor doesn't mean you're better than anyone else. It's a job for you to help people in need. You're unskilled and unethical. Now that you're on your knees, I'll accept your apology. Consider this a lesson I'm teaching you in your mentor's stead." "You!" Jimmy's eyes were filled with hatred. Aria leaned in and whispered in his ear. "Since you're such a shameless person, it'll probably be okay if you remain on your knees here for a couple of hours." "What did you do to me? I want to call the cops! I have been assaulted!" Jimmy yelled. Aria smiled. "And who can prove anything? Mr. Cornell, you got on your knees yourself. I didn't even touch you." "I know right? He deserves that!" The people in the crowd felt great satisfaction seeing Jimmy in that state. "The young lady didn't do anything. Stop lying!" That was the truth. He was the one who refused to help the boy. He was also the one who was running his mouth after Aria provided treatment for the boy. He was also the one who had been cursing at everyone in the crowd and was shameless enough to refuse to apologize. He was a true disgrace to the medical profession. Did he really think he could just say all those things without repercussions? He even tried to blame Aria for his condition. The women in the crowd started to yell, "Everyone, come and take a look! There's an unskilled medical student here. He's on his knees to apologize right now!" "You! All of you!" Jimmy's face was flushed, and his breath was labored. That was why people didn't mess with the ordinary citizens who were brave, kind, and despised delinquency. Jimmy was a fool for being so domineering in front of them. The more people looked at him, the lower Jimmy's head hung. He wished the ground would open up and swallow him up. He was afraid that someone would recognize him. The malice in his eyes grew as he looked at Aria. They were both in the medical industry. So, they were bound to meet again someday. He swore he would get back at her the next time they met. Aria didn't spare him another glance. Besides, if they crossed paths again, she didn't mind breaking his legs. Quite a lot of the older people in the crowd asked for Aria's contact information. They had seen how she performed acupuncture on the boy. It was clear that she was an extremely skilled doctor. They were determined to secure her contact information. Aria didn't turn any of them down, so she added them to her contacts. Francine asked enthusiastically, "Young lady, you were so skilled with the needles. Is there a traditional medicine practitioner in your family?" Aria thought about Georgina Harris, the woman who used to be her grandmother while she was living with the Kents. Georgina was the only one who showed her any kindness. She came up with a solid reason. "Yes. My grandmother practices traditional medicine. She runs a care center." "No wonder. I'll introduce some clients to her soon!" "Sure." Aria thanked Francine politely. Aria didn't have the airs of a renowned doctor at all. She was a legend hiding in plain sight. The boy hadn't spoken at all since he talked to Jimmy. He just sat there quietly as he observed everything. His eyes were very bright, and he looked really adorable. After she finished talking to everyone else, Aria looked at him. "Are you still lightheaded?" He shook his head. Then, he looked up at Aria. "Miss, I'm Miles. Thanks for saving me. If it weren't for you, I would've been dead." Miles York's voice was very sweet. His eyes were round, and his face was very smooth and cute. He did a cute little bow when he thanked Aria. "Your name is Miles? Where is your family?" Aria asked with a raised eyebrow. "They're all inside!" Miles said as he pointed behind him at the Caesar Hotel. Not just anyone could get in there at the moment. Chapter 7 Saved Someone Important People in the crowd exclaimed in surprise and started talking. "Everyone in Caesar Hotel today is quite important. I heard that there are a lot of prominent medical families in there." "Then this boyβ¦" Aria wasn't surprised at all. After all, Miles was very well-dressed. The watch he was wearing on his wrist was quite expensive as well. "Remember to bring bodyguards when you come out next time," Aria said as she packed her medical kit up. When Miles realized that she was leaving, he clung to her leg. Aria couldn't get on the bicycle, so she looked down at him. Miles didn't speak. He just held on to her sleeve. He took a step whenever she did. They were going nowhere like that. She stopped in her tracks. "I'll take you back to your parents." "Okay!" Miles got what he wanted. He nodded and said, "I'll have my parents thank you properly, miss." Aria adjusted his collar for him. "No need for that. I don't take payment for helping kids." "Andβ¦" Miles shifted his gaze. "Do you have a boyfriend, miss?" Aria stood up straight. "No." "Then, I'll ask my brother, Landon, to be your boyfriend as thanks." Miles smiled as he started describing Landon. "Landon doesn't like to talk, but he's very handsome. He makes a lot of money, too. It'll be good for your ego if you go out with him. A lot of pretty ladies want to marry him, you know." Aria smiled when she heard that. "I have no plans of getting married right now." "Okay," Miles replied with disappointment as he drooped his head. He continued walking with Aria dejectedly. When they arrived at the hotel entrance, he looked at Aria enthusiastically and said, "Miss, why don't you meet with Landon first? You should make your decision after you see him." He was sure that Aria would fall for Landon when she saw him. He was a very handsome man, after all. Aria smiled. "You're trying so hard to promote your brother to me. Does he know about this?" "He's always sick. Everyone in the family has been telling him to get married. You're such a skilled doctor, and you're pretty, too. I'm sure a lot of people want to be your boyfriend. So, I'm just trying to get you to give Landon a chance." Aria looked at his parched lips. Then, she went to buy him a bottle of water and some crackers. "Stop talking so much. You're still recovering." Miles was very obedient. He ate whatever Aria gave him. He couldn't open the bottle himself, so he raised it up to Aria and said weakly, "Please help me open it." Landon's assistant, Troy Jepson, came to meet Miles and was shocked to see what was happening. He was sure that the woman with Miles was that imposter that the Kents kicked out. Why was Miles with her? He even asked her to help him open his bottle. Did he change his entire personality? Something flashed in Troy's eyes, but he quickly suppressed his emotions. He knew who Aria was, but she didn't know him. Troy took care not to expose his identity as he walked up to them in a hurry. "Mr. Miles! I've finally found you. I'm so glad you're okay." "This pretty lady saved me," Miles said as he held Aria's hand. He had a defiant look on his face. It was like he was finally himself again. Troy politely said, "Thanks, Ms. Carver." Aria looked at him calmly. "He already thanked me." Her attitude made it hard for Troy to grasp the situation. So, he said to Miles, "Mr. Miles, Mr. Landon called in some favors to track you down. He's in the car right now. He didn't even take his afternoon meds yet." Miles looked up in surprise. He didn't expect Landon to come out here personally. | Indulge in story | 598 | https://facebook.com/61552702618591 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717830000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879550 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410693 | 1723321809 | 995 | 785695356970863 | 1 | 1.8811915023045E+15 | 1718002800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 144939265372419 | 0 | Indulge in story | 120214343181970348 | shgjfh.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πRead the next chaptersπ | https://shgjfh.com/market/meganovel/13?lpid=11844&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717762144 | 1.4493926537242E+14 | Indulge in story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447256994_962585992003167_5083994497026705008_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=xvSiU4eM0HIQ7kNvgGaLPgU&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDfHZvL4fwCX9_hfvxj2Lbnpddf0pG1uD9Gqv9GoXUxJw&oe=6672B331 | person_profile | 0 | Indulge in story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447590700_1016773316708518_420838429285916977_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=KYgitKO0u2cQ7kNvgF55Rj_&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDyXqxq5I-PXqx461m_CajttJGgWqxofCm2izR9EzU9dg&oe=6672B6AD | 0 | 3 | The roads were soaked. It had been raining for a whole day in Southbury. Aria Carver's backpack was thrown out of the door by the butler in disdain. "Mr. Kent doesn't want to see you, Ms. Carver. So, I have to say some words in his stead. Your birth parents are in the countryside. Your father's last name is Carver. "The Kent family mistook you for their daughter in the past. But now that Ms. Lily has been found, I hope that you can do what's best for everyone and stop contacting the Kent family." The butler, Alfred Dun, took out a card. "Here's 10,000. Mr. Kent instructed me to give it to you as compensation." "No need." Aria didn't even look at the card as she picked up her backpack. Alfred looked at her in disdain. She didn't want the money? Was she acting tough? She should really think about her circumstances. The Kents had found their real daughter. They wouldn't want a country bumpkin like her anymore. She was an embarrassment. "As you wish, Ms. Carver." Alfred closed the door with a loud bang. Aria paid him no mind. She only took a black backpack when she left the Kent Residence. She stood proud and tall. She left the Kent Residence without taking anything that didn't belong to her. The rain falling on her made her look a little defeated. The people on the second floor saw her and started snickering. They didn't care if she could hear them. "She's finally gone." "I know right? I was so afraid that she might not want to go back to the countryside, and would try to stay with us." Aria didn't respond, but a sneer appeared on her face. Were the Kents ignorant? Yes, they were. Aria chewed on a gummy absentmindedly. She had a head of long and glossy black hair. Her face was a little pale, but it didn't make her look weak. Instead, she looked quite mysterious. β¦ At the same time, the Carver family was having an international meeting at their home in Janovin. Warren Carver sat at the head of the table. He held a cane in his hands and looked really intimidating. "It's been so many years. Is there still no leads on your sister?" He was talking to his six grandsons. The Carver family was the wealthiest in Janovin. The six scions of the family were all very remarkable people. Any single one of them would cause a stir if they went out in the open. At that moment, they all looked saddened. Longing and sorrow filled their eyes. They were the ones that lost their youngest sister back then. She was only a baby when she went missing. She never caused a fuss and was always very adorable. It had been 18 years. They had never stopped looking since. All the leads went cold at a secluded village in the mountains. They had no idea how many times the human traffickers moved their baby sister around. "Grandpa, let's keep looking. We will definitely find her!" Suddenly, a chubby man, Frank Levin, rushed into the room with some documents in his hand. He panted as he said, "Mr. Chairman! Little Ms. Carver has been found!" Warren, who was usually composed, stood up immediately. He was so excited that his hands were shaking. "Where is she? Send someone to pick her up right now!" Frank handed the documents over. "She's in Southbury. We're still looking into her exact location." "Then let's go to Southbury! Get a car ready!" Warren was very excited. β¦ It was evening in Southbury. Aria, who had been kicked out of the Kent Residence, didn't go to the countryside. She waited for the rain to stop before she headed back to the place she was staying at. It was a very insignificant neighborhood. When she was parking her car, someone called out to her, "You're back, Aria." "Yeah. I'm back." Aria smiled. Maria Goode, a fruit vendor, handed her an apple. "I haven't seen you in two weeks. No one else could help me with my arthritis." "Don't forget about me, Aria. My hand always trembles when I'm playing chess." Everyone knew that Aria was a very beloved figure in the Elmer district. Some retired government officials loved to chat with her as she treated their conditions. The place might look plain and simple on the surface, but there was more than met the eye. The person who talked about his hand was Jasper Garland, a former national chess champion. Aria didn't delve into the identities of the other residents. She chose to live in this neighborhood because it was a nice place. Chapter 2 More Than Meets the Eye "I'll offer treatment for everyone at the community square tomorrow." Then, Aria reminded them, "Remember to take the medicine. Don't stay up late to watch soap operas. They won't end so soon." "The Tiara" was all the rage in the Elmer district at that time. All the older men and women were hooked on it. A lot of them looked guilty after Aria said that. "Weβ¦We will sleep at 10:00 pm from now on." In the past, no one could have imagined that this group of people would be so obedient to one person. A lot of them had made great contributions to the country. Even their identities were kept a secret. Elmer district's community manager, Joel Hayes, had been hoping that Aria would come back sooner. He could finally breathe a sigh of relief. "Dr. Carver, I have been keeping an eye on your house. I've not allowed anyone to approach your property." "Thanks for the hard work." Aria bowed slightly and handed him an apple. Joel accepted the apple with a smile. "It's no trouble at all. I trust you won't be leaving anytime soon?" A community manager like him could never keep the neighborhood's residents under control. "Yeah. I won't be leaving," Aria said as she took the key. Joel replied joyfully, "That's wonderful! I'll leave you be so you can unpack your stuff. Let me know if you need anything." Aria nodded. She inserted the key and opened the door after Joel left. The lock was very old. It didn't seem like there was anything special about it. But after she undid the first lock, an LCD lock appeared before her. "Confirmation to proceed with iris scan." Aria said casually, "Do it." "Proceeding with iris scan. Please wait." "Iris scan completed. Welcome home, master." It was a very classy computerized voice that hadn't been activated for some time. The metal door opened automatically with a "clack". The house was instantly illuminated. There was a bookshelf that was about six feet tall which was filled with medical books and containers with herbs in them. There was a lot of greenery at the door. Most of them were herbs. All of them were labeled. In the middle of the living room sat a very cool-looking black and red motorcycle. Aria walked over to the kitchen and took a bottle of water from the fridge. She wanted to drink some water and watch some TV. Suddenly, the phone that was charging on her desk rang. It was a custom ringtone. "Richie Carver, wakey wakey, It's time for work! Richie Carver, wakey wakey, It's time for work! Richieβ" Aria took the call when it was about to ring for the third time. "Speak." "Boss, there's a huge job in Southbury. Should we take it?" Aria took a sip of the water. "What's it about?" "The richest man in Janovin is looking for his long-lost granddaughter. They say she's in Southbury. It shouldn't be hard to find her. This job pays a lot." Aria yawned. "Not interested." "Hold on! Please wait, boss! There's another one. The type you like! It's also a huge job!" The person on the other end of the call was very servile. Aria placed her chin on the palm lazily. "Tell me about it." "The York family of Janovin is looking for you. They're offering 10 million for you to treat a patient. "They also said that people who can find you or provide information about you will be rewarded as well. They're so stacked!" "Why are they so generous?" Aria went into work mode immediately. She tapped the phone and said, "Send me the details of the job." "Sure thing!" The next moment, the floor-to-ceiling windows became a screen, and the job information was projected on it. The York family had been around for ages. They had protected the country for generations. If Aria's memory served correctly, they even lived in the Guardian Mansion once. The York family had sent out invitations to quite a few renowned doctors. The invitation was in effect for a week. The location for the consultation was set at the Caesar Hotel in Southbury. They wanted to get a doctor who would be able to treat the illness of Landon York, who was in charge of the York family operations. There wasn't much description of Landon's condition. They only mentioned that he had been frail for a long time and that his condition couldn't be revealed to the public. It seemed like there was more than met the eye. Aria stretched her legs. "I'll take this job." Chapter 3 Saving Someone on the Streets "You have a good eye, boss! I'll prepare an account to receive payment from the Yorks!" Aria said calmly, "No need to rush. Let me sleep first. Do it tomorrow." Other than making money, Aria's biggest interest was treating all sorts of rare diseases. This job from the York family was a nice one for her. Honestly, she was probably the only person who wasn't fazed by the York's visit to Southbury. All of the prominent families in the city were scrambling into action. A family like the Kents had to reach out to everyone they knew and utilize all of their connections in an attempt to get an invitation from the Yorks. Even regular people were talking about how the city was especially lively that month. First, the richest man in Janovin came to look for his granddaughter. Then, the York family came to receive treatment. Some said that the Yorks came to Southbury because the legendary Whiz Doctor was in town. There were a lot of rumors about the Whiz Doctor, but some of them were quite outlandish. This time, the Whiz Doctor might actually appear due to the York family's invitation. β¦ The following morning, Aria woke up late. Like any other working adult, she didn't feel like leaving her cool and comfortable room or her cozy bed to get out into the morning sun. But she had to work. So, she got up and washed her face. Without putting any makeup on, she grabbed her bag and left. In order to avoid the morning rush, she scanned a shared bicycle. "Are you heading out to work, Aria?" "Yeah." She was greeting everyone along the way and also had a piece of toast in her mouth given to her by Kenneth Kane. She rode the bicycle steadily without rushing and merged into traffic after a while. β¦ After 30 minutes, Aria arrived at Southbury's renowned Caesar Hotel. Everyone at the entrance and the lobby looked very busy. In the past few days, almost all of the luxury cars in the city gathered at the hotel. In comparison, Aria stood out a lot as the only person who came on a shared bicycle. As soon as she came to a stop, Jose Garcia, a security guard, came over to chase her away. "Get lost, you broke college student. The hotel is not open to the public today." She planted one foot on the ground and met his gaze. Then, she said coolly, "I'm here to save someone's life." "You? Save someone's life?" Jose burst into laughter. "Young lady, you're still so young, but you're quite the braggart." Aria paused for a moment. Then, she showed him proof of her accepting the job on her phone. "Please tell the people inside that Dr. Whiz has arrived." "Dr. Whiz? You can call me Dr. Genius!" Jose gave her an impatient look. "I've seen many invitations. You're the first one to show it on the phoneβ¦" Jose noticed a luxury car rolling up as he spoke. So, he waved at Aria. "Go. Get out of the way." Then, he rushed over to the car and opened the door. "Welcome, Dr. Gunther and Ms. Kent. I'll inform the staff to prepare some tea for you." The people in the car just nodded at him. They didn't even reply. But Jose had a big smile on his face like he had won the lottery. The car drove past Aria. Lily looked out the window and recognized Aria. Her gaze wavered slightly. The old woman next to her, Salome Gunther, asked, "What's wrong, Lily?" She smiled softly. "Nothing." Aria's gaze remained calm. She walked away resolutely. There was even an amused expression on her face. She used to be someone who held people's lives in her hands, yet she had become the target of another person's shunning. Oh, how the mighty had fallen. Aria pursed her lips. She offered treatment to patients based on her mood and would never help those who were greedy or selfish. She had decided to give up on offering treatment to the York family's patient. So, she took out her phone and was about to reject the job. Suddenly, someone on the sidewalk screamed. "Oh, no! Someone has fainted!" People started flocking toward the voice. "Oh, God! It's a child!" "His face is so paleβ¦" Hearing the commotion, Aria didn't hesitate at all. She parked her bicycle and rushed toward the crowd. The little boy on the ground was only three or four years old. His forehead was drenched. It seemed like he had been sweating profusely. A woman named Francine Gibson grabbed a man in a white lab coat. "Young man, you're a doctor, right? Please save the boy." "No can do, lady. The kid's family isn't here. I can't make any decisions without consulting them." The man in the lab coat, Jimmy Cornell, added with disdain, "Besides, I don't provide treatment to just anyone." Aria heard the exchange between the two of them. She pushed through the crowd and said in a professional manner, "Please give the boy some space. Let the air flow through. The patient needs fresh air." Her tone sounded so authoritative that no one doubted her. Then, she crouched down and placed her fingers on the boy's neck. Francine said anxiously, "Young lady, how old are you? Can you really make him better?" Chapter 4 Doubt "That's right, young lady. We should probably call an ambulance. This boy appears to be lost. I called out for some time just now, but no one came over," an old man said. He was concerned that Aria might be blamed if anything happened to the boy. Aria quickly unbuttoned the boy's coat and brought him to some shade. "Don't worry. I'm a licensed doctor." Then, she opened her bag and took out a medical kit. It was equipped with needles and scalpels of all sizes, all arranged neatly in rows. Aria felt the boy's pulse again. "Stop it! How can you simply touch the patient?" Jimmy yelled. He couldn't allow Aria to do as she pleased. She ignored him and continued to monitor the boy's pulse and heart rate. Jimmy sneered. "I'm Jimmy Cornell, currently studying at Janovin Medical University. My mentor is Dr. Salome Gunther. I'm not just a random bystander. You say you're a licensed doctor? How old are you?" Aria continued to ignore him. Her focus was on the boy. She took out a needle and began to sterilize it. "I'm talking to you! Even that old man knows we should wait for an ambulance. Why can't you get it through your head?" This was the first time Jimmy had been completely ignored by someone. Aria had one knee to the ground. Her demeanor was cool and emotionless. "Do nothing and wait for the ambulance? Wait as the optimal treatment period passes by? Is that what your mentor taught you?" "Who said we should do nothing while we wait for the ambulance? You're the one delaying treatment with those needles. Please don't show off your pseudo-science methods, and let me perform CPR on the patient." Aria shot him a cold glare after she heard what he said. Who would've thought that such a pretty young lady could have such a vicious gaze? "He has a heat stroke. Do you think CPR would help? What a worthless doctor," Aria said as she applied pressure to the boy's fingers. Her tone was glacial. Jimmy lost his cool immediately. "Who are you calling worthless? Do you even know who my mentor is?" He had just received an award overseas for his medical skills. He was incredulous at the woman's audacity to doubt his abilities. "I'm not interested in your mentor. Move." Jimmy's eyes turned bloodshot. "I'll let it slide this time since you're just a lowly traditional medicine practitioner. His lips are turning blue. It's a heart issue." "Hypoxia and ischemia might impact the respiratory system and cause the lips to turn blue." Aria looked at Jimmy with a cold stare, then added, "But a heat stroke can cause that symptom, too. The difference is that his pulse is steady. Moreover, his lips are parched. "It's clear that he had been exposed to high temperatures for a prolonged period. You don't even look at these symptoms, yet you claim to be a medical student?" "That's true. You have to look at the symptoms first. I was taught that too," someone in the crowd agreed with Aria. Then, people in the crowd started chattering. "It seems like the Janovin Medical University isn't anything special at all." "That young lady is way more reliable. I noticed she was quite professional when taking the boy's pulse." Jimmy couldn't take the humiliation anymore. "Alright. So, he has a heat stroke. Will your acupuncture cure him of it? If so, why are we even learning modern medicine?" "You can't represent everyone else who practices modern medicine." Aria glared at him icily. "I'll say it one more time. Move." There were two types of people she hated the mostβthose who looked down on traditional medicine and lousy doctors getting in the way of her treatment. "Sure, I'll move. I'd like to see how skilled you are." Jimmy crossed his arms. "If you can heal him with these needles, I'll get on my knees and apologize to you." "I'm looking forward to that." Aria located the acupuncture points and raised her hand. Chapter 5 Acupuncture Works Aria stuck the first needle into the boy without any hesitation. The boy immediately frowned. It was like he was regaining his consciousness. It looked like he was struggling as his brows furrowed even deeper. Someone in the crowd yelled, "He's waking up!" Jimmy was stunned. His face grew pale. "This can't beβ¦" How did she pull that off? Just one needle? Could a person really regain consciousness from that? Aria raised her hand again. Her gaze was focused, and she looked very composed. She stuck the second needle into the boy's fingertips to draw some blood. Right after she did that, the boy opened his eyes. His pupils were dark and round, while his eyelashes were extraordinarily long. He glanced at Aria quietly, but his face was still quite pale. Everyone in the crowd was stunned. Francine spoke up, "Young lady, you healed with a few pokes of the needle?" Aria applied some light pressure on the needle. She saw that the bloodletting was done, so she removed the needle and pressed a cotton ball on the wound to stop the bleeding. "Madam, it's not that simple. Applying acupuncture to the fingertips can help with dissipating the heat. He was inflicted with heat stroke, which was caused by the high temperature. I just helped him cool down with acupuncture." "Spare me the theatrics. That kid hasn't spoken a word since he regained consciousness. You probably left him with some side effects with your treatment!" Jimmy snorted. Francine was a little annoyed. "The boy has already regained consciousness. Why are you talking about side effects? Are you just trying to get out of apologizing to the young lady?" "That's none of your business!" Jimmy looked at Francine and suddenly sneered. "I understand now. You're all in on this. You pulled me here, and she's trying to scam me. "This is an organized scam, isn't it? I knew traditional medicine practitioners were all fake." Aria's expression grew cold when she heard that. She was about to raise her hand. Then, the boy spoke up in a weak but icy tone, "Traditional medicine has always been an essential part of Celestria's culture. You're a lousy doctor, sir. You should put more effort into studying." "Youβ¦" Jimmy was at a loss for words. The boy spoke up right after he said he wasn't healed. The boy even spoke out against him. It was clear that the boy wasn't on his side. Francine burst out into laughter. "Hey, kid. He's talking about you. You should put more effort into studying." "I won't waste my breath with you bottom feeders anymore. You're just a group of peasants," Jimmy said in disdain. Aria flicked a needle in his direction. It brushed past his face and got stuck in a tree nearby. Such a violent display caused Jimmy to freeze up. Even his legs felt like they were about to give out. Aria smiled as she said casually, "Don't you think you've forgotten about something?" She was just a young woman, but she had a very vicious and commanding presence, which caused Jimmy to feel fear. He tried to keep his cool. "What did I forget?" "An apology," Aria said as she tapped on her phone. She looked devilishly charming. Jimmy didn't want to do that. So, he said arrogantly, "Everyone makes mistakes. I don't have any more time to waste with a traditional medicine practitioner like you." Francine couldn't stand his attitude anymore. "Is this how a student of Dr. Salome Gunther would act? You lost a bet to that young woman, and yet you refuse to apologize? Such ethicsβ¦" "What's wrong with my ethics? Who here can prove I lost a bet to her? None of you will ever have enough money to pay for Dr. Gunther's treatment. "Me being here and providing free medical services is an honor for all of you. How dare you peasants keep babbling about such nonsense? Don't you dare cause trouble here! Do you even know where you are right now?" Francine's hands trembled in anger. "Youβ¦ You!" Jimmy snorted. He looked at all of them with utter disdain. They were in a modern society. He didn't believe that Aria would dare to do anything to him. Chapter 6 Teaching Him a Lesson Jimmy had always thought that the common folk were beneath him. He didn't notice that Aria's gaze changed as she looked up. Viciousness and contempt filled her eyes. She casually toyed with a piece of candy in her palm. Then, she flicked toward Jimmy. He felt his knee give out as he fell to the ground. "Ah!" The pain caused him to frown. He tried to get up but realized that he couldn't move his body at all. He couldn't talk, and his hands wouldn't budge. It felt like his movements had been sealed with the attack. Aria walked up to him and said calmly, "As a medical student, you failed miserably at determining the patient's symptoms, and you even declared a verdict without a second thought. "Being a doctor doesn't mean you're better than anyone else. It's a job for you to help people in need. You're unskilled and unethical. Now that you're on your knees, I'll accept your apology. Consider this a lesson I'm teaching you in your mentor's stead." "You!" Jimmy's eyes were filled with hatred. Aria leaned in and whispered in his ear. "Since you're such a shameless person, it'll probably be okay if you remain on your knees here for a couple of hours." "What did you do to me? I want to call the cops! I have been assaulted!" Jimmy yelled. Aria smiled. "And who can prove anything? Mr. Cornell, you got on your knees yourself. I didn't even touch you." "I know right? He deserves that!" The people in the crowd felt great satisfaction seeing Jimmy in that state. "The young lady didn't do anything. Stop lying!" That was the truth. He was the one who refused to help the boy. He was also the one who was running his mouth after Aria provided treatment for the boy. He was also the one who had been cursing at everyone in the crowd and was shameless enough to refuse to apologize. He was a true disgrace to the medical profession. Did he really think he could just say all those things without repercussions? He even tried to blame Aria for his condition. The women in the crowd started to yell, "Everyone, come and take a look! There's an unskilled medical student here. He's on his knees to apologize right now!" "You! All of you!" Jimmy's face was flushed, and his breath was labored. That was why people didn't mess with the ordinary citizens who were brave, kind, and despised delinquency. Jimmy was a fool for being so domineering in front of them. The more people looked at him, the lower Jimmy's head hung. He wished the ground would open up and swallow him up. He was afraid that someone would recognize him. The malice in his eyes grew as he looked at Aria. They were both in the medical industry. So, they were bound to meet again someday. He swore he would get back at her the next time they met. Aria didn't spare him another glance. Besides, if they crossed paths again, she didn't mind breaking his legs. Quite a lot of the older people in the crowd asked for Aria's contact information. They had seen how she performed acupuncture on the boy. It was clear that she was an extremely skilled doctor. They were determined to secure her contact information. Aria didn't turn any of them down, so she added them to her contacts. Francine asked enthusiastically, "Young lady, you were so skilled with the needles. Is there a traditional medicine practitioner in your family?" Aria thought about Georgina Harris, the woman who used to be her grandmother while she was living with the Kents. Georgina was the only one who showed her any kindness. She came up with a solid reason. "Yes. My grandmother practices traditional medicine. She runs a care center." "No wonder. I'll introduce some clients to her soon!" "Sure." Aria thanked Francine politely. Aria didn't have the airs of a renowned doctor at all. She was a legend hiding in plain sight. The boy hadn't spoken at all since he talked to Jimmy. He just sat there quietly as he observed everything. His eyes were very bright, and he looked really adorable. After she finished talking to everyone else, Aria looked at him. "Are you still lightheaded?" He shook his head. Then, he looked up at Aria. "Miss, I'm Miles. Thanks for saving me. If it weren't for you, I would've been dead." Miles York's voice was very sweet. His eyes were round, and his face was very smooth and cute. He did a cute little bow when he thanked Aria. "Your name is Miles? Where is your family?" Aria asked with a raised eyebrow. "They're all inside!" Miles said as he pointed behind him at the Caesar Hotel. Not just anyone could get in there at the moment. Chapter 7 Saved Someone Important People in the crowd exclaimed in surprise and started talking. "Everyone in Caesar Hotel today is quite important. I heard that there are a lot of prominent medical families in there." "Then this boyβ¦" Aria wasn't surprised at all. After all, Miles was very well-dressed. The watch he was wearing on his wrist was quite expensive as well. "Remember to bring bodyguards when you come out next time," Aria said as she packed her medical kit up. When Miles realized that she was leaving, he clung to her leg. Aria couldn't get on the bicycle, so she looked down at him. Miles didn't speak. He just held on to her sleeve. He took a step whenever she did. They were going nowhere like that. She stopped in her tracks. "I'll take you back to your parents." "Okay!" Miles got what he wanted. He nodded and said, "I'll have my parents thank you properly, miss." Aria adjusted his collar for him. "No need for that. I don't take payment for helping kids." "Andβ¦" Miles shifted his gaze. "Do you have a boyfriend, miss?" Aria stood up straight. "No." "Then, I'll ask my brother, Landon, to be your boyfriend as thanks." Miles smiled as he started describing Landon. "Landon doesn't like to talk, but he's very handsome. He makes a lot of money, too. It'll be good for your ego if you go out with him. A lot of pretty ladies want to marry him, you know." Aria smiled when she heard that. "I have no plans of getting married right now." "Okay," Miles replied with disappointment as he drooped his head. He continued walking with Aria dejectedly. When they arrived at the hotel entrance, he looked at Aria enthusiastically and said, "Miss, why don't you meet with Landon first? You should make your decision after you see him." He was sure that Aria would fall for Landon when she saw him. He was a very handsome man, after all. Aria smiled. "You're trying so hard to promote your brother to me. Does he know about this?" "He's always sick. Everyone in the family has been telling him to get married. You're such a skilled doctor, and you're pretty, too. I'm sure a lot of people want to be your boyfriend. So, I'm just trying to get you to give Landon a chance." Aria looked at his parched lips. Then, she went to buy him a bottle of water and some crackers. "Stop talking so much. You're still recovering." Miles was very obedient. He ate whatever Aria gave him. He couldn't open the bottle himself, so he raised it up to Aria and said weakly, "Please help me open it." Landon's assistant, Troy Jepson, came to meet Miles and was shocked to see what was happening. He was sure that the woman with Miles was that imposter that the Kents kicked out. Why was Miles with her? He even asked her to help him open his bottle. Did he change his entire personality? Something flashed in Troy's eyes, but he quickly suppressed his emotions. He knew who Aria was, but she didn't know him. Troy took care not to expose his identity as he walked up to them in a hurry. "Mr. Miles! I've finally found you. I'm so glad you're okay." "This pretty lady saved me," Miles said as he held Aria's hand. He had a defiant look on his face. It was like he was finally himself again. Troy politely said, "Thanks, Ms. Carver." Aria looked at him calmly. "He already thanked me." Her attitude made it hard for Troy to grasp the situation. So, he said to Miles, "Mr. Miles, Mr. Landon called in some favors to track you down. He's in the car right now. He didn't even take his afternoon meds yet." Miles looked up in surprise. He didn't expect Landon to come out here personally. | Indulge in story | 598 | https://facebook.com/61552702618591 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717830000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879551 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410693 | 1723321809 | 995 | 832484831570092 | 5 | 4.2934108319284E+14 | 1717311600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 265015680033634 | 0 | Massive story | 120212069533530002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πRead the next chaptersπ | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1716980906 | 2.6501568003363E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/445242698_995588455545077_2405839290899264462_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Evzu0flh0CsQ7kNvgEQZTu6&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBSuV5CWBzSildTbW5wOpL2MROcqjgQo3Fv9DR64pSjPg&oe=6672B54A | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/445241029_971822111193761_3123167495825798227_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=HQsnXIS28ecQ7kNvgFM20wA&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAYJQS1mMkF1iSk4_dpGImxggKEkUi21PceB0vu0x83Fw&oe=6672B242 | 0 | 3 | I had never seen Felix like this - fury was written all over his face, and his lanky figure was trembling slightly. I've known Felix since we were born. Our mothers were best friends and they were trying to pair us up again just now. I had a crush on him, and he always treated me kindly. But now, he glared at me and spat, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around! That's why they misunderstood! Stay away from me!" I hadn't expected him to say something like that. I stared at him dumbfounded. Both my parents and Felix's parents ceased their conversation about our wedding and future. Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? I'm my own man. I'll never marry her, so you all can just stop trying to pair us up!" Felix shouted as he glared at everyone in the house. His eyes were filled with hate. It made me want to curl up into a ball out of embarrassment. The house remained completely silent. Everyone's gaze was on me, and I could feel my heart throbbing in pain. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. He had trampled all over my dignity and self-worth in front of his whole family and mineβ¦ My father, usually calm, flushed crimson at Felix's harsh words, his fists clenched. Mom, too, looked angry and embarrassed, jaw agape, her expression one of disbelief. Uncle Austin, Felix's father, slapped Felix, scolding, "You rebellious boy! Who taught you to behave like that?" The impact of slap sent Felix reeling, and he hit his head on the corner of the wall. Felix slumped to the floor in pain, leaving an unmistakable streak of red on the white walls. Aunt Mel rushed forward with concern, "Felix, my son! Are you alright?" Felix shot me a scathing glare as if I had committed an unspeakable crime. "Are you happy now, Luna?" he spat. I stared back at him with wide eyes, tears streaming down my face and onto the floor. Even though I liked him, that didn't mean he could throw wild accusations and embarrass me as he pleased! I liked him, but I, too, had my sense of dignity! If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I would gladly change! "I'm sorry, Felix. I never thought that my actions would have bugged you so much," I forced the humiliation down as I continued, "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix." I bit my lip hard, and the sharp tang of blood exploded across my tongue. I, Luna Lawson, also swear to myself - I won't endure the same humiliation AGAIN! | Massive story | 0 | https://facebook.com/61557833926946 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717052400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879552 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410693 | 1723321809 | 995 | 832484831570092 | 5 | 4.2934108319284E+14 | 1717311600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 265015680033634 | 0 | Massive story | 120212069533530002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πRead the next chaptersπ | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1716980906 | 2.6501568003363E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/445242698_995588455545077_2405839290899264462_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Evzu0flh0CsQ7kNvgEQZTu6&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBSuV5CWBzSildTbW5wOpL2MROcqjgQo3Fv9DR64pSjPg&oe=6672B54A | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/445241029_971822111193761_3123167495825798227_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=HQsnXIS28ecQ7kNvgFM20wA&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAYJQS1mMkF1iSk4_dpGImxggKEkUi21PceB0vu0x83Fw&oe=6672B242 | 0 | 3 | I had never seen Felix like this - fury was written all over his face, and his lanky figure was trembling slightly. I've known Felix since we were born. Our mothers were best friends and they were trying to pair us up again just now. I had a crush on him, and he always treated me kindly. But now, he glared at me and spat, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around! That's why they misunderstood! Stay away from me!" I hadn't expected him to say something like that. I stared at him dumbfounded. Both my parents and Felix's parents ceased their conversation about our wedding and future. Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? I'm my own man. I'll never marry her, so you all can just stop trying to pair us up!" Felix shouted as he glared at everyone in the house. His eyes were filled with hate. It made me want to curl up into a ball out of embarrassment. The house remained completely silent. Everyone's gaze was on me, and I could feel my heart throbbing in pain. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. He had trampled all over my dignity and self-worth in front of his whole family and mineβ¦ My father, usually calm, flushed crimson at Felix's harsh words, his fists clenched. Mom, too, looked angry and embarrassed, jaw agape, her expression one of disbelief. Uncle Austin, Felix's father, slapped Felix, scolding, "You rebellious boy! Who taught you to behave like that?" The impact of slap sent Felix reeling, and he hit his head on the corner of the wall. Felix slumped to the floor in pain, leaving an unmistakable streak of red on the white walls. Aunt Mel rushed forward with concern, "Felix, my son! Are you alright?" Felix shot me a scathing glare as if I had committed an unspeakable crime. "Are you happy now, Luna?" he spat. I stared back at him with wide eyes, tears streaming down my face and onto the floor. Even though I liked him, that didn't mean he could throw wild accusations and embarrass me as he pleased! I liked him, but I, too, had my sense of dignity! If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I would gladly change! "I'm sorry, Felix. I never thought that my actions would have bugged you so much," I forced the humiliation down as I continued, "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix." I bit my lip hard, and the sharp tang of blood exploded across my tongue. I, Luna Lawson, also swear to myself - I won't endure the same humiliation AGAIN! | Massive story | 0 | https://facebook.com/61557833926946 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717052400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879554 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410693 | 1723321809 | 995 | 832484831570092 | 5 | 4.2934108319284E+14 | 1717311600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 265015680033634 | 0 | Massive story | 120212069533530002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πRead the next chaptersπ | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1716980906 | 2.6501568003363E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/445242698_995588455545077_2405839290899264462_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Evzu0flh0CsQ7kNvgEQZTu6&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBSuV5CWBzSildTbW5wOpL2MROcqjgQo3Fv9DR64pSjPg&oe=6672B54A | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/445241029_971822111193761_3123167495825798227_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=HQsnXIS28ecQ7kNvgFM20wA&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAYJQS1mMkF1iSk4_dpGImxggKEkUi21PceB0vu0x83Fw&oe=6672B242 | 0 | 3 | I had never seen Felix like this - fury was written all over his face, and his lanky figure was trembling slightly. I've known Felix since we were born. Our mothers were best friends and they were trying to pair us up again just now. I had a crush on him, and he always treated me kindly. But now, he glared at me and spat, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around! That's why they misunderstood! Stay away from me!" I hadn't expected him to say something like that. I stared at him dumbfounded. Both my parents and Felix's parents ceased their conversation about our wedding and future. Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? I'm my own man. I'll never marry her, so you all can just stop trying to pair us up!" Felix shouted as he glared at everyone in the house. His eyes were filled with hate. It made me want to curl up into a ball out of embarrassment. The house remained completely silent. Everyone's gaze was on me, and I could feel my heart throbbing in pain. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. He had trampled all over my dignity and self-worth in front of his whole family and mineβ¦ My father, usually calm, flushed crimson at Felix's harsh words, his fists clenched. Mom, too, looked angry and embarrassed, jaw agape, her expression one of disbelief. Uncle Austin, Felix's father, slapped Felix, scolding, "You rebellious boy! Who taught you to behave like that?" The impact of slap sent Felix reeling, and he hit his head on the corner of the wall. Felix slumped to the floor in pain, leaving an unmistakable streak of red on the white walls. Aunt Mel rushed forward with concern, "Felix, my son! Are you alright?" Felix shot me a scathing glare as if I had committed an unspeakable crime. "Are you happy now, Luna?" he spat. I stared back at him with wide eyes, tears streaming down my face and onto the floor. Even though I liked him, that didn't mean he could throw wild accusations and embarrass me as he pleased! I liked him, but I, too, had my sense of dignity! If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I would gladly change! "I'm sorry, Felix. I never thought that my actions would have bugged you so much," I forced the humiliation down as I continued, "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix." I bit my lip hard, and the sharp tang of blood exploded across my tongue. I, Luna Lawson, also swear to myself - I won't endure the same humiliation AGAIN! | Massive story | 0 | https://facebook.com/61557833926946 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717052400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879555 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410694 | 1723321809 | 995 | 832484831570092 | 5 | 4.2934108319284E+14 | 1717311600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 265015680033634 | 0 | Massive story | 120212069533530002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πRead the next chaptersπ | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1716980906 | 2.6501568003363E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/445242698_995588455545077_2405839290899264462_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Evzu0flh0CsQ7kNvgEQZTu6&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBSuV5CWBzSildTbW5wOpL2MROcqjgQo3Fv9DR64pSjPg&oe=6672B54A | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/445241029_971822111193761_3123167495825798227_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=HQsnXIS28ecQ7kNvgFM20wA&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAYJQS1mMkF1iSk4_dpGImxggKEkUi21PceB0vu0x83Fw&oe=6672B242 | 0 | 3 | I had never seen Felix like this - fury was written all over his face, and his lanky figure was trembling slightly. I've known Felix since we were born. Our mothers were best friends and they were trying to pair us up again just now. I had a crush on him, and he always treated me kindly. But now, he glared at me and spat, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around! That's why they misunderstood! Stay away from me!" I hadn't expected him to say something like that. I stared at him dumbfounded. Both my parents and Felix's parents ceased their conversation about our wedding and future. Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? I'm my own man. I'll never marry her, so you all can just stop trying to pair us up!" Felix shouted as he glared at everyone in the house. His eyes were filled with hate. It made me want to curl up into a ball out of embarrassment. The house remained completely silent. Everyone's gaze was on me, and I could feel my heart throbbing in pain. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. He had trampled all over my dignity and self-worth in front of his whole family and mineβ¦ My father, usually calm, flushed crimson at Felix's harsh words, his fists clenched. Mom, too, looked angry and embarrassed, jaw agape, her expression one of disbelief. Uncle Austin, Felix's father, slapped Felix, scolding, "You rebellious boy! Who taught you to behave like that?" The impact of slap sent Felix reeling, and he hit his head on the corner of the wall. Felix slumped to the floor in pain, leaving an unmistakable streak of red on the white walls. Aunt Mel rushed forward with concern, "Felix, my son! Are you alright?" Felix shot me a scathing glare as if I had committed an unspeakable crime. "Are you happy now, Luna?" he spat. I stared back at him with wide eyes, tears streaming down my face and onto the floor. Even though I liked him, that didn't mean he could throw wild accusations and embarrass me as he pleased! I liked him, but I, too, had my sense of dignity! If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I would gladly change! "I'm sorry, Felix. I never thought that my actions would have bugged you so much," I forced the humiliation down as I continued, "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix." I bit my lip hard, and the sharp tang of blood exploded across my tongue. I, Luna Lawson, also swear to myself - I won't endure the same humiliation AGAIN! | Massive story | 0 | https://facebook.com/61557833926946 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717052400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879556 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410694 | 1723321809 | 995 | 832484831570092 | 5 | 4.2934108319284E+14 | 1717311600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 265015680033634 | 0 | Massive story | 120212069533530002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πRead the next chaptersπ | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1716980906 | 2.6501568003363E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/445242698_995588455545077_2405839290899264462_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Evzu0flh0CsQ7kNvgEQZTu6&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBSuV5CWBzSildTbW5wOpL2MROcqjgQo3Fv9DR64pSjPg&oe=6672B54A | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/445241029_971822111193761_3123167495825798227_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=HQsnXIS28ecQ7kNvgFM20wA&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAYJQS1mMkF1iSk4_dpGImxggKEkUi21PceB0vu0x83Fw&oe=6672B242 | 0 | 3 | I had never seen Felix like this - fury was written all over his face, and his lanky figure was trembling slightly. I've known Felix since we were born. Our mothers were best friends and they were trying to pair us up again just now. I had a crush on him, and he always treated me kindly. But now, he glared at me and spat, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around! That's why they misunderstood! Stay away from me!" I hadn't expected him to say something like that. I stared at him dumbfounded. Both my parents and Felix's parents ceased their conversation about our wedding and future. Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? I'm my own man. I'll never marry her, so you all can just stop trying to pair us up!" Felix shouted as he glared at everyone in the house. His eyes were filled with hate. It made me want to curl up into a ball out of embarrassment. The house remained completely silent. Everyone's gaze was on me, and I could feel my heart throbbing in pain. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. He had trampled all over my dignity and self-worth in front of his whole family and mineβ¦ My father, usually calm, flushed crimson at Felix's harsh words, his fists clenched. Mom, too, looked angry and embarrassed, jaw agape, her expression one of disbelief. Uncle Austin, Felix's father, slapped Felix, scolding, "You rebellious boy! Who taught you to behave like that?" The impact of slap sent Felix reeling, and he hit his head on the corner of the wall. Felix slumped to the floor in pain, leaving an unmistakable streak of red on the white walls. Aunt Mel rushed forward with concern, "Felix, my son! Are you alright?" Felix shot me a scathing glare as if I had committed an unspeakable crime. "Are you happy now, Luna?" he spat. I stared back at him with wide eyes, tears streaming down my face and onto the floor. Even though I liked him, that didn't mean he could throw wild accusations and embarrass me as he pleased! I liked him, but I, too, had my sense of dignity! If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I would gladly change! "I'm sorry, Felix. I never thought that my actions would have bugged you so much," I forced the humiliation down as I continued, "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix." I bit my lip hard, and the sharp tang of blood exploded across my tongue. I, Luna Lawson, also swear to myself - I won't endure the same humiliation AGAIN! | Massive story | 0 | https://facebook.com/61557833926946 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717052400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879781 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410723 | 1723321809 | 995 | 387072690725868 | 3 | 3.871744639565E+14 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 1985698018394105 | 0 | Horbaach | 120205822830450525 | horbaach.com | Learn more | NONE | image | Search: 5 results found for "nitric oxide" | Count on us to bring you products that are formulated with care, tested rigorously, and backed by decades of expertise. | https://horbaach.com/search?q=nitric+oxide&utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=ecommerce&utm_content=nosimage1 | 1708023235 | 1.9856980183941E+15 | Horbaach | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/426513719_3590945641147342_7517592862440309833_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=WvrpJDNnQKkQ7kNvgEx1DKL&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYA--RySibJdzxV2Xj0LwOVwUZZUPSzBN43CYC_dNN8FOw&oe=6672AECB | person_profile | 0 | Horbaach Health | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/426526585_1330967624277560_7147559842765520453_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GDmGVfI4ocwQ7kNvgHcHSA7&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDIT4Q4YhahkS8XxQ5WaVY_i81PFHrOS2G7n5pyZOcCmw&oe=6672B138 | 0 | 3 | Shop HorbΓ€ach Products | Horbaach | 11311 | https://facebook.com/horbaach | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1707984000 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879558 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410694 | 1723321810 | 995 | 832484831570092 | 5 | 4.2934108319284E+14 | 1717311600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 265015680033634 | 0 | Massive story | 120212069533530002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πRead the next chaptersπ | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1716980906 | 2.6501568003363E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/445242698_995588455545077_2405839290899264462_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Evzu0flh0CsQ7kNvgEQZTu6&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBSuV5CWBzSildTbW5wOpL2MROcqjgQo3Fv9DR64pSjPg&oe=6672B54A | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/445241029_971822111193761_3123167495825798227_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=HQsnXIS28ecQ7kNvgFM20wA&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAYJQS1mMkF1iSk4_dpGImxggKEkUi21PceB0vu0x83Fw&oe=6672B242 | 0 | 3 | I had never seen Felix like this - fury was written all over his face, and his lanky figure was trembling slightly. I've known Felix since we were born. Our mothers were best friends and they were trying to pair us up again just now. I had a crush on him, and he always treated me kindly. But now, he glared at me and spat, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around! That's why they misunderstood! Stay away from me!" I hadn't expected him to say something like that. I stared at him dumbfounded. Both my parents and Felix's parents ceased their conversation about our wedding and future. Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? I'm my own man. I'll never marry her, so you all can just stop trying to pair us up!" Felix shouted as he glared at everyone in the house. His eyes were filled with hate. It made me want to curl up into a ball out of embarrassment. The house remained completely silent. Everyone's gaze was on me, and I could feel my heart throbbing in pain. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. He had trampled all over my dignity and self-worth in front of his whole family and mineβ¦ My father, usually calm, flushed crimson at Felix's harsh words, his fists clenched. Mom, too, looked angry and embarrassed, jaw agape, her expression one of disbelief. Uncle Austin, Felix's father, slapped Felix, scolding, "You rebellious boy! Who taught you to behave like that?" The impact of slap sent Felix reeling, and he hit his head on the corner of the wall. Felix slumped to the floor in pain, leaving an unmistakable streak of red on the white walls. Aunt Mel rushed forward with concern, "Felix, my son! Are you alright?" Felix shot me a scathing glare as if I had committed an unspeakable crime. "Are you happy now, Luna?" he spat. I stared back at him with wide eyes, tears streaming down my face and onto the floor. Even though I liked him, that didn't mean he could throw wild accusations and embarrass me as he pleased! I liked him, but I, too, had my sense of dignity! If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I would gladly change! "I'm sorry, Felix. I never thought that my actions would have bugged you so much," I forced the humiliation down as I continued, "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix." I bit my lip hard, and the sharp tang of blood exploded across my tongue. I, Luna Lawson, also swear to myself - I won't endure the same humiliation AGAIN! | Massive story | 0 | https://facebook.com/61557833926946 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717052400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879559 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410694 | 1723321810 | 995 | 832484831570092 | 5 | 4.2934108319284E+14 | 1717311600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 265015680033634 | 0 | Massive story | 120212069533530002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πRead the next chaptersπ | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1716980906 | 2.6501568003363E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/445242698_995588455545077_2405839290899264462_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Evzu0flh0CsQ7kNvgEQZTu6&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBSuV5CWBzSildTbW5wOpL2MROcqjgQo3Fv9DR64pSjPg&oe=6672B54A | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/445241029_971822111193761_3123167495825798227_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=HQsnXIS28ecQ7kNvgFM20wA&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAYJQS1mMkF1iSk4_dpGImxggKEkUi21PceB0vu0x83Fw&oe=6672B242 | 0 | 3 | I had never seen Felix like this - fury was written all over his face, and his lanky figure was trembling slightly. I've known Felix since we were born. Our mothers were best friends and they were trying to pair us up again just now. I had a crush on him, and he always treated me kindly. But now, he glared at me and spat, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around! That's why they misunderstood! Stay away from me!" I hadn't expected him to say something like that. I stared at him dumbfounded. Both my parents and Felix's parents ceased their conversation about our wedding and future. Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? I'm my own man. I'll never marry her, so you all can just stop trying to pair us up!" Felix shouted as he glared at everyone in the house. His eyes were filled with hate. It made me want to curl up into a ball out of embarrassment. The house remained completely silent. Everyone's gaze was on me, and I could feel my heart throbbing in pain. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. He had trampled all over my dignity and self-worth in front of his whole family and mineβ¦ My father, usually calm, flushed crimson at Felix's harsh words, his fists clenched. Mom, too, looked angry and embarrassed, jaw agape, her expression one of disbelief. Uncle Austin, Felix's father, slapped Felix, scolding, "You rebellious boy! Who taught you to behave like that?" The impact of slap sent Felix reeling, and he hit his head on the corner of the wall. Felix slumped to the floor in pain, leaving an unmistakable streak of red on the white walls. Aunt Mel rushed forward with concern, "Felix, my son! Are you alright?" Felix shot me a scathing glare as if I had committed an unspeakable crime. "Are you happy now, Luna?" he spat. I stared back at him with wide eyes, tears streaming down my face and onto the floor. Even though I liked him, that didn't mean he could throw wild accusations and embarrass me as he pleased! I liked him, but I, too, had my sense of dignity! If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I would gladly change! "I'm sorry, Felix. I never thought that my actions would have bugged you so much," I forced the humiliation down as I continued, "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix." I bit my lip hard, and the sharp tang of blood exploded across my tongue. I, Luna Lawson, also swear to myself - I won't endure the same humiliation AGAIN! | Massive story | 0 | https://facebook.com/61557833926946 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717052400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879560 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410694 | 1723321810 | 995 | 832484831570092 | 5 | 4.2934108319284E+14 | 1717311600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 265015680033634 | 0 | Massive story | 120212069533530002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πRead the next chaptersπ | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1716980906 | 2.6501568003363E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/445242698_995588455545077_2405839290899264462_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Evzu0flh0CsQ7kNvgEQZTu6&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBSuV5CWBzSildTbW5wOpL2MROcqjgQo3Fv9DR64pSjPg&oe=6672B54A | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/445241029_971822111193761_3123167495825798227_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=HQsnXIS28ecQ7kNvgFM20wA&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAYJQS1mMkF1iSk4_dpGImxggKEkUi21PceB0vu0x83Fw&oe=6672B242 | 0 | 3 | I had never seen Felix like this - fury was written all over his face, and his lanky figure was trembling slightly. I've known Felix since we were born. Our mothers were best friends and they were trying to pair us up again just now. I had a crush on him, and he always treated me kindly. But now, he glared at me and spat, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around! That's why they misunderstood! Stay away from me!" I hadn't expected him to say something like that. I stared at him dumbfounded. Both my parents and Felix's parents ceased their conversation about our wedding and future. Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? I'm my own man. I'll never marry her, so you all can just stop trying to pair us up!" Felix shouted as he glared at everyone in the house. His eyes were filled with hate. It made me want to curl up into a ball out of embarrassment. The house remained completely silent. Everyone's gaze was on me, and I could feel my heart throbbing in pain. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. He had trampled all over my dignity and self-worth in front of his whole family and mineβ¦ My father, usually calm, flushed crimson at Felix's harsh words, his fists clenched. Mom, too, looked angry and embarrassed, jaw agape, her expression one of disbelief. Uncle Austin, Felix's father, slapped Felix, scolding, "You rebellious boy! Who taught you to behave like that?" The impact of slap sent Felix reeling, and he hit his head on the corner of the wall. Felix slumped to the floor in pain, leaving an unmistakable streak of red on the white walls. Aunt Mel rushed forward with concern, "Felix, my son! Are you alright?" Felix shot me a scathing glare as if I had committed an unspeakable crime. "Are you happy now, Luna?" he spat. I stared back at him with wide eyes, tears streaming down my face and onto the floor. Even though I liked him, that didn't mean he could throw wild accusations and embarrass me as he pleased! I liked him, but I, too, had my sense of dignity! If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I would gladly change! "I'm sorry, Felix. I never thought that my actions would have bugged you so much," I forced the humiliation down as I continued, "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix." I bit my lip hard, and the sharp tang of blood exploded across my tongue. I, Luna Lawson, also swear to myself - I won't endure the same humiliation AGAIN! | Massive story | 0 | https://facebook.com/61557833926946 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717052400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879562 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410694 | 1723321810 | 995 | 976133923970880 | 1 | 1.1303900481905E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 273913162469522 | 0 | New world publications | 120212928768730170 | wwwedb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πAttention! Do not read in publicοΌπ | https://wwwedb.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11782&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717757425 | 2.7391316246952E+14 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959759_1311554859802432_4227718076479884991_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GwKF1hWO7f4Q7kNvgGcgnOa&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAaDJ90YtTRVgl1h4Qq29YmZWIZCVWKY5MqqmnLhItL8w&oe=6672A69D | person_profile | 0 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959270_7187349571370885_4976612476689122460_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=NNss872fdPgQ7kNvgE-PVII&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAp0ikcilFTLm0se1WcAfumGS3USCJAFn0NgxepicFnPw&oe=6672B455 | 0 | 3 | The clearing of a throat makes me jump. I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of alcohol. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that donβt quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door. Shrinking down to the ground. βIs this the way you greet all Alphaβs?β His deep voice rumbles through the room, an edge of amusement to his tone. βIβm sorry.β I whisper, getting to my feet. βIβ¦I thought I was alone.β I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. βCome forward.β He orders. Alpha Trey was going to kill me. I do as Iβm told. Allowing him to see me properly and I am met with narrowed crimson eyes. I close my own eyes, expecting the worst. βYou smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?β My head moved up and down, though I couldnβt tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they discovered the truth about me. βI would prefer it if you spoke to me.β He growls, βIβm not in the mood to play games.β βYes.β I whisper. βI amβ¦I am a Wolf.β I couldnβt help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? I wasnβt sure how much more my body could take. βHow is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.β βIβ¦..β I hated the question. βI havenβt got all day!β He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldnβt scent him. I knew why I hadnβt been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever liked to do. They never hear my side of the story. All they do is accept Alpha Trey's word as the truth. βYou should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?β His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them. There was no way I was making direct eye contact. βMy Wolf abilities were bound.β βWhy?β If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. βIt was a punishment.β βFor what?β βFor killing my parents.β | New world publications | 9 | https://facebook.com/61557831245498 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718089200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879564 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410694 | 1723321810 | 995 | 976133923970880 | 1 | 1.1303900481905E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 273913162469522 | 0 | New world publications | 120212928768730170 | wwwedb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πAttention! Do not read in publicοΌπ | https://wwwedb.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11782&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717757425 | 2.7391316246952E+14 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959759_1311554859802432_4227718076479884991_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GwKF1hWO7f4Q7kNvgGcgnOa&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAaDJ90YtTRVgl1h4Qq29YmZWIZCVWKY5MqqmnLhItL8w&oe=6672A69D | person_profile | 0 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959270_7187349571370885_4976612476689122460_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=NNss872fdPgQ7kNvgE-PVII&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAp0ikcilFTLm0se1WcAfumGS3USCJAFn0NgxepicFnPw&oe=6672B455 | 0 | 3 | The clearing of a throat makes me jump. I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of alcohol. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that donβt quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door. Shrinking down to the ground. βIs this the way you greet all Alphaβs?β His deep voice rumbles through the room, an edge of amusement to his tone. βIβm sorry.β I whisper, getting to my feet. βIβ¦I thought I was alone.β I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. βCome forward.β He orders. Alpha Trey was going to kill me. I do as Iβm told. Allowing him to see me properly and I am met with narrowed crimson eyes. I close my own eyes, expecting the worst. βYou smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?β My head moved up and down, though I couldnβt tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they discovered the truth about me. βI would prefer it if you spoke to me.β He growls, βIβm not in the mood to play games.β βYes.β I whisper. βI amβ¦I am a Wolf.β I couldnβt help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? I wasnβt sure how much more my body could take. βHow is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.β βIβ¦..β I hated the question. βI havenβt got all day!β He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldnβt scent him. I knew why I hadnβt been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever liked to do. They never hear my side of the story. All they do is accept Alpha Trey's word as the truth. βYou should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?β His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them. There was no way I was making direct eye contact. βMy Wolf abilities were bound.β βWhy?β If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. βIt was a punishment.β βFor what?β βFor killing my parents.β | New world publications | 9 | https://facebook.com/61557831245498 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718089200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879566 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410694 | 1723321810 | 995 | 976133923970880 | 1 | 1.1303900481905E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 273913162469522 | 0 | New world publications | 120212928768730170 | wwwedb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πAttention! Do not read in publicοΌπ | https://wwwedb.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11782&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717757425 | 2.7391316246952E+14 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959759_1311554859802432_4227718076479884991_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GwKF1hWO7f4Q7kNvgGcgnOa&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAaDJ90YtTRVgl1h4Qq29YmZWIZCVWKY5MqqmnLhItL8w&oe=6672A69D | person_profile | 0 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959270_7187349571370885_4976612476689122460_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=NNss872fdPgQ7kNvgE-PVII&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAp0ikcilFTLm0se1WcAfumGS3USCJAFn0NgxepicFnPw&oe=6672B455 | 0 | 3 | The clearing of a throat makes me jump. I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of alcohol. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that donβt quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door. Shrinking down to the ground. βIs this the way you greet all Alphaβs?β His deep voice rumbles through the room, an edge of amusement to his tone. βIβm sorry.β I whisper, getting to my feet. βIβ¦I thought I was alone.β I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. βCome forward.β He orders. Alpha Trey was going to kill me. I do as Iβm told. Allowing him to see me properly and I am met with narrowed crimson eyes. I close my own eyes, expecting the worst. βYou smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?β My head moved up and down, though I couldnβt tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they discovered the truth about me. βI would prefer it if you spoke to me.β He growls, βIβm not in the mood to play games.β βYes.β I whisper. βI amβ¦I am a Wolf.β I couldnβt help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? I wasnβt sure how much more my body could take. βHow is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.β βIβ¦..β I hated the question. βI havenβt got all day!β He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldnβt scent him. I knew why I hadnβt been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever liked to do. They never hear my side of the story. All they do is accept Alpha Trey's word as the truth. βYou should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?β His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them. There was no way I was making direct eye contact. βMy Wolf abilities were bound.β βWhy?β If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. βIt was a punishment.β βFor what?β βFor killing my parents.β | New world publications | 9 | https://facebook.com/61557831245498 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718089200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879568 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410694 | 1723321810 | 995 | 976133923970880 | 1 | 1.1303900481905E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 273913162469522 | 0 | New world publications | 120212928768730170 | wwwedb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πAttention! Do not read in publicοΌπ | https://wwwedb.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11782&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717757425 | 2.7391316246952E+14 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959759_1311554859802432_4227718076479884991_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GwKF1hWO7f4Q7kNvgGcgnOa&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAaDJ90YtTRVgl1h4Qq29YmZWIZCVWKY5MqqmnLhItL8w&oe=6672A69D | person_profile | 0 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959270_7187349571370885_4976612476689122460_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=NNss872fdPgQ7kNvgE-PVII&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAp0ikcilFTLm0se1WcAfumGS3USCJAFn0NgxepicFnPw&oe=6672B455 | 0 | 3 | The clearing of a throat makes me jump. I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of alcohol. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that donβt quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door. Shrinking down to the ground. βIs this the way you greet all Alphaβs?β His deep voice rumbles through the room, an edge of amusement to his tone. βIβm sorry.β I whisper, getting to my feet. βIβ¦I thought I was alone.β I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. βCome forward.β He orders. Alpha Trey was going to kill me. I do as Iβm told. Allowing him to see me properly and I am met with narrowed crimson eyes. I close my own eyes, expecting the worst. βYou smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?β My head moved up and down, though I couldnβt tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they discovered the truth about me. βI would prefer it if you spoke to me.β He growls, βIβm not in the mood to play games.β βYes.β I whisper. βI amβ¦I am a Wolf.β I couldnβt help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? I wasnβt sure how much more my body could take. βHow is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.β βIβ¦..β I hated the question. βI havenβt got all day!β He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldnβt scent him. I knew why I hadnβt been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever liked to do. They never hear my side of the story. All they do is accept Alpha Trey's word as the truth. βYou should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?β His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them. There was no way I was making direct eye contact. βMy Wolf abilities were bound.β βWhy?β If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. βIt was a punishment.β βFor what?β βFor killing my parents.β | New world publications | 9 | https://facebook.com/61557831245498 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718089200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879570 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410694 | 1723321811 | 995 | 976133923970880 | 1 | 1.1303900481905E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 273913162469522 | 0 | New world publications | 120212928768730170 | wwwedb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πAttention! Do not read in publicοΌπ | https://wwwedb.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11782&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717757425 | 2.7391316246952E+14 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959759_1311554859802432_4227718076479884991_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GwKF1hWO7f4Q7kNvgGcgnOa&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAaDJ90YtTRVgl1h4Qq29YmZWIZCVWKY5MqqmnLhItL8w&oe=6672A69D | person_profile | 0 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959270_7187349571370885_4976612476689122460_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=NNss872fdPgQ7kNvgE-PVII&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAp0ikcilFTLm0se1WcAfumGS3USCJAFn0NgxepicFnPw&oe=6672B455 | 0 | 3 | The clearing of a throat makes me jump. I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of alcohol. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that donβt quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door. Shrinking down to the ground. βIs this the way you greet all Alphaβs?β His deep voice rumbles through the room, an edge of amusement to his tone. βIβm sorry.β I whisper, getting to my feet. βIβ¦I thought I was alone.β I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. βCome forward.β He orders. Alpha Trey was going to kill me. I do as Iβm told. Allowing him to see me properly and I am met with narrowed crimson eyes. I close my own eyes, expecting the worst. βYou smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?β My head moved up and down, though I couldnβt tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they discovered the truth about me. βI would prefer it if you spoke to me.β He growls, βIβm not in the mood to play games.β βYes.β I whisper. βI amβ¦I am a Wolf.β I couldnβt help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? I wasnβt sure how much more my body could take. βHow is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.β βIβ¦..β I hated the question. βI havenβt got all day!β He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldnβt scent him. I knew why I hadnβt been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever liked to do. They never hear my side of the story. All they do is accept Alpha Trey's word as the truth. βYou should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?β His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them. There was no way I was making direct eye contact. βMy Wolf abilities were bound.β βWhy?β If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. βIt was a punishment.β βFor what?β βFor killing my parents.β | New world publications | 9 | https://facebook.com/61557831245498 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718089200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879571 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410694 | 1723321811 | 995 | 996794385151373 | 1 | 4.7613411813989E+14 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 342924965562549 | 0 | Random Reading | 120210157711830342 | play.google.com | Install now | NONE | video | π₯π₯Click to read the next chapter for freeπ | http://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.read.goodnovel | 1718113310 | 3.4292496556255E+14 | Random Reading | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448199353_336029016195951_6337823340457774507_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=B5_oyp4RnR0Q7kNvgGEIQji&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAQOXiT6xCw-6H9_vUHCTCus5tNnnXDD_T_3isEX0IiAg&oe=6672AD8B | person_profile | 0 | Random Reading | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448204243_1500489524185533_9145284433674404544_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=rsR_EFLfvLMQ7kNvgHT6cLG&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCpfugQATTzvQ0B34P2b2oum_eGdAlvy-xNRRCLS_eRjg&oe=6672B938 | 0 | 3 | πEveryone in Norvania knew who Nathan Morrison was. But nobody knew I was his wife. More sadly, when I was tortured by criminals, he was sleeping with another woman... | Random Reading | 9 | https://facebook.com/61559743679549 | 0 | INSTALL_MOBILE_APP | 1718089200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879574 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410695 | 1723321811 | 995 | 1123587355422972 | 1 | 7.6990506525411E+14 | 1718089200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 273913162469522 | 0 | New world publications | 120212928768730170 | wwwedb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πAttention! Do not read in publicοΌπ | https://wwwedb.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11782&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717757425 | 2.7391316246952E+14 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959759_1311554859802432_4227718076479884991_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GwKF1hWO7f4Q7kNvgGcgnOa&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAaDJ90YtTRVgl1h4Qq29YmZWIZCVWKY5MqqmnLhItL8w&oe=6672A69D | person_profile | 0 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959270_7187349571370885_4976612476689122460_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=NNss872fdPgQ7kNvgE-PVII&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAp0ikcilFTLm0se1WcAfumGS3USCJAFn0NgxepicFnPw&oe=6672B455 | 0 | 3 | The clearing of a throat makes me jump. I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of alcohol. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that donβt quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door. Shrinking down to the ground. βIs this the way you greet all Alphaβs?β His deep voice rumbles through the room, an edge of amusement to his tone. βIβm sorry.β I whisper, getting to my feet. βIβ¦I thought I was alone.β I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. βCome forward.β He orders. Alpha Trey was going to kill me. I do as Iβm told. Allowing him to see me properly and I am met with narrowed crimson eyes. I close my own eyes, expecting the worst. βYou smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?β My head moved up and down, though I couldnβt tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they discovered the truth about me. βI would prefer it if you spoke to me.β He growls, βIβm not in the mood to play games.β βYes.β I whisper. βI amβ¦I am a Wolf.β I couldnβt help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? I wasnβt sure how much more my body could take. βHow is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.β βIβ¦..β I hated the question. βI havenβt got all day!β He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldnβt scent him. I knew why I hadnβt been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever liked to do. They never hear my side of the story. All they do is accept Alpha Trey's word as the truth. βYou should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?β His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them. There was no way I was making direct eye contact. βMy Wolf abilities were bound.β βWhy?β If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. βIt was a punishment.β βFor what?β βFor killing my parents.β | New world publications | 9 | https://facebook.com/61557831245498 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717743600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879576 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410695 | 1723321811 | 995 | 1123587355422972 | 1 | 7.6990506525411E+14 | 1718089200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 273913162469522 | 0 | New world publications | 120212928768730170 | wwwedb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πAttention! Do not read in publicοΌπ | https://wwwedb.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11782&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717757425 | 2.7391316246952E+14 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959759_1311554859802432_4227718076479884991_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GwKF1hWO7f4Q7kNvgGcgnOa&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAaDJ90YtTRVgl1h4Qq29YmZWIZCVWKY5MqqmnLhItL8w&oe=6672A69D | person_profile | 0 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959270_7187349571370885_4976612476689122460_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=NNss872fdPgQ7kNvgE-PVII&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAp0ikcilFTLm0se1WcAfumGS3USCJAFn0NgxepicFnPw&oe=6672B455 | 0 | 3 | The clearing of a throat makes me jump. I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of alcohol. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that donβt quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door. Shrinking down to the ground. βIs this the way you greet all Alphaβs?β His deep voice rumbles through the room, an edge of amusement to his tone. βIβm sorry.β I whisper, getting to my feet. βIβ¦I thought I was alone.β I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. βCome forward.β He orders. Alpha Trey was going to kill me. I do as Iβm told. Allowing him to see me properly and I am met with narrowed crimson eyes. I close my own eyes, expecting the worst. βYou smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?β My head moved up and down, though I couldnβt tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they discovered the truth about me. βI would prefer it if you spoke to me.β He growls, βIβm not in the mood to play games.β βYes.β I whisper. βI amβ¦I am a Wolf.β I couldnβt help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? I wasnβt sure how much more my body could take. βHow is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.β βIβ¦..β I hated the question. βI havenβt got all day!β He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldnβt scent him. I knew why I hadnβt been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever liked to do. They never hear my side of the story. All they do is accept Alpha Trey's word as the truth. βYou should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?β His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them. There was no way I was making direct eye contact. βMy Wolf abilities were bound.β βWhy?β If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. βIt was a punishment.β βFor what?β βFor killing my parents.β | New world publications | 9 | https://facebook.com/61557831245498 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717743600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879578 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410695 | 1723321811 | 995 | 1123587355422972 | 1 | 7.6990506525411E+14 | 1718089200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 273913162469522 | 0 | New world publications | 120212928768730170 | wwwedb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πAttention! Do not read in publicοΌπ | https://wwwedb.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11782&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717757425 | 2.7391316246952E+14 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959759_1311554859802432_4227718076479884991_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GwKF1hWO7f4Q7kNvgGcgnOa&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAaDJ90YtTRVgl1h4Qq29YmZWIZCVWKY5MqqmnLhItL8w&oe=6672A69D | person_profile | 0 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959270_7187349571370885_4976612476689122460_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=NNss872fdPgQ7kNvgE-PVII&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAp0ikcilFTLm0se1WcAfumGS3USCJAFn0NgxepicFnPw&oe=6672B455 | 0 | 3 | The clearing of a throat makes me jump. I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of alcohol. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that donβt quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door. Shrinking down to the ground. βIs this the way you greet all Alphaβs?β His deep voice rumbles through the room, an edge of amusement to his tone. βIβm sorry.β I whisper, getting to my feet. βIβ¦I thought I was alone.β I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. βCome forward.β He orders. Alpha Trey was going to kill me. I do as Iβm told. Allowing him to see me properly and I am met with narrowed crimson eyes. I close my own eyes, expecting the worst. βYou smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?β My head moved up and down, though I couldnβt tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they discovered the truth about me. βI would prefer it if you spoke to me.β He growls, βIβm not in the mood to play games.β βYes.β I whisper. βI amβ¦I am a Wolf.β I couldnβt help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? I wasnβt sure how much more my body could take. βHow is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.β βIβ¦..β I hated the question. βI havenβt got all day!β He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldnβt scent him. I knew why I hadnβt been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever liked to do. They never hear my side of the story. All they do is accept Alpha Trey's word as the truth. βYou should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?β His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them. There was no way I was making direct eye contact. βMy Wolf abilities were bound.β βWhy?β If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. βIt was a punishment.β βFor what?β βFor killing my parents.β | New world publications | 9 | https://facebook.com/61557831245498 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717743600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879580 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410695 | 1723321811 | 995 | 1123587355422972 | 1 | 7.6990506525411E+14 | 1718089200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 273913162469522 | 0 | New world publications | 120212928768730170 | wwwedb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πAttention! Do not read in publicοΌπ | https://wwwedb.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11782&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717757425 | 2.7391316246952E+14 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959759_1311554859802432_4227718076479884991_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GwKF1hWO7f4Q7kNvgGcgnOa&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAaDJ90YtTRVgl1h4Qq29YmZWIZCVWKY5MqqmnLhItL8w&oe=6672A69D | person_profile | 0 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959270_7187349571370885_4976612476689122460_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=NNss872fdPgQ7kNvgE-PVII&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAp0ikcilFTLm0se1WcAfumGS3USCJAFn0NgxepicFnPw&oe=6672B455 | 0 | 3 | The clearing of a throat makes me jump. I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of alcohol. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that donβt quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door. Shrinking down to the ground. βIs this the way you greet all Alphaβs?β His deep voice rumbles through the room, an edge of amusement to his tone. βIβm sorry.β I whisper, getting to my feet. βIβ¦I thought I was alone.β I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. βCome forward.β He orders. Alpha Trey was going to kill me. I do as Iβm told. Allowing him to see me properly and I am met with narrowed crimson eyes. I close my own eyes, expecting the worst. βYou smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?β My head moved up and down, though I couldnβt tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they discovered the truth about me. βI would prefer it if you spoke to me.β He growls, βIβm not in the mood to play games.β βYes.β I whisper. βI amβ¦I am a Wolf.β I couldnβt help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? I wasnβt sure how much more my body could take. βHow is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.β βIβ¦..β I hated the question. βI havenβt got all day!β He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldnβt scent him. I knew why I hadnβt been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever liked to do. They never hear my side of the story. All they do is accept Alpha Trey's word as the truth. βYou should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?β His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them. There was no way I was making direct eye contact. βMy Wolf abilities were bound.β βWhy?β If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. βIt was a punishment.β βFor what?β βFor killing my parents.β | New world publications | 9 | https://facebook.com/61557831245498 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717743600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879582 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410695 | 1723321811 | 995 | 1126652285269237 | 1 | 9.8335474649662E+14 | 1718089200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 273913162469522 | 0 | New world publications | 120212928768730170 | wwwedb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πAttention! Do not read in publicοΌπ | https://wwwedb.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11782&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717757425 | 2.7391316246952E+14 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959759_1311554859802432_4227718076479884991_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GwKF1hWO7f4Q7kNvgGcgnOa&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAaDJ90YtTRVgl1h4Qq29YmZWIZCVWKY5MqqmnLhItL8w&oe=6672A69D | person_profile | 0 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959270_7187349571370885_4976612476689122460_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=NNss872fdPgQ7kNvgE-PVII&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAp0ikcilFTLm0se1WcAfumGS3USCJAFn0NgxepicFnPw&oe=6672B455 | 0 | 3 | The clearing of a throat makes me jump. I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of alcohol. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that donβt quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door. Shrinking down to the ground. βIs this the way you greet all Alphaβs?β His deep voice rumbles through the room, an edge of amusement to his tone. βIβm sorry.β I whisper, getting to my feet. βIβ¦I thought I was alone.β I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. βCome forward.β He orders. Alpha Trey was going to kill me. I do as Iβm told. Allowing him to see me properly and I am met with narrowed crimson eyes. I close my own eyes, expecting the worst. βYou smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?β My head moved up and down, though I couldnβt tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they discovered the truth about me. βI would prefer it if you spoke to me.β He growls, βIβm not in the mood to play games.β βYes.β I whisper. βI amβ¦I am a Wolf.β I couldnβt help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? I wasnβt sure how much more my body could take. βHow is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.β βIβ¦..β I hated the question. βI havenβt got all day!β He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldnβt scent him. I knew why I hadnβt been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever liked to do. They never hear my side of the story. All they do is accept Alpha Trey's word as the truth. βYou should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?β His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them. There was no way I was making direct eye contact. βMy Wolf abilities were bound.β βWhy?β If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. βIt was a punishment.β βFor what?β βFor killing my parents.β | New world publications | 9 | https://facebook.com/61557831245498 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717830000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879584 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410695 | 1723321812 | 995 | 1126652285269237 | 1 | 9.8335474649662E+14 | 1718089200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 273913162469522 | 0 | New world publications | 120212928768730170 | wwwedb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πAttention! Do not read in publicοΌπ | https://wwwedb.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11782&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717757425 | 2.7391316246952E+14 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959759_1311554859802432_4227718076479884991_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GwKF1hWO7f4Q7kNvgGcgnOa&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAaDJ90YtTRVgl1h4Qq29YmZWIZCVWKY5MqqmnLhItL8w&oe=6672A69D | person_profile | 0 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959270_7187349571370885_4976612476689122460_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=NNss872fdPgQ7kNvgE-PVII&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAp0ikcilFTLm0se1WcAfumGS3USCJAFn0NgxepicFnPw&oe=6672B455 | 0 | 3 | The clearing of a throat makes me jump. I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of alcohol. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that donβt quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door. Shrinking down to the ground. βIs this the way you greet all Alphaβs?β His deep voice rumbles through the room, an edge of amusement to his tone. βIβm sorry.β I whisper, getting to my feet. βIβ¦I thought I was alone.β I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. βCome forward.β He orders. Alpha Trey was going to kill me. I do as Iβm told. Allowing him to see me properly and I am met with narrowed crimson eyes. I close my own eyes, expecting the worst. βYou smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?β My head moved up and down, though I couldnβt tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they discovered the truth about me. βI would prefer it if you spoke to me.β He growls, βIβm not in the mood to play games.β βYes.β I whisper. βI amβ¦I am a Wolf.β I couldnβt help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? I wasnβt sure how much more my body could take. βHow is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.β βIβ¦..β I hated the question. βI havenβt got all day!β He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldnβt scent him. I knew why I hadnβt been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever liked to do. They never hear my side of the story. All they do is accept Alpha Trey's word as the truth. βYou should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?β His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them. There was no way I was making direct eye contact. βMy Wolf abilities were bound.β βWhy?β If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. βIt was a punishment.β βFor what?β βFor killing my parents.β | New world publications | 9 | https://facebook.com/61557831245498 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717830000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879586 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410695 | 1723321812 | 995 | 1126652285269237 | 1 | 9.8335474649662E+14 | 1718089200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 273913162469522 | 0 | New world publications | 120212928768730170 | wwwedb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πAttention! Do not read in publicοΌπ | https://wwwedb.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11782&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717757425 | 2.7391316246952E+14 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959759_1311554859802432_4227718076479884991_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GwKF1hWO7f4Q7kNvgGcgnOa&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAaDJ90YtTRVgl1h4Qq29YmZWIZCVWKY5MqqmnLhItL8w&oe=6672A69D | person_profile | 0 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959270_7187349571370885_4976612476689122460_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=NNss872fdPgQ7kNvgE-PVII&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAp0ikcilFTLm0se1WcAfumGS3USCJAFn0NgxepicFnPw&oe=6672B455 | 0 | 3 | The clearing of a throat makes me jump. I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of alcohol. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that donβt quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door. Shrinking down to the ground. βIs this the way you greet all Alphaβs?β His deep voice rumbles through the room, an edge of amusement to his tone. βIβm sorry.β I whisper, getting to my feet. βIβ¦I thought I was alone.β I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. βCome forward.β He orders. Alpha Trey was going to kill me. I do as Iβm told. Allowing him to see me properly and I am met with narrowed crimson eyes. I close my own eyes, expecting the worst. βYou smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?β My head moved up and down, though I couldnβt tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they discovered the truth about me. βI would prefer it if you spoke to me.β He growls, βIβm not in the mood to play games.β βYes.β I whisper. βI amβ¦I am a Wolf.β I couldnβt help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? I wasnβt sure how much more my body could take. βHow is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.β βIβ¦..β I hated the question. βI havenβt got all day!β He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldnβt scent him. I knew why I hadnβt been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever liked to do. They never hear my side of the story. All they do is accept Alpha Trey's word as the truth. βYou should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?β His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them. There was no way I was making direct eye contact. βMy Wolf abilities were bound.β βWhy?β If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. βIt was a punishment.β βFor what?β βFor killing my parents.β | New world publications | 9 | https://facebook.com/61557831245498 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717830000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879808 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410726 | 1723321812 | 995 | 858887796262509 | 2 | 8.0915660068031E+14 | 1715410800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120211247750770002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πRead the next chaptersπ | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715251568 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438172556_1000382361510248_6179197804503582160_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=DCdirLq4kioQ7kNvgElzu-n&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBuGStY8gmUlTAinRcnKDSi19qby0K51UAKCotueVo8FA&oe=6672AAA5 | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438144895_433133876341869_1863517058371972618_n.jpg?_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=lKgVQcIe5G8Q7kNvgHiJu9s&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDjUUCPYBLMxBgA5_sXvi_6e0uzKzEswzCZkl9z8QhY8Q&oe=6672A75D | 0 | 3 | I had never seen Felix like this - Fury was written all over his face, and his lanky figure was trembling slightly. Felix and I grew up together. Our parents were best friends, and they tried to pair us up again just now. I've liked him since little, and he's always been really good to me. But now this good boy glared at me, "This is all your fault. Just stay away from me! Stop following me around!" In that instant, all the discussion about our wedding halted, and the room turned dead silent. I hadn't expected him to say something like that. I stared at him dumbfounded. Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? I'll never marry her, so you all can just forget it!" His eyes were filled with hate. It made me want to curl up into a ball out of embarrassment. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. It was fine if he didn't like me, and he could have told me in private, yet he had to trample all over my dignity and self-worth in front of his whole family and mine β¦ My father was always mild-mannered, yet his face had flushed crimson because of Felix's harsh words. Mom also looked angry and embarrassed. Her jaw was agape, and her expression was one of utter disbelief. Uncle Austin, Felix's father was the first to react. He grabbed Felix by the collar and slapped him, scolding, "Who taught you to behave like that?" The slap sent him reeling, and he hit his head on the corner of the wall. Felix let out a low hiss of pain as he stared at Uncle Austin in disbelief. He slumped to the floor in pain, leaving an unmistakable streak of red on the pristine white walls. Aunt Mel rushed forward while crying out anxiously, "Felix! My son, Are you alright?" But Felix shot me a scathing glare as if I had committed an unspeakable sin. "Are you happy now, Luna?" I stared back at him with wide eyes, and my vision grew blurry from my tears. Even though I liked him, that didn't mean he could throw wild accusations and embarrass me as he pleased! I liked him, but I, too, had my sense of dignity! He could choose not to reciprocate my feelings, but he couldn't use my affection for him as a weapon to hurt me. Felix struggled to stand up and turned to leave, but I forced the humiliation down and called out, "I'm sorry, Felix. I never thought that my actions would have bugged you so much." I bit my lip hard, and the sharp tang of blood exploded across my tongue. "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix." | Massive story | 670 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715238000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879809 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410726 | 1723321812 | 995 | 858887796262509 | 2 | 8.0915660068031E+14 | 1715410800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120211247750770002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πRead the next chaptersπ | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715251568 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438172556_1000382361510248_6179197804503582160_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=DCdirLq4kioQ7kNvgElzu-n&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBuGStY8gmUlTAinRcnKDSi19qby0K51UAKCotueVo8FA&oe=6672AAA5 | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438144895_433133876341869_1863517058371972618_n.jpg?_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=lKgVQcIe5G8Q7kNvgHiJu9s&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDjUUCPYBLMxBgA5_sXvi_6e0uzKzEswzCZkl9z8QhY8Q&oe=6672A75D | 0 | 3 | I had never seen Felix like this - Fury was written all over his face, and his lanky figure was trembling slightly. Felix and I grew up together. Our parents were best friends, and they tried to pair us up again just now. I've liked him since little, and he's always been really good to me. But now this good boy glared at me, "This is all your fault. Just stay away from me! Stop following me around!" In that instant, all the discussion about our wedding halted, and the room turned dead silent. I hadn't expected him to say something like that. I stared at him dumbfounded. Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? I'll never marry her, so you all can just forget it!" His eyes were filled with hate. It made me want to curl up into a ball out of embarrassment. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. It was fine if he didn't like me, and he could have told me in private, yet he had to trample all over my dignity and self-worth in front of his whole family and mine β¦ My father was always mild-mannered, yet his face had flushed crimson because of Felix's harsh words. Mom also looked angry and embarrassed. Her jaw was agape, and her expression was one of utter disbelief. Uncle Austin, Felix's father was the first to react. He grabbed Felix by the collar and slapped him, scolding, "Who taught you to behave like that?" The slap sent him reeling, and he hit his head on the corner of the wall. Felix let out a low hiss of pain as he stared at Uncle Austin in disbelief. He slumped to the floor in pain, leaving an unmistakable streak of red on the pristine white walls. Aunt Mel rushed forward while crying out anxiously, "Felix! My son, Are you alright?" But Felix shot me a scathing glare as if I had committed an unspeakable sin. "Are you happy now, Luna?" I stared back at him with wide eyes, and my vision grew blurry from my tears. Even though I liked him, that didn't mean he could throw wild accusations and embarrass me as he pleased! I liked him, but I, too, had my sense of dignity! He could choose not to reciprocate my feelings, but he couldn't use my affection for him as a weapon to hurt me. Felix struggled to stand up and turned to leave, but I forced the humiliation down and called out, "I'm sorry, Felix. I never thought that my actions would have bugged you so much." I bit my lip hard, and the sharp tang of blood exploded across my tongue. "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix." | Massive story | 670 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715238000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879811 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410726 | 1723321812 | 995 | 1154523119004398 | 2 | 1.4377422001822E+15 | 1715842800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120211289111250002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πRead the next chaptersπ | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715329887 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442399618_2321306068077367_7267370041668681897_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=1jk1GTk5KOgQ7kNvgGBH6pF&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYC3q2XEJv5RpmrFVa_5fSvp7lnI1cysPlau-JGoSXZokQ&oe=6672A913 | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442385369_1121751435801135_773466184479018381_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=iyfL6T8EXtwQ7kNvgGUwC6A&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYB2SWYqILaR35Ci_VXgVhmMnrzvOfFwiyEZCtHBT4THMw&oe=6672BBCF | 0 | 3 | My crush actually flipped the table and humiliated me in front of our whole family! During dinner, everyone was engaged in an enthusiastic discussion about my wedding to Felix. I've known Felix since we were born. I liked himβa lot, and he's always been nice and gentle to me. So I was stunned when he suddenly erupted. He shot to his feet and glared at me, "This is all your fault. Just stay away from me! Stop following me around!" In that instant, the room turned dead silent. I could feel the blood rush to my head, making my face flush and my ears ring. Tears welled up in my eyes, "Felix, I..." He snarled, "If it weren't for you shamelessly pestering me all the time, they wouldn't try to pair us up!" I forced myself to suppress the hurt I felt and tried to reason with him. "Felix, listen to me. I just likeβ" "Shut up! I don't need your affection. In fact, they're nothing more than shackles to me. I don't want to be associated with you in any wayβnot ever," Felix interrupted. His words were venomous, and his eyes were filled with a cold hatred that made me shiver. It was like he was looking at a piece of trash. My heart ached, and I found myself gasping for breath. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet in the end, it was all my fault? I should never have liked him. If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I swore I would make him regret it! | Massive story | 670 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715410800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879845 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410731 | 1723321812 | 995 | 861939552623158 | 1 | 1.8722349231897E+15 | 1717225200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120211846693390779 | qweasdzxconline.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πRead the next chaptersπ | https://qweasdzxconline.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11090&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715085862 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438129100_1146045226739178_2601865360875538189_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pgaM6op9EH4Q7kNvgFvStUz&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAnzNXAdVZ3R4dAiEpauXywjYljw4eXW7quZ6rvyHSXBw&oe=6672A490 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440747644_315502774915635_6353252339687881796_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YicSkuGzOiMQ7kNvgEoi2bQ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAN9i2X9Y9MK7cgBix3paDsplYdUdBGGi_LOwLoSJKKaQ&oe=6672CB97 | 0 | 3 | π"Ned Fletcher, with how you're treating Angie right now, aren't you worried that you're going to regret it when you finally regain your memories one day? You loved her so much before and you two got married for love! Despite you forgetting your feelings about her, how could you post so many indecent photos of her on social media?" Ned spoke nonchalantly, saying, "Why are you still holding me hostage with morals and principles? She was the one who framed me by lowly methods. I was just warning her. If Ingrid hadn't asked me to stop, I'd have gone even further! By the way, show your respect to Ingrid. Sheβs not a new girl but my only one forever and never!" Angeline Emmerson heard the talk standing outside the door. She used to be treated ever so lovingly by Ned in the past. Angeline felt her eyes reddening and filling with tears. The Ned she knew had died in the car accident that happened four years ago. The one inside was merely a stranger! Angeline inhaled deeply. Then, she pushed the door open. Ned looked up and saw her entering. "Who brought you here?" Angeline stared at Ned and said, "I've already made a police report regarding your spiked drink at the event and your spreading of my photos for revenge." Hearing this, everyone's reactions differed from one another. Angeline continued, "Ned Fletcher, it's true that I wanted to try rekindling our relationship, but I would never have stooped so low as to do those disgusting things to you. I didn't want to let go of this relationship because I was worried that the Ned I knew would return someday and blame me for giving up on him so easily," Angeline placed the divorce agreement she'd been hugging onto the table. "I tried my best, but I'm tired now. Ned Fletcher, I'm giving up on you. I don't want you anymore." Ned's eyes traveled from the divorce agreement to Angeline's face. There was a hint of surprise in his cold eyes. "Let's finalize the divorce after the police have cleared my name and you have publicly apologized to me." | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717138800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879849 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410731 | 1723321812 | 995 | 861939552623158 | 1 | 1.8722349231897E+15 | 1717225200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120211846693390779 | qweasdzxconline.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πRead the next chaptersπ | https://qweasdzxconline.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11090&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715085862 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438129100_1146045226739178_2601865360875538189_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pgaM6op9EH4Q7kNvgFvStUz&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAnzNXAdVZ3R4dAiEpauXywjYljw4eXW7quZ6rvyHSXBw&oe=6672A490 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440747644_315502774915635_6353252339687881796_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YicSkuGzOiMQ7kNvgEoi2bQ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAN9i2X9Y9MK7cgBix3paDsplYdUdBGGi_LOwLoSJKKaQ&oe=6672CB97 | 0 | 3 | π"Ned Fletcher, with how you're treating Angie right now, aren't you worried that you're going to regret it when you finally regain your memories one day? You loved her so much before and you two got married for love! Despite you forgetting your feelings about her, how could you post so many indecent photos of her on social media?" Ned spoke nonchalantly, saying, "Why are you still holding me hostage with morals and principles? She was the one who framed me by lowly methods. I was just warning her. If Ingrid hadn't asked me to stop, I'd have gone even further! By the way, show your respect to Ingrid. Sheβs not a new girl but my only one forever and never!" Angeline Emmerson heard the talk standing outside the door. She used to be treated ever so lovingly by Ned in the past. Angeline felt her eyes reddening and filling with tears. The Ned she knew had died in the car accident that happened four years ago. The one inside was merely a stranger! Angeline inhaled deeply. Then, she pushed the door open. Ned looked up and saw her entering. "Who brought you here?" Angeline stared at Ned and said, "I've already made a police report regarding your spiked drink at the event and your spreading of my photos for revenge." Hearing this, everyone's reactions differed from one another. Angeline continued, "Ned Fletcher, it's true that I wanted to try rekindling our relationship, but I would never have stooped so low as to do those disgusting things to you. I didn't want to let go of this relationship because I was worried that the Ned I knew would return someday and blame me for giving up on him so easily," Angeline placed the divorce agreement she'd been hugging onto the table. "I tried my best, but I'm tired now. Ned Fletcher, I'm giving up on you. I don't want you anymore." Ned's eyes traveled from the divorce agreement to Angeline's face. There was a hint of surprise in his cold eyes. "Let's finalize the divorce after the police have cleared my name and you have publicly apologized to me." | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717138800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879851 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410732 | 1723321813 | 995 | 989757509447482 | 56 | 1.1720555042106E+15 | 1714287600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 108401345691237 | 0 | JoyReels | 120207623405290738 | play.google.com | Watch more | NONE | video | πΉThis series is so incredible! I can't stop watching! Next episode is amazing! | https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.joyreels.video | 1714125814 | 1.0840134569124E+14 | JoyReels | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439653549_1492081098184092_2520230055688059346_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=nIDqAicyGHcQ7kNvgEjP9hs&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDHNTdAN5H2mhb-11dc3k4jy3nOGK4Bfo6jD1escuHQ_w&oe=6672B40F | person_profile | 0 | JoyReels | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439672237_968708498225044_5845263724250189725_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=e0yyZu5bosUQ7kNvgH_lb0W&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYB5qaL9smql7785D1tsQmKTGZt0k_Wqbp1yt8CEE0ViEQ&oe=66729B68 | 0 | 3 | ππAfter humiliated by his bride-to-be on the wedding rehearsal but Adam was soon told his true identity as the heir of the richest family in the US. On the journey of returning as a CEO, taking over his familyβs business, our true heir gradually finds out his true love, who has been by his side from the very beginningβ¦ | JoyReels | 2321 | https://facebook.com/JoyReels02 | 0 | WATCH_MORE | 1714201200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879852 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410732 | 1723321813 | 995 | 1151488566099663 | 1 | 3.741970716041E+15 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 219004054622622 | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | 120209611805750689 | wwwedb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πAttention! Do not read in publicοΌπ | https://wwwedb.com/market/meganovel/13?lpid=11783&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717743552 | 2.1900405462262E+14 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447260728_1518945155389917_2874266976111342341_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=g0H6jXhQP3sQ7kNvgGXGGZL&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYD5RKLxmmvz3_WMQm6M7TyxkgQmm5IfWgwhhyK_F2vFIg&oe=6672BD2F | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447272334_8058147917584464_4203412527007476159_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ookoAxwxG_QQ7kNvgE9thCo&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCeO_9K7nk0lXXIJiyjXCwWONM-nS-S5ZtufKX8Y6JJ9A&oe=6672A008 | 0 | 3 | One Neah βWhere the heck is she?β I hear the Beta scream. I already knew Beta Kyle was talking about me, the only servant of the house. I groan and get to my feet, grabbing the cleaning basket and taking it with me. The moment Beta Kyle sees me, he strides towards me and his hand slices against my cheek. I donβt make a sound. Years of experience has taught me to keep my mouth shut at all times and only speak when spoken too, even if what they are doing to me hurts. βAlpha Trey and I are expecting company and you still have not cleaned the office like you were asked.β Beta Kyle spits at me I nod my head and my hand tightens on the cleaning basket. If I could just find the courage to swing it at his head, it would make my day. I resisted, he was stronger than me and I didnβt need locking up for another week with no food. My stomach already hurt enough. βWe are trying to make a good impression on Alpha Dane. Do you not understand how important it is for us to join ourselves with his pack?!β I donβt answer, I know it's a trick, to try and get me to say something so that he can give himself a reason to punish me. I keep my eyes low so that I didnβt have to look at his face. Alpha Dane, I had only ever heard rumours about him. Words exchanged between the other pack members when I was in the room. From what I gathered, he was a ruthless man, a Wolf feared by others. He didnβt mess around and he had the largest pack. βHe is the Alpha of Black Shadow, the biggest pack in the world, we need him!β Beta Kyle continues. Yet he doesnβt tell me why. We had never been attacked and we had never attacked anyone, so why did we need another pack to help us? He places his hands on my shoulders, digging his nails into my thinning skin and turns me around, kicking me in the but as he shoves me towards the office. βUseless Wolf.β He mutters as he moves away. Quietly closing the door, I lean back against it, observing the already clean office. There was nothing out of place, it looked perfectly fine for a meeting with this so-called powerful Alpha. Closing my eyes, I slide down to the floor. I hated this house. I thought that when I turned eighteen, I could finally escape, but four years later, here I still am, a slave in my own home. Doing all the dirty tasks for my brother, Alpha Trey and the pack. While my ex mate, Beta Kyle waltzes around reminding me of how worthless I am. Someone clears their throat and I freeze, I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair, just around the corner. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of drink. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that donβt quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door as my heart pounded. βIs this the way you greet all Alphaβs?β His deep voice rumbles through the room, there was an edge of amusement to his tone. βIβm sorry.β I whisper, getting to my feet. βIβ¦I thought I was alone.β I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. He doesnβt introduce himself either, why should he? βCome forward.β He orders and I already feel a lump forming in my throat. Alpha Trey was going to finish me. I step around the corner, doing as Iβm told, allowing him to see me properly. I close my eyes, expecting the worst. βYou smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?β I nod, though I couldnβt tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they found out about me. βI would prefer it if you spoke to me.β He growls, βIβm not in the mood to play games.β βYes.β I whisper. I couldnβt help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? βWhy do you smell strange? And how is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.β βIβ¦..β I hated the question. βSpit it out, I havenβt got all day!β He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldnβt scent him. I knew why I hadnβt been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever wanted or liked to do. They never let me tell my side of the story. All they do is laugh and mock me. βYou should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. Itβs rude to not look at them. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?β His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them, there was no way I was making eye contact. βMy Wolf abilities were bound,β I mutter. Twice, I wanted to add. Twice my abilities were bound. But he probably wasnβt interested in that part. He leans forward, carefully placing his glass on the small table next to the chair. I could feel him staring at me, βWhy would someone do that?β If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. βIt was a punishment.β I whisper. It wasnβt far from the entire truth but it was the simplest answer I could give. Thereβs a twitch in his cheek. Was he angry to hear of such a punishment? Or maybe, just like the others, he was amused by it. I couldnβt tell. The door swings open and my brother screeches at me βNeah, what the heck are you doing in my office?β He turns to the crimson eyed man. βI am so sorry that my sister is bothering you, Alpha Dane.β Crap, it was him. My brother spins around, his hand stretching out to hit me. I close my eyes, bracing myself, ready to feel the burn. βI wouldnβt do that if I were you.β Alpha Daneβs voice rumbles through the room. Peeking through slits, I see Alpha Dane has risen to his feet, his hand coiled around my brother's wrist. He was taller than my brother, more muscly too. βNeah,β My name rolls off of his tongue, βwas kindly showing me to your office, Alpha Trey, as you failed to meet me at the front of your house like I requested. I was lucky someone was present, at least someone understands the importance of this deal.β What? I had no idea what he was talking about. And he had no reason to lie for me. My brother glares at me, clenching his jaw tight. I was going to pay for this later. I would have to try and steal some food. βGo and get Beta Kyle.β Alpha Trey seethes. βTell him that our guest is here.β I nod my head and hurry from the room, the last thing I wanted was to be caught between bickering men. βBeta Kyle,β I whisper as I enter the dining hall. He instantly glares at me with his dark eyes. I had spoken without being spoken to. βAlpha Trey is in the office with Alpha Dane. I was sent to inform you.β He slams the newspaper down on the table and glares at me as he walks by. βYouβre lucky that the Alpha sent you to get me, otherwise you wouldn't be seeing sunlight for a few days.β Pausing behind me, he yanks my head back, locking his fingers in my hair, leaning in close to me, I feel his hot breath on my skin. He doesnβt speak, it was just his way of proving that he could do what he wants when he wants. I try to keep myself busy so I can stay as far away from the office as possible. My peace doesnβt last long when I hear my brother calling out to me. Quietly, I pad towards the office and plaster a smile on my face as I open the door. βNeah, go get the champagne and some glasses, we are celebrating.β I bow my head and hurry to the drinks cabinet. Quickly finding what my brother has asked for. As I re-enter the office, I can feel Alpha Dane watching my every move, even the hairs on the back of my neck stand up. No one ever watches me this closely. Approaching the small table by Alpha Danes chair, I start to fill the glasses. He takes the champagne bottle from me, telling me he is more than capable of filling his own glass. I feel my cheeks flame, not from embarrassment, but because I knew that I would be punished for this. I should have been quicker. I should have filled the glasses before entering the office. I should haveβ¦. My brain freezes when I see my brother glaring at me. βNeah is your sister, correct?β Alpha Dane questions my brother. βShe is.β Alpha Trey mutters with disgust. He looks away from me to focus on the man asking questions. βWhy do you treat her like vermin?β Straight to the point, my brother wouldnβt like that. He only liked sharing information on his terms. No one had spoken to my brother about his treatment of me because everyone took great joy in beating me. I didnβt know what to do. I couldnβt move but I knew I had to get out of there. If this deal goes to pot because of me, then that would be my fault too. βNeah was responsible for our parents' death.β Alpha Trey spits I closed my eyes, battling back the tears that were threatening to break free. βResponsible how?β Alpha Daneβs voice rumbles through me. He was definitely angry. βShe served them Wolfsbane.β Two Neah Donβt make a sound. Donβt make a sound. I knew Alpha Dane was studying me. They all did, no one could ever quite believe how someone could do something so disgusting as poisoning their own parents. I stood there, with my head hanging low, wishing for the ground to open up and suck me in. There are movements around me. He was standing directly in front of me. With a rough finger he tilts my face up towards his, forcing me to look at him. Slowly, his hand latches onto my throat but he doesnβt squeeze. βYou poisoned your parents?β βI was six.β I splutter. βI just made them lemonade.β My voice comes out all squeaky as I try to defend myself. I could barely remember my parents, but I could remember all the guilt I had been made to feel since that day. His crimson eyes flash to my brothers. βHardly seems fair to blame a six year old.β βA six year old should know the difference between plants.β Alpha Trey snaps βSounds to me like she was set up.β Alpha Dane shrugs his shoulders, letting go of my throat. βWe all know that standard wolfsbane doesnβt affect us anymore. We evolved from that thing centuries ago.β What? What did he mean? Wolfsbane wasnβt lethal. It had been drummed into me since I could walk. βWhich only leaves Blood of Wolfsbane.β Alpha Dane mutters βYou werenβt there, Alpha Dane.β My brother muttered through gritted teeth as his eyes narrowed to slits. βIt was Wolfsbane.β He nods his head. βYou are right, I was not present.β Great, now there was someone else who could remind me of something I had done by accident, years ago. βBut tell me this, where would a six year old get Blood of Wolfsbane?β βI didnβt ask you here to talk about my slave!β Alpha Trey spits. βOr what happened to my parents.β Alpha Dane grabs his leather jacket from the chair. Unlike other Alphaβs he seemed to dress more casually. A simple black tee and jeans covered his huge frame. And unlike other Alphaβs, his arms are bare of tattoos, not a single bit of ink poked out anywhere. βYouβre right and now I have a few things to mull over.β βI thought we agreed.β My brother exclaims βNothing has been signed. Now I will show myself out.β The moment he is out of the office, both my brother and Beta Kyle round on me. βWhat the heck did you say to him?β My brother demands, slamming a hand into my stomach. βN..nothing. Well, he just asked me why I smelled funny.β βDid you tell him?β Beta Kyle demands. He was practically spitting in my face. I hated him. I hated him so much that I had vowed to one day get my revenge and rip his stomach out through his mouth. βWELL?β My brother yells when I donβt immediately respond and smacks me across the side of the head. My head involuntarily moves up and down. βBut I didnβt say it was you.β I tried to sound strong and confident but it just comes out as a whisper. If they werenβt Wolves, they probably wouldnβt have heard me. My brother's hand locks into my black hair as he yanks my head back, sending a shooting pain through my skull. βIf you have ruined this, you wonβt see daylight again.β He drags me by my hair from the office and down the hallway towards the basement door. βPleaseβ¦.β I beg. βHe was an Alphaβ¦Iβ¦ I had to answer him.β My cheeks burn with my tears as he flings the door open. On the other side of the door is Alpha Dane. He is leaning against the wall with his arms folded, staring out at us. My brother's hand falls from my hair, relieving the pressure on the back of my skull.. βAlpha Dane, I thought you had left.β Alpha Trey murmurs angrily. βI said I would show myself out. I thought I had found the door, but instead I find a basement, riddled in your sister's strange scent. Is this how you treat your family?β βAs I said,β my brother holds his ground, βShe is responsible for the death of my parents, so yes, this is what she deserves.β βYou should keep your nose out of other packs' business!β Beta Kyle adds. Alpha Dane laughs. βIf I agree to this deal, everything about your business becomes my business. So tell me, what would your punishment be for her? No food, locked away for a week, beatings?β βWe donβtβ¦.β βReally?β He cocks a brow, βYou really expect me to believe that you would have just let her sleep? I have already stopped you from hitting her once. " His eyes roam over me. "She is underfed, bags hover under her tired blue eyes. For a sister of an Alpha, she is certainly not treated like one. Regardless of what she allegedly did when she was a pup.β βShe did do it!β Alpha Trey seethes βAnd she has nothing to do with our deal.β βThatβs for me to decide.β His crimson eyes flicker around the hallway. βWhere is your mate? I would be interested to know how she feels about this.β I close my eyes, silently begging my brother not to call his Luna. Luna Cassandra is worse than Beta Kyle and Alpha Trey together. βOn second thoughts, why bother her. Iβm certain she is just as vile as you.β He sneers I peer through slits to see his crimson eyes on me. There was no reason for him to defend me and yet he was. I was a nobody, no one special. Just who everyone called a traitor. Only instead of being given a death sentence, my brother had decided to make me spend my life suffering. βI have a proposition for you, Alpha Trey.β Alpha Dane is smirking at my brother βWe have already agreed on terms.β βWell, Iβm adding one. And if you donβt agree, you will not get my help. Instead, you will become my enemy. And we both know, you donβt want that.β βI take it that your new terms have something to do with her?β Alpha Trey mutters through clenched teeth. βYou would be correct. Let me take her away to my pack and then you, Trey will have a deal.β Me? Why would he want me? As my brother and his Beta discuss me, Alpha Dane is still studying me. His look made me nervous. What could someone like him possibly want with me? βDeal.β Alpha Trey sticks out his hand for Alpha Dane to shake. He doesnβt take it, instead his crimson eyes shift from me to my brother. βI will have paperwork drawn up and will return tomorrow.β He reaches a hand out and cups my face, βEnsure you have everything packed.β He drags his thumb across my bottom lip and strides to the opposite end of the hallway and straight to the front door. He knew exactly where the front door was, so what was he up to? He pauses at the door. βIf I find out any one of you has laid a hand on her. The contract will be the last thing you need to worry about.β He struts out, slamming the door behind him. βGet out of my sight!β My brother snaps at me. Hurrying away, I make my way up the stairs and into my tiny bedroom. It was practically empty, the only things I had were a few changes of clothes. It would take me less than a minute to pack By morning, I hadnβt slept. Alpha Danes questions were on repeat and why was I so interesting to a Wolf like him. There was a reason he had the biggest pack. They were known for their fighting abilities, thatβs why my brother wanted to link Moonshine with Alpha Danes pack, but where did I fit in to all this? And what o earth is Blood of Wolfsbane? Three Dane βTenth brideβs the charm.β Jenson mocks as the driver pulls up in front of Moonshines packhouse. βShut up!β Eric snaps at him βBoth of you shut your mouths. Before you say something you regret!β βHe will never learn.β My wolf, Aero muses. The driver pulls open the door. βJust give me a second, I need to speak to my men.β The door closes and neither one of them speaks. βShe isnβt like the others. Donβt speak to her, donβt look at her. And you Jenson, keep your hands to yourself or you might just lose them this time.β I was more rattled than usual. Neah was different to the previous selected mates. I didnβt know what it was or whether it was because I was used to confident women, but there was something about her. And Aero appeared to like her too, more than any of the others. I had to have her. βI mean it!β I snap at Jenson's smug face, βBeing my brother wonβt change my mind!β He runs his fingers over his lips as though he was zipping them shut. They follow me from the car. Standing in front of the old packhouse, all three of us stare up at it. Because until a month ago, I knew nothing about them and even after my visit, all I had learned was the Alpha is a beast. My knuckles hammer on the door. Itβs barely open an inch when I force myself through making his Beta stumble back. I spot her straight away, hiding herself behind a corner. βAre you ready?β I call out. βIf you just want toβ¦..β Beta Kyle starts. βI was not talking to you. I was speaking to Neah.β The expression on Beta Kyleβs face was a picture. His jaw hung open and his eyes are wide. He clearly had never been told what to do, even by his Alpha. Neah steps out from her hiding spot, clutching a barely full carrier bag. She drags her teeth across her bottom lip and nods her head. βWhere are the rest of your things? I told you everything needs to be packedβ βThatβs all she has.β Trey snorts as he makes his appearance. βThatβs it?β I stare at him. βThatβs all her belongings? Sheβs what, in her early twenties and thatβs all she has?β βWhat more does she need?!β His Beta sneers. βKill him, let me rip out his throat and he will regret the day he crossed us.β βWhat are you waiting for?β I hear a horrible shrill voice that seems to vibrate through the floors. Looking away from the Beta, I see a woman holding on to a statue of herself that sat at the bottom of the stairs. Her blonde hair hung in waves around her face as her green eyes studied me and she sways her hips as she moves to Trey. I noticed Neahβs reaction yesterday. When I asked Trey where his mate was. Her whole body had tensed up in fear. She was afraid of this woman and I wanted to know why. βTake her Alpha Dane. Iβm sure she will be as useful a slave to you as she is to us.β Her shrill voice goes straight through me. βLook at the silly girl, sheβs going to pass out.β The blonde bimbo laughs βYou donβt get to talk about her like that anymore.β I glare at the blonde, βShe is not your toy. She is not your slave and I suggest that you, Alpha Trey keep your wife in check. There is only so much disobedience that I will tolerate.β βDISOBEDIENCE!β The woman screeches just as Neahβs hip hits the floor. βHow dare you! If anyone is disobedient, itβs that rat in the corner.β βWho the heck is she calling a rat?β Aero growls βYou should make yourself familiar with our agreement.β I snap. βIt seems your mate has not told you everything.β Waving Eric forward, he pulls a thick wad of paper from the folder under his arm. The contract that I have drawn up. βAll that for your help?β His mateβs eyes are wide βI donβt do half-witted contracts.β Taking the contract from Eric, I shove it against Treyβs chest βShall we go to the office?β Trey leads the way with his mate clinging on to him and his Beta hurrying behind. My men follow them while I stay behind to check on my new mate. βYou are more than welcome to join us, after all, you are involved in this deal. Or my car is outfront, you can take your stuff and wait there for me.β βAre those my only options?β she whispers, keeping her eyes low βFor now. Personally, I think you should sit in with us. It will give me great pleasure in pissing off that mate of your brothers.β She keeps her blue eyes low as she continues to clutch that bag of hers. This close to her, I could really see how ill she looked. Even her heart beat is slow, like itβs fighting to hang on to life. βSo what will it be?β βIβ¦.β Her head rotates between the front door and the direction of the office. βIβ¦.. The office I guess.β βGood choice.β I hold out a hand for her but she doesnβt take it. Pushing herself up to her feet. She wobbles a little, but steadies herself. Walking a few steps behind her, I see the evil glares she receives from Trey and the other two idiots as she enters the office.. βTake a seat.β I whisper as I walk past her. My hand grazes her lower back and she immediately tenses up. She stands, frozen to the spot. Only her eyes dart about when she shakes her head. βSit!β I say it a little louder βShe doesnβt have that privilege here!β The blonde snaps, with her lips curved up in amusement βSitting is not a privilege.β I growl, wondering what else they were forcing her to do. I couldnβt see any bruises on her arms or legs, a good sign, I hoped. βIt better be!β Aero paces in my head. He wanted her out of this place as much as I did. The blonde physically recoils in her seat. Her mouth falls wide open, shocked that I had said something. βAnd I suggest,β I look at Trey, βYou tell your mate to keep her mouth shut. Or I can shut it for her.β βAlpha Dane, you are in my homeβ¦..β βAnd you want my help, correct?β The three of them were fuming. No one liked being told what to do in their own home, yet they were doing just that to Neah. I point to the empty chair between Jenson and Eric and she finally sits down. βLetβs just get this done.β Trey snaps, βThe sooner she is gone, the happier I can be.β βYou should read the contract.β I muse βI agreed that you could take her as part of our deal.β βIdiot!β Eric murmurs. He knew as well as I did that contracts should be read before they are signed They sign without reading and practically throw the contract back at me. βDone.β Trey mutters βGood, you can get her out of my house.β Treyβs mate screeches. If I had it my way, I would just take Neah, then I wouldnβt have to put up with the twidles, but this way, they canβt have her back. Even if they begged. A contract was a contract and it was impossible for them to get out of. Getting to my feet, I hold a hand out to Neah, βCome, we are leaving this rat hole before I lose my temper.β Her warm fingers slip into my hand as she rises to her feet. Her other hand clutches the bag to her chest as she walks with me to the front door. She doesnβt even look back to say goodbye and that confirmed everything I needed to know. She hated them as much as they hated her. She pauses at the open front door, her hand falling from mine. Her blue eyes are wide as she stares at the limo. βCome.β I instruct Eric and Jenson are standing behind her, watching her curiously. βIs she okay?β Eric links me. βNeah?β I step in front of her and she doesnβt move. She seems to be staring right through me. βItβs time to go.β βOkay.β Her lips barely move She takes a step forward, almost as if she is in slow motion. Her hands grip the door frame, her knuckles turn white as her heartbeat increases. Her lips part a little and her hand falls from the door frame just as her eyes roll to the back of her head. βIβve got you.β I mutter, catching her just before she hits the floor. Her entire body tenses up as I lift her and carry her to the car. She was so weak and was even lighter than I expected. She probably didnβt weigh much more than a small child. Jenson and Eric get in the car first. Jenson cocks his eyebrow at me and has a smirk plastered to his face as I slide in with Neah on my lap. βKeep your thoughts to yourself, Jenson!β I hold her close, listening to her breathe and her heart as it slowed. Letting my fingers comb through her dark hair as she becomes a little more with it. Suddenly, she sits up right, moving away from me and trying to make herself as small as possible. Deciding not to force her to do anything, I keep my attention on my Beta and my brother, talking about pack stuff while casting a glance over to her every so often to make sure she was alright. βCome.β I mutter as the limo comes to a stop. I donβt wait for the driver and get out myself, holding a hand out for her. βIβm fine.β She speaks at last while glancing at the others and shuffles herself forward to the open door. She stares up at my home, gasping a little. It was easily three times the size of her previous home and I hoped that she would be happy here. That I could provide her with a life that was better than her last. βLet me give you a tour.β I suggest as she continues to clutch that carrier bag to her chest. She follows me in, not speaking a word. I had no idea if she was listening to what I was saying or not βThe omegas swap out on a rotational basis. Good for the youngsters to learn some responsibilities before they get proper jobs.β I tell her while showing her the dining hall with a table long enough to fit twenty people around. We move through to the kitchen. Where I point out a board on the wall. βIf there is anything you need, you just add it to the board and it will be ordered in.β Her brow furrows and still she says nothing. Picking up a pen, I smile. Maybe she felt intimidated by me. βSo tell me, what do you need because there is no way you are living under my roof with just the things that are in that bag.β Her dazzling blue eyes dart around the room βWell?β I ask. βI donβt need anything.β She whispers Sighing, I start scribbling things down. Underwear, jeans, workout clothes, dresses, shoes, anything I can think of that will cover her for a few days. Holding the pen between my teeth, I grab her around the waist. My thumbs meet just above her belly button and my fingers touch her spine. She was so thin, how was she even alive? Four Dane She looked like a deer caught in headlights as I write her size down. She was tinier than I thought. Skin and bone. If I had moved my hands up any higher, I would have felt every rib sticking out. It sickened me, she should be strong, powerful, she had Alpha blood running through her veins. I also saw how she scrunched her face up when I measured her. It wasnβt fear, it was pain. She was hiding something underneath the baggy maids dress. βI know you want to say something, so just say it. Iβm not interested in the crap Trey drummed into you. You donβt have to wait until someone asks you a question. You are free to say what you want. Are you injured?" "No." She was lying, I could feel it. She shakes her head as if it would confirm her answer and a lock of her black hair falls from the band that was supposed to be holding it back. Neah was going to be a tough girl to crack. A life of being starved had made her quite protective over herself. I will make Trey pay for what he has done to her. βYou have to say something, Neah. I cannot read your mind. When I mark you, at least I will know what you are feeling.β βMark me?β I didnβt think her eyes could get any wider. βYes, I will mark you.β She was completely and utterly shocked by the idea. Her pink lips part a little as she continues to stare at me. I thought she knew. I thought that was why she came so willingly. My Beta had kept asking me if I was certain I wanted her as my bride. There was no doubt about it, she had a strange scent but something was luring me to her. I couldnβt take my eyes off of her when I first saw her. My Wolf Aero was going mad for her too. Though he hadnβt said a word about her. Annoyed with me for not taking her home with us yesterday. βYouβ¦.You brought me so that you could mark me.β She takes a step back, walking into the kitchen island. She winces a little and quickly covers up her pain, relaxing her face.. βIf Trey had bothered reading the contract, he would have discovered that you are to be my bride, not a slave. He would also have read that if he or his ridiculously silly mate tried doing anything to you going forward, that pack would become mine, or rather, yours. I never bought you, Neah, you were always destined to be mine.β βIβm a murderer.β She gasps. βWhy would someone like you want me for a bride?β βBloodβ Aero growls interrupting my thoughts. I glance down at her baggy dress. A blood stain had appeared right where I had my hands wrapped around her. βWhatβs that? Are you injured?β I demand, I had barely touched her. She covers the stain with her hand. βItβs nothing. Itβs just a cut that I keep knocking and it opens up again. I forget itβs there.β Forget? How could she forget a wound? βWhy isnβt she healing?β I feel Aeroβs panic. βSheβs been with us less than two hours and already she has some form of injury.β His need to protect her was strong. It hadnβt occurred to me that her lack of abilities included not being able to heal. I would have to find someone who could reverse the binding and soon. βShow me!β βItβs fine.β She mumbles I was already so sick of hearing that phrase. βItβs not optional.β I mutter. βIf you wonβt show me, I will have to find a way to look, myself.β Her heart skips a beat. She looks around the kitchen. βCan.... can we go somewhere more private?β βPrivate?β I didnβt really do privacy. What Wolf did?! She bobs her head but still keeps her focus slightly off of me. Almost afraid to look me directly in the eyes. βOffice,β Aero mutters. βI was just going to suggest that!β I snap back at my Wolf. I feel his eyes roll as he retreats to some dark corner of my mind. βThis way.β I gesture to the door. Neah waits for me and follows closely behind. The scent of blood steadily grew stronger, it was more than just a cut. I already knew that. In the office, I hit the remote and the blinds start to drop, blocking out the sunlight. Neah hesitates and slowly begins to unfasten the buttons of the dress but only where the large blood stain was. Keeping everything else covered from me. She pulls the dress to one side. The wound was about four inches long and already fairly infected. βSee, itβs fine.β she whispers. βYou need to stop saying that.β She closes her mouth and starts to fasten the buttons. βNo,β I grabbed her hands, I had caught sight of another bruise. βLet me see the rest of them.β It wasnβt optional. She gasps as my fingers rip apart the rest of the buttons. Her sports bra had seen better days, just the same as her underwear. But it was the bruising I was most concerned about. Bruise upon bruise, scars that had come from whips. Her hip bones and ribs stuck out too. Turning her around, and pulling the dress from her, I find that her back is just the same. Yet interestingly, there was nothing above her chest and nothing below her thighs. Her arms were completely bare of wounds too. There was only one reason why someone would do that. To either hide what they were doing to someone, or to keep up appearances. They didnβt want guests to see. More importantly, they didnβt want me to see, considering the meeting was arranged over a month ago. She fumbles with the dress, pulling it tightly around her thin frame. βYou need to see a doctor.β βItβs β¦..β she trails off when she sees the anger on my face. βIt always heals, eventually.β βDid Trey do this?β I mutter with my teeth gritted and gesture to her body She lowers her blue eyes. βCassandra?β She still doesnβt answer me. βThat prick that follows Trey around? All three of them?β She pulls her dress tighter around her and silently nods. She brings her hand up to her face, brushing her cheek, wiping away an escaped tear. βAnyone else?β βThe pack.β She whispers. βIβm going to kill them all.β Aero growls. He will have to get in line, βBecause of what you allegedly did to your parents.β She nods. βI donβt believe you were responsible.β She tilts her head up towards me, her brow knits together as her eyes finally find mine. βBecause of Blood of Wolfsbane?" Five Neah βIβ¦I donβt know what Blood of Wolfsbane is?β I whisper He frowns at me. βYour brother said you knew the difference between plants.β βIβ¦β I didnβt have an answer. I couldnβt remember, not fully. βBlood of Wolfsbane is Wolfsbane fed by our blood. The leaves will have a red hue to them. I canβt imagine a child would know what it is because it is not freely grown. Your brotherβs story doesnβt add up.β βOh.β βI wonβt stop until I find out who did this, Neah.β His crimson eyes narrow. βI will make them pay for the suffering you have endured.β He sits on the edge of his desk, studying me. βRight now, you do need to see someone about the infection.β I kept my mouth closed, I was still trying to process his news of me being set up. Why had my brother never considered it? βCome, I will show you our bedroom. You can shower before we see the pack doctor.β Frozen to the spot, I donβt move. Did he just say βour bedroom,β? As in, we are sharing a bedroom? I guess he thinks he can mke love with me whenever he wants if Iβm his contract bride. A shiver runs down my spine at the thought. Glancing up, I see him watching me. He is stood at the open door, waiting for me. Ensuring my dress has me covered, I step out into the hallway. No one was around and the hallways were quiet. As we moved, Alpha Dane would tell me what each room was, but he seemed more focussed on getting me to the bedroom. His bedroom is huge, with massive windows, just like the rest of the house. The bed sat pressed up against the wall. All around it, thin drapes hung from the ceiling, but they were tied back at each bed post. What surprised me the most was that the bath and the shower were in the same room. Only the toilet was in a small room to the side of the shower. No privacy, whatsoever. Though, he didnβt seem to care about that. He makes me jump when I feel his warm breath on my skin. βYou donβt need to be afraid.β I may not be able to smell him, but he would be able to scent the changes in my emotions. Crossing the room, he pulls open the glass door to the shower and turns it on. The moment he closes the door, the steam of the shower quickly fogs up the glass. And still, I find myself afraid. He gave me no clue as to what he was expecting from me. βHey,β His rough fingers tip my face up. βItβs just you and me and for now, I will let you shower in peace.β Walking away, he pulls his phone out of his pocket and messes around with it before placing it on the bedside table. βThe alarm is set for ten minutes. I will come back then. I will bring you something to wear so just stay in the towel. Understand?β He stares at me, waiting for an answer and I just nod. A ten minute shower. I was lucky if I got a minute shower back home and the water was always cold. He moves to the door and with his hand resting on the door knob he looks back over his shoulder at me. βI really wish you would talk more, Neah.β Alpha Dane leaves me in peace and I make a mad dash for the shower as if Iβm in some kind of fantasy land and this was all a dream. Maybe it was, maybe I was about to wake up in the basement of my home. The smells of the soaps and shampoos are divine as I lather them into myself. And my hair has never felt so clean. The wound on my stomach stung as the hot water hit it, but I didnβt care, it was worth it. Someone in the room clears their throat and I freeze. Thanking the steam for keeping me semi hidden. βNeah, are you done? The alarm went off five minutes ago.β Alpha Daneβs voice seems louder in here. I had been so caught up in the freedom of a simple shower that I hadnβt even heard the alarm or the Alpha come back into the room. βComing.β I mutter, turning off the water and pulling a towel around me to hide the hideousness underneath. Stepping out, I already see that my ripped dress, underwear and worn sandals had been removed from the floor. Alpha Dane sits on the end of the bed with what looked like folded clothes on his lap and a pair of trainers. βItβs not much, as we donβt have anyone with as small a waist as you.β He smiles as he hands over the clothes. A matching navy blue sweatshirt and joggers. βYou will have to make do without the underwear for now. Should be here first thing tomorrow.β He watches me with a cocked eyebrow as I pull the joggers on and tug the sweatshirt over my head before removing the towel. Maybe he was used to the women parading themselves in front of him, or throwing themselves at him because he has power, but I wasnβt like that. βLetβs go.β He rises to his feet and this time, I follow him. Something told me that if I didnβt get this wound looked at, it would put him in a bad mood. The pack doctor was young, unlike the one back home who was old and afraid to let anyone take over from him. She smiles at us as we enter the pack hospital and rewraps her dark hair into a bun. βRaven, this is Neah.β Alpha Dane introduces me with a grin. I keep my eyes low as I hear Raven say, βAlpha Dane, what seems to be the problem apart from the strange smell she has brought with her.β It didnβt sound like a hurtful comment like I was used to, but more a comment of curiosity. βShe will tell you herself when she finds her tongue.β βI have a wound.β I whisper. βAnd you are not healing?β Raven asks, confused βI donβt have my Wolf.β I hated saying it. It was just a constant reminder that I did not fit in. βHer Wolf was bound when she was a kid.β Alpha Dane tells her. βThatβs why her scent is strange. Her Wolf is there, locked away, waiting to be freed.β My eyes flicker up only to find him staring straight back at me. I had always believed that my Wolf was gone. Not that she was trapped. Ravenβs dark eyes hover on me. βWow, okay.β She grabs my hand. βThis way, letβs take a look at this wound of yours.β She leads me into an empty room and asks me to lay on the bed and to show her my wound. Pulling up the sweatshirt, just enough for her to see the wound. Her eyes widen, a flicker of rage passing over them as she takes in the infected wound and the bruising that surrounds it. Her fingers carefully press around the wound. βHow long ago?β βA few days.β I mutter, though I wasnβt sure. Every beating blurred into another one. Any day that I wasnβt hit was a good day. Raven shakes her head. βThis is longer than a few days ago, the infection has had at least a week to develop.β βNeah, you need to tell us the truth.β Alpha Dane orders βI donβt know.β βNEAH!β His deep voice rumbles through me and I close my eyes, fearing his anger. Anger brought punishment, punishment brought pain. βI swear, I donβt know. The beatings, they happen so often that they just kind ofβ¦. Iβm never not bruised.β Thereβs silence and I was too afraid to open my eyes. Alpha Trey had said it over and over, that if anyone found out, he would make my life a misery, more than it already was. I used to wonder who would ever find out that didnβt already know. Now here I was, sitting in another packβs hospital, revealing the truth. βHeal her!β Alpha Dane shouts after what seems like forever. He storms from the room, pulling a phone out of his pocket. βYou will have to forgive my brother. His temper is short, especially when it comes to things like this.β Raven mutters as she gently inspects my wound βYour brother?β I whisper, opening my eyes βAh, I see he informed you. Iβm guessing he didnβt tell you that Jenson is our brother too?β I shake my head, Iβm guessing Jenson was one of the men that came to my brother's house. She chuckles. βJenson is considered to be our brotherβs Gamma.β βGamma?β I had never heard of the term. βYep and Alpha Dane has a love/hate for me working here. He wants me to represent our family, but he knows this is what Iβm good at.β She grabs a pot of cream from the cupboard. βNow this needs to be applied three times a day. It should clear up the infection, if it hasnβt changed in a couple of days, I will take another look. My brother is waiting for you out front.β βThanks.β I mumble, taking the pot of cream from her. I looked at the label, but couldnβt read it. I had never learned to read. She bobs her head at me as I hurry out to find Alpha Dane on his phone, snapping at someone. He hangs up as soon as he sees me and asks what Raven said. βCream, three times a day.β I show him the pot and he takes it from me. βGood, come.β He strides off and I have to run to keep up with him. I follow him through the house and into the office. βShow me.β He orders, pulling the lid off the pot. It wasnβt going to be negotiable, not when he had used the same tone moments before he ripped my dress open earlier. Slowly lifting my sweatshirt, he crouches down in front of me and gently smothers the wound in the cold cream. βI donβt want you to lie to me, Neah. Not ever. If you canβt remember, that is what you need to tell me. Is that clear? I donβt want to have to guess what you mean.β βOkay.β I couldnβt say anything else, I was too focussed on the warmth of his hands. One presses against my lower back, holding me steady while the other gently rubs cream into my wound. The only touch I had received from another man was a beating. βStop holding your breath.β He tells me, getting to his feet. βI am not going to hurt you.β It seemed impossible to believe given my history. The act, the words coming from him, it just didnβt feel real. | Galaxy in the Story | 301 | https://facebook.com/61555427913037 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717743600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879853 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410732 | 1723321813 | 995 | 1151488566099663 | 1 | 3.741970716041E+15 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 219004054622622 | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | 120209611805750689 | wwwedb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πAttention! Do not read in publicοΌπ | https://wwwedb.com/market/meganovel/13?lpid=11783&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717743552 | 2.1900405462262E+14 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447260728_1518945155389917_2874266976111342341_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=g0H6jXhQP3sQ7kNvgGXGGZL&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYD5RKLxmmvz3_WMQm6M7TyxkgQmm5IfWgwhhyK_F2vFIg&oe=6672BD2F | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447272334_8058147917584464_4203412527007476159_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ookoAxwxG_QQ7kNvgE9thCo&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCeO_9K7nk0lXXIJiyjXCwWONM-nS-S5ZtufKX8Y6JJ9A&oe=6672A008 | 0 | 3 | One Neah βWhere the heck is she?β I hear the Beta scream. I already knew Beta Kyle was talking about me, the only servant of the house. I groan and get to my feet, grabbing the cleaning basket and taking it with me. The moment Beta Kyle sees me, he strides towards me and his hand slices against my cheek. I donβt make a sound. Years of experience has taught me to keep my mouth shut at all times and only speak when spoken too, even if what they are doing to me hurts. βAlpha Trey and I are expecting company and you still have not cleaned the office like you were asked.β Beta Kyle spits at me I nod my head and my hand tightens on the cleaning basket. If I could just find the courage to swing it at his head, it would make my day. I resisted, he was stronger than me and I didnβt need locking up for another week with no food. My stomach already hurt enough. βWe are trying to make a good impression on Alpha Dane. Do you not understand how important it is for us to join ourselves with his pack?!β I donβt answer, I know it's a trick, to try and get me to say something so that he can give himself a reason to punish me. I keep my eyes low so that I didnβt have to look at his face. Alpha Dane, I had only ever heard rumours about him. Words exchanged between the other pack members when I was in the room. From what I gathered, he was a ruthless man, a Wolf feared by others. He didnβt mess around and he had the largest pack. βHe is the Alpha of Black Shadow, the biggest pack in the world, we need him!β Beta Kyle continues. Yet he doesnβt tell me why. We had never been attacked and we had never attacked anyone, so why did we need another pack to help us? He places his hands on my shoulders, digging his nails into my thinning skin and turns me around, kicking me in the but as he shoves me towards the office. βUseless Wolf.β He mutters as he moves away. Quietly closing the door, I lean back against it, observing the already clean office. There was nothing out of place, it looked perfectly fine for a meeting with this so-called powerful Alpha. Closing my eyes, I slide down to the floor. I hated this house. I thought that when I turned eighteen, I could finally escape, but four years later, here I still am, a slave in my own home. Doing all the dirty tasks for my brother, Alpha Trey and the pack. While my ex mate, Beta Kyle waltzes around reminding me of how worthless I am. Someone clears their throat and I freeze, I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair, just around the corner. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of drink. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that donβt quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door as my heart pounded. βIs this the way you greet all Alphaβs?β His deep voice rumbles through the room, there was an edge of amusement to his tone. βIβm sorry.β I whisper, getting to my feet. βIβ¦I thought I was alone.β I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. He doesnβt introduce himself either, why should he? βCome forward.β He orders and I already feel a lump forming in my throat. Alpha Trey was going to finish me. I step around the corner, doing as Iβm told, allowing him to see me properly. I close my eyes, expecting the worst. βYou smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?β I nod, though I couldnβt tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they found out about me. βI would prefer it if you spoke to me.β He growls, βIβm not in the mood to play games.β βYes.β I whisper. I couldnβt help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? βWhy do you smell strange? And how is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.β βIβ¦..β I hated the question. βSpit it out, I havenβt got all day!β He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldnβt scent him. I knew why I hadnβt been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever wanted or liked to do. They never let me tell my side of the story. All they do is laugh and mock me. βYou should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. Itβs rude to not look at them. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?β His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them, there was no way I was making eye contact. βMy Wolf abilities were bound,β I mutter. Twice, I wanted to add. Twice my abilities were bound. But he probably wasnβt interested in that part. He leans forward, carefully placing his glass on the small table next to the chair. I could feel him staring at me, βWhy would someone do that?β If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. βIt was a punishment.β I whisper. It wasnβt far from the entire truth but it was the simplest answer I could give. Thereβs a twitch in his cheek. Was he angry to hear of such a punishment? Or maybe, just like the others, he was amused by it. I couldnβt tell. The door swings open and my brother screeches at me βNeah, what the heck are you doing in my office?β He turns to the crimson eyed man. βI am so sorry that my sister is bothering you, Alpha Dane.β Crap, it was him. My brother spins around, his hand stretching out to hit me. I close my eyes, bracing myself, ready to feel the burn. βI wouldnβt do that if I were you.β Alpha Daneβs voice rumbles through the room. Peeking through slits, I see Alpha Dane has risen to his feet, his hand coiled around my brother's wrist. He was taller than my brother, more muscly too. βNeah,β My name rolls off of his tongue, βwas kindly showing me to your office, Alpha Trey, as you failed to meet me at the front of your house like I requested. I was lucky someone was present, at least someone understands the importance of this deal.β What? I had no idea what he was talking about. And he had no reason to lie for me. My brother glares at me, clenching his jaw tight. I was going to pay for this later. I would have to try and steal some food. βGo and get Beta Kyle.β Alpha Trey seethes. βTell him that our guest is here.β I nod my head and hurry from the room, the last thing I wanted was to be caught between bickering men. βBeta Kyle,β I whisper as I enter the dining hall. He instantly glares at me with his dark eyes. I had spoken without being spoken to. βAlpha Trey is in the office with Alpha Dane. I was sent to inform you.β He slams the newspaper down on the table and glares at me as he walks by. βYouβre lucky that the Alpha sent you to get me, otherwise you wouldn't be seeing sunlight for a few days.β Pausing behind me, he yanks my head back, locking his fingers in my hair, leaning in close to me, I feel his hot breath on my skin. He doesnβt speak, it was just his way of proving that he could do what he wants when he wants. I try to keep myself busy so I can stay as far away from the office as possible. My peace doesnβt last long when I hear my brother calling out to me. Quietly, I pad towards the office and plaster a smile on my face as I open the door. βNeah, go get the champagne and some glasses, we are celebrating.β I bow my head and hurry to the drinks cabinet. Quickly finding what my brother has asked for. As I re-enter the office, I can feel Alpha Dane watching my every move, even the hairs on the back of my neck stand up. No one ever watches me this closely. Approaching the small table by Alpha Danes chair, I start to fill the glasses. He takes the champagne bottle from me, telling me he is more than capable of filling his own glass. I feel my cheeks flame, not from embarrassment, but because I knew that I would be punished for this. I should have been quicker. I should have filled the glasses before entering the office. I should haveβ¦. My brain freezes when I see my brother glaring at me. βNeah is your sister, correct?β Alpha Dane questions my brother. βShe is.β Alpha Trey mutters with disgust. He looks away from me to focus on the man asking questions. βWhy do you treat her like vermin?β Straight to the point, my brother wouldnβt like that. He only liked sharing information on his terms. No one had spoken to my brother about his treatment of me because everyone took great joy in beating me. I didnβt know what to do. I couldnβt move but I knew I had to get out of there. If this deal goes to pot because of me, then that would be my fault too. βNeah was responsible for our parents' death.β Alpha Trey spits I closed my eyes, battling back the tears that were threatening to break free. βResponsible how?β Alpha Daneβs voice rumbles through me. He was definitely angry. βShe served them Wolfsbane.β Two Neah Donβt make a sound. Donβt make a sound. I knew Alpha Dane was studying me. They all did, no one could ever quite believe how someone could do something so disgusting as poisoning their own parents. I stood there, with my head hanging low, wishing for the ground to open up and suck me in. There are movements around me. He was standing directly in front of me. With a rough finger he tilts my face up towards his, forcing me to look at him. Slowly, his hand latches onto my throat but he doesnβt squeeze. βYou poisoned your parents?β βI was six.β I splutter. βI just made them lemonade.β My voice comes out all squeaky as I try to defend myself. I could barely remember my parents, but I could remember all the guilt I had been made to feel since that day. His crimson eyes flash to my brothers. βHardly seems fair to blame a six year old.β βA six year old should know the difference between plants.β Alpha Trey snaps βSounds to me like she was set up.β Alpha Dane shrugs his shoulders, letting go of my throat. βWe all know that standard wolfsbane doesnβt affect us anymore. We evolved from that thing centuries ago.β What? What did he mean? Wolfsbane wasnβt lethal. It had been drummed into me since I could walk. βWhich only leaves Blood of Wolfsbane.β Alpha Dane mutters βYou werenβt there, Alpha Dane.β My brother muttered through gritted teeth as his eyes narrowed to slits. βIt was Wolfsbane.β He nods his head. βYou are right, I was not present.β Great, now there was someone else who could remind me of something I had done by accident, years ago. βBut tell me this, where would a six year old get Blood of Wolfsbane?β βI didnβt ask you here to talk about my slave!β Alpha Trey spits. βOr what happened to my parents.β Alpha Dane grabs his leather jacket from the chair. Unlike other Alphaβs he seemed to dress more casually. A simple black tee and jeans covered his huge frame. And unlike other Alphaβs, his arms are bare of tattoos, not a single bit of ink poked out anywhere. βYouβre right and now I have a few things to mull over.β βI thought we agreed.β My brother exclaims βNothing has been signed. Now I will show myself out.β The moment he is out of the office, both my brother and Beta Kyle round on me. βWhat the heck did you say to him?β My brother demands, slamming a hand into my stomach. βN..nothing. Well, he just asked me why I smelled funny.β βDid you tell him?β Beta Kyle demands. He was practically spitting in my face. I hated him. I hated him so much that I had vowed to one day get my revenge and rip his stomach out through his mouth. βWELL?β My brother yells when I donβt immediately respond and smacks me across the side of the head. My head involuntarily moves up and down. βBut I didnβt say it was you.β I tried to sound strong and confident but it just comes out as a whisper. If they werenβt Wolves, they probably wouldnβt have heard me. My brother's hand locks into my black hair as he yanks my head back, sending a shooting pain through my skull. βIf you have ruined this, you wonβt see daylight again.β He drags me by my hair from the office and down the hallway towards the basement door. βPleaseβ¦.β I beg. βHe was an Alphaβ¦Iβ¦ I had to answer him.β My cheeks burn with my tears as he flings the door open. On the other side of the door is Alpha Dane. He is leaning against the wall with his arms folded, staring out at us. My brother's hand falls from my hair, relieving the pressure on the back of my skull.. βAlpha Dane, I thought you had left.β Alpha Trey murmurs angrily. βI said I would show myself out. I thought I had found the door, but instead I find a basement, riddled in your sister's strange scent. Is this how you treat your family?β βAs I said,β my brother holds his ground, βShe is responsible for the death of my parents, so yes, this is what she deserves.β βYou should keep your nose out of other packs' business!β Beta Kyle adds. Alpha Dane laughs. βIf I agree to this deal, everything about your business becomes my business. So tell me, what would your punishment be for her? No food, locked away for a week, beatings?β βWe donβtβ¦.β βReally?β He cocks a brow, βYou really expect me to believe that you would have just let her sleep? I have already stopped you from hitting her once. " His eyes roam over me. "She is underfed, bags hover under her tired blue eyes. For a sister of an Alpha, she is certainly not treated like one. Regardless of what she allegedly did when she was a pup.β βShe did do it!β Alpha Trey seethes βAnd she has nothing to do with our deal.β βThatβs for me to decide.β His crimson eyes flicker around the hallway. βWhere is your mate? I would be interested to know how she feels about this.β I close my eyes, silently begging my brother not to call his Luna. Luna Cassandra is worse than Beta Kyle and Alpha Trey together. βOn second thoughts, why bother her. Iβm certain she is just as vile as you.β He sneers I peer through slits to see his crimson eyes on me. There was no reason for him to defend me and yet he was. I was a nobody, no one special. Just who everyone called a traitor. Only instead of being given a death sentence, my brother had decided to make me spend my life suffering. βI have a proposition for you, Alpha Trey.β Alpha Dane is smirking at my brother βWe have already agreed on terms.β βWell, Iβm adding one. And if you donβt agree, you will not get my help. Instead, you will become my enemy. And we both know, you donβt want that.β βI take it that your new terms have something to do with her?β Alpha Trey mutters through clenched teeth. βYou would be correct. Let me take her away to my pack and then you, Trey will have a deal.β Me? Why would he want me? As my brother and his Beta discuss me, Alpha Dane is still studying me. His look made me nervous. What could someone like him possibly want with me? βDeal.β Alpha Trey sticks out his hand for Alpha Dane to shake. He doesnβt take it, instead his crimson eyes shift from me to my brother. βI will have paperwork drawn up and will return tomorrow.β He reaches a hand out and cups my face, βEnsure you have everything packed.β He drags his thumb across my bottom lip and strides to the opposite end of the hallway and straight to the front door. He knew exactly where the front door was, so what was he up to? He pauses at the door. βIf I find out any one of you has laid a hand on her. The contract will be the last thing you need to worry about.β He struts out, slamming the door behind him. βGet out of my sight!β My brother snaps at me. Hurrying away, I make my way up the stairs and into my tiny bedroom. It was practically empty, the only things I had were a few changes of clothes. It would take me less than a minute to pack By morning, I hadnβt slept. Alpha Danes questions were on repeat and why was I so interesting to a Wolf like him. There was a reason he had the biggest pack. They were known for their fighting abilities, thatβs why my brother wanted to link Moonshine with Alpha Danes pack, but where did I fit in to all this? And what o earth is Blood of Wolfsbane? Three Dane βTenth brideβs the charm.β Jenson mocks as the driver pulls up in front of Moonshines packhouse. βShut up!β Eric snaps at him βBoth of you shut your mouths. Before you say something you regret!β βHe will never learn.β My wolf, Aero muses. The driver pulls open the door. βJust give me a second, I need to speak to my men.β The door closes and neither one of them speaks. βShe isnβt like the others. Donβt speak to her, donβt look at her. And you Jenson, keep your hands to yourself or you might just lose them this time.β I was more rattled than usual. Neah was different to the previous selected mates. I didnβt know what it was or whether it was because I was used to confident women, but there was something about her. And Aero appeared to like her too, more than any of the others. I had to have her. βI mean it!β I snap at Jenson's smug face, βBeing my brother wonβt change my mind!β He runs his fingers over his lips as though he was zipping them shut. They follow me from the car. Standing in front of the old packhouse, all three of us stare up at it. Because until a month ago, I knew nothing about them and even after my visit, all I had learned was the Alpha is a beast. My knuckles hammer on the door. Itβs barely open an inch when I force myself through making his Beta stumble back. I spot her straight away, hiding herself behind a corner. βAre you ready?β I call out. βIf you just want toβ¦..β Beta Kyle starts. βI was not talking to you. I was speaking to Neah.β The expression on Beta Kyleβs face was a picture. His jaw hung open and his eyes are wide. He clearly had never been told what to do, even by his Alpha. Neah steps out from her hiding spot, clutching a barely full carrier bag. She drags her teeth across her bottom lip and nods her head. βWhere are the rest of your things? I told you everything needs to be packedβ βThatβs all she has.β Trey snorts as he makes his appearance. βThatβs it?β I stare at him. βThatβs all her belongings? Sheβs what, in her early twenties and thatβs all she has?β βWhat more does she need?!β His Beta sneers. βKill him, let me rip out his throat and he will regret the day he crossed us.β βWhat are you waiting for?β I hear a horrible shrill voice that seems to vibrate through the floors. Looking away from the Beta, I see a woman holding on to a statue of herself that sat at the bottom of the stairs. Her blonde hair hung in waves around her face as her green eyes studied me and she sways her hips as she moves to Trey. I noticed Neahβs reaction yesterday. When I asked Trey where his mate was. Her whole body had tensed up in fear. She was afraid of this woman and I wanted to know why. βTake her Alpha Dane. Iβm sure she will be as useful a slave to you as she is to us.β Her shrill voice goes straight through me. βLook at the silly girl, sheβs going to pass out.β The blonde bimbo laughs βYou donβt get to talk about her like that anymore.β I glare at the blonde, βShe is not your toy. She is not your slave and I suggest that you, Alpha Trey keep your wife in check. There is only so much disobedience that I will tolerate.β βDISOBEDIENCE!β The woman screeches just as Neahβs hip hits the floor. βHow dare you! If anyone is disobedient, itβs that rat in the corner.β βWho the heck is she calling a rat?β Aero growls βYou should make yourself familiar with our agreement.β I snap. βIt seems your mate has not told you everything.β Waving Eric forward, he pulls a thick wad of paper from the folder under his arm. The contract that I have drawn up. βAll that for your help?β His mateβs eyes are wide βI donβt do half-witted contracts.β Taking the contract from Eric, I shove it against Treyβs chest βShall we go to the office?β Trey leads the way with his mate clinging on to him and his Beta hurrying behind. My men follow them while I stay behind to check on my new mate. βYou are more than welcome to join us, after all, you are involved in this deal. Or my car is outfront, you can take your stuff and wait there for me.β βAre those my only options?β she whispers, keeping her eyes low βFor now. Personally, I think you should sit in with us. It will give me great pleasure in pissing off that mate of your brothers.β She keeps her blue eyes low as she continues to clutch that bag of hers. This close to her, I could really see how ill she looked. Even her heart beat is slow, like itβs fighting to hang on to life. βSo what will it be?β βIβ¦.β Her head rotates between the front door and the direction of the office. βIβ¦.. The office I guess.β βGood choice.β I hold out a hand for her but she doesnβt take it. Pushing herself up to her feet. She wobbles a little, but steadies herself. Walking a few steps behind her, I see the evil glares she receives from Trey and the other two idiots as she enters the office.. βTake a seat.β I whisper as I walk past her. My hand grazes her lower back and she immediately tenses up. She stands, frozen to the spot. Only her eyes dart about when she shakes her head. βSit!β I say it a little louder βShe doesnβt have that privilege here!β The blonde snaps, with her lips curved up in amusement βSitting is not a privilege.β I growl, wondering what else they were forcing her to do. I couldnβt see any bruises on her arms or legs, a good sign, I hoped. βIt better be!β Aero paces in my head. He wanted her out of this place as much as I did. The blonde physically recoils in her seat. Her mouth falls wide open, shocked that I had said something. βAnd I suggest,β I look at Trey, βYou tell your mate to keep her mouth shut. Or I can shut it for her.β βAlpha Dane, you are in my homeβ¦..β βAnd you want my help, correct?β The three of them were fuming. No one liked being told what to do in their own home, yet they were doing just that to Neah. I point to the empty chair between Jenson and Eric and she finally sits down. βLetβs just get this done.β Trey snaps, βThe sooner she is gone, the happier I can be.β βYou should read the contract.β I muse βI agreed that you could take her as part of our deal.β βIdiot!β Eric murmurs. He knew as well as I did that contracts should be read before they are signed They sign without reading and practically throw the contract back at me. βDone.β Trey mutters βGood, you can get her out of my house.β Treyβs mate screeches. If I had it my way, I would just take Neah, then I wouldnβt have to put up with the twidles, but this way, they canβt have her back. Even if they begged. A contract was a contract and it was impossible for them to get out of. Getting to my feet, I hold a hand out to Neah, βCome, we are leaving this rat hole before I lose my temper.β Her warm fingers slip into my hand as she rises to her feet. Her other hand clutches the bag to her chest as she walks with me to the front door. She doesnβt even look back to say goodbye and that confirmed everything I needed to know. She hated them as much as they hated her. She pauses at the open front door, her hand falling from mine. Her blue eyes are wide as she stares at the limo. βCome.β I instruct Eric and Jenson are standing behind her, watching her curiously. βIs she okay?β Eric links me. βNeah?β I step in front of her and she doesnβt move. She seems to be staring right through me. βItβs time to go.β βOkay.β Her lips barely move She takes a step forward, almost as if she is in slow motion. Her hands grip the door frame, her knuckles turn white as her heartbeat increases. Her lips part a little and her hand falls from the door frame just as her eyes roll to the back of her head. βIβve got you.β I mutter, catching her just before she hits the floor. Her entire body tenses up as I lift her and carry her to the car. She was so weak and was even lighter than I expected. She probably didnβt weigh much more than a small child. Jenson and Eric get in the car first. Jenson cocks his eyebrow at me and has a smirk plastered to his face as I slide in with Neah on my lap. βKeep your thoughts to yourself, Jenson!β I hold her close, listening to her breathe and her heart as it slowed. Letting my fingers comb through her dark hair as she becomes a little more with it. Suddenly, she sits up right, moving away from me and trying to make herself as small as possible. Deciding not to force her to do anything, I keep my attention on my Beta and my brother, talking about pack stuff while casting a glance over to her every so often to make sure she was alright. βCome.β I mutter as the limo comes to a stop. I donβt wait for the driver and get out myself, holding a hand out for her. βIβm fine.β She speaks at last while glancing at the others and shuffles herself forward to the open door. She stares up at my home, gasping a little. It was easily three times the size of her previous home and I hoped that she would be happy here. That I could provide her with a life that was better than her last. βLet me give you a tour.β I suggest as she continues to clutch that carrier bag to her chest. She follows me in, not speaking a word. I had no idea if she was listening to what I was saying or not βThe omegas swap out on a rotational basis. Good for the youngsters to learn some responsibilities before they get proper jobs.β I tell her while showing her the dining hall with a table long enough to fit twenty people around. We move through to the kitchen. Where I point out a board on the wall. βIf there is anything you need, you just add it to the board and it will be ordered in.β Her brow furrows and still she says nothing. Picking up a pen, I smile. Maybe she felt intimidated by me. βSo tell me, what do you need because there is no way you are living under my roof with just the things that are in that bag.β Her dazzling blue eyes dart around the room βWell?β I ask. βI donβt need anything.β She whispers Sighing, I start scribbling things down. Underwear, jeans, workout clothes, dresses, shoes, anything I can think of that will cover her for a few days. Holding the pen between my teeth, I grab her around the waist. My thumbs meet just above her belly button and my fingers touch her spine. She was so thin, how was she even alive? Four Dane She looked like a deer caught in headlights as I write her size down. She was tinier than I thought. Skin and bone. If I had moved my hands up any higher, I would have felt every rib sticking out. It sickened me, she should be strong, powerful, she had Alpha blood running through her veins. I also saw how she scrunched her face up when I measured her. It wasnβt fear, it was pain. She was hiding something underneath the baggy maids dress. βI know you want to say something, so just say it. Iβm not interested in the crap Trey drummed into you. You donβt have to wait until someone asks you a question. You are free to say what you want. Are you injured?" "No." She was lying, I could feel it. She shakes her head as if it would confirm her answer and a lock of her black hair falls from the band that was supposed to be holding it back. Neah was going to be a tough girl to crack. A life of being starved had made her quite protective over herself. I will make Trey pay for what he has done to her. βYou have to say something, Neah. I cannot read your mind. When I mark you, at least I will know what you are feeling.β βMark me?β I didnβt think her eyes could get any wider. βYes, I will mark you.β She was completely and utterly shocked by the idea. Her pink lips part a little as she continues to stare at me. I thought she knew. I thought that was why she came so willingly. My Beta had kept asking me if I was certain I wanted her as my bride. There was no doubt about it, she had a strange scent but something was luring me to her. I couldnβt take my eyes off of her when I first saw her. My Wolf Aero was going mad for her too. Though he hadnβt said a word about her. Annoyed with me for not taking her home with us yesterday. βYouβ¦.You brought me so that you could mark me.β She takes a step back, walking into the kitchen island. She winces a little and quickly covers up her pain, relaxing her face.. βIf Trey had bothered reading the contract, he would have discovered that you are to be my bride, not a slave. He would also have read that if he or his ridiculously silly mate tried doing anything to you going forward, that pack would become mine, or rather, yours. I never bought you, Neah, you were always destined to be mine.β βIβm a murderer.β She gasps. βWhy would someone like you want me for a bride?β βBloodβ Aero growls interrupting my thoughts. I glance down at her baggy dress. A blood stain had appeared right where I had my hands wrapped around her. βWhatβs that? Are you injured?β I demand, I had barely touched her. She covers the stain with her hand. βItβs nothing. Itβs just a cut that I keep knocking and it opens up again. I forget itβs there.β Forget? How could she forget a wound? βWhy isnβt she healing?β I feel Aeroβs panic. βSheβs been with us less than two hours and already she has some form of injury.β His need to protect her was strong. It hadnβt occurred to me that her lack of abilities included not being able to heal. I would have to find someone who could reverse the binding and soon. βShow me!β βItβs fine.β She mumbles I was already so sick of hearing that phrase. βItβs not optional.β I mutter. βIf you wonβt show me, I will have to find a way to look, myself.β Her heart skips a beat. She looks around the kitchen. βCan.... can we go somewhere more private?β βPrivate?β I didnβt really do privacy. What Wolf did?! She bobs her head but still keeps her focus slightly off of me. Almost afraid to look me directly in the eyes. βOffice,β Aero mutters. βI was just going to suggest that!β I snap back at my Wolf. I feel his eyes roll as he retreats to some dark corner of my mind. βThis way.β I gesture to the door. Neah waits for me and follows closely behind. The scent of blood steadily grew stronger, it was more than just a cut. I already knew that. In the office, I hit the remote and the blinds start to drop, blocking out the sunlight. Neah hesitates and slowly begins to unfasten the buttons of the dress but only where the large blood stain was. Keeping everything else covered from me. She pulls the dress to one side. The wound was about four inches long and already fairly infected. βSee, itβs fine.β she whispers. βYou need to stop saying that.β She closes her mouth and starts to fasten the buttons. βNo,β I grabbed her hands, I had caught sight of another bruise. βLet me see the rest of them.β It wasnβt optional. She gasps as my fingers rip apart the rest of the buttons. Her sports bra had seen better days, just the same as her underwear. But it was the bruising I was most concerned about. Bruise upon bruise, scars that had come from whips. Her hip bones and ribs stuck out too. Turning her around, and pulling the dress from her, I find that her back is just the same. Yet interestingly, there was nothing above her chest and nothing below her thighs. Her arms were completely bare of wounds too. There was only one reason why someone would do that. To either hide what they were doing to someone, or to keep up appearances. They didnβt want guests to see. More importantly, they didnβt want me to see, considering the meeting was arranged over a month ago. She fumbles with the dress, pulling it tightly around her thin frame. βYou need to see a doctor.β βItβs β¦..β she trails off when she sees the anger on my face. βIt always heals, eventually.β βDid Trey do this?β I mutter with my teeth gritted and gesture to her body She lowers her blue eyes. βCassandra?β She still doesnβt answer me. βThat prick that follows Trey around? All three of them?β She pulls her dress tighter around her and silently nods. She brings her hand up to her face, brushing her cheek, wiping away an escaped tear. βAnyone else?β βThe pack.β She whispers. βIβm going to kill them all.β Aero growls. He will have to get in line, βBecause of what you allegedly did to your parents.β She nods. βI donβt believe you were responsible.β She tilts her head up towards me, her brow knits together as her eyes finally find mine. βBecause of Blood of Wolfsbane?" Five Neah βIβ¦I donβt know what Blood of Wolfsbane is?β I whisper He frowns at me. βYour brother said you knew the difference between plants.β βIβ¦β I didnβt have an answer. I couldnβt remember, not fully. βBlood of Wolfsbane is Wolfsbane fed by our blood. The leaves will have a red hue to them. I canβt imagine a child would know what it is because it is not freely grown. Your brotherβs story doesnβt add up.β βOh.β βI wonβt stop until I find out who did this, Neah.β His crimson eyes narrow. βI will make them pay for the suffering you have endured.β He sits on the edge of his desk, studying me. βRight now, you do need to see someone about the infection.β I kept my mouth closed, I was still trying to process his news of me being set up. Why had my brother never considered it? βCome, I will show you our bedroom. You can shower before we see the pack doctor.β Frozen to the spot, I donβt move. Did he just say βour bedroom,β? As in, we are sharing a bedroom? I guess he thinks he can mke love with me whenever he wants if Iβm his contract bride. A shiver runs down my spine at the thought. Glancing up, I see him watching me. He is stood at the open door, waiting for me. Ensuring my dress has me covered, I step out into the hallway. No one was around and the hallways were quiet. As we moved, Alpha Dane would tell me what each room was, but he seemed more focussed on getting me to the bedroom. His bedroom is huge, with massive windows, just like the rest of the house. The bed sat pressed up against the wall. All around it, thin drapes hung from the ceiling, but they were tied back at each bed post. What surprised me the most was that the bath and the shower were in the same room. Only the toilet was in a small room to the side of the shower. No privacy, whatsoever. Though, he didnβt seem to care about that. He makes me jump when I feel his warm breath on my skin. βYou donβt need to be afraid.β I may not be able to smell him, but he would be able to scent the changes in my emotions. Crossing the room, he pulls open the glass door to the shower and turns it on. The moment he closes the door, the steam of the shower quickly fogs up the glass. And still, I find myself afraid. He gave me no clue as to what he was expecting from me. βHey,β His rough fingers tip my face up. βItβs just you and me and for now, I will let you shower in peace.β Walking away, he pulls his phone out of his pocket and messes around with it before placing it on the bedside table. βThe alarm is set for ten minutes. I will come back then. I will bring you something to wear so just stay in the towel. Understand?β He stares at me, waiting for an answer and I just nod. A ten minute shower. I was lucky if I got a minute shower back home and the water was always cold. He moves to the door and with his hand resting on the door knob he looks back over his shoulder at me. βI really wish you would talk more, Neah.β Alpha Dane leaves me in peace and I make a mad dash for the shower as if Iβm in some kind of fantasy land and this was all a dream. Maybe it was, maybe I was about to wake up in the basement of my home. The smells of the soaps and shampoos are divine as I lather them into myself. And my hair has never felt so clean. The wound on my stomach stung as the hot water hit it, but I didnβt care, it was worth it. Someone in the room clears their throat and I freeze. Thanking the steam for keeping me semi hidden. βNeah, are you done? The alarm went off five minutes ago.β Alpha Daneβs voice seems louder in here. I had been so caught up in the freedom of a simple shower that I hadnβt even heard the alarm or the Alpha come back into the room. βComing.β I mutter, turning off the water and pulling a towel around me to hide the hideousness underneath. Stepping out, I already see that my ripped dress, underwear and worn sandals had been removed from the floor. Alpha Dane sits on the end of the bed with what looked like folded clothes on his lap and a pair of trainers. βItβs not much, as we donβt have anyone with as small a waist as you.β He smiles as he hands over the clothes. A matching navy blue sweatshirt and joggers. βYou will have to make do without the underwear for now. Should be here first thing tomorrow.β He watches me with a cocked eyebrow as I pull the joggers on and tug the sweatshirt over my head before removing the towel. Maybe he was used to the women parading themselves in front of him, or throwing themselves at him because he has power, but I wasnβt like that. βLetβs go.β He rises to his feet and this time, I follow him. Something told me that if I didnβt get this wound looked at, it would put him in a bad mood. The pack doctor was young, unlike the one back home who was old and afraid to let anyone take over from him. She smiles at us as we enter the pack hospital and rewraps her dark hair into a bun. βRaven, this is Neah.β Alpha Dane introduces me with a grin. I keep my eyes low as I hear Raven say, βAlpha Dane, what seems to be the problem apart from the strange smell she has brought with her.β It didnβt sound like a hurtful comment like I was used to, but more a comment of curiosity. βShe will tell you herself when she finds her tongue.β βI have a wound.β I whisper. βAnd you are not healing?β Raven asks, confused βI donβt have my Wolf.β I hated saying it. It was just a constant reminder that I did not fit in. βHer Wolf was bound when she was a kid.β Alpha Dane tells her. βThatβs why her scent is strange. Her Wolf is there, locked away, waiting to be freed.β My eyes flicker up only to find him staring straight back at me. I had always believed that my Wolf was gone. Not that she was trapped. Ravenβs dark eyes hover on me. βWow, okay.β She grabs my hand. βThis way, letβs take a look at this wound of yours.β She leads me into an empty room and asks me to lay on the bed and to show her my wound. Pulling up the sweatshirt, just enough for her to see the wound. Her eyes widen, a flicker of rage passing over them as she takes in the infected wound and the bruising that surrounds it. Her fingers carefully press around the wound. βHow long ago?β βA few days.β I mutter, though I wasnβt sure. Every beating blurred into another one. Any day that I wasnβt hit was a good day. Raven shakes her head. βThis is longer than a few days ago, the infection has had at least a week to develop.β βNeah, you need to tell us the truth.β Alpha Dane orders βI donβt know.β βNEAH!β His deep voice rumbles through me and I close my eyes, fearing his anger. Anger brought punishment, punishment brought pain. βI swear, I donβt know. The beatings, they happen so often that they just kind ofβ¦. Iβm never not bruised.β Thereβs silence and I was too afraid to open my eyes. Alpha Trey had said it over and over, that if anyone found out, he would make my life a misery, more than it already was. I used to wonder who would ever find out that didnβt already know. Now here I was, sitting in another packβs hospital, revealing the truth. βHeal her!β Alpha Dane shouts after what seems like forever. He storms from the room, pulling a phone out of his pocket. βYou will have to forgive my brother. His temper is short, especially when it comes to things like this.β Raven mutters as she gently inspects my wound βYour brother?β I whisper, opening my eyes βAh, I see he informed you. Iβm guessing he didnβt tell you that Jenson is our brother too?β I shake my head, Iβm guessing Jenson was one of the men that came to my brother's house. She chuckles. βJenson is considered to be our brotherβs Gamma.β βGamma?β I had never heard of the term. βYep and Alpha Dane has a love/hate for me working here. He wants me to represent our family, but he knows this is what Iβm good at.β She grabs a pot of cream from the cupboard. βNow this needs to be applied three times a day. It should clear up the infection, if it hasnβt changed in a couple of days, I will take another look. My brother is waiting for you out front.β βThanks.β I mumble, taking the pot of cream from her. I looked at the label, but couldnβt read it. I had never learned to read. She bobs her head at me as I hurry out to find Alpha Dane on his phone, snapping at someone. He hangs up as soon as he sees me and asks what Raven said. βCream, three times a day.β I show him the pot and he takes it from me. βGood, come.β He strides off and I have to run to keep up with him. I follow him through the house and into the office. βShow me.β He orders, pulling the lid off the pot. It wasnβt going to be negotiable, not when he had used the same tone moments before he ripped my dress open earlier. Slowly lifting my sweatshirt, he crouches down in front of me and gently smothers the wound in the cold cream. βI donβt want you to lie to me, Neah. Not ever. If you canβt remember, that is what you need to tell me. Is that clear? I donβt want to have to guess what you mean.β βOkay.β I couldnβt say anything else, I was too focussed on the warmth of his hands. One presses against my lower back, holding me steady while the other gently rubs cream into my wound. The only touch I had received from another man was a beating. βStop holding your breath.β He tells me, getting to his feet. βI am not going to hurt you.β It seemed impossible to believe given my history. The act, the words coming from him, it just didnβt feel real. | Galaxy in the Story | 301 | https://facebook.com/61555427913037 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717743600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879855 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410732 | 1723321813 | 995 | 1151488566099663 | 1 | 3.741970716041E+15 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 219004054622622 | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | 120209611805750689 | wwwedb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πAttention! Do not read in publicοΌπ | https://wwwedb.com/market/meganovel/13?lpid=11783&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717743552 | 2.1900405462262E+14 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447260728_1518945155389917_2874266976111342341_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=g0H6jXhQP3sQ7kNvgGXGGZL&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYD5RKLxmmvz3_WMQm6M7TyxkgQmm5IfWgwhhyK_F2vFIg&oe=6672BD2F | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447272334_8058147917584464_4203412527007476159_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ookoAxwxG_QQ7kNvgE9thCo&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCeO_9K7nk0lXXIJiyjXCwWONM-nS-S5ZtufKX8Y6JJ9A&oe=6672A008 | 0 | 3 | One Neah βWhere the heck is she?β I hear the Beta scream. I already knew Beta Kyle was talking about me, the only servant of the house. I groan and get to my feet, grabbing the cleaning basket and taking it with me. The moment Beta Kyle sees me, he strides towards me and his hand slices against my cheek. I donβt make a sound. Years of experience has taught me to keep my mouth shut at all times and only speak when spoken too, even if what they are doing to me hurts. βAlpha Trey and I are expecting company and you still have not cleaned the office like you were asked.β Beta Kyle spits at me I nod my head and my hand tightens on the cleaning basket. If I could just find the courage to swing it at his head, it would make my day. I resisted, he was stronger than me and I didnβt need locking up for another week with no food. My stomach already hurt enough. βWe are trying to make a good impression on Alpha Dane. Do you not understand how important it is for us to join ourselves with his pack?!β I donβt answer, I know it's a trick, to try and get me to say something so that he can give himself a reason to punish me. I keep my eyes low so that I didnβt have to look at his face. Alpha Dane, I had only ever heard rumours about him. Words exchanged between the other pack members when I was in the room. From what I gathered, he was a ruthless man, a Wolf feared by others. He didnβt mess around and he had the largest pack. βHe is the Alpha of Black Shadow, the biggest pack in the world, we need him!β Beta Kyle continues. Yet he doesnβt tell me why. We had never been attacked and we had never attacked anyone, so why did we need another pack to help us? He places his hands on my shoulders, digging his nails into my thinning skin and turns me around, kicking me in the but as he shoves me towards the office. βUseless Wolf.β He mutters as he moves away. Quietly closing the door, I lean back against it, observing the already clean office. There was nothing out of place, it looked perfectly fine for a meeting with this so-called powerful Alpha. Closing my eyes, I slide down to the floor. I hated this house. I thought that when I turned eighteen, I could finally escape, but four years later, here I still am, a slave in my own home. Doing all the dirty tasks for my brother, Alpha Trey and the pack. While my ex mate, Beta Kyle waltzes around reminding me of how worthless I am. Someone clears their throat and I freeze, I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair, just around the corner. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of drink. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that donβt quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door as my heart pounded. βIs this the way you greet all Alphaβs?β His deep voice rumbles through the room, there was an edge of amusement to his tone. βIβm sorry.β I whisper, getting to my feet. βIβ¦I thought I was alone.β I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. He doesnβt introduce himself either, why should he? βCome forward.β He orders and I already feel a lump forming in my throat. Alpha Trey was going to finish me. I step around the corner, doing as Iβm told, allowing him to see me properly. I close my eyes, expecting the worst. βYou smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?β I nod, though I couldnβt tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they found out about me. βI would prefer it if you spoke to me.β He growls, βIβm not in the mood to play games.β βYes.β I whisper. I couldnβt help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? βWhy do you smell strange? And how is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.β βIβ¦..β I hated the question. βSpit it out, I havenβt got all day!β He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldnβt scent him. I knew why I hadnβt been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever wanted or liked to do. They never let me tell my side of the story. All they do is laugh and mock me. βYou should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. Itβs rude to not look at them. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?β His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them, there was no way I was making eye contact. βMy Wolf abilities were bound,β I mutter. Twice, I wanted to add. Twice my abilities were bound. But he probably wasnβt interested in that part. He leans forward, carefully placing his glass on the small table next to the chair. I could feel him staring at me, βWhy would someone do that?β If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. βIt was a punishment.β I whisper. It wasnβt far from the entire truth but it was the simplest answer I could give. Thereβs a twitch in his cheek. Was he angry to hear of such a punishment? Or maybe, just like the others, he was amused by it. I couldnβt tell. The door swings open and my brother screeches at me βNeah, what the heck are you doing in my office?β He turns to the crimson eyed man. βI am so sorry that my sister is bothering you, Alpha Dane.β Crap, it was him. My brother spins around, his hand stretching out to hit me. I close my eyes, bracing myself, ready to feel the burn. βI wouldnβt do that if I were you.β Alpha Daneβs voice rumbles through the room. Peeking through slits, I see Alpha Dane has risen to his feet, his hand coiled around my brother's wrist. He was taller than my brother, more muscly too. βNeah,β My name rolls off of his tongue, βwas kindly showing me to your office, Alpha Trey, as you failed to meet me at the front of your house like I requested. I was lucky someone was present, at least someone understands the importance of this deal.β What? I had no idea what he was talking about. And he had no reason to lie for me. My brother glares at me, clenching his jaw tight. I was going to pay for this later. I would have to try and steal some food. βGo and get Beta Kyle.β Alpha Trey seethes. βTell him that our guest is here.β I nod my head and hurry from the room, the last thing I wanted was to be caught between bickering men. βBeta Kyle,β I whisper as I enter the dining hall. He instantly glares at me with his dark eyes. I had spoken without being spoken to. βAlpha Trey is in the office with Alpha Dane. I was sent to inform you.β He slams the newspaper down on the table and glares at me as he walks by. βYouβre lucky that the Alpha sent you to get me, otherwise you wouldn't be seeing sunlight for a few days.β Pausing behind me, he yanks my head back, locking his fingers in my hair, leaning in close to me, I feel his hot breath on my skin. He doesnβt speak, it was just his way of proving that he could do what he wants when he wants. I try to keep myself busy so I can stay as far away from the office as possible. My peace doesnβt last long when I hear my brother calling out to me. Quietly, I pad towards the office and plaster a smile on my face as I open the door. βNeah, go get the champagne and some glasses, we are celebrating.β I bow my head and hurry to the drinks cabinet. Quickly finding what my brother has asked for. As I re-enter the office, I can feel Alpha Dane watching my every move, even the hairs on the back of my neck stand up. No one ever watches me this closely. Approaching the small table by Alpha Danes chair, I start to fill the glasses. He takes the champagne bottle from me, telling me he is more than capable of filling his own glass. I feel my cheeks flame, not from embarrassment, but because I knew that I would be punished for this. I should have been quicker. I should have filled the glasses before entering the office. I should haveβ¦. My brain freezes when I see my brother glaring at me. βNeah is your sister, correct?β Alpha Dane questions my brother. βShe is.β Alpha Trey mutters with disgust. He looks away from me to focus on the man asking questions. βWhy do you treat her like vermin?β Straight to the point, my brother wouldnβt like that. He only liked sharing information on his terms. No one had spoken to my brother about his treatment of me because everyone took great joy in beating me. I didnβt know what to do. I couldnβt move but I knew I had to get out of there. If this deal goes to pot because of me, then that would be my fault too. βNeah was responsible for our parents' death.β Alpha Trey spits I closed my eyes, battling back the tears that were threatening to break free. βResponsible how?β Alpha Daneβs voice rumbles through me. He was definitely angry. βShe served them Wolfsbane.β Two Neah Donβt make a sound. Donβt make a sound. I knew Alpha Dane was studying me. They all did, no one could ever quite believe how someone could do something so disgusting as poisoning their own parents. I stood there, with my head hanging low, wishing for the ground to open up and suck me in. There are movements around me. He was standing directly in front of me. With a rough finger he tilts my face up towards his, forcing me to look at him. Slowly, his hand latches onto my throat but he doesnβt squeeze. βYou poisoned your parents?β βI was six.β I splutter. βI just made them lemonade.β My voice comes out all squeaky as I try to defend myself. I could barely remember my parents, but I could remember all the guilt I had been made to feel since that day. His crimson eyes flash to my brothers. βHardly seems fair to blame a six year old.β βA six year old should know the difference between plants.β Alpha Trey snaps βSounds to me like she was set up.β Alpha Dane shrugs his shoulders, letting go of my throat. βWe all know that standard wolfsbane doesnβt affect us anymore. We evolved from that thing centuries ago.β What? What did he mean? Wolfsbane wasnβt lethal. It had been drummed into me since I could walk. βWhich only leaves Blood of Wolfsbane.β Alpha Dane mutters βYou werenβt there, Alpha Dane.β My brother muttered through gritted teeth as his eyes narrowed to slits. βIt was Wolfsbane.β He nods his head. βYou are right, I was not present.β Great, now there was someone else who could remind me of something I had done by accident, years ago. βBut tell me this, where would a six year old get Blood of Wolfsbane?β βI didnβt ask you here to talk about my slave!β Alpha Trey spits. βOr what happened to my parents.β Alpha Dane grabs his leather jacket from the chair. Unlike other Alphaβs he seemed to dress more casually. A simple black tee and jeans covered his huge frame. And unlike other Alphaβs, his arms are bare of tattoos, not a single bit of ink poked out anywhere. βYouβre right and now I have a few things to mull over.β βI thought we agreed.β My brother exclaims βNothing has been signed. Now I will show myself out.β The moment he is out of the office, both my brother and Beta Kyle round on me. βWhat the heck did you say to him?β My brother demands, slamming a hand into my stomach. βN..nothing. Well, he just asked me why I smelled funny.β βDid you tell him?β Beta Kyle demands. He was practically spitting in my face. I hated him. I hated him so much that I had vowed to one day get my revenge and rip his stomach out through his mouth. βWELL?β My brother yells when I donβt immediately respond and smacks me across the side of the head. My head involuntarily moves up and down. βBut I didnβt say it was you.β I tried to sound strong and confident but it just comes out as a whisper. If they werenβt Wolves, they probably wouldnβt have heard me. My brother's hand locks into my black hair as he yanks my head back, sending a shooting pain through my skull. βIf you have ruined this, you wonβt see daylight again.β He drags me by my hair from the office and down the hallway towards the basement door. βPleaseβ¦.β I beg. βHe was an Alphaβ¦Iβ¦ I had to answer him.β My cheeks burn with my tears as he flings the door open. On the other side of the door is Alpha Dane. He is leaning against the wall with his arms folded, staring out at us. My brother's hand falls from my hair, relieving the pressure on the back of my skull.. βAlpha Dane, I thought you had left.β Alpha Trey murmurs angrily. βI said I would show myself out. I thought I had found the door, but instead I find a basement, riddled in your sister's strange scent. Is this how you treat your family?β βAs I said,β my brother holds his ground, βShe is responsible for the death of my parents, so yes, this is what she deserves.β βYou should keep your nose out of other packs' business!β Beta Kyle adds. Alpha Dane laughs. βIf I agree to this deal, everything about your business becomes my business. So tell me, what would your punishment be for her? No food, locked away for a week, beatings?β βWe donβtβ¦.β βReally?β He cocks a brow, βYou really expect me to believe that you would have just let her sleep? I have already stopped you from hitting her once. " His eyes roam over me. "She is underfed, bags hover under her tired blue eyes. For a sister of an Alpha, she is certainly not treated like one. Regardless of what she allegedly did when she was a pup.β βShe did do it!β Alpha Trey seethes βAnd she has nothing to do with our deal.β βThatβs for me to decide.β His crimson eyes flicker around the hallway. βWhere is your mate? I would be interested to know how she feels about this.β I close my eyes, silently begging my brother not to call his Luna. Luna Cassandra is worse than Beta Kyle and Alpha Trey together. βOn second thoughts, why bother her. Iβm certain she is just as vile as you.β He sneers I peer through slits to see his crimson eyes on me. There was no reason for him to defend me and yet he was. I was a nobody, no one special. Just who everyone called a traitor. Only instead of being given a death sentence, my brother had decided to make me spend my life suffering. βI have a proposition for you, Alpha Trey.β Alpha Dane is smirking at my brother βWe have already agreed on terms.β βWell, Iβm adding one. And if you donβt agree, you will not get my help. Instead, you will become my enemy. And we both know, you donβt want that.β βI take it that your new terms have something to do with her?β Alpha Trey mutters through clenched teeth. βYou would be correct. Let me take her away to my pack and then you, Trey will have a deal.β Me? Why would he want me? As my brother and his Beta discuss me, Alpha Dane is still studying me. His look made me nervous. What could someone like him possibly want with me? βDeal.β Alpha Trey sticks out his hand for Alpha Dane to shake. He doesnβt take it, instead his crimson eyes shift from me to my brother. βI will have paperwork drawn up and will return tomorrow.β He reaches a hand out and cups my face, βEnsure you have everything packed.β He drags his thumb across my bottom lip and strides to the opposite end of the hallway and straight to the front door. He knew exactly where the front door was, so what was he up to? He pauses at the door. βIf I find out any one of you has laid a hand on her. The contract will be the last thing you need to worry about.β He struts out, slamming the door behind him. βGet out of my sight!β My brother snaps at me. Hurrying away, I make my way up the stairs and into my tiny bedroom. It was practically empty, the only things I had were a few changes of clothes. It would take me less than a minute to pack By morning, I hadnβt slept. Alpha Danes questions were on repeat and why was I so interesting to a Wolf like him. There was a reason he had the biggest pack. They were known for their fighting abilities, thatβs why my brother wanted to link Moonshine with Alpha Danes pack, but where did I fit in to all this? And what o earth is Blood of Wolfsbane? Three Dane βTenth brideβs the charm.β Jenson mocks as the driver pulls up in front of Moonshines packhouse. βShut up!β Eric snaps at him βBoth of you shut your mouths. Before you say something you regret!β βHe will never learn.β My wolf, Aero muses. The driver pulls open the door. βJust give me a second, I need to speak to my men.β The door closes and neither one of them speaks. βShe isnβt like the others. Donβt speak to her, donβt look at her. And you Jenson, keep your hands to yourself or you might just lose them this time.β I was more rattled than usual. Neah was different to the previous selected mates. I didnβt know what it was or whether it was because I was used to confident women, but there was something about her. And Aero appeared to like her too, more than any of the others. I had to have her. βI mean it!β I snap at Jenson's smug face, βBeing my brother wonβt change my mind!β He runs his fingers over his lips as though he was zipping them shut. They follow me from the car. Standing in front of the old packhouse, all three of us stare up at it. Because until a month ago, I knew nothing about them and even after my visit, all I had learned was the Alpha is a beast. My knuckles hammer on the door. Itβs barely open an inch when I force myself through making his Beta stumble back. I spot her straight away, hiding herself behind a corner. βAre you ready?β I call out. βIf you just want toβ¦..β Beta Kyle starts. βI was not talking to you. I was speaking to Neah.β The expression on Beta Kyleβs face was a picture. His jaw hung open and his eyes are wide. He clearly had never been told what to do, even by his Alpha. Neah steps out from her hiding spot, clutching a barely full carrier bag. She drags her teeth across her bottom lip and nods her head. βWhere are the rest of your things? I told you everything needs to be packedβ βThatβs all she has.β Trey snorts as he makes his appearance. βThatβs it?β I stare at him. βThatβs all her belongings? Sheβs what, in her early twenties and thatβs all she has?β βWhat more does she need?!β His Beta sneers. βKill him, let me rip out his throat and he will regret the day he crossed us.β βWhat are you waiting for?β I hear a horrible shrill voice that seems to vibrate through the floors. Looking away from the Beta, I see a woman holding on to a statue of herself that sat at the bottom of the stairs. Her blonde hair hung in waves around her face as her green eyes studied me and she sways her hips as she moves to Trey. I noticed Neahβs reaction yesterday. When I asked Trey where his mate was. Her whole body had tensed up in fear. She was afraid of this woman and I wanted to know why. βTake her Alpha Dane. Iβm sure she will be as useful a slave to you as she is to us.β Her shrill voice goes straight through me. βLook at the silly girl, sheβs going to pass out.β The blonde bimbo laughs βYou donβt get to talk about her like that anymore.β I glare at the blonde, βShe is not your toy. She is not your slave and I suggest that you, Alpha Trey keep your wife in check. There is only so much disobedience that I will tolerate.β βDISOBEDIENCE!β The woman screeches just as Neahβs hip hits the floor. βHow dare you! If anyone is disobedient, itβs that rat in the corner.β βWho the heck is she calling a rat?β Aero growls βYou should make yourself familiar with our agreement.β I snap. βIt seems your mate has not told you everything.β Waving Eric forward, he pulls a thick wad of paper from the folder under his arm. The contract that I have drawn up. βAll that for your help?β His mateβs eyes are wide βI donβt do half-witted contracts.β Taking the contract from Eric, I shove it against Treyβs chest βShall we go to the office?β Trey leads the way with his mate clinging on to him and his Beta hurrying behind. My men follow them while I stay behind to check on my new mate. βYou are more than welcome to join us, after all, you are involved in this deal. Or my car is outfront, you can take your stuff and wait there for me.β βAre those my only options?β she whispers, keeping her eyes low βFor now. Personally, I think you should sit in with us. It will give me great pleasure in pissing off that mate of your brothers.β She keeps her blue eyes low as she continues to clutch that bag of hers. This close to her, I could really see how ill she looked. Even her heart beat is slow, like itβs fighting to hang on to life. βSo what will it be?β βIβ¦.β Her head rotates between the front door and the direction of the office. βIβ¦.. The office I guess.β βGood choice.β I hold out a hand for her but she doesnβt take it. Pushing herself up to her feet. She wobbles a little, but steadies herself. Walking a few steps behind her, I see the evil glares she receives from Trey and the other two idiots as she enters the office.. βTake a seat.β I whisper as I walk past her. My hand grazes her lower back and she immediately tenses up. She stands, frozen to the spot. Only her eyes dart about when she shakes her head. βSit!β I say it a little louder βShe doesnβt have that privilege here!β The blonde snaps, with her lips curved up in amusement βSitting is not a privilege.β I growl, wondering what else they were forcing her to do. I couldnβt see any bruises on her arms or legs, a good sign, I hoped. βIt better be!β Aero paces in my head. He wanted her out of this place as much as I did. The blonde physically recoils in her seat. Her mouth falls wide open, shocked that I had said something. βAnd I suggest,β I look at Trey, βYou tell your mate to keep her mouth shut. Or I can shut it for her.β βAlpha Dane, you are in my homeβ¦..β βAnd you want my help, correct?β The three of them were fuming. No one liked being told what to do in their own home, yet they were doing just that to Neah. I point to the empty chair between Jenson and Eric and she finally sits down. βLetβs just get this done.β Trey snaps, βThe sooner she is gone, the happier I can be.β βYou should read the contract.β I muse βI agreed that you could take her as part of our deal.β βIdiot!β Eric murmurs. He knew as well as I did that contracts should be read before they are signed They sign without reading and practically throw the contract back at me. βDone.β Trey mutters βGood, you can get her out of my house.β Treyβs mate screeches. If I had it my way, I would just take Neah, then I wouldnβt have to put up with the twidles, but this way, they canβt have her back. Even if they begged. A contract was a contract and it was impossible for them to get out of. Getting to my feet, I hold a hand out to Neah, βCome, we are leaving this rat hole before I lose my temper.β Her warm fingers slip into my hand as she rises to her feet. Her other hand clutches the bag to her chest as she walks with me to the front door. She doesnβt even look back to say goodbye and that confirmed everything I needed to know. She hated them as much as they hated her. She pauses at the open front door, her hand falling from mine. Her blue eyes are wide as she stares at the limo. βCome.β I instruct Eric and Jenson are standing behind her, watching her curiously. βIs she okay?β Eric links me. βNeah?β I step in front of her and she doesnβt move. She seems to be staring right through me. βItβs time to go.β βOkay.β Her lips barely move She takes a step forward, almost as if she is in slow motion. Her hands grip the door frame, her knuckles turn white as her heartbeat increases. Her lips part a little and her hand falls from the door frame just as her eyes roll to the back of her head. βIβve got you.β I mutter, catching her just before she hits the floor. Her entire body tenses up as I lift her and carry her to the car. She was so weak and was even lighter than I expected. She probably didnβt weigh much more than a small child. Jenson and Eric get in the car first. Jenson cocks his eyebrow at me and has a smirk plastered to his face as I slide in with Neah on my lap. βKeep your thoughts to yourself, Jenson!β I hold her close, listening to her breathe and her heart as it slowed. Letting my fingers comb through her dark hair as she becomes a little more with it. Suddenly, she sits up right, moving away from me and trying to make herself as small as possible. Deciding not to force her to do anything, I keep my attention on my Beta and my brother, talking about pack stuff while casting a glance over to her every so often to make sure she was alright. βCome.β I mutter as the limo comes to a stop. I donβt wait for the driver and get out myself, holding a hand out for her. βIβm fine.β She speaks at last while glancing at the others and shuffles herself forward to the open door. She stares up at my home, gasping a little. It was easily three times the size of her previous home and I hoped that she would be happy here. That I could provide her with a life that was better than her last. βLet me give you a tour.β I suggest as she continues to clutch that carrier bag to her chest. She follows me in, not speaking a word. I had no idea if she was listening to what I was saying or not βThe omegas swap out on a rotational basis. Good for the youngsters to learn some responsibilities before they get proper jobs.β I tell her while showing her the dining hall with a table long enough to fit twenty people around. We move through to the kitchen. Where I point out a board on the wall. βIf there is anything you need, you just add it to the board and it will be ordered in.β Her brow furrows and still she says nothing. Picking up a pen, I smile. Maybe she felt intimidated by me. βSo tell me, what do you need because there is no way you are living under my roof with just the things that are in that bag.β Her dazzling blue eyes dart around the room βWell?β I ask. βI donβt need anything.β She whispers Sighing, I start scribbling things down. Underwear, jeans, workout clothes, dresses, shoes, anything I can think of that will cover her for a few days. Holding the pen between my teeth, I grab her around the waist. My thumbs meet just above her belly button and my fingers touch her spine. She was so thin, how was she even alive? Four Dane She looked like a deer caught in headlights as I write her size down. She was tinier than I thought. Skin and bone. If I had moved my hands up any higher, I would have felt every rib sticking out. It sickened me, she should be strong, powerful, she had Alpha blood running through her veins. I also saw how she scrunched her face up when I measured her. It wasnβt fear, it was pain. She was hiding something underneath the baggy maids dress. βI know you want to say something, so just say it. Iβm not interested in the crap Trey drummed into you. You donβt have to wait until someone asks you a question. You are free to say what you want. Are you injured?" "No." She was lying, I could feel it. She shakes her head as if it would confirm her answer and a lock of her black hair falls from the band that was supposed to be holding it back. Neah was going to be a tough girl to crack. A life of being starved had made her quite protective over herself. I will make Trey pay for what he has done to her. βYou have to say something, Neah. I cannot read your mind. When I mark you, at least I will know what you are feeling.β βMark me?β I didnβt think her eyes could get any wider. βYes, I will mark you.β She was completely and utterly shocked by the idea. Her pink lips part a little as she continues to stare at me. I thought she knew. I thought that was why she came so willingly. My Beta had kept asking me if I was certain I wanted her as my bride. There was no doubt about it, she had a strange scent but something was luring me to her. I couldnβt take my eyes off of her when I first saw her. My Wolf Aero was going mad for her too. Though he hadnβt said a word about her. Annoyed with me for not taking her home with us yesterday. βYouβ¦.You brought me so that you could mark me.β She takes a step back, walking into the kitchen island. She winces a little and quickly covers up her pain, relaxing her face.. βIf Trey had bothered reading the contract, he would have discovered that you are to be my bride, not a slave. He would also have read that if he or his ridiculously silly mate tried doing anything to you going forward, that pack would become mine, or rather, yours. I never bought you, Neah, you were always destined to be mine.β βIβm a murderer.β She gasps. βWhy would someone like you want me for a bride?β βBloodβ Aero growls interrupting my thoughts. I glance down at her baggy dress. A blood stain had appeared right where I had my hands wrapped around her. βWhatβs that? Are you injured?β I demand, I had barely touched her. She covers the stain with her hand. βItβs nothing. Itβs just a cut that I keep knocking and it opens up again. I forget itβs there.β Forget? How could she forget a wound? βWhy isnβt she healing?β I feel Aeroβs panic. βSheβs been with us less than two hours and already she has some form of injury.β His need to protect her was strong. It hadnβt occurred to me that her lack of abilities included not being able to heal. I would have to find someone who could reverse the binding and soon. βShow me!β βItβs fine.β She mumbles I was already so sick of hearing that phrase. βItβs not optional.β I mutter. βIf you wonβt show me, I will have to find a way to look, myself.β Her heart skips a beat. She looks around the kitchen. βCan.... can we go somewhere more private?β βPrivate?β I didnβt really do privacy. What Wolf did?! She bobs her head but still keeps her focus slightly off of me. Almost afraid to look me directly in the eyes. βOffice,β Aero mutters. βI was just going to suggest that!β I snap back at my Wolf. I feel his eyes roll as he retreats to some dark corner of my mind. βThis way.β I gesture to the door. Neah waits for me and follows closely behind. The scent of blood steadily grew stronger, it was more than just a cut. I already knew that. In the office, I hit the remote and the blinds start to drop, blocking out the sunlight. Neah hesitates and slowly begins to unfasten the buttons of the dress but only where the large blood stain was. Keeping everything else covered from me. She pulls the dress to one side. The wound was about four inches long and already fairly infected. βSee, itβs fine.β she whispers. βYou need to stop saying that.β She closes her mouth and starts to fasten the buttons. βNo,β I grabbed her hands, I had caught sight of another bruise. βLet me see the rest of them.β It wasnβt optional. She gasps as my fingers rip apart the rest of the buttons. Her sports bra had seen better days, just the same as her underwear. But it was the bruising I was most concerned about. Bruise upon bruise, scars that had come from whips. Her hip bones and ribs stuck out too. Turning her around, and pulling the dress from her, I find that her back is just the same. Yet interestingly, there was nothing above her chest and nothing below her thighs. Her arms were completely bare of wounds too. There was only one reason why someone would do that. To either hide what they were doing to someone, or to keep up appearances. They didnβt want guests to see. More importantly, they didnβt want me to see, considering the meeting was arranged over a month ago. She fumbles with the dress, pulling it tightly around her thin frame. βYou need to see a doctor.β βItβs β¦..β she trails off when she sees the anger on my face. βIt always heals, eventually.β βDid Trey do this?β I mutter with my teeth gritted and gesture to her body She lowers her blue eyes. βCassandra?β She still doesnβt answer me. βThat prick that follows Trey around? All three of them?β She pulls her dress tighter around her and silently nods. She brings her hand up to her face, brushing her cheek, wiping away an escaped tear. βAnyone else?β βThe pack.β She whispers. βIβm going to kill them all.β Aero growls. He will have to get in line, βBecause of what you allegedly did to your parents.β She nods. βI donβt believe you were responsible.β She tilts her head up towards me, her brow knits together as her eyes finally find mine. βBecause of Blood of Wolfsbane?" Five Neah βIβ¦I donβt know what Blood of Wolfsbane is?β I whisper He frowns at me. βYour brother said you knew the difference between plants.β βIβ¦β I didnβt have an answer. I couldnβt remember, not fully. βBlood of Wolfsbane is Wolfsbane fed by our blood. The leaves will have a red hue to them. I canβt imagine a child would know what it is because it is not freely grown. Your brotherβs story doesnβt add up.β βOh.β βI wonβt stop until I find out who did this, Neah.β His crimson eyes narrow. βI will make them pay for the suffering you have endured.β He sits on the edge of his desk, studying me. βRight now, you do need to see someone about the infection.β I kept my mouth closed, I was still trying to process his news of me being set up. Why had my brother never considered it? βCome, I will show you our bedroom. You can shower before we see the pack doctor.β Frozen to the spot, I donβt move. Did he just say βour bedroom,β? As in, we are sharing a bedroom? I guess he thinks he can mke love with me whenever he wants if Iβm his contract bride. A shiver runs down my spine at the thought. Glancing up, I see him watching me. He is stood at the open door, waiting for me. Ensuring my dress has me covered, I step out into the hallway. No one was around and the hallways were quiet. As we moved, Alpha Dane would tell me what each room was, but he seemed more focussed on getting me to the bedroom. His bedroom is huge, with massive windows, just like the rest of the house. The bed sat pressed up against the wall. All around it, thin drapes hung from the ceiling, but they were tied back at each bed post. What surprised me the most was that the bath and the shower were in the same room. Only the toilet was in a small room to the side of the shower. No privacy, whatsoever. Though, he didnβt seem to care about that. He makes me jump when I feel his warm breath on my skin. βYou donβt need to be afraid.β I may not be able to smell him, but he would be able to scent the changes in my emotions. Crossing the room, he pulls open the glass door to the shower and turns it on. The moment he closes the door, the steam of the shower quickly fogs up the glass. And still, I find myself afraid. He gave me no clue as to what he was expecting from me. βHey,β His rough fingers tip my face up. βItβs just you and me and for now, I will let you shower in peace.β Walking away, he pulls his phone out of his pocket and messes around with it before placing it on the bedside table. βThe alarm is set for ten minutes. I will come back then. I will bring you something to wear so just stay in the towel. Understand?β He stares at me, waiting for an answer and I just nod. A ten minute shower. I was lucky if I got a minute shower back home and the water was always cold. He moves to the door and with his hand resting on the door knob he looks back over his shoulder at me. βI really wish you would talk more, Neah.β Alpha Dane leaves me in peace and I make a mad dash for the shower as if Iβm in some kind of fantasy land and this was all a dream. Maybe it was, maybe I was about to wake up in the basement of my home. The smells of the soaps and shampoos are divine as I lather them into myself. And my hair has never felt so clean. The wound on my stomach stung as the hot water hit it, but I didnβt care, it was worth it. Someone in the room clears their throat and I freeze. Thanking the steam for keeping me semi hidden. βNeah, are you done? The alarm went off five minutes ago.β Alpha Daneβs voice seems louder in here. I had been so caught up in the freedom of a simple shower that I hadnβt even heard the alarm or the Alpha come back into the room. βComing.β I mutter, turning off the water and pulling a towel around me to hide the hideousness underneath. Stepping out, I already see that my ripped dress, underwear and worn sandals had been removed from the floor. Alpha Dane sits on the end of the bed with what looked like folded clothes on his lap and a pair of trainers. βItβs not much, as we donβt have anyone with as small a waist as you.β He smiles as he hands over the clothes. A matching navy blue sweatshirt and joggers. βYou will have to make do without the underwear for now. Should be here first thing tomorrow.β He watches me with a cocked eyebrow as I pull the joggers on and tug the sweatshirt over my head before removing the towel. Maybe he was used to the women parading themselves in front of him, or throwing themselves at him because he has power, but I wasnβt like that. βLetβs go.β He rises to his feet and this time, I follow him. Something told me that if I didnβt get this wound looked at, it would put him in a bad mood. The pack doctor was young, unlike the one back home who was old and afraid to let anyone take over from him. She smiles at us as we enter the pack hospital and rewraps her dark hair into a bun. βRaven, this is Neah.β Alpha Dane introduces me with a grin. I keep my eyes low as I hear Raven say, βAlpha Dane, what seems to be the problem apart from the strange smell she has brought with her.β It didnβt sound like a hurtful comment like I was used to, but more a comment of curiosity. βShe will tell you herself when she finds her tongue.β βI have a wound.β I whisper. βAnd you are not healing?β Raven asks, confused βI donβt have my Wolf.β I hated saying it. It was just a constant reminder that I did not fit in. βHer Wolf was bound when she was a kid.β Alpha Dane tells her. βThatβs why her scent is strange. Her Wolf is there, locked away, waiting to be freed.β My eyes flicker up only to find him staring straight back at me. I had always believed that my Wolf was gone. Not that she was trapped. Ravenβs dark eyes hover on me. βWow, okay.β She grabs my hand. βThis way, letβs take a look at this wound of yours.β She leads me into an empty room and asks me to lay on the bed and to show her my wound. Pulling up the sweatshirt, just enough for her to see the wound. Her eyes widen, a flicker of rage passing over them as she takes in the infected wound and the bruising that surrounds it. Her fingers carefully press around the wound. βHow long ago?β βA few days.β I mutter, though I wasnβt sure. Every beating blurred into another one. Any day that I wasnβt hit was a good day. Raven shakes her head. βThis is longer than a few days ago, the infection has had at least a week to develop.β βNeah, you need to tell us the truth.β Alpha Dane orders βI donβt know.β βNEAH!β His deep voice rumbles through me and I close my eyes, fearing his anger. Anger brought punishment, punishment brought pain. βI swear, I donβt know. The beatings, they happen so often that they just kind ofβ¦. Iβm never not bruised.β Thereβs silence and I was too afraid to open my eyes. Alpha Trey had said it over and over, that if anyone found out, he would make my life a misery, more than it already was. I used to wonder who would ever find out that didnβt already know. Now here I was, sitting in another packβs hospital, revealing the truth. βHeal her!β Alpha Dane shouts after what seems like forever. He storms from the room, pulling a phone out of his pocket. βYou will have to forgive my brother. His temper is short, especially when it comes to things like this.β Raven mutters as she gently inspects my wound βYour brother?β I whisper, opening my eyes βAh, I see he informed you. Iβm guessing he didnβt tell you that Jenson is our brother too?β I shake my head, Iβm guessing Jenson was one of the men that came to my brother's house. She chuckles. βJenson is considered to be our brotherβs Gamma.β βGamma?β I had never heard of the term. βYep and Alpha Dane has a love/hate for me working here. He wants me to represent our family, but he knows this is what Iβm good at.β She grabs a pot of cream from the cupboard. βNow this needs to be applied three times a day. It should clear up the infection, if it hasnβt changed in a couple of days, I will take another look. My brother is waiting for you out front.β βThanks.β I mumble, taking the pot of cream from her. I looked at the label, but couldnβt read it. I had never learned to read. She bobs her head at me as I hurry out to find Alpha Dane on his phone, snapping at someone. He hangs up as soon as he sees me and asks what Raven said. βCream, three times a day.β I show him the pot and he takes it from me. βGood, come.β He strides off and I have to run to keep up with him. I follow him through the house and into the office. βShow me.β He orders, pulling the lid off the pot. It wasnβt going to be negotiable, not when he had used the same tone moments before he ripped my dress open earlier. Slowly lifting my sweatshirt, he crouches down in front of me and gently smothers the wound in the cold cream. βI donβt want you to lie to me, Neah. Not ever. If you canβt remember, that is what you need to tell me. Is that clear? I donβt want to have to guess what you mean.β βOkay.β I couldnβt say anything else, I was too focussed on the warmth of his hands. One presses against my lower back, holding me steady while the other gently rubs cream into my wound. The only touch I had received from another man was a beating. βStop holding your breath.β He tells me, getting to his feet. βI am not going to hurt you.β It seemed impossible to believe given my history. The act, the words coming from him, it just didnβt feel real. | Galaxy in the Story | 301 | https://facebook.com/61555427913037 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717743600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879857 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410732 | 1723321813 | 995 | 1151488566099663 | 1 | 3.741970716041E+15 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 219004054622622 | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | 120209611805750689 | wwwedb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πAttention! Do not read in publicοΌπ | https://wwwedb.com/market/meganovel/13?lpid=11783&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717743552 | 2.1900405462262E+14 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447260728_1518945155389917_2874266976111342341_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=g0H6jXhQP3sQ7kNvgGXGGZL&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYD5RKLxmmvz3_WMQm6M7TyxkgQmm5IfWgwhhyK_F2vFIg&oe=6672BD2F | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447272334_8058147917584464_4203412527007476159_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ookoAxwxG_QQ7kNvgE9thCo&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCeO_9K7nk0lXXIJiyjXCwWONM-nS-S5ZtufKX8Y6JJ9A&oe=6672A008 | 0 | 3 | One Neah βWhere the heck is she?β I hear the Beta scream. I already knew Beta Kyle was talking about me, the only servant of the house. I groan and get to my feet, grabbing the cleaning basket and taking it with me. The moment Beta Kyle sees me, he strides towards me and his hand slices against my cheek. I donβt make a sound. Years of experience has taught me to keep my mouth shut at all times and only speak when spoken too, even if what they are doing to me hurts. βAlpha Trey and I are expecting company and you still have not cleaned the office like you were asked.β Beta Kyle spits at me I nod my head and my hand tightens on the cleaning basket. If I could just find the courage to swing it at his head, it would make my day. I resisted, he was stronger than me and I didnβt need locking up for another week with no food. My stomach already hurt enough. βWe are trying to make a good impression on Alpha Dane. Do you not understand how important it is for us to join ourselves with his pack?!β I donβt answer, I know it's a trick, to try and get me to say something so that he can give himself a reason to punish me. I keep my eyes low so that I didnβt have to look at his face. Alpha Dane, I had only ever heard rumours about him. Words exchanged between the other pack members when I was in the room. From what I gathered, he was a ruthless man, a Wolf feared by others. He didnβt mess around and he had the largest pack. βHe is the Alpha of Black Shadow, the biggest pack in the world, we need him!β Beta Kyle continues. Yet he doesnβt tell me why. We had never been attacked and we had never attacked anyone, so why did we need another pack to help us? He places his hands on my shoulders, digging his nails into my thinning skin and turns me around, kicking me in the but as he shoves me towards the office. βUseless Wolf.β He mutters as he moves away. Quietly closing the door, I lean back against it, observing the already clean office. There was nothing out of place, it looked perfectly fine for a meeting with this so-called powerful Alpha. Closing my eyes, I slide down to the floor. I hated this house. I thought that when I turned eighteen, I could finally escape, but four years later, here I still am, a slave in my own home. Doing all the dirty tasks for my brother, Alpha Trey and the pack. While my ex mate, Beta Kyle waltzes around reminding me of how worthless I am. Someone clears their throat and I freeze, I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair, just around the corner. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of drink. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that donβt quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door as my heart pounded. βIs this the way you greet all Alphaβs?β His deep voice rumbles through the room, there was an edge of amusement to his tone. βIβm sorry.β I whisper, getting to my feet. βIβ¦I thought I was alone.β I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. He doesnβt introduce himself either, why should he? βCome forward.β He orders and I already feel a lump forming in my throat. Alpha Trey was going to finish me. I step around the corner, doing as Iβm told, allowing him to see me properly. I close my eyes, expecting the worst. βYou smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?β I nod, though I couldnβt tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they found out about me. βI would prefer it if you spoke to me.β He growls, βIβm not in the mood to play games.β βYes.β I whisper. I couldnβt help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? βWhy do you smell strange? And how is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.β βIβ¦..β I hated the question. βSpit it out, I havenβt got all day!β He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldnβt scent him. I knew why I hadnβt been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever wanted or liked to do. They never let me tell my side of the story. All they do is laugh and mock me. βYou should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. Itβs rude to not look at them. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?β His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them, there was no way I was making eye contact. βMy Wolf abilities were bound,β I mutter. Twice, I wanted to add. Twice my abilities were bound. But he probably wasnβt interested in that part. He leans forward, carefully placing his glass on the small table next to the chair. I could feel him staring at me, βWhy would someone do that?β If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. βIt was a punishment.β I whisper. It wasnβt far from the entire truth but it was the simplest answer I could give. Thereβs a twitch in his cheek. Was he angry to hear of such a punishment? Or maybe, just like the others, he was amused by it. I couldnβt tell. The door swings open and my brother screeches at me βNeah, what the heck are you doing in my office?β He turns to the crimson eyed man. βI am so sorry that my sister is bothering you, Alpha Dane.β Crap, it was him. My brother spins around, his hand stretching out to hit me. I close my eyes, bracing myself, ready to feel the burn. βI wouldnβt do that if I were you.β Alpha Daneβs voice rumbles through the room. Peeking through slits, I see Alpha Dane has risen to his feet, his hand coiled around my brother's wrist. He was taller than my brother, more muscly too. βNeah,β My name rolls off of his tongue, βwas kindly showing me to your office, Alpha Trey, as you failed to meet me at the front of your house like I requested. I was lucky someone was present, at least someone understands the importance of this deal.β What? I had no idea what he was talking about. And he had no reason to lie for me. My brother glares at me, clenching his jaw tight. I was going to pay for this later. I would have to try and steal some food. βGo and get Beta Kyle.β Alpha Trey seethes. βTell him that our guest is here.β I nod my head and hurry from the room, the last thing I wanted was to be caught between bickering men. βBeta Kyle,β I whisper as I enter the dining hall. He instantly glares at me with his dark eyes. I had spoken without being spoken to. βAlpha Trey is in the office with Alpha Dane. I was sent to inform you.β He slams the newspaper down on the table and glares at me as he walks by. βYouβre lucky that the Alpha sent you to get me, otherwise you wouldn't be seeing sunlight for a few days.β Pausing behind me, he yanks my head back, locking his fingers in my hair, leaning in close to me, I feel his hot breath on my skin. He doesnβt speak, it was just his way of proving that he could do what he wants when he wants. I try to keep myself busy so I can stay as far away from the office as possible. My peace doesnβt last long when I hear my brother calling out to me. Quietly, I pad towards the office and plaster a smile on my face as I open the door. βNeah, go get the champagne and some glasses, we are celebrating.β I bow my head and hurry to the drinks cabinet. Quickly finding what my brother has asked for. As I re-enter the office, I can feel Alpha Dane watching my every move, even the hairs on the back of my neck stand up. No one ever watches me this closely. Approaching the small table by Alpha Danes chair, I start to fill the glasses. He takes the champagne bottle from me, telling me he is more than capable of filling his own glass. I feel my cheeks flame, not from embarrassment, but because I knew that I would be punished for this. I should have been quicker. I should have filled the glasses before entering the office. I should haveβ¦. My brain freezes when I see my brother glaring at me. βNeah is your sister, correct?β Alpha Dane questions my brother. βShe is.β Alpha Trey mutters with disgust. He looks away from me to focus on the man asking questions. βWhy do you treat her like vermin?β Straight to the point, my brother wouldnβt like that. He only liked sharing information on his terms. No one had spoken to my brother about his treatment of me because everyone took great joy in beating me. I didnβt know what to do. I couldnβt move but I knew I had to get out of there. If this deal goes to pot because of me, then that would be my fault too. βNeah was responsible for our parents' death.β Alpha Trey spits I closed my eyes, battling back the tears that were threatening to break free. βResponsible how?β Alpha Daneβs voice rumbles through me. He was definitely angry. βShe served them Wolfsbane.β Two Neah Donβt make a sound. Donβt make a sound. I knew Alpha Dane was studying me. They all did, no one could ever quite believe how someone could do something so disgusting as poisoning their own parents. I stood there, with my head hanging low, wishing for the ground to open up and suck me in. There are movements around me. He was standing directly in front of me. With a rough finger he tilts my face up towards his, forcing me to look at him. Slowly, his hand latches onto my throat but he doesnβt squeeze. βYou poisoned your parents?β βI was six.β I splutter. βI just made them lemonade.β My voice comes out all squeaky as I try to defend myself. I could barely remember my parents, but I could remember all the guilt I had been made to feel since that day. His crimson eyes flash to my brothers. βHardly seems fair to blame a six year old.β βA six year old should know the difference between plants.β Alpha Trey snaps βSounds to me like she was set up.β Alpha Dane shrugs his shoulders, letting go of my throat. βWe all know that standard wolfsbane doesnβt affect us anymore. We evolved from that thing centuries ago.β What? What did he mean? Wolfsbane wasnβt lethal. It had been drummed into me since I could walk. βWhich only leaves Blood of Wolfsbane.β Alpha Dane mutters βYou werenβt there, Alpha Dane.β My brother muttered through gritted teeth as his eyes narrowed to slits. βIt was Wolfsbane.β He nods his head. βYou are right, I was not present.β Great, now there was someone else who could remind me of something I had done by accident, years ago. βBut tell me this, where would a six year old get Blood of Wolfsbane?β βI didnβt ask you here to talk about my slave!β Alpha Trey spits. βOr what happened to my parents.β Alpha Dane grabs his leather jacket from the chair. Unlike other Alphaβs he seemed to dress more casually. A simple black tee and jeans covered his huge frame. And unlike other Alphaβs, his arms are bare of tattoos, not a single bit of ink poked out anywhere. βYouβre right and now I have a few things to mull over.β βI thought we agreed.β My brother exclaims βNothing has been signed. Now I will show myself out.β The moment he is out of the office, both my brother and Beta Kyle round on me. βWhat the heck did you say to him?β My brother demands, slamming a hand into my stomach. βN..nothing. Well, he just asked me why I smelled funny.β βDid you tell him?β Beta Kyle demands. He was practically spitting in my face. I hated him. I hated him so much that I had vowed to one day get my revenge and rip his stomach out through his mouth. βWELL?β My brother yells when I donβt immediately respond and smacks me across the side of the head. My head involuntarily moves up and down. βBut I didnβt say it was you.β I tried to sound strong and confident but it just comes out as a whisper. If they werenβt Wolves, they probably wouldnβt have heard me. My brother's hand locks into my black hair as he yanks my head back, sending a shooting pain through my skull. βIf you have ruined this, you wonβt see daylight again.β He drags me by my hair from the office and down the hallway towards the basement door. βPleaseβ¦.β I beg. βHe was an Alphaβ¦Iβ¦ I had to answer him.β My cheeks burn with my tears as he flings the door open. On the other side of the door is Alpha Dane. He is leaning against the wall with his arms folded, staring out at us. My brother's hand falls from my hair, relieving the pressure on the back of my skull.. βAlpha Dane, I thought you had left.β Alpha Trey murmurs angrily. βI said I would show myself out. I thought I had found the door, but instead I find a basement, riddled in your sister's strange scent. Is this how you treat your family?β βAs I said,β my brother holds his ground, βShe is responsible for the death of my parents, so yes, this is what she deserves.β βYou should keep your nose out of other packs' business!β Beta Kyle adds. Alpha Dane laughs. βIf I agree to this deal, everything about your business becomes my business. So tell me, what would your punishment be for her? No food, locked away for a week, beatings?β βWe donβtβ¦.β βReally?β He cocks a brow, βYou really expect me to believe that you would have just let her sleep? I have already stopped you from hitting her once. " His eyes roam over me. "She is underfed, bags hover under her tired blue eyes. For a sister of an Alpha, she is certainly not treated like one. Regardless of what she allegedly did when she was a pup.β βShe did do it!β Alpha Trey seethes βAnd she has nothing to do with our deal.β βThatβs for me to decide.β His crimson eyes flicker around the hallway. βWhere is your mate? I would be interested to know how she feels about this.β I close my eyes, silently begging my brother not to call his Luna. Luna Cassandra is worse than Beta Kyle and Alpha Trey together. βOn second thoughts, why bother her. Iβm certain she is just as vile as you.β He sneers I peer through slits to see his crimson eyes on me. There was no reason for him to defend me and yet he was. I was a nobody, no one special. Just who everyone called a traitor. Only instead of being given a death sentence, my brother had decided to make me spend my life suffering. βI have a proposition for you, Alpha Trey.β Alpha Dane is smirking at my brother βWe have already agreed on terms.β βWell, Iβm adding one. And if you donβt agree, you will not get my help. Instead, you will become my enemy. And we both know, you donβt want that.β βI take it that your new terms have something to do with her?β Alpha Trey mutters through clenched teeth. βYou would be correct. Let me take her away to my pack and then you, Trey will have a deal.β Me? Why would he want me? As my brother and his Beta discuss me, Alpha Dane is still studying me. His look made me nervous. What could someone like him possibly want with me? βDeal.β Alpha Trey sticks out his hand for Alpha Dane to shake. He doesnβt take it, instead his crimson eyes shift from me to my brother. βI will have paperwork drawn up and will return tomorrow.β He reaches a hand out and cups my face, βEnsure you have everything packed.β He drags his thumb across my bottom lip and strides to the opposite end of the hallway and straight to the front door. He knew exactly where the front door was, so what was he up to? He pauses at the door. βIf I find out any one of you has laid a hand on her. The contract will be the last thing you need to worry about.β He struts out, slamming the door behind him. βGet out of my sight!β My brother snaps at me. Hurrying away, I make my way up the stairs and into my tiny bedroom. It was practically empty, the only things I had were a few changes of clothes. It would take me less than a minute to pack By morning, I hadnβt slept. Alpha Danes questions were on repeat and why was I so interesting to a Wolf like him. There was a reason he had the biggest pack. They were known for their fighting abilities, thatβs why my brother wanted to link Moonshine with Alpha Danes pack, but where did I fit in to all this? And what o earth is Blood of Wolfsbane? Three Dane βTenth brideβs the charm.β Jenson mocks as the driver pulls up in front of Moonshines packhouse. βShut up!β Eric snaps at him βBoth of you shut your mouths. Before you say something you regret!β βHe will never learn.β My wolf, Aero muses. The driver pulls open the door. βJust give me a second, I need to speak to my men.β The door closes and neither one of them speaks. βShe isnβt like the others. Donβt speak to her, donβt look at her. And you Jenson, keep your hands to yourself or you might just lose them this time.β I was more rattled than usual. Neah was different to the previous selected mates. I didnβt know what it was or whether it was because I was used to confident women, but there was something about her. And Aero appeared to like her too, more than any of the others. I had to have her. βI mean it!β I snap at Jenson's smug face, βBeing my brother wonβt change my mind!β He runs his fingers over his lips as though he was zipping them shut. They follow me from the car. Standing in front of the old packhouse, all three of us stare up at it. Because until a month ago, I knew nothing about them and even after my visit, all I had learned was the Alpha is a beast. My knuckles hammer on the door. Itβs barely open an inch when I force myself through making his Beta stumble back. I spot her straight away, hiding herself behind a corner. βAre you ready?β I call out. βIf you just want toβ¦..β Beta Kyle starts. βI was not talking to you. I was speaking to Neah.β The expression on Beta Kyleβs face was a picture. His jaw hung open and his eyes are wide. He clearly had never been told what to do, even by his Alpha. Neah steps out from her hiding spot, clutching a barely full carrier bag. She drags her teeth across her bottom lip and nods her head. βWhere are the rest of your things? I told you everything needs to be packedβ βThatβs all she has.β Trey snorts as he makes his appearance. βThatβs it?β I stare at him. βThatβs all her belongings? Sheβs what, in her early twenties and thatβs all she has?β βWhat more does she need?!β His Beta sneers. βKill him, let me rip out his throat and he will regret the day he crossed us.β βWhat are you waiting for?β I hear a horrible shrill voice that seems to vibrate through the floors. Looking away from the Beta, I see a woman holding on to a statue of herself that sat at the bottom of the stairs. Her blonde hair hung in waves around her face as her green eyes studied me and she sways her hips as she moves to Trey. I noticed Neahβs reaction yesterday. When I asked Trey where his mate was. Her whole body had tensed up in fear. She was afraid of this woman and I wanted to know why. βTake her Alpha Dane. Iβm sure she will be as useful a slave to you as she is to us.β Her shrill voice goes straight through me. βLook at the silly girl, sheβs going to pass out.β The blonde bimbo laughs βYou donβt get to talk about her like that anymore.β I glare at the blonde, βShe is not your toy. She is not your slave and I suggest that you, Alpha Trey keep your wife in check. There is only so much disobedience that I will tolerate.β βDISOBEDIENCE!β The woman screeches just as Neahβs hip hits the floor. βHow dare you! If anyone is disobedient, itβs that rat in the corner.β βWho the heck is she calling a rat?β Aero growls βYou should make yourself familiar with our agreement.β I snap. βIt seems your mate has not told you everything.β Waving Eric forward, he pulls a thick wad of paper from the folder under his arm. The contract that I have drawn up. βAll that for your help?β His mateβs eyes are wide βI donβt do half-witted contracts.β Taking the contract from Eric, I shove it against Treyβs chest βShall we go to the office?β Trey leads the way with his mate clinging on to him and his Beta hurrying behind. My men follow them while I stay behind to check on my new mate. βYou are more than welcome to join us, after all, you are involved in this deal. Or my car is outfront, you can take your stuff and wait there for me.β βAre those my only options?β she whispers, keeping her eyes low βFor now. Personally, I think you should sit in with us. It will give me great pleasure in pissing off that mate of your brothers.β She keeps her blue eyes low as she continues to clutch that bag of hers. This close to her, I could really see how ill she looked. Even her heart beat is slow, like itβs fighting to hang on to life. βSo what will it be?β βIβ¦.β Her head rotates between the front door and the direction of the office. βIβ¦.. The office I guess.β βGood choice.β I hold out a hand for her but she doesnβt take it. Pushing herself up to her feet. She wobbles a little, but steadies herself. Walking a few steps behind her, I see the evil glares she receives from Trey and the other two idiots as she enters the office.. βTake a seat.β I whisper as I walk past her. My hand grazes her lower back and she immediately tenses up. She stands, frozen to the spot. Only her eyes dart about when she shakes her head. βSit!β I say it a little louder βShe doesnβt have that privilege here!β The blonde snaps, with her lips curved up in amusement βSitting is not a privilege.β I growl, wondering what else they were forcing her to do. I couldnβt see any bruises on her arms or legs, a good sign, I hoped. βIt better be!β Aero paces in my head. He wanted her out of this place as much as I did. The blonde physically recoils in her seat. Her mouth falls wide open, shocked that I had said something. βAnd I suggest,β I look at Trey, βYou tell your mate to keep her mouth shut. Or I can shut it for her.β βAlpha Dane, you are in my homeβ¦..β βAnd you want my help, correct?β The three of them were fuming. No one liked being told what to do in their own home, yet they were doing just that to Neah. I point to the empty chair between Jenson and Eric and she finally sits down. βLetβs just get this done.β Trey snaps, βThe sooner she is gone, the happier I can be.β βYou should read the contract.β I muse βI agreed that you could take her as part of our deal.β βIdiot!β Eric murmurs. He knew as well as I did that contracts should be read before they are signed They sign without reading and practically throw the contract back at me. βDone.β Trey mutters βGood, you can get her out of my house.β Treyβs mate screeches. If I had it my way, I would just take Neah, then I wouldnβt have to put up with the twidles, but this way, they canβt have her back. Even if they begged. A contract was a contract and it was impossible for them to get out of. Getting to my feet, I hold a hand out to Neah, βCome, we are leaving this rat hole before I lose my temper.β Her warm fingers slip into my hand as she rises to her feet. Her other hand clutches the bag to her chest as she walks with me to the front door. She doesnβt even look back to say goodbye and that confirmed everything I needed to know. She hated them as much as they hated her. She pauses at the open front door, her hand falling from mine. Her blue eyes are wide as she stares at the limo. βCome.β I instruct Eric and Jenson are standing behind her, watching her curiously. βIs she okay?β Eric links me. βNeah?β I step in front of her and she doesnβt move. She seems to be staring right through me. βItβs time to go.β βOkay.β Her lips barely move She takes a step forward, almost as if she is in slow motion. Her hands grip the door frame, her knuckles turn white as her heartbeat increases. Her lips part a little and her hand falls from the door frame just as her eyes roll to the back of her head. βIβve got you.β I mutter, catching her just before she hits the floor. Her entire body tenses up as I lift her and carry her to the car. She was so weak and was even lighter than I expected. She probably didnβt weigh much more than a small child. Jenson and Eric get in the car first. Jenson cocks his eyebrow at me and has a smirk plastered to his face as I slide in with Neah on my lap. βKeep your thoughts to yourself, Jenson!β I hold her close, listening to her breathe and her heart as it slowed. Letting my fingers comb through her dark hair as she becomes a little more with it. Suddenly, she sits up right, moving away from me and trying to make herself as small as possible. Deciding not to force her to do anything, I keep my attention on my Beta and my brother, talking about pack stuff while casting a glance over to her every so often to make sure she was alright. βCome.β I mutter as the limo comes to a stop. I donβt wait for the driver and get out myself, holding a hand out for her. βIβm fine.β She speaks at last while glancing at the others and shuffles herself forward to the open door. She stares up at my home, gasping a little. It was easily three times the size of her previous home and I hoped that she would be happy here. That I could provide her with a life that was better than her last. βLet me give you a tour.β I suggest as she continues to clutch that carrier bag to her chest. She follows me in, not speaking a word. I had no idea if she was listening to what I was saying or not βThe omegas swap out on a rotational basis. Good for the youngsters to learn some responsibilities before they get proper jobs.β I tell her while showing her the dining hall with a table long enough to fit twenty people around. We move through to the kitchen. Where I point out a board on the wall. βIf there is anything you need, you just add it to the board and it will be ordered in.β Her brow furrows and still she says nothing. Picking up a pen, I smile. Maybe she felt intimidated by me. βSo tell me, what do you need because there is no way you are living under my roof with just the things that are in that bag.β Her dazzling blue eyes dart around the room βWell?β I ask. βI donβt need anything.β She whispers Sighing, I start scribbling things down. Underwear, jeans, workout clothes, dresses, shoes, anything I can think of that will cover her for a few days. Holding the pen between my teeth, I grab her around the waist. My thumbs meet just above her belly button and my fingers touch her spine. She was so thin, how was she even alive? Four Dane She looked like a deer caught in headlights as I write her size down. She was tinier than I thought. Skin and bone. If I had moved my hands up any higher, I would have felt every rib sticking out. It sickened me, she should be strong, powerful, she had Alpha blood running through her veins. I also saw how she scrunched her face up when I measured her. It wasnβt fear, it was pain. She was hiding something underneath the baggy maids dress. βI know you want to say something, so just say it. Iβm not interested in the crap Trey drummed into you. You donβt have to wait until someone asks you a question. You are free to say what you want. Are you injured?" "No." She was lying, I could feel it. She shakes her head as if it would confirm her answer and a lock of her black hair falls from the band that was supposed to be holding it back. Neah was going to be a tough girl to crack. A life of being starved had made her quite protective over herself. I will make Trey pay for what he has done to her. βYou have to say something, Neah. I cannot read your mind. When I mark you, at least I will know what you are feeling.β βMark me?β I didnβt think her eyes could get any wider. βYes, I will mark you.β She was completely and utterly shocked by the idea. Her pink lips part a little as she continues to stare at me. I thought she knew. I thought that was why she came so willingly. My Beta had kept asking me if I was certain I wanted her as my bride. There was no doubt about it, she had a strange scent but something was luring me to her. I couldnβt take my eyes off of her when I first saw her. My Wolf Aero was going mad for her too. Though he hadnβt said a word about her. Annoyed with me for not taking her home with us yesterday. βYouβ¦.You brought me so that you could mark me.β She takes a step back, walking into the kitchen island. She winces a little and quickly covers up her pain, relaxing her face.. βIf Trey had bothered reading the contract, he would have discovered that you are to be my bride, not a slave. He would also have read that if he or his ridiculously silly mate tried doing anything to you going forward, that pack would become mine, or rather, yours. I never bought you, Neah, you were always destined to be mine.β βIβm a murderer.β She gasps. βWhy would someone like you want me for a bride?β βBloodβ Aero growls interrupting my thoughts. I glance down at her baggy dress. A blood stain had appeared right where I had my hands wrapped around her. βWhatβs that? Are you injured?β I demand, I had barely touched her. She covers the stain with her hand. βItβs nothing. Itβs just a cut that I keep knocking and it opens up again. I forget itβs there.β Forget? How could she forget a wound? βWhy isnβt she healing?β I feel Aeroβs panic. βSheβs been with us less than two hours and already she has some form of injury.β His need to protect her was strong. It hadnβt occurred to me that her lack of abilities included not being able to heal. I would have to find someone who could reverse the binding and soon. βShow me!β βItβs fine.β She mumbles I was already so sick of hearing that phrase. βItβs not optional.β I mutter. βIf you wonβt show me, I will have to find a way to look, myself.β Her heart skips a beat. She looks around the kitchen. βCan.... can we go somewhere more private?β βPrivate?β I didnβt really do privacy. What Wolf did?! She bobs her head but still keeps her focus slightly off of me. Almost afraid to look me directly in the eyes. βOffice,β Aero mutters. βI was just going to suggest that!β I snap back at my Wolf. I feel his eyes roll as he retreats to some dark corner of my mind. βThis way.β I gesture to the door. Neah waits for me and follows closely behind. The scent of blood steadily grew stronger, it was more than just a cut. I already knew that. In the office, I hit the remote and the blinds start to drop, blocking out the sunlight. Neah hesitates and slowly begins to unfasten the buttons of the dress but only where the large blood stain was. Keeping everything else covered from me. She pulls the dress to one side. The wound was about four inches long and already fairly infected. βSee, itβs fine.β she whispers. βYou need to stop saying that.β She closes her mouth and starts to fasten the buttons. βNo,β I grabbed her hands, I had caught sight of another bruise. βLet me see the rest of them.β It wasnβt optional. She gasps as my fingers rip apart the rest of the buttons. Her sports bra had seen better days, just the same as her underwear. But it was the bruising I was most concerned about. Bruise upon bruise, scars that had come from whips. Her hip bones and ribs stuck out too. Turning her around, and pulling the dress from her, I find that her back is just the same. Yet interestingly, there was nothing above her chest and nothing below her thighs. Her arms were completely bare of wounds too. There was only one reason why someone would do that. To either hide what they were doing to someone, or to keep up appearances. They didnβt want guests to see. More importantly, they didnβt want me to see, considering the meeting was arranged over a month ago. She fumbles with the dress, pulling it tightly around her thin frame. βYou need to see a doctor.β βItβs β¦..β she trails off when she sees the anger on my face. βIt always heals, eventually.β βDid Trey do this?β I mutter with my teeth gritted and gesture to her body She lowers her blue eyes. βCassandra?β She still doesnβt answer me. βThat prick that follows Trey around? All three of them?β She pulls her dress tighter around her and silently nods. She brings her hand up to her face, brushing her cheek, wiping away an escaped tear. βAnyone else?β βThe pack.β She whispers. βIβm going to kill them all.β Aero growls. He will have to get in line, βBecause of what you allegedly did to your parents.β She nods. βI donβt believe you were responsible.β She tilts her head up towards me, her brow knits together as her eyes finally find mine. βBecause of Blood of Wolfsbane?" Five Neah βIβ¦I donβt know what Blood of Wolfsbane is?β I whisper He frowns at me. βYour brother said you knew the difference between plants.β βIβ¦β I didnβt have an answer. I couldnβt remember, not fully. βBlood of Wolfsbane is Wolfsbane fed by our blood. The leaves will have a red hue to them. I canβt imagine a child would know what it is because it is not freely grown. Your brotherβs story doesnβt add up.β βOh.β βI wonβt stop until I find out who did this, Neah.β His crimson eyes narrow. βI will make them pay for the suffering you have endured.β He sits on the edge of his desk, studying me. βRight now, you do need to see someone about the infection.β I kept my mouth closed, I was still trying to process his news of me being set up. Why had my brother never considered it? βCome, I will show you our bedroom. You can shower before we see the pack doctor.β Frozen to the spot, I donβt move. Did he just say βour bedroom,β? As in, we are sharing a bedroom? I guess he thinks he can mke love with me whenever he wants if Iβm his contract bride. A shiver runs down my spine at the thought. Glancing up, I see him watching me. He is stood at the open door, waiting for me. Ensuring my dress has me covered, I step out into the hallway. No one was around and the hallways were quiet. As we moved, Alpha Dane would tell me what each room was, but he seemed more focussed on getting me to the bedroom. His bedroom is huge, with massive windows, just like the rest of the house. The bed sat pressed up against the wall. All around it, thin drapes hung from the ceiling, but they were tied back at each bed post. What surprised me the most was that the bath and the shower were in the same room. Only the toilet was in a small room to the side of the shower. No privacy, whatsoever. Though, he didnβt seem to care about that. He makes me jump when I feel his warm breath on my skin. βYou donβt need to be afraid.β I may not be able to smell him, but he would be able to scent the changes in my emotions. Crossing the room, he pulls open the glass door to the shower and turns it on. The moment he closes the door, the steam of the shower quickly fogs up the glass. And still, I find myself afraid. He gave me no clue as to what he was expecting from me. βHey,β His rough fingers tip my face up. βItβs just you and me and for now, I will let you shower in peace.β Walking away, he pulls his phone out of his pocket and messes around with it before placing it on the bedside table. βThe alarm is set for ten minutes. I will come back then. I will bring you something to wear so just stay in the towel. Understand?β He stares at me, waiting for an answer and I just nod. A ten minute shower. I was lucky if I got a minute shower back home and the water was always cold. He moves to the door and with his hand resting on the door knob he looks back over his shoulder at me. βI really wish you would talk more, Neah.β Alpha Dane leaves me in peace and I make a mad dash for the shower as if Iβm in some kind of fantasy land and this was all a dream. Maybe it was, maybe I was about to wake up in the basement of my home. The smells of the soaps and shampoos are divine as I lather them into myself. And my hair has never felt so clean. The wound on my stomach stung as the hot water hit it, but I didnβt care, it was worth it. Someone in the room clears their throat and I freeze. Thanking the steam for keeping me semi hidden. βNeah, are you done? The alarm went off five minutes ago.β Alpha Daneβs voice seems louder in here. I had been so caught up in the freedom of a simple shower that I hadnβt even heard the alarm or the Alpha come back into the room. βComing.β I mutter, turning off the water and pulling a towel around me to hide the hideousness underneath. Stepping out, I already see that my ripped dress, underwear and worn sandals had been removed from the floor. Alpha Dane sits on the end of the bed with what looked like folded clothes on his lap and a pair of trainers. βItβs not much, as we donβt have anyone with as small a waist as you.β He smiles as he hands over the clothes. A matching navy blue sweatshirt and joggers. βYou will have to make do without the underwear for now. Should be here first thing tomorrow.β He watches me with a cocked eyebrow as I pull the joggers on and tug the sweatshirt over my head before removing the towel. Maybe he was used to the women parading themselves in front of him, or throwing themselves at him because he has power, but I wasnβt like that. βLetβs go.β He rises to his feet and this time, I follow him. Something told me that if I didnβt get this wound looked at, it would put him in a bad mood. The pack doctor was young, unlike the one back home who was old and afraid to let anyone take over from him. She smiles at us as we enter the pack hospital and rewraps her dark hair into a bun. βRaven, this is Neah.β Alpha Dane introduces me with a grin. I keep my eyes low as I hear Raven say, βAlpha Dane, what seems to be the problem apart from the strange smell she has brought with her.β It didnβt sound like a hurtful comment like I was used to, but more a comment of curiosity. βShe will tell you herself when she finds her tongue.β βI have a wound.β I whisper. βAnd you are not healing?β Raven asks, confused βI donβt have my Wolf.β I hated saying it. It was just a constant reminder that I did not fit in. βHer Wolf was bound when she was a kid.β Alpha Dane tells her. βThatβs why her scent is strange. Her Wolf is there, locked away, waiting to be freed.β My eyes flicker up only to find him staring straight back at me. I had always believed that my Wolf was gone. Not that she was trapped. Ravenβs dark eyes hover on me. βWow, okay.β She grabs my hand. βThis way, letβs take a look at this wound of yours.β She leads me into an empty room and asks me to lay on the bed and to show her my wound. Pulling up the sweatshirt, just enough for her to see the wound. Her eyes widen, a flicker of rage passing over them as she takes in the infected wound and the bruising that surrounds it. Her fingers carefully press around the wound. βHow long ago?β βA few days.β I mutter, though I wasnβt sure. Every beating blurred into another one. Any day that I wasnβt hit was a good day. Raven shakes her head. βThis is longer than a few days ago, the infection has had at least a week to develop.β βNeah, you need to tell us the truth.β Alpha Dane orders βI donβt know.β βNEAH!β His deep voice rumbles through me and I close my eyes, fearing his anger. Anger brought punishment, punishment brought pain. βI swear, I donβt know. The beatings, they happen so often that they just kind ofβ¦. Iβm never not bruised.β Thereβs silence and I was too afraid to open my eyes. Alpha Trey had said it over and over, that if anyone found out, he would make my life a misery, more than it already was. I used to wonder who would ever find out that didnβt already know. Now here I was, sitting in another packβs hospital, revealing the truth. βHeal her!β Alpha Dane shouts after what seems like forever. He storms from the room, pulling a phone out of his pocket. βYou will have to forgive my brother. His temper is short, especially when it comes to things like this.β Raven mutters as she gently inspects my wound βYour brother?β I whisper, opening my eyes βAh, I see he informed you. Iβm guessing he didnβt tell you that Jenson is our brother too?β I shake my head, Iβm guessing Jenson was one of the men that came to my brother's house. She chuckles. βJenson is considered to be our brotherβs Gamma.β βGamma?β I had never heard of the term. βYep and Alpha Dane has a love/hate for me working here. He wants me to represent our family, but he knows this is what Iβm good at.β She grabs a pot of cream from the cupboard. βNow this needs to be applied three times a day. It should clear up the infection, if it hasnβt changed in a couple of days, I will take another look. My brother is waiting for you out front.β βThanks.β I mumble, taking the pot of cream from her. I looked at the label, but couldnβt read it. I had never learned to read. She bobs her head at me as I hurry out to find Alpha Dane on his phone, snapping at someone. He hangs up as soon as he sees me and asks what Raven said. βCream, three times a day.β I show him the pot and he takes it from me. βGood, come.β He strides off and I have to run to keep up with him. I follow him through the house and into the office. βShow me.β He orders, pulling the lid off the pot. It wasnβt going to be negotiable, not when he had used the same tone moments before he ripped my dress open earlier. Slowly lifting my sweatshirt, he crouches down in front of me and gently smothers the wound in the cold cream. βI donβt want you to lie to me, Neah. Not ever. If you canβt remember, that is what you need to tell me. Is that clear? I donβt want to have to guess what you mean.β βOkay.β I couldnβt say anything else, I was too focussed on the warmth of his hands. One presses against my lower back, holding me steady while the other gently rubs cream into my wound. The only touch I had received from another man was a beating. βStop holding your breath.β He tells me, getting to his feet. βI am not going to hurt you.β It seemed impossible to believe given my history. The act, the words coming from him, it just didnβt feel real. | Galaxy in the Story | 301 | https://facebook.com/61555427913037 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717743600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879356 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410682 | 1723321814 | 995 | 507661931592260 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 26448950205 | 0 | Free People | 6557918338648 | freepeople.com | Shop Now | 37826 | NONE | dpa | Tea Length Seamless Slip | $34 | https://www.freepeople.com/shop/tea-length-seamless-slip-28811149/?color=001&size=M%2FL&type=STANDARD | 1718393619 | 26448950205 | Free People | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448454796_790642533171431_246363400341195569_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ofKbGbpD7D4Q7kNvgH--hcM&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBMCgQjQ2yeGkk1xTpsqbPr0t6HAHkXpsVmIBBV1cvmYQ&oe=66729B2D | person_profile | 0 | Free People | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448331591_1388426681826553_310515711492551933_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=DJcBwZgEPJoQ7kNvgHVD6Hn&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDn4L3noNHwnE6AWbAAdNXyOX9eZ1adO7FHrzildKujYQ&oe=6672B852 | 0 | 3 | Celebrate Summer! Free express shipping on all orders! Shop now. | Free People | 1746939 | https://facebook.com/FreePeople | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1718348400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879357 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410682 | 1723321814 | 995 | 507661931592260 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 26448950205 | 0 | Free People | 6557918338648 | freepeople.com | Shop Now | 37826 | NONE | dpa | Tea Length Seamless Slip | $34 | https://www.freepeople.com/shop/tea-length-seamless-slip-28811149/?color=001&size=M%2FL&type=STANDARD | 1718393619 | 26448950205 | Free People | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448454796_790642533171431_246363400341195569_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ofKbGbpD7D4Q7kNvgH--hcM&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBMCgQjQ2yeGkk1xTpsqbPr0t6HAHkXpsVmIBBV1cvmYQ&oe=66729B2D | person_profile | 0 | Free People | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448331591_1388426681826553_310515711492551933_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=DJcBwZgEPJoQ7kNvgHVD6Hn&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDn4L3noNHwnE6AWbAAdNXyOX9eZ1adO7FHrzildKujYQ&oe=6672B852 | 0 | 3 | Celebrate Summer! Free express shipping on all orders! Shop now. | Free People | 1746939 | https://facebook.com/FreePeople | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1718348400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879359 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410682 | 1723321814 | 995 | 1393635261298377 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 26448950205 | 0 | Free People | 6557918290448 | freepeople.com | Shop Now | 37827 | NONE | dpa | Ruched Seamless Shorts | $38 | https://www.freepeople.com/shop/ruched-seamless-shorts/?color=011&size=M%2FL&type=STANDARD | 1718393596 | 26448950205 | Free People | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448216142_2322655564736796_5693847465495757469_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=907mt86uMNIQ7kNvgFlqZgR&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCJhpVjI1eiFQKJjexb27hP5oDslpuAYQvlUsXo27Y5gg&oe=6672AFC6 | person_profile | 0 | Free People | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448228118_1392936248070859_8526338333829573636_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=zuOBJtFkLIIQ7kNvgGZ1ys4&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBQYURvqnJNPi_u3w9bgqBQKlU8WX6Ai44Qz27TWDgwIw&oe=6672AB3B | 0 | 3 | Celebrate Summer! Free express shipping on all orders! Shop now. | Free People | 1746939 | https://facebook.com/FreePeople | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1718348400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879360 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410682 | 1723321814 | 995 | 1393635261298377 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 26448950205 | 0 | Free People | 6557918290448 | freepeople.com | Shop Now | 37827 | NONE | dpa | Ruched Seamless Shorts | $38 | https://www.freepeople.com/shop/ruched-seamless-shorts/?color=011&size=M%2FL&type=STANDARD | 1718393596 | 26448950205 | Free People | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448216142_2322655564736796_5693847465495757469_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=907mt86uMNIQ7kNvgFlqZgR&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCJhpVjI1eiFQKJjexb27hP5oDslpuAYQvlUsXo27Y5gg&oe=6672AFC6 | person_profile | 0 | Free People | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448228118_1392936248070859_8526338333829573636_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=zuOBJtFkLIIQ7kNvgGZ1ys4&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBQYURvqnJNPi_u3w9bgqBQKlU8WX6Ai44Qz27TWDgwIw&oe=6672AB3B | 0 | 3 | Celebrate Summer! Free express shipping on all orders! Shop now. | Free People | 1746939 | https://facebook.com/FreePeople | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1718348400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879361 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410682 | 1723321814 | 995 | 1393635261298377 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 26448950205 | 0 | Free People | 6557918290448 | freepeople.com | Shop Now | 37827 | NONE | dpa | Ruched Seamless Shorts | $38 | https://www.freepeople.com/shop/ruched-seamless-shorts/?color=011&size=M%2FL&type=STANDARD | 1718393596 | 26448950205 | Free People | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448216142_2322655564736796_5693847465495757469_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=907mt86uMNIQ7kNvgFlqZgR&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCJhpVjI1eiFQKJjexb27hP5oDslpuAYQvlUsXo27Y5gg&oe=6672AFC6 | person_profile | 0 | Free People | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448228118_1392936248070859_8526338333829573636_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=zuOBJtFkLIIQ7kNvgGZ1ys4&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBQYURvqnJNPi_u3w9bgqBQKlU8WX6Ai44Qz27TWDgwIw&oe=6672AB3B | 0 | 3 | Celebrate Summer! Free express shipping on all orders! Shop now. | Free People | 1746939 | https://facebook.com/FreePeople | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1718348400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879362 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410682 | 1723321815 | 995 | 1393635261298377 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 26448950205 | 0 | Free People | 6557918290448 | freepeople.com | Shop Now | 37827 | NONE | dpa | Ruched Seamless Shorts | $38 | https://www.freepeople.com/shop/ruched-seamless-shorts/?color=011&size=M%2FL&type=STANDARD | 1718393596 | 26448950205 | Free People | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448216142_2322655564736796_5693847465495757469_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=907mt86uMNIQ7kNvgFlqZgR&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCJhpVjI1eiFQKJjexb27hP5oDslpuAYQvlUsXo27Y5gg&oe=6672AFC6 | person_profile | 0 | Free People | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448228118_1392936248070859_8526338333829573636_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=zuOBJtFkLIIQ7kNvgGZ1ys4&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBQYURvqnJNPi_u3w9bgqBQKlU8WX6Ai44Qz27TWDgwIw&oe=6672AB3B | 0 | 3 | Celebrate Summer! Free express shipping on all orders! Shop now. | Free People | 1746939 | https://facebook.com/FreePeople | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1718348400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879363 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410682 | 1723321815 | 995 | 1393635261298377 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 26448950205 | 0 | Free People | 6557918290448 | freepeople.com | Shop Now | 37827 | NONE | dpa | Ruched Seamless Shorts | $38 | https://www.freepeople.com/shop/ruched-seamless-shorts/?color=011&size=M%2FL&type=STANDARD | 1718393596 | 26448950205 | Free People | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448216142_2322655564736796_5693847465495757469_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=907mt86uMNIQ7kNvgFlqZgR&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCJhpVjI1eiFQKJjexb27hP5oDslpuAYQvlUsXo27Y5gg&oe=6672AFC6 | person_profile | 0 | Free People | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448228118_1392936248070859_8526338333829573636_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=zuOBJtFkLIIQ7kNvgGZ1ys4&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBQYURvqnJNPi_u3w9bgqBQKlU8WX6Ai44Qz27TWDgwIw&oe=6672AB3B | 0 | 3 | Celebrate Summer! Free express shipping on all orders! Shop now. | Free People | 1746939 | https://facebook.com/FreePeople | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1718348400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879648 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410700 | 1723321815 | 995 | 1879390642474185 | 1 | 7.7004547176018E+14 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 214305385109285 | 0 | Delaney Worldwide | 120208791531700084 | delaneyworldwide.com | Learn More | NONE | carousel | Trusted Movers For a Smooth Transition | Stress-free relocation. | http://www.delaneyworldwide.com/ | 1713558864 | 2.1430538510928E+14 | Delaney Worldwide | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436547483_7464615606938391_7957480284726591432_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=0ZOOt2qIQ7IQ7kNvgGghmz0&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDfQnxjJ8RHwKsecW3SyehFHoEGh6KAx-Rn3KzyJdRCjA&oe=6672C73B | person_profile | 0 | Delaney Worldwide Inc | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439625953_400220496122398_789550840492018026_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=74tozip3wW4Q7kNvgHq14_G&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBaL7uJi3RajOPHnAIHuar0QHC3dOrE07codJQqpBVuuQ&oe=6672B56B | 0 | 3 | Stress-free relocation. | Delaney Worldwide | 2 | https://facebook.com/61557773368721 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1713855600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879760 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410719 | 1723321815 | 995 | 216463318195471 | 1 | 3.5079396395983E+14 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 1475434976107462 | 0 | Weiss Property Management | 120207717711510579 | weisspm.com | Contact Us | NONE | carousel | Expertise You Can Trust | Enhance your curb appeal | https://weisspm.com/lawn-mowing-and-landscaping/?utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=display&utm_campaign=sr_transform_your_property_with_weiss_property &utm_term={{ad.id}}&utm_content=4656879-e32-n-m-c{{campaign.id}}-g{{adset.id}}-a{{ad.id}}-u-cat-k-mod | 1710771508 | 1.4754349761075E+15 | Weiss Property Management | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/433883042_3571553513062526_408461915678430278_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=WrrehUSk_oIQ7kNvgGRgiUK&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCfOBCCKjrGLIOwVt2IpJO0VyFaAGg7Jki57vMrCQ2HKA&oe=6672C647 | person_profile | 0 | 0 | 3 | Enhance your curb appeal | Weiss Property Management | 809 | https://facebook.com/weisspm1 | 0 | CONTACT_US | 1710831600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879365 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410682 | 1723321815 | 995 | 885751373391564 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 26448950205 | 0 | Free People | 6557918176448 | freepeople.com | Shop Now | 37974 | NONE | dpa | Ruched Seamless Shorts | $38 | https://www.freepeople.com/shop/ruched-seamless-shorts/?color=001&size=XS%2FS&type=STANDARD | 1718393531 | 26448950205 | Free People | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448261124_404035412632590_5629898659360079405_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Exv_oDtCgncQ7kNvgHxYA4t&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAlFTF-N1vl48WWYadSHozQteO7EWdi7c9Z0GUjQ08Osw&oe=66729E32 | person_profile | 0 | Free People | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448441737_448873858085819_3700902483057447922_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=bl0-cGBV-FoQ7kNvgHBkgJz&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAmcGqRHExIWm8NZVoKgFDNeLwTMSK01YuZ5Mh6VSODmw&oe=6672BE43 | 0 | 3 | Celebrate Summer! Free express shipping on all orders! Shop now. | Free People | 1746939 | https://facebook.com/FreePeople | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1718348400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879355 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410682 | 1723321815 | 995 | 507661931592260 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 26448950205 | 0 | Free People | 6557918338648 | freepeople.com | Shop Now | 37826 | NONE | dpa | Tea Length Seamless Slip | $34 | https://www.freepeople.com/shop/tea-length-seamless-slip-28811149/?color=001&size=M%2FL&type=STANDARD | 1718393619 | 26448950205 | Free People | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448454796_790642533171431_246363400341195569_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ofKbGbpD7D4Q7kNvgH--hcM&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBMCgQjQ2yeGkk1xTpsqbPr0t6HAHkXpsVmIBBV1cvmYQ&oe=66729B2D | person_profile | 0 | Free People | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448331591_1388426681826553_310515711492551933_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=DJcBwZgEPJoQ7kNvgHVD6Hn&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDn4L3noNHwnE6AWbAAdNXyOX9eZ1adO7FHrzildKujYQ&oe=6672B852 | 0 | 3 | Celebrate Summer! Free express shipping on all orders! Shop now. | Free People | 1746939 | https://facebook.com/FreePeople | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1718348400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879372 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410683 | 1723321815 | 995 | 1690307808378445 | 11 | 2.8338250934358E+15 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 123481120996569 | 0 | CariFree | 120210229557080417 | www.carifree.com/father's-day | Shop Now | NONE | dco | The Perfect Gift for Dad: Practical & On Sale β 10% Off With HAPPYDADS | Give Dad the perfect combination of practicality and savings with CariFree Gel 1100. Our innovative formula fights cavities and strengthens enamel, making it an essential addition to any dental care routine. This Fatherβs Day, enjoy 10% off and make Dad's smile shine even brighter. He'll love the practicality of the gift and the fact that you got it on sale! Hurry, this limited-time offer won't last long. Order now and make Father's Day extra special! | https://carifree.com/product/gel-1100/ | 1718392173 | 1.2348112099657E+14 | CariFree | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448358695_805720357944974_6206463257774206883_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=VSSw2w8aRkoQ7kNvgHfnOyu&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYD5wmoCu7gAh5rVMlx7lwkpyFZ9C2BTNf9_KuptdpoNUA&oe=6672BD79 | person_profile | 0 | CariFree | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448357430_1019833832473895_9103159104283525034_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=PYZTO3GMgPoQ7kNvgH06_vb&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAWG6hT31zA5XVvqcAA22NPoV68tG5L7WaQWPszdfckQQ&oe=6672B24A | 0 | 3 | Every Dad loves two things in a gift: number one, it's practical, and number two, it's on sale! π This Father's Day, hit the jackpot with CariFree Gel 1100, now 10% off! Our advanced cavity prevention formula is as practical as it gets, using nano-hydroxyapatite to strengthen teeth and fight cavities π¦·. Plus, with this special Father's Day discount, youβre giving Dad the gift of savings too! Trust us, heβll be all smiles when he finds out. π Donβt wait β show Dad you know him well and grab this deal today! Use code HAPPYDADS at checkout and save 10% today! | CariFree | 6267 | https://facebook.com/CariFree | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1718348400 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879375 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410683 | 1723321816 | 995 | 277783365363020 | 11 | 1.0031649581254E+15 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 123481120996569 | 0 | CariFree | 120210229436560417 | www.carifree.com/father's-day | Shop Now | NONE | dco | Celebrate Dad with a Healthy Smile β 10% Off With HAPPYDADS | Keep Dad's smile shining bright with CariFree Gel 1100. Our nano-hydroxyapatite formula fights cavities and promotes overall dental health π¦·. CariFree Gel 1100 not only strengthens enamel but also helps prevent future dental issues, making it the perfect gift for Father's Day. Show Dad how much you care with the gift of lasting oral health. Order today and save with this special offer! | https://carifree.com/product/gel-1100/ | 1718392083 | 1.2348112099657E+14 | CariFree | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448248503_1620230182108081_8377705390332873225_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=BICU3Rzl4acQ7kNvgFsMGgA&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDBh-Q5Ql5QXAOMqzLI3C0wbmnvIUILewC1CkIhaO9Wxg&oe=6672BE4A | person_profile | 0 | CariFree | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448245551_795268429030401_3894684251357994738_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Nt6pb8738SEQ7kNvgH-B_jE&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBztGDaVAZlsbAYuSXtyI0_qOrRdefAmEOsui-N4UQ6Fw&oe=6672A1A8 | 0 | 3 | This Father's Day, show Dad you care with the gift of a healthier smile π. CariFree Gel 1100, our advanced cavity prevention formula, is now 10% off! Made with nano-hydroxyapatite, CariFree toothpaste strengthens teeth and protects against cavities, ensuring Dad's smile stays bright and healthy π. Whether Dad is always on the go or enjoys a quiet evening at home, CariFree is the perfect addition to his daily routine. Donβt miss this limited-time offer to give Dad the best in dental care. Order now and save 10% with code HAPPYDADS at checkout! | CariFree | 6267 | https://facebook.com/CariFree | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1718348400 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879376 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410683 | 1723321816 | 995 | 277783365363020 | 11 | 1.0031649581254E+15 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 123481120996569 | 0 | CariFree | 120210229436560417 | www.carifree.com/father's-day | Shop Now | NONE | dco | Celebrate Dad with a Healthy Smile β 10% Off With HAPPYDADS | Keep Dad's smile shining bright with CariFree Gel 1100. Our nano-hydroxyapatite formula fights cavities and promotes overall dental health π¦·. CariFree Gel 1100 not only strengthens enamel but also helps prevent future dental issues, making it the perfect gift for Father's Day. Show Dad how much you care with the gift of lasting oral health. Order today and save with this special offer! | https://carifree.com/product/gel-1100/ | 1718392083 | 1.2348112099657E+14 | CariFree | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448248503_1620230182108081_8377705390332873225_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=BICU3Rzl4acQ7kNvgFsMGgA&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDBh-Q5Ql5QXAOMqzLI3C0wbmnvIUILewC1CkIhaO9Wxg&oe=6672BE4A | person_profile | 0 | CariFree | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448245551_795268429030401_3894684251357994738_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Nt6pb8738SEQ7kNvgH-B_jE&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBztGDaVAZlsbAYuSXtyI0_qOrRdefAmEOsui-N4UQ6Fw&oe=6672A1A8 | 0 | 3 | This Father's Day, show Dad you care with the gift of a healthier smile π. CariFree Gel 1100, our advanced cavity prevention formula, is now 10% off! Made with nano-hydroxyapatite, CariFree toothpaste strengthens teeth and protects against cavities, ensuring Dad's smile stays bright and healthy π. Whether Dad is always on the go or enjoys a quiet evening at home, CariFree is the perfect addition to his daily routine. Donβt miss this limited-time offer to give Dad the best in dental care. Order now and save 10% with code HAPPYDADS at checkout! | CariFree | 6267 | https://facebook.com/CariFree | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1718348400 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879380 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410683 | 1723321816 | 995 | 468832532402739 | 1 | 3.7697147823839E+14 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 137682100876 | 0 | Hassle Free Home Services | 6583401129970 | myhasslefreehome.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | Weβll take your to-do list. You take the weekend. Home management, repairs, and preventative care. | {{product.description}} | https://myhasslefreehome.com/?utm_source=meta&utm_medium=paid&utm_campaign=auto-placement-June-2024&utm_content=2024-06-14_ErikLoveLust | 1718395133 | 137682100876 | Hassle Free Home Services | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/417398008_263960826774708_4514569952948210329_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=4Eek3--_GAEQ7kNvgGzjKZJ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDXqBlf2BEKs99OF_34XF5pGQjHg2NuOMtWLTqYRk-naA&oe=6672C539 | person_profile | 0 | Hassle Free Home Services | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/417482266_768370512125974_5918608896931645830_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=kFtsT6w4CGMQ7kNvgFowVHJ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDgjZZkxYci3TSR_Z2ugAqFIYtHKgi0feOLGFA0ObBx0Q&oe=6672BFF1 | 0 | 3 | π« Your neighbors have worked with us for over 20 years. π Outsource home management to local professionals. | Hassle Free Home Services | 438 | https://facebook.com/hasslefreehomeservices | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718348400 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879386 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410683 | 1723321816 | 995 | 1221844152519929 | 1 | 1.6536758687297E+15 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 137682100876 | 0 | Hassle Free Home Services | 6583402902170 | myhasslefreehome.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | Weβll take your to-do list. You take the weekend. Home management, repairs, and preventative care. | {{product.description}} | https://myhasslefreehome.com/?utm_source=meta&utm_medium=paid&utm_campaign=auto-placement-June-2024&utm_content=2024-06-14_ErikCEOExecTimeProblem | 1718396728 | 137682100876 | Hassle Free Home Services | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448397594_318202048019095_3021886480661866571_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=OszzC2UtLJkQ7kNvgH4wHGd&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCMx_1wHPNF6yGlm2BAGp_2nwKCm8tN5GXmqdotNlS9IA&oe=6672A389 | person_profile | 0 | Hassle Free Home Services | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448402186_825977045701722_6715641718647541900_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=wfPUqycO9ZYQ7kNvgGiM8Jt&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDEgIMyNiopud9QcrJhW4PhyA9bKTadrEVhMIJkEMI_6Q&oe=6672B4B1 | 0 | 3 | π« Your neighbors have worked with us for over 20 years. π Outsource home management to local professionals. | Hassle Free Home Services | 438 | https://facebook.com/hasslefreehomeservices | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718348400 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879388 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410683 | 1723321816 | 995 | 821891733159235 | 1 | 1.0491259165349E+15 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 114071638271220 | 0 | Mane Strong | 120210719062090443 | thesuperiormane.com | Shop now | NONE | image | Father's Day Special: Buy 2 Get 1 FREE Gift! | Fill in thin, patchy hair with Maneβs Root Activator Shampoo. Our formula was designed by hair loss experts to promote growth with every shower. Remove buildup from your scalp and create long-term stimulation of follicles for growth. Limited offer: Get a FREE gift when you buy 2! | https://thesuperiormane.com/products/fathers-day-hair-growth-bundle | 1717570749 | 1.1407163827122E+14 | Mane Strong | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447552095_1139472360669517_4890855214516784493_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=4dEiqx1DzLwQ7kNvgE5FpiZ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBbnufiXPItmggiGODhFzvNALhk-L7ETIKNNwA5FsktHw&oe=6672B558 | person_profile | 0 | Mane | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447556305_1040593804165289_6365495284808933609_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Yj2A-AAD9_wQ7kNvgH-IvAK&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCyBb8VlbO9tketJi4c2tbXH1eFNLMdcJ3tgyIhjKbgbg&oe=6672A1A7 | 0 | 3 | DADS, sick of thin, patchy hair? Reclaim your youthful hair this Father's Day with Mane's Hair Growth Bundle! πββοΈ<br /> <br /> Buy 2 and Get 1 FREE Root Activator Shampoo, proven to help you achieve thicker, healthier hair in just 4 weeks.<br /> <br /> Don't miss out on looking 10 years younger on your special day!<br /> <br /> Hurry because this deal runs for a limited time only. Shop NOW! ππ | Mane Strong | 5233 | https://facebook.com/manestronger | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1717570800 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879389 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410683 | 1723321816 | 995 | 1370620243614684 | 1 | 1.2050794771759E+15 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 114071638271220 | 0 | Mane Strong | 120210854182490443 | thesuperiormane.com | Shop now | NONE | video | 50% OFF: Grow Balding Hair At Home In 12 WEEKS! | https://thesuperiormane.com/products/root-activator-shampoo-secret-sale | 1718263734 | 1.1407163827122E+14 | Mane Strong | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448392519_3335652380076532_5329109152932799114_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=vqR6dVGJHMIQ7kNvgHZ7tAF&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDAb3e700DQVS8Nh0kzAAgTr9wt6Yv1EG9_CGj9pxcyrA&oe=6672C1B3 | person_profile | 0 | Mane | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448210473_478641491244664_7180376198672481093_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=jixRrxoj_ooQ7kNvgEzghlQ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYC6CYuShFmkq9HTWQphGAk4o9-nE7ur--4bKe1-L2rSzA&oe=667296CB | 0 | 3 | Tired of thinning hair? Introducing the Root Activator Shampoo, the ultimate solution for thicker, fuller hair in 12 weeks!<br /> <br /> "I'm 59 and struggled with thinning hair, but this shampoo has been a lifesaver. It's made my hair thicker, healthier, and I've seen significant new growth in just 12 weeks." - Dan<br /> <br /> β reduced hair loss<br /> β increased hair growth<br /> β no need for costly procedures<br /> β risk-free satisfaction guarantee<br /> <br /> Say goodbye to thinning hair and hello to a fuller, healthier head of hair TODAY at 50% OFF - limited time only! β¬οΈβ¬οΈ | Mane Strong | 5233 | https://facebook.com/manestronger | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1718262000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879390 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410683 | 1723321816 | 995 | 409446078673032 | 5 | 1.6334756740528E+15 | 1715324400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 110757928736038 | 0 | HappyMe's | 120208390565430724 | norvure.com | Shop now | NONE | image | Let Your Pup Roam Safely With This Tie Out Stake | 40% Off Until Midnight | https://norvure.com/products/tanglefree%E2%84%A2-360-swivel-dog-tie-out-stake | 1715049494 | 1.1075792873604E+14 | HappyMe's | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/424585601_786195066602972_3927234968190252650_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=VT2_9EQqls8Q7kNvgHkhkg2&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAgu30BL7lkEnJWODn0VNnoujEmAntA0rQNt25v3ykT1A&oe=6672A734 | person_profile | 0 | HappyMe's | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441954458_3672786402991305_4834993696482844962_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=6qTt7qwTtUgQ7kNvgFelFHh&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYB2nlQ0Wj7IKgb6FkVMlArZtcxdA4q0ipQ0Pai7Pekslg&oe=667295DE | 0 | 3 | πΎ Give your furry friend the freedom to explore without tangles! TangleFreeβ’ 360Β° Swivel Dog Tie-Out Stake ensures your pet's safety and your peace of mind during outdoor playtime.<br /> <br /> π Click Below To Get Yours 40% Off Until Midnight | HappyMe's | 4240 | https://facebook.com/100094368992659 | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1715065200 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879394 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410683 | 1723321817 | 995 | 624461703169271 | 1 | 4.3310230580463E+14 | 1711177200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 101479542560743 | 0 | ConsumerSafe.com | 120205741070030259 | contact.consumersafe.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | See If You Qualify | They set aside $4.5 billion... | https://contact.consumersafe.com/roundup/ | 1710166508 | 1.0147954256074E+14 | ConsumerSafe.com | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/431615458_770690081512177_3495676478623739503_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=4A5U3MFLNL4Q7kNvgFOLvuL&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDoDXMh5wggKgEqlnRNb8EwJuN7dTRwp08Sj0Mqy9qmRA&oe=66729A05 | person_profile | 0 | Consumersafe.com | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/431770947_782259450625980_2788408335447563369_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=m5KTRcrCT0IQ7kNvgGWWXjk&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDR2jAonxQp56uUh2R6Tcrmxz6_8f87wGTTKhJ8f3jibg&oe=66729CE9 | 0 | 3 | Roundup weedkiller has been linked to Non-Hodgkinβs Lymphoma. If you or someone you know used Roundup and was later diagnosed with Non-Hodgkinβs Lymphoma, you could be eligible to receive significant compensation as part of a settlement. Click to learn more and see if you qualify. | ConsumerSafe.com | 1552 | https://facebook.com/consumersafedotcom | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1710140400 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879393 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410683 | 1723321817 | 995 | 624461703169271 | 1 | 4.3310230580463E+14 | 1711177200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 101479542560743 | 0 | ConsumerSafe.com | 120205741070030259 | contact.consumersafe.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | See If You Qualify | They set aside $4.5 billion... | https://contact.consumersafe.com/roundup/ | 1710166508 | 1.0147954256074E+14 | ConsumerSafe.com | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/431615458_770690081512177_3495676478623739503_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=4A5U3MFLNL4Q7kNvgFOLvuL&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDoDXMh5wggKgEqlnRNb8EwJuN7dTRwp08Sj0Mqy9qmRA&oe=66729A05 | person_profile | 0 | Consumersafe.com | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/431770947_782259450625980_2788408335447563369_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=m5KTRcrCT0IQ7kNvgGWWXjk&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDR2jAonxQp56uUh2R6Tcrmxz6_8f87wGTTKhJ8f3jibg&oe=66729CE9 | 0 | 3 | Roundup weedkiller has been linked to Non-Hodgkinβs Lymphoma. If you or someone you know used Roundup and was later diagnosed with Non-Hodgkinβs Lymphoma, you could be eligible to receive significant compensation as part of a settlement. Click to learn more and see if you qualify. | ConsumerSafe.com | 1552 | https://facebook.com/consumersafedotcom | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1710140400 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879396 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410684 | 1723321817 | 995 | 291958790652671 | 5 | 1.1673076476229E+15 | 1716706800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 106230892147834 | 0 | Wahooly | 120208392486660620 | shopwahooly.com | Shop now | NONE | video | Free Worldwide Shipping! | βββββ 5/5 Reviews! | https://shopwahooly.com/products/auto-tracking-phone-holder | 1716120664 | 1.0623089214783E+14 | Wahooly | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441550888_1499627580626532_1414101930248845522_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=fFI-hYCWNEgQ7kNvgGEPFRI&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAJL-6n-bd-M369TtfRSWdhhtJJr_Mhp90nLbYk-dNeRg&oe=6672B4B7 | person_profile | 0 | Wahooly | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441604688_8032235373454880_6938820003090827366_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=QZLdmLPf57IQ7kNvgGMeGRJ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDBYR2l4eG98SA8zIdKnTbb-QeytbyZJWRa3hMBbXh7rw&oe=6672B88E | 0 | 3 | Capture perfect selfies every time with our Auto Tracking Phone Holder β stay in the frame effortlessly! πΈ | Wahooly | 67 | https://facebook.com/Wahoooly | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1716534000 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879398 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410684 | 1723321817 | 995 | 745251367774750 | 9 | 9.2892463231941E+14 | 1717570800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 106230892147834 | 0 | Wahooly | 120208392258830620 | shopwahooly.com | Shop now | NONE | video | Free Worldwide Shipping! | βββββ 5/5 Reviews! | https://shopwahooly.com/products/breeze-blaster-waist-clip-fan | 1716119844 | 1.0623089214783E+14 | Wahooly | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441529795_1162695894744158_8266115620718187738_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=TucHLWkUewoQ7kNvgEPI6DQ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAeW0SC_uF8xLsNSoIW9xELEDaNYmIrTHRhWK_SQss5Hg&oe=6672C840 | person_profile | 0 | Wahooly | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/444846031_1958862197929983_4834879961389846727_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=k6ABd5m9XbcQ7kNvgFZBUh5&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYChMU4g-cR2fWbLpNDDy__JEPUdiKmcLooX_s_YwcsZMg&oe=6672C7EA | 0 | 3 | Stay cool on-the-go with our Breeze Blaster Waist Clip Fan β perfect for outdoor jobs, travels, and more! π¬οΈ | Wahooly | 67 | https://facebook.com/Wahoooly | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1717398000 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879399 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410684 | 1723321818 | 995 | 900340618565276 | 8 | 4.8932180011543E+14 | 1716361200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 106230892147834 | 0 | Wahooly | 120208392423100620 | shopwahooly.com | Shop now | NONE | video | Free Worldwide Shipping! | βββββ 5/5 Reviews! | https://shopwahooly.com/products/5-in-1-electric-cleaning-brush | 1716120107 | 1.0623089214783E+14 | Wahooly | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/445369565_754895103435413_7066811352263620264_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=oGZ9r8JMSyMQ7kNvgE4t4dT&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCmcl699JvbYgO1n1EyM14cKSqyv5g0qliUZ5k__a9_Cg&oe=6672A4CA | person_profile | 0 | Wahooly | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/445355136_3621059924778770_8791879604436347797_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=B8F3Uc0MnRAQ7kNvgFawkco&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDSLc5usokqHKxOoR5b3j4VdEVYt-PXpF8kR_2XtazgRQ&oe=667299CD | 0 | 3 | Say goodbye to tedious scrubbing and hello to sparkling clean surfaces with our 5-in-1 Electric Cleaning Brush! π§Όβ¨ | Wahooly | 67 | https://facebook.com/Wahoooly | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1716188400 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879400 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410684 | 1723321818 | 995 | 972679340901539 | 7 | 1.2064298805452E+15 | 1716102000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 106230892147834 | 0 | Wahooly | 120208293656010620 | shopwahooly.com | Shop now | NONE | video | Free Worldwide Shipping! | βββββ 5/5 Reviews! | https://shopwahooly.com/products/ice-mist-fan | 1715875867 | 1.0623089214783E+14 | Wahooly | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442468372_1004831011071640_25202267722090086_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=07Nu_omRgwQQ7kNvgHTbQhv&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDJccGi_PrVgDarYdOIa5SPLxz1YAoRzUUoTyAMvEnXOA&oe=6672C241 | person_profile | 0 | Wahooly | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441307918_1164651814718579_1326818427859314245_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=vblyuJCIJwgQ7kNvgG4bpti&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYC5_5NB-TdVrkrLq-oOS5v6M-Zn6a1FZFY0HypnL6gsFQ&oe=6672C4DA | 0 | 3 | Beat the heat and purify your air with the Ice Mist Fanβyour ultimate 3-in-1 cooling companion! βοΈπ | Wahooly | 67 | https://facebook.com/Wahoooly | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1715842800 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879402 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410684 | 1723321818 | 995 | 394130523355596 | 8 | 4.2000040740374E+14 | 1714978800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 101065786425886 | 0 | Fit Fusion Hub | 120205439692940685 | fitfusionhub.co | Shop now | NONE | video | Free Worldwide Shipping! | βββββ 5/5 Reviews! | https://fitfusionhub.co/products/desktop-punching-bag | 1711384150 | 1.0106578642589E+14 | Fit Fusion Hub | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/433120299_795955522568787_797613211419689399_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=0TLYZH8cAIgQ7kNvgFutnHg&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDnwjL7TMqygpQ0b6vsXu_jUbzxgPbqvPy7EXD7FS0bgw&oe=6672CA54 | person_profile | 0 | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/433238851_786110366774651_8097829806032811625_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=JiTaKeA7gP0Q7kNvgFs0wgo&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYA0r56c5BHSbpb_WBw9OMIMPqWvqVMFJTwSvxxMocbAdg&oe=6672BA96 | 0 | 3 | Knock out stress with a swing β the Desktop Punching Bag for your daily dose of fitness and fun right at your desk! π₯ | Fit Fusion Hub | 54 | https://facebook.com/fitfusionhub | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1714892400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879405 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410684 | 1723321818 | 995 | 446797251111798 | 5 | 1.7556765916298E+15 | 1714114800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 101065786425886 | 0 | Fit Fusion Hub | 120205439332780685 | fitfusionhub.co | Shop now | NONE | video | Free Worldwide Shipping! | βββββ 5/5 Reviews! | https://fitfusionhub.co/products/digital-hand-gripper | 1711383736 | 1.0106578642589E+14 | Fit Fusion Hub | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/433282456_1333868253967337_1113881468506284985_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=VstMrGNqCwkQ7kNvgHoIpY3&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAIY7M0o84jozu1LrLNSk1b3h-VhKgTWS9DFf2t0Diq5w&oe=6672C53D | person_profile | 0 | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/433436070_421680633846828_4591200998363717083_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pCI9loOR0-gQ7kNvgGfZMgg&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYD5QMvPNQpdiyRvf6LIVNEWBcsN6zGplvNcR1n3IkZMRg&oe=6672B8AA | 0 | 3 | Crush your fitness goals with precision β Grab the Digital Hand Gripper for smart strength tracking at your fingertips! πͺ | Fit Fusion Hub | 54 | https://facebook.com/fitfusionhub | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1713942000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879406 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410684 | 1723321819 | 995 | 730261222590017 | 6 | 7.2548876299288E+14 | 1713769200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 101065786425886 | 0 | Fit Fusion Hub | 120205439173170685 | fitfusionhub.co | Shop now | NONE | video | Free Worldwide Shipping! | βββββ 5/5 Reviews! | https://fitfusionhub.co/products/massage-hook | 1711383319 | 1.0106578642589E+14 | Fit Fusion Hub | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/433123906_955377466034851_3980822897028520513_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=b8mTYMOkjzMQ7kNvgEWVJ9v&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDL1ERdGOajzVA1bwOn1shJvU5dVHdQK8Nf9tlnmwZ2kA&oe=667294C2 | person_profile | 0 | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434281725_25737010635886282_2450402894438612038_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=-52GmmLKJS8Q7kNvgHobKmk&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCGcHs-cduWPNACq8VKrRkH2Nof8Xly1BCVNtoOCOu3ZQ&oe=6672A2BC | 0 | 3 | Unwind in comfort with the Massage Hook β Your at-home solution for deep relaxation and pain relief πΏ | Fit Fusion Hub | 54 | https://facebook.com/fitfusionhub | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1713682800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879407 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410684 | 1723321819 | 995 | 755605570118979 | 6 | 1.3956303911515E+15 | 1718002800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 222894657578380 | 0 | Ortho Shoppe | 120208414657620187 | theorthoshoppe.com | Shop now | NONE | video | Free Worldwide Shipping! | βββββ 5/5 Reviews! | https://theorthoshoppe.com/products/compression-knee-support | 1717861324 | 2.2289465757838E+14 | Ortho Shoppe | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447994110_406700565696023_1163528998048665032_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=G3BVMiUuLksQ7kNvgGu9WJ8&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDpvlFQwIo0I65UwAPXSnhSiszT9w3FdlSywmd3Oe92Dg&oe=6672AC03 | person_profile | 0 | TheOrthoShoppe | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447833160_430875943080616_3752944757941698893_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=OwUMe7gCibgQ7kNvgEKFPEq&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAzdzZGxZXdALURmxLufGysP5VI6KF3uBsvY6GF_RTYdw&oe=6672C54E | 0 | 3 | Push your limits and conquer your workouts with the ultimate Compression Knee Supportβperfect for pain relief and joint recovery! πͺ | Ortho Shoppe | 7 | https://facebook.com/theorthoshoppes | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1717830000 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879410 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410684 | 1723321819 | 995 | 793146902699782 | 6 | 1.0968745049686E+15 | 1712818800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 101065786425886 | 0 | Fit Fusion Hub | 120205340264730685 | fitfusionhub.co | Shop now | NONE | video | Free Worldwide Shipping! | βββββ 5/5 Reviews! | https://fitfusionhub.co/products/electric-protein-shaker | 1711116031 | 1.0106578642589E+14 | Fit Fusion Hub | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/432067347_1063576474745018_724497605306183776_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=1olXFs6xQswQ7kNvgFi9lMz&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDp30M852g084_6OlttBYI72HXn9pUsorbDJLRFbCHrVA&oe=6672AEEC | person_profile | 0 | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/432063006_408226161794850_4398130670109671840_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=u4fHiUXb0iIQ7kNvgEt74MF&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDZFjkUSv6fs6X6XRgFrse0MijXmyvKGMpnxUP0OJCYlg&oe=6672BA85 | 0 | 3 | Shake up your routine with the 650ml Electric Protein Shaker β Perfect blends on the go with auto-stirring technology! π₯€β¨ | Fit Fusion Hub | 54 | https://facebook.com/fitfusionhub | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1712646000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879411 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410684 | 1723321819 | 995 | 940233510969718 | 4 | 4.299501528349E+14 | 1711350000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 101065786425886 | 0 | Fit Fusion Hub | 120205339917860685 | fitfusionhub.co | Shop now | NONE | video | Free Worldwide Shipping! | βββββ 5/5 Reviews! | https://fitfusionhub.co/products/breathing-trainer | 1711115126 | 1.0106578642589E+14 | Fit Fusion Hub | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/409159508_909907801139692_4675947778815173690_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=F9wEZ8KdIDkQ7kNvgGEpjol&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCxJvkYH7wmAKxUPNKNyxiNdW6XYayTSulDV9LQswTExA&oe=66729703 | person_profile | 0 | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434199605_1355640305829901_533890186268236937_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=_MJo_KN3PyIQ7kNvgHjcP1x&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBDzdiVvsU4ShDarNwatsVGsFuXciXjrC7ZJnX1v2P0iQ&oe=6672BEAB | 0 | 3 | Boost your lungs, boost your performance! Get the portable Breathing Trainer for peak fitness. ποΈββοΈ | Fit Fusion Hub | 54 | https://facebook.com/fitfusionhub | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1711090800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879413 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410685 | 1723321820 | 995 | 1454863848475764 | 4 | 4.0207777608654E+14 | 1713250800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 101065786425886 | 0 | Fit Fusion Hub | 120205340382510685 | fitfusionhub.co | Shop now | NONE | video | Free Worldwide Shipping! | βββββ 5/5 Reviews! | https://fitfusionhub.co/products/elastic-pull-rope | 1711116410 | 1.0106578642589E+14 | Fit Fusion Hub | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/433685284_230951176767937_5577598456174420825_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=inRXbvfQhmAQ7kNvgHxUeC_&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCByaVl-AFW8DXUXF_yjXWU4wW4gJ1HzCR_j7Gc9Taf8A&oe=6672B0C6 | person_profile | 0 | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/433673307_964959445189060_119075567916080744_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ZPe4B3HsBU8Q7kNvgFb49EW&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBlCPch5jmKoD70A6TKpn4-H90u2H9TQhtcd9_bkqBmTQ&oe=6672BE1E | 0 | 3 | Unlock a full-body workout anytime, anywhere with the Elastic Pull Ropeβyour go-to for fitness flexibility! πͺπ π | Fit Fusion Hub | 54 | https://facebook.com/fitfusionhub | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1713078000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879414 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410685 | 1723321820 | 995 | 1111542586591821 | 2 | 3.9518835014886E+14 | 1717398000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 308744682317431 | 0 | Amazing dramaapp | 120210211339460233 | fblp.drama-time.com | Watch More | NONE | dco | Download Nowπππ | https://fblp.drama-time.com/IY6bS7-0530-EN-668636.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=1749262542004264962 | 1717167732 | 3.0874468231743E+14 | Amazing dramaapp | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/445370170_939571347949573_7395819333494214654_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=lTqK46MWVOEQ7kNvgGHcWEA&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDozmFF1fXExac0VRCFWA3ivHXze3apS5EgX_P-CqZCdg&oe=6672980D | person_profile | 0 | Amazing dramaapp | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/445235337_478825357922824_3831513101680749515_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=mAoA4qz1S3oQ7kNvgEbkoy1&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCAWE8ERgRHLoeImvdK9svyLsrhJ2MMerIsyASbWqooZQ&oe=6672C478 | 0 | 3 | My Mom is a Big Shot ONLY on Drama Time.π¬ Don't miss out! Watch the series you've been wanting to see. No regrets, just pure entertainment! #Must SeeTV #No Regrets #Watch Now | Amazing dramaapp | 26 | https://facebook.com/61559003640620 | 0 | WATCH_MORE | 1717225200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879416 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410685 | 1723321820 | 995 | 1111542586591821 | 2 | 3.9518835014886E+14 | 1717398000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 308744682317431 | 0 | Amazing dramaapp | 120210211339460233 | fblp.drama-time.com | Watch More | NONE | dco | Download Nowπππ | https://fblp.drama-time.com/IY6bS7-0530-EN-668636.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=1749262542004264962 | 1717167732 | 3.0874468231743E+14 | Amazing dramaapp | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/445370170_939571347949573_7395819333494214654_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=lTqK46MWVOEQ7kNvgGHcWEA&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDozmFF1fXExac0VRCFWA3ivHXze3apS5EgX_P-CqZCdg&oe=6672980D | person_profile | 0 | Amazing dramaapp | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/445235337_478825357922824_3831513101680749515_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=mAoA4qz1S3oQ7kNvgEbkoy1&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCAWE8ERgRHLoeImvdK9svyLsrhJ2MMerIsyASbWqooZQ&oe=6672C478 | 0 | 3 | My Mom is a Big Shot ONLY on Drama Time.π¬ Don't miss out! Watch the series you've been wanting to see. No regrets, just pure entertainment! #Must SeeTV #No Regrets #Watch Now | Amazing dramaapp | 26 | https://facebook.com/61559003640620 | 0 | WATCH_MORE | 1717225200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879418 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410685 | 1723321820 | 995 | 1111542586591821 | 2 | 3.9518835014886E+14 | 1717398000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 308744682317431 | 0 | Amazing dramaapp | 120210211339460233 | fblp.drama-time.com | Watch More | NONE | dco | Download Nowπππ | https://fblp.drama-time.com/IY6bS7-0530-EN-668636.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=1749262542004264962 | 1717167732 | 3.0874468231743E+14 | Amazing dramaapp | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/445370170_939571347949573_7395819333494214654_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=lTqK46MWVOEQ7kNvgGHcWEA&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDozmFF1fXExac0VRCFWA3ivHXze3apS5EgX_P-CqZCdg&oe=6672980D | person_profile | 0 | Amazing dramaapp | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/445235337_478825357922824_3831513101680749515_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=mAoA4qz1S3oQ7kNvgEbkoy1&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCAWE8ERgRHLoeImvdK9svyLsrhJ2MMerIsyASbWqooZQ&oe=6672C478 | 0 | 3 | My Mom is a Big Shot ONLY on Drama Time.π¬ Don't miss out! Watch the series you've been wanting to see. No regrets, just pure entertainment! #Must SeeTV #No Regrets #Watch Now | Amazing dramaapp | 26 | https://facebook.com/61559003640620 | 0 | WATCH_MORE | 1717225200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879419 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410685 | 1723321820 | 995 | 1605179996693847 | 1 | 8.2374082252888E+14 | 1717398000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 308744682317431 | 0 | Amazing dramaapp | 120210211357610233 | fblp.drama-time.com | Watch More | NONE | dco | Download Nowπππ | https://fblp.drama-time.com/IY6bS7-0530-EN-668636.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=1749262542004264962 | 1717167747 | 3.0874468231743E+14 | Amazing dramaapp | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447216330_1013646530491723_6471114213187782855_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=kYDQIkC2fLcQ7kNvgF-Qy1L&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBMdFzdjdic6IXa-yJ05wdmj5oO9oUyE6JfKa6gBSUc6A&oe=6672BC0E | person_profile | 0 | Amazing dramaapp | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447306763_437503968996030_3535214343164963730_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Mt2i_7rPjLgQ7kNvgEaFiF5&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYA4GeU6IZKcODHKg9SnLT5JUDyB9CnJ8d6GwCKGW1uYgQ&oe=6672C308 | 0 | 3 | My Mom is a Big Shot ONLY on Drama Time.π¬ Don't miss out! Watch the series you've been wanting to see. No regrets, just pure entertainment! #Must SeeTV #No Regrets #Watch Now | Amazing dramaapp | 26 | https://facebook.com/61559003640620 | 0 | WATCH_MORE | 1717225200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879421 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410685 | 1723321820 | 995 | 1605179996693847 | 1 | 8.2374082252888E+14 | 1717398000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 308744682317431 | 0 | Amazing dramaapp | 120210211357610233 | fblp.drama-time.com | Watch More | NONE | dco | Download Nowπππ | https://fblp.drama-time.com/IY6bS7-0530-EN-668636.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=1749262542004264962 | 1717167747 | 3.0874468231743E+14 | Amazing dramaapp | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447216330_1013646530491723_6471114213187782855_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=kYDQIkC2fLcQ7kNvgF-Qy1L&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBMdFzdjdic6IXa-yJ05wdmj5oO9oUyE6JfKa6gBSUc6A&oe=6672BC0E | person_profile | 0 | Amazing dramaapp | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447306763_437503968996030_3535214343164963730_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Mt2i_7rPjLgQ7kNvgEaFiF5&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYA4GeU6IZKcODHKg9SnLT5JUDyB9CnJ8d6GwCKGW1uYgQ&oe=6672C308 | 0 | 3 | My Mom is a Big Shot ONLY on Drama Time.π¬ Don't miss out! Watch the series you've been wanting to see. No regrets, just pure entertainment! #Must SeeTV #No Regrets #Watch Now | Amazing dramaapp | 26 | https://facebook.com/61559003640620 | 0 | WATCH_MORE | 1717225200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879423 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410685 | 1723321820 | 995 | 1605179996693847 | 1 | 8.2374082252888E+14 | 1717398000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 308744682317431 | 0 | Amazing dramaapp | 120210211357610233 | fblp.drama-time.com | Watch More | NONE | dco | Download Nowπππ | https://fblp.drama-time.com/IY6bS7-0530-EN-668636.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=1749262542004264962 | 1717167747 | 3.0874468231743E+14 | Amazing dramaapp | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447216330_1013646530491723_6471114213187782855_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=kYDQIkC2fLcQ7kNvgF-Qy1L&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBMdFzdjdic6IXa-yJ05wdmj5oO9oUyE6JfKa6gBSUc6A&oe=6672BC0E | person_profile | 0 | Amazing dramaapp | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447306763_437503968996030_3535214343164963730_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Mt2i_7rPjLgQ7kNvgEaFiF5&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYA4GeU6IZKcODHKg9SnLT5JUDyB9CnJ8d6GwCKGW1uYgQ&oe=6672C308 | 0 | 3 | My Mom is a Big Shot ONLY on Drama Time.π¬ Don't miss out! Watch the series you've been wanting to see. No regrets, just pure entertainment! #Must SeeTV #No Regrets #Watch Now | Amazing dramaapp | 26 | https://facebook.com/61559003640620 | 0 | WATCH_MORE | 1717225200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879424 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410685 | 1723321820 | 995 | 2159638524434546 | 1 | 9.6143829566379E+14 | 1717484400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 308744682317431 | 0 | Amazing dramaapp | 120210212795140233 | fblp.drama-time.com | Watch More | NONE | dco | Download Nowπππ | https://fblp.drama-time.com/IY6bS7-0530-EN-668636.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=1777998279593623554 | 1717170198 | 3.0874468231743E+14 | Amazing dramaapp | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/445235329_669837955327704_2089153290860508039_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=x0G8U_liIwkQ7kNvgHEz_uN&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAXLg-dHuYowDDtA_bcLCCABn_DDjRYXC7qgIwzC330KA&oe=66729CC6 | person_profile | 0 | Amazing dramaapp | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/445417710_3306161976359767_2112175207822166929_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=c1zMxSHhsygQ7kNvgEUSNhK&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBOeeuIxRBDMPvxpMTmVEWDuL8iRL6aC7iiKSVKuDnyIw&oe=6672B7E1 | 0 | 3 | My Mom is a Big Shot ONLY on Drama Time.π¬ Don't miss out! Watch the series you've been wanting to see. No regrets, just pure entertainment! #Must SeeTV #No Regrets #Watch Now | Amazing dramaapp | 26 | https://facebook.com/61559003640620 | 0 | WATCH_MORE | 1717225200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879426 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410685 | 1723321820 | 995 | 2159638524434546 | 1 | 9.6143829566379E+14 | 1717484400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 308744682317431 | 0 | Amazing dramaapp | 120210212795140233 | fblp.drama-time.com | Watch More | NONE | dco | Download Nowπππ | https://fblp.drama-time.com/IY6bS7-0530-EN-668636.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=1777998279593623554 | 1717170198 | 3.0874468231743E+14 | Amazing dramaapp | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/445235329_669837955327704_2089153290860508039_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=x0G8U_liIwkQ7kNvgHEz_uN&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAXLg-dHuYowDDtA_bcLCCABn_DDjRYXC7qgIwzC330KA&oe=66729CC6 | person_profile | 0 | Amazing dramaapp | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/445417710_3306161976359767_2112175207822166929_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=c1zMxSHhsygQ7kNvgEUSNhK&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBOeeuIxRBDMPvxpMTmVEWDuL8iRL6aC7iiKSVKuDnyIw&oe=6672B7E1 | 0 | 3 | My Mom is a Big Shot ONLY on Drama Time.π¬ Don't miss out! Watch the series you've been wanting to see. No regrets, just pure entertainment! #Must SeeTV #No Regrets #Watch Now | Amazing dramaapp | 26 | https://facebook.com/61559003640620 | 0 | WATCH_MORE | 1717225200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879428 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410685 | 1723321820 | 995 | 2159638524434546 | 1 | 9.6143829566379E+14 | 1717484400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 308744682317431 | 0 | Amazing dramaapp | 120210212795140233 | fblp.drama-time.com | Watch More | NONE | dco | Download Nowπππ | https://fblp.drama-time.com/IY6bS7-0530-EN-668636.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=1777998279593623554 | 1717170198 | 3.0874468231743E+14 | Amazing dramaapp | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/445235329_669837955327704_2089153290860508039_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=x0G8U_liIwkQ7kNvgHEz_uN&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAXLg-dHuYowDDtA_bcLCCABn_DDjRYXC7qgIwzC330KA&oe=66729CC6 | person_profile | 0 | Amazing dramaapp | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/445417710_3306161976359767_2112175207822166929_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=c1zMxSHhsygQ7kNvgEUSNhK&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBOeeuIxRBDMPvxpMTmVEWDuL8iRL6aC7iiKSVKuDnyIw&oe=6672B7E1 | 0 | 3 | My Mom is a Big Shot ONLY on Drama Time.π¬ Don't miss out! Watch the series you've been wanting to see. No regrets, just pure entertainment! #Must SeeTV #No Regrets #Watch Now | Amazing dramaapp | 26 | https://facebook.com/61559003640620 | 0 | WATCH_MORE | 1717225200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879431 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410685 | 1723321820 | 995 | 416526867943445 | 1 | 7.6142898584583E+14 | 1717138800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 337782656077360 | 0 | Happy Drama Catching Up | 120212457540530592 | fblp.drama-time.com | Watch More | NONE | dco | Download Nowπππ | https://fblp.drama-time.com/Gm09h7-0524-EN-694790.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=1777998279593623554 | 1716974468 | 3.3778265607736E+14 | Happy Drama Catching Up | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/445372749_806966594400367_8328680758778900513_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=6WkkU54eBlMQ7kNvgEzKyLc&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDYfuqIPxsjjapVd5vo2ig5JAAzqsFYuCzC_JpExU2lug&oe=66729FDA | person_profile | 0 | Happy Drama Catching Up | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/445517830_981120310045018_357273464333431315_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=QroaYOh1EzMQ7kNvgGzBrG5&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAkgh7tA7yo04mxRwNsub0cexNcK9z8A_WHndYV0gwZiQ&oe=6672BBF1 | 0 | 3 | Reborn - I am the Protagonist ONLY on Miiow TV.π¬ Don't miss out! Watch the series you've been wanting to see. No regrets, just pure entertainment! #Must SeeTV #No Regrets #Watch Now | Happy Drama Catching Up | 13 | https://facebook.com/61559368364181 | 0 | WATCH_MORE | 1716966000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879432 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410685 | 1723321820 | 995 | 416526867943445 | 1 | 7.6142898584583E+14 | 1717138800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 337782656077360 | 0 | Happy Drama Catching Up | 120212457540530592 | fblp.drama-time.com | Watch More | NONE | dco | Download Nowπππ | https://fblp.drama-time.com/Gm09h7-0524-EN-694790.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=1777998279593623554 | 1716974468 | 3.3778265607736E+14 | Happy Drama Catching Up | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/445372749_806966594400367_8328680758778900513_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=6WkkU54eBlMQ7kNvgEzKyLc&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDYfuqIPxsjjapVd5vo2ig5JAAzqsFYuCzC_JpExU2lug&oe=66729FDA | person_profile | 0 | Happy Drama Catching Up | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/445517830_981120310045018_357273464333431315_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=QroaYOh1EzMQ7kNvgGzBrG5&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAkgh7tA7yo04mxRwNsub0cexNcK9z8A_WHndYV0gwZiQ&oe=6672BBF1 | 0 | 3 | Reborn - I am the Protagonist ONLY on Miiow TV.π¬ Don't miss out! Watch the series you've been wanting to see. No regrets, just pure entertainment! #Must SeeTV #No Regrets #Watch Now | Happy Drama Catching Up | 13 | https://facebook.com/61559368364181 | 0 | WATCH_MORE | 1716966000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879440 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410685 | 1723321821 | 995 | 984917466226088 | 1 | 4.9261796322104E+14 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 163805856980135 | 0 | Horizon Science Academy Cincinnati | 120214845406370001 | dt.horizondayton.org | Learn more | NONE | video | Unleash The Innovator In Your Child | Award-winning education. | https://dt.horizondayton.org/ | 1718131788 | 1.6380585698014E+14 | Horizon Science Academy Cincinnati | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448302603_3328380850791719_3194383683722198385_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=c8q_0EsylTwQ7kNvgHLcdF1&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAQZAmXBi-OJCjtipSsIwVaB_UihfnYdQ2XCWmiWJbN-A&oe=6672CA2F | person_profile | 0 | Horizon Science Academy Cincinnati | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448207177_1125695195398917_5146607627767514151_n.jpg?_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=bwUlDGOFPisQ7kNvgEaQRZy&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDJxa0_LkAa1_8-C7sWcWzTFIIfpYi2-wXGai1mPi8pjQ&oe=6672C62D | 0 | 3 | We welcome students of all backgrounds and nationalities to our close-knit community. | Horizon Science Academy Cincinnati | 495 | https://facebook.com/hsacincy | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718348400 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879444 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410685 | 1723321821 | 995 | 1671007920311071 | 1 | 9.3464630508208E+14 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 123761154145420 | 0 | SphereBuilder Community - BAL | 120209663935420097 | l.adbuilder.pro | Learn more | NONE | video | By Barry Ray Zeigler Jr | Details and contact info >>> | https://l.adbuilder.pro/cj8IWl/33836 | 1717788354 | 1.2376115414542E+14 | SphereBuilder Community - BAL | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447975566_471498685402148_1561554707463263470_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=2gtX0Clf93gQ7kNvgH31pOD&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCd-VK1UcfMG-DwCRaSb4rNtjBpkSK9RRYYCGdVMRiQoA&oe=6672AC60 | person_profile | 0 | SphereBuilder Community - BAL | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447896451_1003962354489711_1403307127827073074_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=_rGPeMrPAaYQ7kNvgGQBPcx&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBdEXKNRktQAjhUkFB2G478_sTlgYYGpxW0-ervl7s5ag&oe=6672C36A | 0 | 3 | Recently sold in 19966! Markets change quickly. Curious what your home's worth? Reach out for a free analysis. | SphereBuilder Community - BAL | 14 | https://facebook.com/spherebuilderbal | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717743600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879486 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410686 | 1723321821 | 995 | 813917570331061 | 1 | 7.9554510244167E+14 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 456396411095326 | 0 | Michaelis Mattress | 120208663124750192 | www.michaelismattress.com | Learn more | NONE | video | Unbeatable Deals | Michaelis Mattress offers unbeatable deals with fast, easy delivery. Visit any of our 4 convenient locations in the Midlands. | https://www.michaelismattress.com/ | 1717178191 | 4.5639641109533E+14 | Michaelis Mattress | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447185212_829265702385938_3114008864186917216_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=bPbwnDBHQeUQ7kNvgGWQ41M&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYC9vL6XfBMC4IFE9rzelPtagXdxEq4LWZ5ZaK8XTheKQg&oe=6672C5DF | person_profile | 0 | Michaelis Mattress | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447302283_1650268755796816_285649779940373909_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=h0XPr9gN7usQ7kNvgH54uqJ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYA1a7W_4wSiq-k8adL3XsBGm2uZdHX_4ECI7VHr-Rficg&oe=6672BB42 | 0 | 3 | Get $300 in FREE accessories with the purchase of any Tempur-Pedic mattress! | Michaelis Mattress | 468 | https://facebook.com/MichaelisMattressCompany | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717225200 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879447 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 2/12/25, 6:52 PM | 1718410685 | 1739407941 | 995 | 347047114837915 | 1 | 7.6709111225206E+14 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 108255439048790 | 0 | Buchanan Freebery Blaine | 120208580855740482 | cooolink.com | Download | NONE | image | Free download ποΈποΈποΈ | https://cooolink.com/w2a/lp/bangtoon/cooolinkBtComics2?utm_source=fb_onelink&utm_medium={{placement}}&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_adset_name={{adset.name}}&utm_ad_name={{ad.name}}&utm_adset_nameid={{adset.id}}&utm_ad_nameid={{ad.id}}&utm_campaignid={{campaign.id}}&utm_channel={{site_source_name}} | 1718362783 | 1.0825543904879E+14 | Buchanan Freebery Blaine | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448432468_1167595794549309_4030004204365834431_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=QVqgDNWxIekQ7kNvgE5QCIO&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYD4hDiWiuQfzLxiRRKSYpOLwuuoXH1qOC8P5K4n2kblaw&oe=6672A254 | person_profile | 0 | Buchanan Freebery Blaine | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448362158_781841300720301_6156839876730049033_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=v6_vuYtegLsQ7kNvgE4QNnX&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCHg16RpCgpx_YPRVEYzYRcEp1i4Nc321j9I4mGxIF9Eg&oe=6672C821 | 0 | 3 | This manga is definitely worth watching! πππ | Buchanan Freebery Blaine | 0 | https://facebook.com/61552547469039 | 0 | DOWNLOAD | 1718348400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879449 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410685 | 1723321822 | 995 | 445291201572131 | 1 | 7.3546855079766E+15 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 108255439048790 | 0 | Buchanan Freebery Blaine | 120208580840800482 | cooolink.com | Download | NONE | image | Free download ποΈποΈποΈ | https://cooolink.com/w2a/lp/bangtoon/cooolinkBtComics2?utm_source=fb_onelink&utm_medium={{placement}}&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_adset_name={{adset.name}}&utm_ad_name={{ad.name}}&utm_adset_nameid={{adset.id}}&utm_ad_nameid={{ad.id}}&utm_campaignid={{campaign.id}}&utm_channel={{site_source_name}} | 1718362719 | 1.0825543904879E+14 | Buchanan Freebery Blaine | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448246671_778555107455709_1493253369663363226_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=JyatXPuI5ysQ7kNvgGSn3xn&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAV88tZvGKUN-D8bEdyMS9v2LaaHLy2t4OfOv9Tk_gopg&oe=667298E4 | person_profile | 0 | Buchanan Freebery Blaine | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448337804_1516266035941483_346428340473272825_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Y_O81CS8zRsQ7kNvgE9DF54&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDAYw4tzmroKkiNP6J1uGKQhgoBbCMCP1EkGDgc9dZkwA&oe=6672A840 | 0 | 3 | This manga is definitely worth watching! πππ | Buchanan Freebery Blaine | 0 | https://facebook.com/61552547469039 | 0 | DOWNLOAD | 1718348400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879456 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 2/24/25, 7:48 AM | 1718410686 | 1740404887 | 995 | 787292430203695 | 1 | 7.7791998355307E+15 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 108304702377057 | 0 | Rich Rachel Bentley | 120211073060370589 | cooolink.com | Download | NONE | image | Free download ποΈποΈποΈ | https://cooolink.com/w2a/lp/bangtoon/cooolinkBtComics2?utm_source=fb_onelink&utm_medium={{placement}}&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_adset_name={{adset.name}}&utm_ad_name={{ad.name}}&utm_adset_nameid={{adset.id}}&utm_ad_nameid={{ad.id}}&utm_campaignid={{campaign.id}}&utm_channel={{site_source_name}} | 1718363028 | 1.0830470237706E+14 | Rich Rachel Bentley | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448348739_791834103102169_4623601775680454940_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=DOyhnGG709wQ7kNvgG5ZsUB&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAwgtRWa97x5URM5cZNW1gpD4UWu0G1U9NV89lCtQyIIQ&oe=6672C2A1 | person_profile | 0 | Rich Rachel Bentley | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448262577_975720490949691_748523092288423951_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=IKifMuGwDTwQ7kNvgExUNd9&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBV3hGt2g9cEMJtV4h4myWYKTFUMHcRwVbSpAvB1hEKxA&oe=6672A18A | 0 | 3 | This manga is definitely worth watching! πππ | Rich Rachel Bentley | 0 | https://facebook.com/61552807764867 | 0 | DOWNLOAD | 1718348400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879454 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 3/3/25, 10:21 PM | 1718410686 | 1741062074 | 995 | 766028212063940 | 1 | 4.8361002418873E+14 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 108282622378515 | 0 | Claire Ryan Nina | 120211459527400017 | cooolink.com | Download | NONE | image | Free download ποΈποΈποΈ | https://cooolink.com/w2a/lp/bangtoon/cooolinkBtComics2?utm_source=fb_onelink&utm_medium={{placement}}&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_adset_name={{adset.name}}&utm_ad_name={{ad.name}}&utm_adset_nameid={{adset.id}}&utm_ad_nameid={{ad.id}}&utm_campaignid={{campaign.id}}&utm_channel={{site_source_name}} | 1718362904 | 1.0828262237852E+14 | Claire Ryan Nina | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448386007_507454418376101_1546989193022357469_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=XwY8ECirOp0Q7kNvgG_4_AA&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDUypbBkyDNarD5XR3RtK0UzVhWTeN9-Y9OUQ6VCc2bVA&oe=6672B4B8 | person_profile | 0 | Claire Ryan Nina | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448318471_456886163608164_2682408934057976500_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=N5cqlnegvOAQ7kNvgE4qV3K&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYC8R5yeRyIJSdl9VwFgq-jHDw5Eb8b5643vPBDHWl19RA&oe=6672B613 | 0 | 3 | This manga is definitely worth watching! πππ | Claire Ryan Nina | 0 | https://facebook.com/61552215344479 | 0 | DOWNLOAD | 1718348400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879466 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 7/21/25, 4:08 PM | 1718410686 | 1753132129 | 995 | 937187184873065 | 1 | 1.4735341201941E+15 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 108255439048790 | 0 | Buchanan Freebery Blaine | 120208580862570482 | cooolink.com | Download | NONE | image | Free download ποΈποΈποΈ | https://cooolink.com/w2a/lp/bangtoon/cooolinkBtComics2?utm_source=fb_onelink&utm_medium={{placement}}&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_adset_name={{adset.name}}&utm_ad_name={{ad.name}}&utm_adset_nameid={{adset.id}}&utm_ad_nameid={{ad.id}}&utm_campaignid={{campaign.id}}&utm_channel={{site_source_name}} | 1718362781 | 1.0825543904879E+14 | Buchanan Freebery Blaine | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448444487_794594519078077_1811774451213427828_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=aqSFe8kRtHUQ7kNvgEQdlrT&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBFhrgz5Y5xl060NYrQ61uIoivboN4jIBteU6Ywq-YUew&oe=66729B9E | person_profile | 0 | Buchanan Freebery Blaine | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448350464_429412096584551_2924254994523595394_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=yDv5hnmBIH0Q7kNvgEFNXhM&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAIuvJbw5NgbgnQKXsIbLHtt5InWK-rB3Nw4yWOtEAkWw&oe=6672B5EB | 0 | 3 | This manga is definitely worth watching! πππ | Buchanan Freebery Blaine | 0 | https://facebook.com/61552547469039 | 0 | DOWNLOAD | 1718348400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879461 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 5/10/25, 8:13 PM | 1718410686 | 1746926030 | 995 | 843175274524689 | 1 | 4.7714152471574E+14 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 108282622378515 | 0 | Claire Ryan Nina | 120211459505710017 | cooolink.com | Download | NONE | image | Free download ποΈποΈποΈ | https://cooolink.com/w2a/lp/bangtoon/cooolinkBtComics2?utm_source=fb_onelink&utm_medium={{placement}}&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_adset_name={{adset.name}}&utm_ad_name={{ad.name}}&utm_adset_nameid={{adset.id}}&utm_ad_nameid={{ad.id}}&utm_campaignid={{campaign.id}}&utm_channel={{site_source_name}} | 1718362816 | 1.0828262237852E+14 | Claire Ryan Nina | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448307322_1926178544479776_8674299125188370606_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=mW5RMamDdicQ7kNvgF5D-jA&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCwlld5-O8UoGpw63g5oMrwADIiExpO7mHEh4TufF1EVQ&oe=667299A8 | person_profile | 0 | Claire Ryan Nina | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448146010_1890372064741209_3425830788694825903_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=f-7CL-1XlDsQ7kNvgHzQzKo&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYA67lqwqkIiSAVss_gzBl7Y7IQvqd1pzpxWMuFiWnPBjQ&oe=6672BD9A | 0 | 3 | This manga is definitely worth watching! πππ | Claire Ryan Nina | 0 | https://facebook.com/61552215344479 | 0 | DOWNLOAD | 1718348400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879483 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410686 | 1723321823 | 995 | 464860922861805 | 1 | 9.9282116889382E+14 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 112529452120441 | 0 | Valhalla Tahoe | 120208804444970262 | valhallatahoe.com | Learn More | NONE | carousel | Endless Fun | Embrace Summer at Valhalla Tahoe! | https://www.valhallatahoe.com/events?utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=display&utm_campaign=sr_Arts_and_Entertainment&utm_term={{ad.id}}&utm_content=4776544-e32-n-m-c{{campaign.id}}-g{{adset.id}}-a{{ad.id}}-u-cat-k-mod | 1717537001 | 1.1252945212044E+14 | Valhalla Tahoe | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447788387_973058027552655_9209561098459223618_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=7p2S5rdxmQIQ7kNvgEqNQJI&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBlaYj0-THH8nTeIf_NLU_PkeTT-OFMmliNUUYKf4Rh5A&oe=66729E15 | person_profile | 0 | Valhalla Tahoe | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/446898337_492000286584096_6117367585715937578_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=mu6mCDOZ-o0Q7kNvgG1QSFM&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAX4QLV8rmz2q8n5TlefQ2GmetwESCShMu5crUgs89Btw&oe=6672A6B4 | 0 | 3 | Embrace Summer at Valhalla Tahoe! | Valhalla Tahoe | 6939 | https://facebook.com/ValhallaTahoe | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718002800 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879485 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410686 | 1723321823 | 995 | 350640357727110 | 8 | 1.3904187549902E+15 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 128658443861791 | 0 | Loncar Lyon Jenkins | 120209527572720214 | loncarlyonjenkins.com | Contact us | NONE | image | Car Wreck? ππ₯ | NO Attorney FEES until you win | http://loncarlyonjenkins.com/ | 1717515396 | 1.2865844386179E+14 | Loncar Lyon Jenkins | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441903232_1107129833716412_8285839852829622638_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=cGq0oO8tw74Q7kNvgF-g0gY&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBbnmVBusJxfR8UPeV5-ZQsLsAS9r_50awN15wqLOMUkg&oe=66729557 | person_profile | 0 | Loncar Lyon Jenkins | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442502881_515709644124784_6345964276085961358_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ZanyF9pm2eEQ7kNvgGDQSqX&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAE1X5zNG-B14lobDrdQDk20VyHP3pOuHhguNDMqXI1lg&oe=6672AE86 | 0 | 3 | Have you been in a car accident? Worried about the cost of legal help? We've got you covered!<br /> <br /> At Loncar Lyon Jenkins, you don't pay a dime out of pocket. We work on a contingency fee basis, which means we only get paid π² if we win your case. β You can focus on your recovery while we handle the legal fight. No upfront costs, no hidden fees β just dedicated legal representation when you need it most.<br /> <br /> Contact us today for a free consultation and let us help you get the compensation you deserve! ππΌ<br /> π CALL NOW! π | Loncar Lyon Jenkins | 15216 | https://facebook.com/loncarlyonjenkins | 0 | CONTACT_US | 1717570800 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879489 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410686 | 1723321823 | 995 | 960031428933388 | 1 | 9.7753446725539E+14 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 465231436915042 | 0 | Round Hill Pines Beach Resort | 120209927926620713 | roundhillpinesresort.com | Learn more | NONE | image | Purely Lake Tahoe | Free parking after 5pm | https://www.roundhillpinesresort.com/ | 1716313112 | 4.6523143691504E+14 | Round Hill Pines Beach Resort | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442372518_7500106513408497_181182159695703350_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=mWpn9B_sJEsQ7kNvgEBs1Gy&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYA6H9XdWTzN444xcl59Y0tKyCqvsHBd1Us0ZofT8URwxw&oe=6672A166 | person_profile | 0 | Round Hill Pines Beach Resort | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442471244_960745662418080_2551407165487156537_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=XkxM4q2vTwsQ7kNvgGv6YAd&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAne15I_Fx09DMAQ-pk1ZD3LehhnxKfYPNYc8-uWYvMGg&oe=6672A356 | 0 | 3 | Casual lakeside dining with an elevated menu on Tahoeβs best sunset beach. Free parking after 5pm. | Round Hill Pines Beach Resort | 6705 | https://facebook.com/roundhillpines | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716620400 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879490 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410686 | 1723321824 | 995 | 813640966904981 | 1 | 3.7200638203822E+14 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 214305385109285 | 0 | Delaney Worldwide | 120209559015690084 | delaneyworldwide.com | Learn More | NONE | carousel | Dependable Moving Solutions | Get in touch now! | https://www.delaneyworldwide.com/local-long-distance/ | 1715588544 | 2.1430538510928E+14 | Delaney Worldwide | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441399617_1017638039650615_5708233538021390002_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=BtpzyWWgWBkQ7kNvgENJJwi&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYB7BllZOLavbTPIOhuoKlfZSl5V7MbXSpAB2BbDg_8gRQ&oe=6672A52F | person_profile | 0 | Delaney Worldwide Inc | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441571027_1828547217628349_2289319947431957499_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pN8jlAIYL_kQ7kNvgHoFoLw&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCrq6POtRADpsShMx18_t6_hQWrDigUUdbiM02LGw_VUw&oe=6672AC03 | 0 | 3 | Get in touch now! | Delaney Worldwide | 2 | https://facebook.com/61557773368721 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716188400 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879491 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410686 | 1723321824 | 995 | 813640966904981 | 1 | 3.7200638203822E+14 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 214305385109285 | 0 | Delaney Worldwide | 120209559015690084 | delaneyworldwide.com | Learn More | NONE | carousel | Dependable Moving Solutions | Get in touch now! | https://www.delaneyworldwide.com/local-long-distance/ | 1715588544 | 2.1430538510928E+14 | Delaney Worldwide | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441399617_1017638039650615_5708233538021390002_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=BtpzyWWgWBkQ7kNvgENJJwi&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYB7BllZOLavbTPIOhuoKlfZSl5V7MbXSpAB2BbDg_8gRQ&oe=6672A52F | person_profile | 0 | Delaney Worldwide Inc | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441571027_1828547217628349_2289319947431957499_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pN8jlAIYL_kQ7kNvgHoFoLw&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCrq6POtRADpsShMx18_t6_hQWrDigUUdbiM02LGw_VUw&oe=6672AC03 | 0 | 3 | Get in touch now! | Delaney Worldwide | 2 | https://facebook.com/61557773368721 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716188400 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879492 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410686 | 1723321824 | 995 | 813640966904981 | 1 | 3.7200638203822E+14 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 214305385109285 | 0 | Delaney Worldwide | 120209559015690084 | delaneyworldwide.com | Learn More | NONE | carousel | Dependable Moving Solutions | Get in touch now! | https://www.delaneyworldwide.com/local-long-distance/ | 1715588544 | 2.1430538510928E+14 | Delaney Worldwide | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441399617_1017638039650615_5708233538021390002_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=BtpzyWWgWBkQ7kNvgENJJwi&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYB7BllZOLavbTPIOhuoKlfZSl5V7MbXSpAB2BbDg_8gRQ&oe=6672A52F | person_profile | 0 | Delaney Worldwide Inc | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441571027_1828547217628349_2289319947431957499_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pN8jlAIYL_kQ7kNvgHoFoLw&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCrq6POtRADpsShMx18_t6_hQWrDigUUdbiM02LGw_VUw&oe=6672AC03 | 0 | 3 | Get in touch now! | Delaney Worldwide | 2 | https://facebook.com/61557773368721 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716188400 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879502 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410687 | 1723321824 | 995 | 660581109579844 | 2 | 9.314627187491E+14 | 1717138800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120211846693390779 | qweasdzxconline.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πRead the next chaptersπ | https://qweasdzxconline.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11090&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715085862 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438129100_1146045226739178_2601865360875538189_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pgaM6op9EH4Q7kNvgFvStUz&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAnzNXAdVZ3R4dAiEpauXywjYljw4eXW7quZ6rvyHSXBw&oe=6672A490 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440747644_315502774915635_6353252339687881796_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YicSkuGzOiMQ7kNvgEoi2bQ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAN9i2X9Y9MK7cgBix3paDsplYdUdBGGi_LOwLoSJKKaQ&oe=6672CB97 | 0 | 3 | π"Ned Fletcher, with how you're treating Angie right now, aren't you worried that you're going to regret it when you finally regain your memories one day? You loved her so much before and you two got married for love! Despite you forgetting your feelings about her, how could you post so many indecent photos of her on social media?" Ned spoke nonchalantly, saying, "Why are you still holding me hostage with morals and principles? She was the one who framed me by lowly methods. I was just warning her. If Ingrid hadn't asked me to stop, I'd have gone even further! By the way, show your respect to Ingrid. Sheβs not a new girl but my only one forever and never!" Angeline Emmerson heard the talk standing outside the door. She used to be treated ever so lovingly by Ned in the past. Angeline felt her eyes reddening and filling with tears. The Ned she knew had died in the car accident that happened four years ago. The one inside was merely a stranger! Angeline inhaled deeply. Then, she pushed the door open. Ned looked up and saw her entering. "Who brought you here?" Angeline stared at Ned and said, "I've already made a police report regarding your spiked drink at the event and your spreading of my photos for revenge." Hearing this, everyone's reactions differed from one another. Angeline continued, "Ned Fletcher, it's true that I wanted to try rekindling our relationship, but I would never have stooped so low as to do those disgusting things to you. I didn't want to let go of this relationship because I was worried that the Ned I knew would return someday and blame me for giving up on him so easily," Angeline placed the divorce agreement she'd been hugging onto the table. "I tried my best, but I'm tired now. Ned Fletcher, I'm giving up on you. I don't want you anymore." Ned's eyes traveled from the divorce agreement to Angeline's face. There was a hint of surprise in his cold eyes. "Let's finalize the divorce after the police have cleared my name and you have publicly apologized to me." | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716966000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879504 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410688 | 1723321824 | 995 | 660581109579844 | 2 | 9.314627187491E+14 | 1717138800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120211846693390779 | qweasdzxconline.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πRead the next chaptersπ | https://qweasdzxconline.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11090&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715085862 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438129100_1146045226739178_2601865360875538189_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pgaM6op9EH4Q7kNvgFvStUz&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAnzNXAdVZ3R4dAiEpauXywjYljw4eXW7quZ6rvyHSXBw&oe=6672A490 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440747644_315502774915635_6353252339687881796_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YicSkuGzOiMQ7kNvgEoi2bQ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAN9i2X9Y9MK7cgBix3paDsplYdUdBGGi_LOwLoSJKKaQ&oe=6672CB97 | 0 | 3 | π"Ned Fletcher, with how you're treating Angie right now, aren't you worried that you're going to regret it when you finally regain your memories one day? You loved her so much before and you two got married for love! Despite you forgetting your feelings about her, how could you post so many indecent photos of her on social media?" Ned spoke nonchalantly, saying, "Why are you still holding me hostage with morals and principles? She was the one who framed me by lowly methods. I was just warning her. If Ingrid hadn't asked me to stop, I'd have gone even further! By the way, show your respect to Ingrid. Sheβs not a new girl but my only one forever and never!" Angeline Emmerson heard the talk standing outside the door. She used to be treated ever so lovingly by Ned in the past. Angeline felt her eyes reddening and filling with tears. The Ned she knew had died in the car accident that happened four years ago. The one inside was merely a stranger! Angeline inhaled deeply. Then, she pushed the door open. Ned looked up and saw her entering. "Who brought you here?" Angeline stared at Ned and said, "I've already made a police report regarding your spiked drink at the event and your spreading of my photos for revenge." Hearing this, everyone's reactions differed from one another. Angeline continued, "Ned Fletcher, it's true that I wanted to try rekindling our relationship, but I would never have stooped so low as to do those disgusting things to you. I didn't want to let go of this relationship because I was worried that the Ned I knew would return someday and blame me for giving up on him so easily," Angeline placed the divorce agreement she'd been hugging onto the table. "I tried my best, but I'm tired now. Ned Fletcher, I'm giving up on you. I don't want you anymore." Ned's eyes traveled from the divorce agreement to Angeline's face. There was a hint of surprise in his cold eyes. "Let's finalize the divorce after the police have cleared my name and you have publicly apologized to me." | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716966000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879506 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410688 | 1723321824 | 995 | 660581109579844 | 2 | 9.314627187491E+14 | 1717138800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120211846693390779 | qweasdzxconline.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πRead the next chaptersπ | https://qweasdzxconline.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11090&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715085862 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438129100_1146045226739178_2601865360875538189_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pgaM6op9EH4Q7kNvgFvStUz&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAnzNXAdVZ3R4dAiEpauXywjYljw4eXW7quZ6rvyHSXBw&oe=6672A490 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440747644_315502774915635_6353252339687881796_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YicSkuGzOiMQ7kNvgEoi2bQ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAN9i2X9Y9MK7cgBix3paDsplYdUdBGGi_LOwLoSJKKaQ&oe=6672CB97 | 0 | 3 | π"Ned Fletcher, with how you're treating Angie right now, aren't you worried that you're going to regret it when you finally regain your memories one day? You loved her so much before and you two got married for love! Despite you forgetting your feelings about her, how could you post so many indecent photos of her on social media?" Ned spoke nonchalantly, saying, "Why are you still holding me hostage with morals and principles? She was the one who framed me by lowly methods. I was just warning her. If Ingrid hadn't asked me to stop, I'd have gone even further! By the way, show your respect to Ingrid. Sheβs not a new girl but my only one forever and never!" Angeline Emmerson heard the talk standing outside the door. She used to be treated ever so lovingly by Ned in the past. Angeline felt her eyes reddening and filling with tears. The Ned she knew had died in the car accident that happened four years ago. The one inside was merely a stranger! Angeline inhaled deeply. Then, she pushed the door open. Ned looked up and saw her entering. "Who brought you here?" Angeline stared at Ned and said, "I've already made a police report regarding your spiked drink at the event and your spreading of my photos for revenge." Hearing this, everyone's reactions differed from one another. Angeline continued, "Ned Fletcher, it's true that I wanted to try rekindling our relationship, but I would never have stooped so low as to do those disgusting things to you. I didn't want to let go of this relationship because I was worried that the Ned I knew would return someday and blame me for giving up on him so easily," Angeline placed the divorce agreement she'd been hugging onto the table. "I tried my best, but I'm tired now. Ned Fletcher, I'm giving up on you. I don't want you anymore." Ned's eyes traveled from the divorce agreement to Angeline's face. There was a hint of surprise in his cold eyes. "Let's finalize the divorce after the police have cleared my name and you have publicly apologized to me." | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716966000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879508 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410689 | 1723321824 | 995 | 660581109579844 | 2 | 9.314627187491E+14 | 1717138800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120211846693390779 | qweasdzxconline.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πRead the next chaptersπ | https://qweasdzxconline.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11090&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715085862 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438129100_1146045226739178_2601865360875538189_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pgaM6op9EH4Q7kNvgFvStUz&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAnzNXAdVZ3R4dAiEpauXywjYljw4eXW7quZ6rvyHSXBw&oe=6672A490 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440747644_315502774915635_6353252339687881796_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YicSkuGzOiMQ7kNvgEoi2bQ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAN9i2X9Y9MK7cgBix3paDsplYdUdBGGi_LOwLoSJKKaQ&oe=6672CB97 | 0 | 3 | π"Ned Fletcher, with how you're treating Angie right now, aren't you worried that you're going to regret it when you finally regain your memories one day? You loved her so much before and you two got married for love! Despite you forgetting your feelings about her, how could you post so many indecent photos of her on social media?" Ned spoke nonchalantly, saying, "Why are you still holding me hostage with morals and principles? She was the one who framed me by lowly methods. I was just warning her. If Ingrid hadn't asked me to stop, I'd have gone even further! By the way, show your respect to Ingrid. Sheβs not a new girl but my only one forever and never!" Angeline Emmerson heard the talk standing outside the door. She used to be treated ever so lovingly by Ned in the past. Angeline felt her eyes reddening and filling with tears. The Ned she knew had died in the car accident that happened four years ago. The one inside was merely a stranger! Angeline inhaled deeply. Then, she pushed the door open. Ned looked up and saw her entering. "Who brought you here?" Angeline stared at Ned and said, "I've already made a police report regarding your spiked drink at the event and your spreading of my photos for revenge." Hearing this, everyone's reactions differed from one another. Angeline continued, "Ned Fletcher, it's true that I wanted to try rekindling our relationship, but I would never have stooped so low as to do those disgusting things to you. I didn't want to let go of this relationship because I was worried that the Ned I knew would return someday and blame me for giving up on him so easily," Angeline placed the divorce agreement she'd been hugging onto the table. "I tried my best, but I'm tired now. Ned Fletcher, I'm giving up on you. I don't want you anymore." Ned's eyes traveled from the divorce agreement to Angeline's face. There was a hint of surprise in his cold eyes. "Let's finalize the divorce after the police have cleared my name and you have publicly apologized to me." | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716966000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879512 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410690 | 1723321824 | 995 | 345924945175506 | 17 | 4.0432693580309E+14 | 1716706800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 342924965562549 | 0 | Random Reading | 120211511879180002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πRead the next chaptersπ | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715765000 | 3.4292496556255E+14 | Random Reading | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/435922042_247479561755579_3821431404594820167_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=nE-xcpCRFGQQ7kNvgEfKZT9&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBJeZyYE3h8dCQPrEYbRlpN1rYGD4UiCmm_vtZ3RVK93A&oe=6672C788 | person_profile | 0 | Random Reading | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436197202_765438095699980_1525197823077953944_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=z0L5gnt-ND4Q7kNvgGji8Ss&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYD7CD-CwJ5p5YX30VimVQrwGnmzPWqX979uoxbURL0mGw&oe=6672C1E1 | 0 | 3 | I had never seen Felix like this - fury was written all over his face, and his lanky figure was trembling slightly. I've known Felix since we were born. Our mothers were best friends and they were trying to pair us up again just now. I had a crush on him, and he always treated me kindly. But now, he glared at me and spat, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around! That's why they misunderstood! Stay away from me!" I hadn't expected him to say something like that. I stared at him dumbfounded. Both my parents and Felix's parents ceased their conversation about our wedding and future. Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? I'm my own man. I'll never marry her, so you all can just stop trying to pair us up!" Felix shouted as he glared at everyone in the house. His eyes were filled with hate. It made me want to curl up into a ball out of embarrassment. The house remained completely silent. Everyone's gaze was on me, and I could feel my heart throbbing in pain. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. He had trampled all over my dignity and self-worth in front of his whole family and mineβ¦ My father, usually calm, flushed crimson at Felix's harsh words, his fists clenched. Mom, too, looked angry and embarrassed, jaw agape, her expression one of disbelief. Uncle Austin, Felix's father, slapped Felix, scolding, "You rebellious boy! Who taught you to behave like that?" The impact of slap sent Felix reeling, and he hit his head on the corner of the wall. Felix slumped to the floor in pain, leaving an unmistakable streak of red on the white walls. Aunt Mel rushed forward with concern, "Felix, my son! Are you alright?" Felix shot me a scathing glare as if I had committed an unspeakable crime. "Are you happy now, Luna?" he spat. I stared back at him with wide eyes, tears streaming down my face and onto the floor. Even though I liked him, that didn't mean he could throw wild accusations and embarrass me as he pleased! I liked him, but I, too, had my sense of dignity! If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I would gladly change! "I'm sorry, Felix. I never thought that my actions would have bugged you so much," I forced the humiliation down as I continued, "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix." I bit my lip hard, and the sharp tang of blood exploded across my tongue. I, Luna Lawson, also swear to myself - I won't endure the same humiliation AGAIN! | Random Reading | 9 | https://facebook.com/61559743679549 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716447600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879511 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410690 | 1723321824 | 995 | 345924945175506 | 17 | 4.0432693580309E+14 | 1716706800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 342924965562549 | 0 | Random Reading | 120211511879180002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πRead the next chaptersπ | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715765000 | 3.4292496556255E+14 | Random Reading | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/435922042_247479561755579_3821431404594820167_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=nE-xcpCRFGQQ7kNvgEfKZT9&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBJeZyYE3h8dCQPrEYbRlpN1rYGD4UiCmm_vtZ3RVK93A&oe=6672C788 | person_profile | 0 | Random Reading | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436197202_765438095699980_1525197823077953944_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=z0L5gnt-ND4Q7kNvgGji8Ss&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYD7CD-CwJ5p5YX30VimVQrwGnmzPWqX979uoxbURL0mGw&oe=6672C1E1 | 0 | 3 | I had never seen Felix like this - fury was written all over his face, and his lanky figure was trembling slightly. I've known Felix since we were born. Our mothers were best friends and they were trying to pair us up again just now. I had a crush on him, and he always treated me kindly. But now, he glared at me and spat, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around! That's why they misunderstood! Stay away from me!" I hadn't expected him to say something like that. I stared at him dumbfounded. Both my parents and Felix's parents ceased their conversation about our wedding and future. Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? I'm my own man. I'll never marry her, so you all can just stop trying to pair us up!" Felix shouted as he glared at everyone in the house. His eyes were filled with hate. It made me want to curl up into a ball out of embarrassment. The house remained completely silent. Everyone's gaze was on me, and I could feel my heart throbbing in pain. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. He had trampled all over my dignity and self-worth in front of his whole family and mineβ¦ My father, usually calm, flushed crimson at Felix's harsh words, his fists clenched. Mom, too, looked angry and embarrassed, jaw agape, her expression one of disbelief. Uncle Austin, Felix's father, slapped Felix, scolding, "You rebellious boy! Who taught you to behave like that?" The impact of slap sent Felix reeling, and he hit his head on the corner of the wall. Felix slumped to the floor in pain, leaving an unmistakable streak of red on the white walls. Aunt Mel rushed forward with concern, "Felix, my son! Are you alright?" Felix shot me a scathing glare as if I had committed an unspeakable crime. "Are you happy now, Luna?" he spat. I stared back at him with wide eyes, tears streaming down my face and onto the floor. Even though I liked him, that didn't mean he could throw wild accusations and embarrass me as he pleased! I liked him, but I, too, had my sense of dignity! If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I would gladly change! "I'm sorry, Felix. I never thought that my actions would have bugged you so much," I forced the humiliation down as I continued, "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix." I bit my lip hard, and the sharp tang of blood exploded across my tongue. I, Luna Lawson, also swear to myself - I won't endure the same humiliation AGAIN! | Random Reading | 9 | https://facebook.com/61559743679549 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716447600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879514 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410690 | 1723321825 | 995 | 345924945175506 | 17 | 4.0432693580309E+14 | 1716706800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 342924965562549 | 0 | Random Reading | 120211511879180002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πRead the next chaptersπ | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715765000 | 3.4292496556255E+14 | Random Reading | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/435922042_247479561755579_3821431404594820167_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=nE-xcpCRFGQQ7kNvgEfKZT9&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBJeZyYE3h8dCQPrEYbRlpN1rYGD4UiCmm_vtZ3RVK93A&oe=6672C788 | person_profile | 0 | Random Reading | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436197202_765438095699980_1525197823077953944_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=z0L5gnt-ND4Q7kNvgGji8Ss&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYD7CD-CwJ5p5YX30VimVQrwGnmzPWqX979uoxbURL0mGw&oe=6672C1E1 | 0 | 3 | I had never seen Felix like this - fury was written all over his face, and his lanky figure was trembling slightly. I've known Felix since we were born. Our mothers were best friends and they were trying to pair us up again just now. I had a crush on him, and he always treated me kindly. But now, he glared at me and spat, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around! That's why they misunderstood! Stay away from me!" I hadn't expected him to say something like that. I stared at him dumbfounded. Both my parents and Felix's parents ceased their conversation about our wedding and future. Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? I'm my own man. I'll never marry her, so you all can just stop trying to pair us up!" Felix shouted as he glared at everyone in the house. His eyes were filled with hate. It made me want to curl up into a ball out of embarrassment. The house remained completely silent. Everyone's gaze was on me, and I could feel my heart throbbing in pain. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. He had trampled all over my dignity and self-worth in front of his whole family and mineβ¦ My father, usually calm, flushed crimson at Felix's harsh words, his fists clenched. Mom, too, looked angry and embarrassed, jaw agape, her expression one of disbelief. Uncle Austin, Felix's father, slapped Felix, scolding, "You rebellious boy! Who taught you to behave like that?" The impact of slap sent Felix reeling, and he hit his head on the corner of the wall. Felix slumped to the floor in pain, leaving an unmistakable streak of red on the white walls. Aunt Mel rushed forward with concern, "Felix, my son! Are you alright?" Felix shot me a scathing glare as if I had committed an unspeakable crime. "Are you happy now, Luna?" he spat. I stared back at him with wide eyes, tears streaming down my face and onto the floor. Even though I liked him, that didn't mean he could throw wild accusations and embarrass me as he pleased! I liked him, but I, too, had my sense of dignity! If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I would gladly change! "I'm sorry, Felix. I never thought that my actions would have bugged you so much," I forced the humiliation down as I continued, "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix." I bit my lip hard, and the sharp tang of blood exploded across my tongue. I, Luna Lawson, also swear to myself - I won't endure the same humiliation AGAIN! | Random Reading | 9 | https://facebook.com/61559743679549 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716447600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879515 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410690 | 1723321825 | 995 | 345924945175506 | 17 | 4.0432693580309E+14 | 1716706800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 342924965562549 | 0 | Random Reading | 120211511879180002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πRead the next chaptersπ | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715765000 | 3.4292496556255E+14 | Random Reading | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/435922042_247479561755579_3821431404594820167_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=nE-xcpCRFGQQ7kNvgEfKZT9&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBJeZyYE3h8dCQPrEYbRlpN1rYGD4UiCmm_vtZ3RVK93A&oe=6672C788 | person_profile | 0 | Random Reading | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436197202_765438095699980_1525197823077953944_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=z0L5gnt-ND4Q7kNvgGji8Ss&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYD7CD-CwJ5p5YX30VimVQrwGnmzPWqX979uoxbURL0mGw&oe=6672C1E1 | 0 | 3 | I had never seen Felix like this - fury was written all over his face, and his lanky figure was trembling slightly. I've known Felix since we were born. Our mothers were best friends and they were trying to pair us up again just now. I had a crush on him, and he always treated me kindly. But now, he glared at me and spat, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around! That's why they misunderstood! Stay away from me!" I hadn't expected him to say something like that. I stared at him dumbfounded. Both my parents and Felix's parents ceased their conversation about our wedding and future. Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? I'm my own man. I'll never marry her, so you all can just stop trying to pair us up!" Felix shouted as he glared at everyone in the house. His eyes were filled with hate. It made me want to curl up into a ball out of embarrassment. The house remained completely silent. Everyone's gaze was on me, and I could feel my heart throbbing in pain. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. He had trampled all over my dignity and self-worth in front of his whole family and mineβ¦ My father, usually calm, flushed crimson at Felix's harsh words, his fists clenched. Mom, too, looked angry and embarrassed, jaw agape, her expression one of disbelief. Uncle Austin, Felix's father, slapped Felix, scolding, "You rebellious boy! Who taught you to behave like that?" The impact of slap sent Felix reeling, and he hit his head on the corner of the wall. Felix slumped to the floor in pain, leaving an unmistakable streak of red on the white walls. Aunt Mel rushed forward with concern, "Felix, my son! Are you alright?" Felix shot me a scathing glare as if I had committed an unspeakable crime. "Are you happy now, Luna?" he spat. I stared back at him with wide eyes, tears streaming down my face and onto the floor. Even though I liked him, that didn't mean he could throw wild accusations and embarrass me as he pleased! I liked him, but I, too, had my sense of dignity! If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I would gladly change! "I'm sorry, Felix. I never thought that my actions would have bugged you so much," I forced the humiliation down as I continued, "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix." I bit my lip hard, and the sharp tang of blood exploded across my tongue. I, Luna Lawson, also swear to myself - I won't endure the same humiliation AGAIN! | Random Reading | 9 | https://facebook.com/61559743679549 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716447600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879518 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410690 | 1723321825 | 995 | 345924945175506 | 17 | 4.0432693580309E+14 | 1716706800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 342924965562549 | 0 | Random Reading | 120211511879180002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πRead the next chaptersπ | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715765000 | 3.4292496556255E+14 | Random Reading | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/435922042_247479561755579_3821431404594820167_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=nE-xcpCRFGQQ7kNvgEfKZT9&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBJeZyYE3h8dCQPrEYbRlpN1rYGD4UiCmm_vtZ3RVK93A&oe=6672C788 | person_profile | 0 | Random Reading | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436197202_765438095699980_1525197823077953944_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=z0L5gnt-ND4Q7kNvgGji8Ss&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYD7CD-CwJ5p5YX30VimVQrwGnmzPWqX979uoxbURL0mGw&oe=6672C1E1 | 0 | 3 | I had never seen Felix like this - fury was written all over his face, and his lanky figure was trembling slightly. I've known Felix since we were born. Our mothers were best friends and they were trying to pair us up again just now. I had a crush on him, and he always treated me kindly. But now, he glared at me and spat, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around! That's why they misunderstood! Stay away from me!" I hadn't expected him to say something like that. I stared at him dumbfounded. Both my parents and Felix's parents ceased their conversation about our wedding and future. Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? I'm my own man. I'll never marry her, so you all can just stop trying to pair us up!" Felix shouted as he glared at everyone in the house. His eyes were filled with hate. It made me want to curl up into a ball out of embarrassment. The house remained completely silent. Everyone's gaze was on me, and I could feel my heart throbbing in pain. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. He had trampled all over my dignity and self-worth in front of his whole family and mineβ¦ My father, usually calm, flushed crimson at Felix's harsh words, his fists clenched. Mom, too, looked angry and embarrassed, jaw agape, her expression one of disbelief. Uncle Austin, Felix's father, slapped Felix, scolding, "You rebellious boy! Who taught you to behave like that?" The impact of slap sent Felix reeling, and he hit his head on the corner of the wall. Felix slumped to the floor in pain, leaving an unmistakable streak of red on the white walls. Aunt Mel rushed forward with concern, "Felix, my son! Are you alright?" Felix shot me a scathing glare as if I had committed an unspeakable crime. "Are you happy now, Luna?" he spat. I stared back at him with wide eyes, tears streaming down my face and onto the floor. Even though I liked him, that didn't mean he could throw wild accusations and embarrass me as he pleased! I liked him, but I, too, had my sense of dignity! If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I would gladly change! "I'm sorry, Felix. I never thought that my actions would have bugged you so much," I forced the humiliation down as I continued, "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix." I bit my lip hard, and the sharp tang of blood exploded across my tongue. I, Luna Lawson, also swear to myself - I won't endure the same humiliation AGAIN! | Random Reading | 9 | https://facebook.com/61559743679549 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716447600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879520 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410690 | 1723321825 | 995 | 345924945175506 | 17 | 4.0432693580309E+14 | 1716706800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 342924965562549 | 0 | Random Reading | 120211511879180002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πRead the next chaptersπ | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715765000 | 3.4292496556255E+14 | Random Reading | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/435922042_247479561755579_3821431404594820167_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=nE-xcpCRFGQQ7kNvgEfKZT9&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBJeZyYE3h8dCQPrEYbRlpN1rYGD4UiCmm_vtZ3RVK93A&oe=6672C788 | person_profile | 0 | Random Reading | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436197202_765438095699980_1525197823077953944_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=z0L5gnt-ND4Q7kNvgGji8Ss&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYD7CD-CwJ5p5YX30VimVQrwGnmzPWqX979uoxbURL0mGw&oe=6672C1E1 | 0 | 3 | I had never seen Felix like this - fury was written all over his face, and his lanky figure was trembling slightly. I've known Felix since we were born. Our mothers were best friends and they were trying to pair us up again just now. I had a crush on him, and he always treated me kindly. But now, he glared at me and spat, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around! That's why they misunderstood! Stay away from me!" I hadn't expected him to say something like that. I stared at him dumbfounded. Both my parents and Felix's parents ceased their conversation about our wedding and future. Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? I'm my own man. I'll never marry her, so you all can just stop trying to pair us up!" Felix shouted as he glared at everyone in the house. His eyes were filled with hate. It made me want to curl up into a ball out of embarrassment. The house remained completely silent. Everyone's gaze was on me, and I could feel my heart throbbing in pain. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. He had trampled all over my dignity and self-worth in front of his whole family and mineβ¦ My father, usually calm, flushed crimson at Felix's harsh words, his fists clenched. Mom, too, looked angry and embarrassed, jaw agape, her expression one of disbelief. Uncle Austin, Felix's father, slapped Felix, scolding, "You rebellious boy! Who taught you to behave like that?" The impact of slap sent Felix reeling, and he hit his head on the corner of the wall. Felix slumped to the floor in pain, leaving an unmistakable streak of red on the white walls. Aunt Mel rushed forward with concern, "Felix, my son! Are you alright?" Felix shot me a scathing glare as if I had committed an unspeakable crime. "Are you happy now, Luna?" he spat. I stared back at him with wide eyes, tears streaming down my face and onto the floor. Even though I liked him, that didn't mean he could throw wild accusations and embarrass me as he pleased! I liked him, but I, too, had my sense of dignity! If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I would gladly change! "I'm sorry, Felix. I never thought that my actions would have bugged you so much," I forced the humiliation down as I continued, "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix." I bit my lip hard, and the sharp tang of blood exploded across my tongue. I, Luna Lawson, also swear to myself - I won't endure the same humiliation AGAIN! | Random Reading | 9 | https://facebook.com/61559743679549 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716447600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879522 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410691 | 1723321825 | 995 | 404621832409719 | 28 | 9.6783316154479E+14 | 1716534000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120210797601370002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πRead the next chaptersπ | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1716634519 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438221346_347076918382053_5509872404599054561_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=sisTEz4NT9EQ7kNvgHKLxoB&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCtqMSOg0KYjS4Qe6YSMcVwv7m8-3gjX2xmRdEJ4QbNtQ&oe=66729A9D | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438240590_982215810240924_7779339330704555568_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=k8YDPZIgCtIQ7kNvgEe3WoY&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDgQf2PDgTNWbeeCeovqRzYZ15FNuJAKpZSDMwPWPKx8w&oe=6672A3E0 | 0 | 3 | I had never seen Felix like this - fury was written all over his face, and his lanky figure was trembling slightly. I've known Felix since we were born. Our mothers were best friends and they were trying to pair us up again just now. I had a crush on him, and he always treated me kindly. But now, he glared at me and spat, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around! That's why they misunderstood! Stay away from me!" I hadn't expected him to say something like that. I stared at him dumbfounded. Both my parents and Felix's parents ceased their conversation about our wedding and future. Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? I'm my own man. I'll never marry her, so you all can just stop trying to pair us up!" Felix shouted as he glared at everyone in the house. His eyes were filled with hate. It made me want to curl up into a ball out of embarrassment. The house remained completely silent. Everyone's gaze was on me, and I could feel my heart throbbing in pain. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. He had trampled all over my dignity and self-worth in front of his whole family and mineβ¦ My father, usually calm, flushed crimson at Felix's harsh words, his fists clenched. Mom, too, looked angry and embarrassed, jaw agape, her expression one of disbelief. Uncle Austin, Felix's father, slapped Felix, scolding, "You rebellious boy! Who taught you to behave like that?" The impact of slap sent Felix reeling, and he hit his head on the corner of the wall. Felix slumped to the floor in pain, leaving an unmistakable streak of red on the white walls. Aunt Mel rushed forward with concern, "Felix, my son! Are you alright?" Felix shot me a scathing glare as if I had committed an unspeakable crime. "Are you happy now, Luna?" he spat. I stared back at him with wide eyes, tears streaming down my face and onto the floor. Even though I liked him, that didn't mean he could throw wild accusations and embarrass me as he pleased! I liked him, but I, too, had my sense of dignity! If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I would gladly change! "I'm sorry, Felix. I never thought that my actions would have bugged you so much," I forced the humiliation down as I continued, "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix." I bit my lip hard, and the sharp tang of blood exploded across my tongue. I, Luna Lawson, also swear to myself - I won't endure the same humiliation AGAIN! | Massive story | 670 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716361200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879523 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410691 | 1723321825 | 995 | 404621832409719 | 28 | 9.6783316154479E+14 | 1716534000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120210797601370002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πRead the next chaptersπ | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1716634519 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438221346_347076918382053_5509872404599054561_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=sisTEz4NT9EQ7kNvgHKLxoB&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCtqMSOg0KYjS4Qe6YSMcVwv7m8-3gjX2xmRdEJ4QbNtQ&oe=66729A9D | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438240590_982215810240924_7779339330704555568_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=k8YDPZIgCtIQ7kNvgEe3WoY&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDgQf2PDgTNWbeeCeovqRzYZ15FNuJAKpZSDMwPWPKx8w&oe=6672A3E0 | 0 | 3 | I had never seen Felix like this - fury was written all over his face, and his lanky figure was trembling slightly. I've known Felix since we were born. Our mothers were best friends and they were trying to pair us up again just now. I had a crush on him, and he always treated me kindly. But now, he glared at me and spat, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around! That's why they misunderstood! Stay away from me!" I hadn't expected him to say something like that. I stared at him dumbfounded. Both my parents and Felix's parents ceased their conversation about our wedding and future. Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? I'm my own man. I'll never marry her, so you all can just stop trying to pair us up!" Felix shouted as he glared at everyone in the house. His eyes were filled with hate. It made me want to curl up into a ball out of embarrassment. The house remained completely silent. Everyone's gaze was on me, and I could feel my heart throbbing in pain. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. He had trampled all over my dignity and self-worth in front of his whole family and mineβ¦ My father, usually calm, flushed crimson at Felix's harsh words, his fists clenched. Mom, too, looked angry and embarrassed, jaw agape, her expression one of disbelief. Uncle Austin, Felix's father, slapped Felix, scolding, "You rebellious boy! Who taught you to behave like that?" The impact of slap sent Felix reeling, and he hit his head on the corner of the wall. Felix slumped to the floor in pain, leaving an unmistakable streak of red on the white walls. Aunt Mel rushed forward with concern, "Felix, my son! Are you alright?" Felix shot me a scathing glare as if I had committed an unspeakable crime. "Are you happy now, Luna?" he spat. I stared back at him with wide eyes, tears streaming down my face and onto the floor. Even though I liked him, that didn't mean he could throw wild accusations and embarrass me as he pleased! I liked him, but I, too, had my sense of dignity! If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I would gladly change! "I'm sorry, Felix. I never thought that my actions would have bugged you so much," I forced the humiliation down as I continued, "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix." I bit my lip hard, and the sharp tang of blood exploded across my tongue. I, Luna Lawson, also swear to myself - I won't endure the same humiliation AGAIN! | Massive story | 670 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716361200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879524 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410691 | 1723321826 | 995 | 404621832409719 | 28 | 9.6783316154479E+14 | 1716534000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120210797601370002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πRead the next chaptersπ | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1716634519 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438221346_347076918382053_5509872404599054561_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=sisTEz4NT9EQ7kNvgHKLxoB&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCtqMSOg0KYjS4Qe6YSMcVwv7m8-3gjX2xmRdEJ4QbNtQ&oe=66729A9D | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438240590_982215810240924_7779339330704555568_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=k8YDPZIgCtIQ7kNvgEe3WoY&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDgQf2PDgTNWbeeCeovqRzYZ15FNuJAKpZSDMwPWPKx8w&oe=6672A3E0 | 0 | 3 | I had never seen Felix like this - fury was written all over his face, and his lanky figure was trembling slightly. I've known Felix since we were born. Our mothers were best friends and they were trying to pair us up again just now. I had a crush on him, and he always treated me kindly. But now, he glared at me and spat, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around! That's why they misunderstood! Stay away from me!" I hadn't expected him to say something like that. I stared at him dumbfounded. Both my parents and Felix's parents ceased their conversation about our wedding and future. Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? I'm my own man. I'll never marry her, so you all can just stop trying to pair us up!" Felix shouted as he glared at everyone in the house. His eyes were filled with hate. It made me want to curl up into a ball out of embarrassment. The house remained completely silent. Everyone's gaze was on me, and I could feel my heart throbbing in pain. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. He had trampled all over my dignity and self-worth in front of his whole family and mineβ¦ My father, usually calm, flushed crimson at Felix's harsh words, his fists clenched. Mom, too, looked angry and embarrassed, jaw agape, her expression one of disbelief. Uncle Austin, Felix's father, slapped Felix, scolding, "You rebellious boy! Who taught you to behave like that?" The impact of slap sent Felix reeling, and he hit his head on the corner of the wall. Felix slumped to the floor in pain, leaving an unmistakable streak of red on the white walls. Aunt Mel rushed forward with concern, "Felix, my son! Are you alright?" Felix shot me a scathing glare as if I had committed an unspeakable crime. "Are you happy now, Luna?" he spat. I stared back at him with wide eyes, tears streaming down my face and onto the floor. Even though I liked him, that didn't mean he could throw wild accusations and embarrass me as he pleased! I liked him, but I, too, had my sense of dignity! If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I would gladly change! "I'm sorry, Felix. I never thought that my actions would have bugged you so much," I forced the humiliation down as I continued, "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix." I bit my lip hard, and the sharp tang of blood exploded across my tongue. I, Luna Lawson, also swear to myself - I won't endure the same humiliation AGAIN! | Massive story | 670 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716361200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879528 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410692 | 1723321826 | 995 | 404621832409719 | 28 | 9.6783316154479E+14 | 1716534000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120210797601370002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πRead the next chaptersπ | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1716634519 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438221346_347076918382053_5509872404599054561_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=sisTEz4NT9EQ7kNvgHKLxoB&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCtqMSOg0KYjS4Qe6YSMcVwv7m8-3gjX2xmRdEJ4QbNtQ&oe=66729A9D | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438240590_982215810240924_7779339330704555568_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=k8YDPZIgCtIQ7kNvgEe3WoY&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDgQf2PDgTNWbeeCeovqRzYZ15FNuJAKpZSDMwPWPKx8w&oe=6672A3E0 | 0 | 3 | I had never seen Felix like this - fury was written all over his face, and his lanky figure was trembling slightly. I've known Felix since we were born. Our mothers were best friends and they were trying to pair us up again just now. I had a crush on him, and he always treated me kindly. But now, he glared at me and spat, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around! That's why they misunderstood! Stay away from me!" I hadn't expected him to say something like that. I stared at him dumbfounded. Both my parents and Felix's parents ceased their conversation about our wedding and future. Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? I'm my own man. I'll never marry her, so you all can just stop trying to pair us up!" Felix shouted as he glared at everyone in the house. His eyes were filled with hate. It made me want to curl up into a ball out of embarrassment. The house remained completely silent. Everyone's gaze was on me, and I could feel my heart throbbing in pain. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. He had trampled all over my dignity and self-worth in front of his whole family and mineβ¦ My father, usually calm, flushed crimson at Felix's harsh words, his fists clenched. Mom, too, looked angry and embarrassed, jaw agape, her expression one of disbelief. Uncle Austin, Felix's father, slapped Felix, scolding, "You rebellious boy! Who taught you to behave like that?" The impact of slap sent Felix reeling, and he hit his head on the corner of the wall. Felix slumped to the floor in pain, leaving an unmistakable streak of red on the white walls. Aunt Mel rushed forward with concern, "Felix, my son! Are you alright?" Felix shot me a scathing glare as if I had committed an unspeakable crime. "Are you happy now, Luna?" he spat. I stared back at him with wide eyes, tears streaming down my face and onto the floor. Even though I liked him, that didn't mean he could throw wild accusations and embarrass me as he pleased! I liked him, but I, too, had my sense of dignity! If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I would gladly change! "I'm sorry, Felix. I never thought that my actions would have bugged you so much," I forced the humiliation down as I continued, "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix." I bit my lip hard, and the sharp tang of blood exploded across my tongue. I, Luna Lawson, also swear to myself - I won't endure the same humiliation AGAIN! | Massive story | 670 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716361200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879778 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410723 | 1723321826 | 995 | 3257834227858415 | 1 | 3.7757143170999E+14 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 113222160318026 | 0 | Servall - Paris, TN | 120210481180440370 | servallpestcontrol.com | Contact Us | NONE | carousel | Protect Your Home With Proper Drainage | Expert gutter solutions! | https://www.servallpestcontrol.com/ | 1710166404 | 1.1322216031803E+14 | Servall - Paris, TN | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/431186519_1112968813354192_4278728201242244015_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=awMtziREd9YQ7kNvgGWtSfC&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBXqDE-kbyVLWLPb6qw0EdiwKOmKkyILgz6iAxm438vkQ&oe=6672A9C8 | person_profile | 0 | Servall - Paris, TN | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/431273553_338768775263175_8395586336125006700_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=a7B5Zmh1clwQ7kNvgE_eZ7W&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYB5YGMSvJXZvbu1oi6wW0LyyewDGqjNvBTdqP8JV_IxXg&oe=6672B7C8 | 0 | 3 | Expert gutter solutions! | Servall - Paris, TN | 643 | https://facebook.com/ServallParis | 0 | CONTACT_US | 1710572400 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879535 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410692 | 1723321826 | 995 | 468089762273303 | 1 | 1.6919708815392E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 273913162469522 | 0 | New world publications | 120212928768730170 | wwwedb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πAttention! Do not read in publicοΌπ | https://wwwedb.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11782&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717757425 | 2.7391316246952E+14 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959759_1311554859802432_4227718076479884991_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GwKF1hWO7f4Q7kNvgGcgnOa&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAaDJ90YtTRVgl1h4Qq29YmZWIZCVWKY5MqqmnLhItL8w&oe=6672A69D | person_profile | 0 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959270_7187349571370885_4976612476689122460_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=NNss872fdPgQ7kNvgE-PVII&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAp0ikcilFTLm0se1WcAfumGS3USCJAFn0NgxepicFnPw&oe=6672B455 | 0 | 3 | The clearing of a throat makes me jump. I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of alcohol. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that donβt quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door. Shrinking down to the ground. βIs this the way you greet all Alphaβs?β His deep voice rumbles through the room, an edge of amusement to his tone. βIβm sorry.β I whisper, getting to my feet. βIβ¦I thought I was alone.β I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. βCome forward.β He orders. Alpha Trey was going to kill me. I do as Iβm told. Allowing him to see me properly and I am met with narrowed crimson eyes. I close my own eyes, expecting the worst. βYou smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?β My head moved up and down, though I couldnβt tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they discovered the truth about me. βI would prefer it if you spoke to me.β He growls, βIβm not in the mood to play games.β βYes.β I whisper. βI amβ¦I am a Wolf.β I couldnβt help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? I wasnβt sure how much more my body could take. βHow is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.β βIβ¦..β I hated the question. βI havenβt got all day!β He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldnβt scent him. I knew why I hadnβt been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever liked to do. They never hear my side of the story. All they do is accept Alpha Trey's word as the truth. βYou should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?β His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them. There was no way I was making direct eye contact. βMy Wolf abilities were bound.β βWhy?β If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. βIt was a punishment.β βFor what?β βFor killing my parents.β | New world publications | 9 | https://facebook.com/61557831245498 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718089200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879536 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410693 | 1723321826 | 995 | 468089762273303 | 1 | 1.6919708815392E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 273913162469522 | 0 | New world publications | 120212928768730170 | wwwedb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πAttention! Do not read in publicοΌπ | https://wwwedb.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11782&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717757425 | 2.7391316246952E+14 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959759_1311554859802432_4227718076479884991_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GwKF1hWO7f4Q7kNvgGcgnOa&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAaDJ90YtTRVgl1h4Qq29YmZWIZCVWKY5MqqmnLhItL8w&oe=6672A69D | person_profile | 0 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959270_7187349571370885_4976612476689122460_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=NNss872fdPgQ7kNvgE-PVII&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAp0ikcilFTLm0se1WcAfumGS3USCJAFn0NgxepicFnPw&oe=6672B455 | 0 | 3 | The clearing of a throat makes me jump. I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of alcohol. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that donβt quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door. Shrinking down to the ground. βIs this the way you greet all Alphaβs?β His deep voice rumbles through the room, an edge of amusement to his tone. βIβm sorry.β I whisper, getting to my feet. βIβ¦I thought I was alone.β I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. βCome forward.β He orders. Alpha Trey was going to kill me. I do as Iβm told. Allowing him to see me properly and I am met with narrowed crimson eyes. I close my own eyes, expecting the worst. βYou smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?β My head moved up and down, though I couldnβt tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they discovered the truth about me. βI would prefer it if you spoke to me.β He growls, βIβm not in the mood to play games.β βYes.β I whisper. βI amβ¦I am a Wolf.β I couldnβt help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? I wasnβt sure how much more my body could take. βHow is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.β βIβ¦..β I hated the question. βI havenβt got all day!β He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldnβt scent him. I knew why I hadnβt been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever liked to do. They never hear my side of the story. All they do is accept Alpha Trey's word as the truth. βYou should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?β His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them. There was no way I was making direct eye contact. βMy Wolf abilities were bound.β βWhy?β If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. βIt was a punishment.β βFor what?β βFor killing my parents.β | New world publications | 9 | https://facebook.com/61557831245498 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718089200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879780 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410723 | 1723321826 | 995 | 3257834227858415 | 1 | 3.7757143170999E+14 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 113222160318026 | 0 | Servall - Paris, TN | 120210481180440370 | servallpestcontrol.com | Contact Us | NONE | carousel | Protect Your Home With Proper Drainage | Expert gutter solutions! | https://www.servallpestcontrol.com/ | 1710166404 | 1.1322216031803E+14 | Servall - Paris, TN | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/431186519_1112968813354192_4278728201242244015_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=awMtziREd9YQ7kNvgGWtSfC&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBXqDE-kbyVLWLPb6qw0EdiwKOmKkyILgz6iAxm438vkQ&oe=6672A9C8 | person_profile | 0 | Servall - Paris, TN | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/431273553_338768775263175_8395586336125006700_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=a7B5Zmh1clwQ7kNvgE_eZ7W&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYB5YGMSvJXZvbu1oi6wW0LyyewDGqjNvBTdqP8JV_IxXg&oe=6672B7C8 | 0 | 3 | Expert gutter solutions! | Servall - Paris, TN | 643 | https://facebook.com/ServallParis | 0 | CONTACT_US | 1710572400 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879538 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410693 | 1723321826 | 995 | 468089762273303 | 1 | 1.6919708815392E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 273913162469522 | 0 | New world publications | 120212928768730170 | wwwedb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πAttention! Do not read in publicοΌπ | https://wwwedb.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11782&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717757425 | 2.7391316246952E+14 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959759_1311554859802432_4227718076479884991_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GwKF1hWO7f4Q7kNvgGcgnOa&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAaDJ90YtTRVgl1h4Qq29YmZWIZCVWKY5MqqmnLhItL8w&oe=6672A69D | person_profile | 0 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959270_7187349571370885_4976612476689122460_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=NNss872fdPgQ7kNvgE-PVII&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAp0ikcilFTLm0se1WcAfumGS3USCJAFn0NgxepicFnPw&oe=6672B455 | 0 | 3 | The clearing of a throat makes me jump. I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of alcohol. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that donβt quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door. Shrinking down to the ground. βIs this the way you greet all Alphaβs?β His deep voice rumbles through the room, an edge of amusement to his tone. βIβm sorry.β I whisper, getting to my feet. βIβ¦I thought I was alone.β I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. βCome forward.β He orders. Alpha Trey was going to kill me. I do as Iβm told. Allowing him to see me properly and I am met with narrowed crimson eyes. I close my own eyes, expecting the worst. βYou smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?β My head moved up and down, though I couldnβt tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they discovered the truth about me. βI would prefer it if you spoke to me.β He growls, βIβm not in the mood to play games.β βYes.β I whisper. βI amβ¦I am a Wolf.β I couldnβt help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? I wasnβt sure how much more my body could take. βHow is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.β βIβ¦..β I hated the question. βI havenβt got all day!β He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldnβt scent him. I knew why I hadnβt been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever liked to do. They never hear my side of the story. All they do is accept Alpha Trey's word as the truth. βYou should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?β His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them. There was no way I was making direct eye contact. βMy Wolf abilities were bound.β βWhy?β If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. βIt was a punishment.β βFor what?β βFor killing my parents.β | New world publications | 9 | https://facebook.com/61557831245498 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718089200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879539 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410693 | 1723321827 | 995 | 468089762273303 | 1 | 1.6919708815392E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 273913162469522 | 0 | New world publications | 120212928768730170 | wwwedb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πAttention! Do not read in publicοΌπ | https://wwwedb.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11782&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717757425 | 2.7391316246952E+14 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959759_1311554859802432_4227718076479884991_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GwKF1hWO7f4Q7kNvgGcgnOa&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAaDJ90YtTRVgl1h4Qq29YmZWIZCVWKY5MqqmnLhItL8w&oe=6672A69D | person_profile | 0 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959270_7187349571370885_4976612476689122460_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=NNss872fdPgQ7kNvgE-PVII&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAp0ikcilFTLm0se1WcAfumGS3USCJAFn0NgxepicFnPw&oe=6672B455 | 0 | 3 | The clearing of a throat makes me jump. I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of alcohol. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that donβt quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door. Shrinking down to the ground. βIs this the way you greet all Alphaβs?β His deep voice rumbles through the room, an edge of amusement to his tone. βIβm sorry.β I whisper, getting to my feet. βIβ¦I thought I was alone.β I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. βCome forward.β He orders. Alpha Trey was going to kill me. I do as Iβm told. Allowing him to see me properly and I am met with narrowed crimson eyes. I close my own eyes, expecting the worst. βYou smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?β My head moved up and down, though I couldnβt tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they discovered the truth about me. βI would prefer it if you spoke to me.β He growls, βIβm not in the mood to play games.β βYes.β I whisper. βI amβ¦I am a Wolf.β I couldnβt help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? I wasnβt sure how much more my body could take. βHow is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.β βIβ¦..β I hated the question. βI havenβt got all day!β He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldnβt scent him. I knew why I hadnβt been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever liked to do. They never hear my side of the story. All they do is accept Alpha Trey's word as the truth. βYou should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?β His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them. There was no way I was making direct eye contact. βMy Wolf abilities were bound.β βWhy?β If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. βIt was a punishment.β βFor what?β βFor killing my parents.β | New world publications | 9 | https://facebook.com/61557831245498 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718089200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879540 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410693 | 1723321827 | 995 | 468089762273303 | 1 | 1.6919708815392E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 273913162469522 | 0 | New world publications | 120212928768730170 | wwwedb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πAttention! Do not read in publicοΌπ | https://wwwedb.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11782&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717757425 | 2.7391316246952E+14 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959759_1311554859802432_4227718076479884991_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GwKF1hWO7f4Q7kNvgGcgnOa&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAaDJ90YtTRVgl1h4Qq29YmZWIZCVWKY5MqqmnLhItL8w&oe=6672A69D | person_profile | 0 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959270_7187349571370885_4976612476689122460_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=NNss872fdPgQ7kNvgE-PVII&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAp0ikcilFTLm0se1WcAfumGS3USCJAFn0NgxepicFnPw&oe=6672B455 | 0 | 3 | The clearing of a throat makes me jump. I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of alcohol. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that donβt quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door. Shrinking down to the ground. βIs this the way you greet all Alphaβs?β His deep voice rumbles through the room, an edge of amusement to his tone. βIβm sorry.β I whisper, getting to my feet. βIβ¦I thought I was alone.β I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. βCome forward.β He orders. Alpha Trey was going to kill me. I do as Iβm told. Allowing him to see me properly and I am met with narrowed crimson eyes. I close my own eyes, expecting the worst. βYou smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?β My head moved up and down, though I couldnβt tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they discovered the truth about me. βI would prefer it if you spoke to me.β He growls, βIβm not in the mood to play games.β βYes.β I whisper. βI amβ¦I am a Wolf.β I couldnβt help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? I wasnβt sure how much more my body could take. βHow is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.β βIβ¦..β I hated the question. βI havenβt got all day!β He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldnβt scent him. I knew why I hadnβt been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever liked to do. They never hear my side of the story. All they do is accept Alpha Trey's word as the truth. βYou should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?β His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them. There was no way I was making direct eye contact. βMy Wolf abilities were bound.β βWhy?β If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. βIt was a punishment.β βFor what?β βFor killing my parents.β | New world publications | 9 | https://facebook.com/61557831245498 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718089200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879788 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410725 | 1723321827 | 995 | 328628403299992 | 1 | 6.7053029729062E+15 | 1714806000 | person_profile | taken-down | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 321330554388277 | 0 | Start Reading | 120207810472520056 | befant.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | β€οΈπWhat happens nextπClick Here to read onπ | https://befant.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=11192&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1714573086 | 3.2133055438828E+14 | Start Reading | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441206868_1116532276285473_1322182524522961747_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=dVdBCJR8m9IQ7kNvgGxBIHN&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYB7kMrKVOgJ8YW8xzKGRsgCufQFrP2OVnCXBDScENWSEw&oe=6672BD09 | person_profile | 0 | Start Reading | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440418966_448917680872294_3438075365541597509_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=A81_9g5fi4IQ7kNvgGjLewp&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCte60qkl7CLEFTwKWYv-5UrqhAQ7J86fd-7fhXEnOTxA&oe=6672950C | 0 | 3 | Evelynβs POV I sat at the bar, downing drinks and trying to forget about my problems. βPour me another, please,β I said to the bartender. As the omega refilled my glass, I looked at my phone and sighed for the umpteenth time. Still no word from my boyfriend, Alex, and no news from my fatherβs doctor either. Just as Iβd prayed the moon goddess would spare my mother and bring her back to me, I now prayed for my fatherβs life. Out of the blue, heβd slipped into a coma, and a month later, the doctors still had no answers. Meanwhile, I lost hope and my heart broke more with each passing day. The pack wasnβt faring well without their alpha, either. They needed a leader, and as my fatherβs only legitimate child, I would become the next alpha of my pack if he didnβt make it. I sighed again as I wondered if the pack would be better off with my stepbrother Kevin in the role. He was a male with a powerful wolf. Conversely, I was a female with no wolf. If that werenβt bad enough, an ug-ly scar that ran from my cheek to my ear marred my face so prominently that others stared constantly. Even patrons in the bar stared, though I did my best to ignore them. I took a swig, downing the last of my drink. βAnother,β I said to the bartender. βMiss, youβve had quite a lot already. Maybe itβs best to stop and go home for now?β the bartender, an obvious omega said. I looked at her and rolled my eyes. βI donβt want to go home. I want to drink until I forget about life. So give me another, please.β As the bartender hesitated, a waiter approached. βI have the perfect drink for you,β said the omega. βA new brand of whiskey, and itβs strong. Itβll take the edge off and make you forget. I can promise you that.β βIβll take it,β I slurred. The omega waiter nodded. βVery well. Iβll be back in a jiffy.β Once he left, I focused on my phone once again. Still nothing from Alex or my fatherβs doctor. A minute later, the omega waiter approached with an open bottle. βHere you go. Thisβll help you forget all your worries and cares. Dare I say, youβll be in ecstasy for at least forty-eight hours.β βYouβd do well, as a brand ambassador,β I said with a chuckle. βAll right. Let me sample its glories.β The waiter nodded and poured a substantial amount into my tumbler. I tipped the glass back, gulped its contents in a single swig, then slammed the tumbler back onto the bar. I addressed the bartender as I grabbed my bag to retrieve my wallet. βTab, please.β It was time for me to get going. I needed to see my father. The bartender acknowledged my request, then walked to the register. Before the bartender got there, my image wavered. I rubbed my suddenly blurry eyes. βWhat the heck?β I mumbled as I stood. I almost ended up on the barroom floor, barely able to catch myself in time. I gripped the edge of the bar, working to stay upright. The omega waiter rushed to me, grabbing me by the waist to help me. βPrincess, are you okay?β I gently extracted myself from him. βYeah. Fine,β I said, then put a hand to my forehead. Too hot, and my stomach was queasy too. That thought barely registered before blackness engulfed me. Sometime later, I sighed, then opened my eyes. My face twisted in confusion. βThis is not my house. It looked more like a hotel room. What was I doing here? And how did I get here?β I muttered to myself, rubbing my blurry eyes. Before I could think long enough to answer either of those questions, giggling came from the room next door. Then a familiar female voice said, βOh, Alex. Do you know how long Iβve waited for you to touch me?β I covered my mouth to hold back a gasp. Iβd know that voice anywhere. It was my stepmother, Quinn. But what βAlexβ was she talking to? It couldnβt be my Alex. That couldnβt be possible. Even the idea of that was outrageous. Yet, I didnβt know any other Alex, and I didnβt think Quinn did either. Still, there had to be some reasonable explanation. My legs felt like jelly, so I used the roomβs furniture and walls for balance as I staggered to the hotel room door. I opened it and, with blurry vision, looked around. When I didnβt see anyone, I walked to the next door. Quinnβs voice came from the other side. βYouβre not truly going to marry that scarred wench, are you? I mean, she doesnβt even have a wolf. Meanwhile, you could easily have all of this with me.β βTrue,β said a male voiceβAlexβs voice. My Alex! What the hel? How could he? βBut sheβs the heiress,β he said, continuing. βAnd I can always come to your room at night whenever I get bored with her.β Quinn chuckled, and I could barely believe what I was hearing. So it was all about me being the daughter of their alpha. Alex was with me just to get his hands on my fatherβs properties and wealth. βPlease,β Quinn said flippantly. βShe might be Alphaβs daughter, but with that scarred face of hers and no wolf, sheβs no better than a rogue omega. Itβll be my son, Kevin, who ends up with everything, not that weak girl. Besides, youβre too handsome to have such a disgusting wife.β I folded my fists in anger. How evil could Quinn be? And Alexβcould he be more of an ingrate? Still, I couldnβt help but press my ear to the door to hear more. βYou say that like itβs a certainty,β Alex said. βJust remember that, unless I marry Evelyn, Kevin gets nothing.β So they had a plan. Alex intended to marry me to secure the properties and the seat of the pack. Then it seemed he, along with Quinn, intended to ensure everything would somehow be transferred to Quinnβs son, Kevin. Theyβd plotted against me! I had to pick my gaping mouth up off the floor. βBut enough with all that for now,β said Alex. βI want a taste of that fleshy hole of yours.β βOnly if you tell me I can steal you away from that silly girl. She doesnβt deserve you. Youβre too good for her.β Alex laughed. βOf course. Once everythingβs in place, you can do whatever you want with her. In the meantime, you can still have me, especially once me and Evelyn are married, and all of us are living in the same house.β βNo worries about access,β Quinn said with a giggle. βThatβs right,β Alex said. βAnd Iβm looking forward to having constant access to this beautiful succulent body of yours, too.β I couldnβt take any more. I barged into the hotel room, allowing the back of the door to slam against the wall. βHow dare you!β I thundered. Chapter 2 I stare from Quinnβs nonchalant face to Alexβs petrified face. βYou ungrateful slime!β I yelled. I reached for the vase on the roomβs front table and flung it at Alexβs head. He ducked, and the vase hit the wall behind him, shattering. That I missed made me even angrier. Quinn wore a smug smirk as I staggered a few steps into the room. I shook my head. It didnβt feel right. It felt like something more than a hangover, like Iβd been poisoned. Still, I wanted to pounce on these two traitors, so I pressed on, getting dizzier by the step. Quinnβs smirk grew evil as she saw me struggle to keep consciousness. She looked like a villain whose plan was falling into place perfectly. I saw it, the mischievous look in her eyes. It seemed like it had been her plan for Me to get poisoned, and be brought here, so I could find her and Alex in Bed. βWhat can you do about it?β She asked Me and I scoffed, unable to believe the amount of shamelessness I was seeing in Quinn. Then ignored her, turning my attention to Alex. βI fcking trusted you!β I screamed. βHow could you do this? And with my stepmother? Whatβs wrong with you?β βOh, stop being such a drama queen,β Alex said. βWhat if I have an interest in older women? That doesnβt mean I don't love you.β βThatβs my fuking stepmother, Alex! My dadβs wife! This is the height of immorality,β I said, shaking my head. βI can't believe you! Really!β I yelled again. βEve, dear,β Quinn said, βyou need to stop yelling. You donβt seem well.β I glared at her and clenched my fists, wanting to pummel the two of them until they couldnβt feel anything but pain. Instead, I said, βDonβt pretend to care about me. You think I donβt know how much you hate me? Goddess knows, you donβt hesitate to show it. So stop pretending like you really care what happens to me. For all I know, you planned this whole thing so I could see you both, have a heart attack, and die.β Quinn gasped and laughed mockingly. βI am not that creative, Evelyn. Besides, why would I want you to know Alex and I fell in love?β I stared at her in disbelief. βIn love? You conniving snake. It's only been a month since Father slipped into a coma, and youβre claiming to be in love? With my boyfriend?β Alex came over and rubbed my arms. βNow, calm down.β I kept my focus on Quinn as I got away from Alex. βHow shameless can you be? Is your love that fickle? Does it change that fast?β βCome on,β Alex said, drawing my eyes. βIt's no big thing. Hey, maybe you could even join us. What do you think?β I glared at him. βJoinβ¦?β I landed a loud slap on his face. βYou filthy pig. Youβre worse than a rogue. And you donβt think thereβs anything immoral about what youβre suggesting? About what youβre doing? Sleeping with my stepmotherβ¦ your future mother-in-law?β Alexβs face contorted into a frown. βOh, stop being such a goody two shoes.β Alex grabbed my elbows. I pulled away from him. βDonβt touch me! To think I wanted to be your wife. Ever since the day I met you, I wanted that, too. How silly of me. I should have heeded the warnings about you.β βDonβt be disrespectful, Eve,β Quinn said. βIβm still your fatherβs wife and head of this pack. And I will not tolerate it.β βLeader of the pack? Is that so? You havenβt even done anything to find out why my father, your husband, ended up in a coma. Pfft. Youβre a terrible excuse for a leaderβ¦ and a mother.β βExcuse me?β Quinn rose from the bed and approached with her eyes narrowed. βAre you undermining me?β I shook my head. βSimply stating the bitter truth. Ever since you came into my fatherβs house, thereβs been nothing but pain and discomfort. I wish it was you instead of my dad in that coma.β Quinn slapped me hard across the face. βThatβs for your insolence.β She slapped me again just as hard. βThatβs for hitting Alex.β She slapped me once more. βAnd thatβs for wishing me dead.β Alex grabbed her hand. βQuinn, please. Thatβs enough.β Quinn glared at him. βThis young lady is a spoiled brat. She needs to be taught a lesson.β She turned back to me. βIβm in charge of this pack and also your legal guardian, and Iβve had it up to my guts with your tantrums.β I stared at her in disbelief. βWake the fvck up, Eve,β Quinn yelled. βI make the rules now, and you will do as I say. Do you hear me, you worthless omega?β I wished I had a wolf so I could shift and have it out with this crazy bit-ch. But maybe not having a wolf was what allowed me to remain calm, despite the fact that Iβd never been hit in the face before. Either way, I kept my cool while I stared into my adulterous stepmotherβs eyes. Eventually, I shook her head and said, βYou disgust me,β then turned and left the room. As the door closed behind me, tears came to my eyes. What a betrayal. As if it werenβt bad enough that Alex cheated on me, he chose to do it with my stepmother. Why? Why me, of all people? I aimlessly headed back to the room I came from, still staggering to get my things. I opened the door and then stopped, wondering why she was bothering to go back there. Everything was a blur, and I wasnβt sure if it was because of my welling eyes or the pill Iβd obviously been given. But then I felt a presence behind me. Chapter 3 βWho are you?β I asked, as I tried to shake off the wave of discomfort and dizziness that had suddenly hit me. I wiped my eyes. βYou!β I exclaimed, looking at the omega waiter from the bar. βWhat are you doing here?β Nerves crept up my spine as I stared at the man who had given me the drinkβthe drink that had obviously been dru-gged. βOh, come on Princess.β He stepped forward, forcing me to go back up into the room. βYou know why Iβm here,β he said with a wicked grin. βAnd your body wants it. I know it does.β I wanted to puke, βPlease let me go home. I need to go home to my dad.β βIβll let you go homeββhe started to unclasp his beltββas soon as you give me what I want.β I backed up another step. βIt will be over soon, Princess. I promise.β βWhy?β I asked, still seeing him through blurry eyes and wondering if there was any way I could escape him. He gave me a perverted smile, then wagged his brows. βWell, your body is a nice prize on its own, but there are better reasons.β I didnβt need him to tell me those reasons. If he took my first time, I'd be forced to marry him, which would damage my reputation and leave utterly no chance of becoming an Alpha heir. I couldnβt bear the thought of sleep with him, let alone marrying him. I had to find a way out. But the blurry vision was making me dizzy. All I thought to do was plead. βI need to get home immediately,β I said as authoritatively as I could in my current condition. βIt's late.β The omega smirked. βYou know I canβt let you leave, Princess. Not without a taste of the forbidden fruit.β He approached. As soon as he got within range, I slapped him hard with all the strength I could find. His face twisted in rage. βThis isn't the fuking palace.β He hit me back so hard that he knocked me onto the bed. βThis is my turf. I do as I wish.β Alex POV βWe need to get Eve,β I said. βShe didnβt look too good.β Quinn stared at me in disgust. βAre you really worrying about her right now?β I looked at my phone, biting my finger as I saw all of Eveβs messages for the first time. And now, she wasnβt responding to me. What if she went off and slept with some other guy? I turned to Quinn. βIβm just worried. She didnβt look well. She seemed off, like she was sick or something.β Quinn rose from the bed and sauntered to a table in the corner, where she picked up a bottle of booze and poured a glass. With the glass in hand, she strutted seductively back to me. βHere. Drink this. It would help calm you.β I accepted the drink and took a gulp, then walked to the window. Quinn approached from behind and wrapped her arms around my bare waist. βI fear she isn't okay,β I said. Quinn sighed in irritation. βShe was drunk. Thatβs how she is these days. She gets drunk, and I don't even know her whereabouts. She probably goes out sleeping around. Maybe sheβs out sleeping with some omega right now,β she said with mischief in her voice. I spun around, squinting at her. βWait a second. Did youβ¦? Was this your idea, when you said I should be your sneaky link? You know I can't afford to lose Eve.β Quinn sighed. βWas what my idea? To get her drunk and have her brought to our hotel? Pfft. Donβt accuse me of such outrageous things. Yes, I wanted her to find out about us, but I didnβt do that.β I ran my hands through my hair, unsure whether I should believe her. βAnd why are you so worried about her sleeping around?β Quinn asked. βWhy should you care what she does?β βFuk,β I whispered. I always knew this play-boy attitude of mine would get me into a ton of trouble one day, but I never expected it to be with a girl I actually cared about. Yes, I was using her for her inheritance, but that didnβt mean I had no feelings for her. βListen,β Quinn said. βIβm sure you feel like sheβll betray you because you betrayed her. But do you really think sheβll risk it, knowing sheβll have to marry anyone she sleeps with? Not only that, in her position, Eve would lose her dignity in the community, too. Sheβd end up begging you to take her back.β βAre you sure about that?β Quinn took the glass from me and kissed me slowly. Once she drew her li-ps away from mine, she peered at me. βIβm here to help you,β she said. βSo even if she doesnβt beg for you, I can always ensure you end up owning some Carson family properties. Iβm married to Alpha Carson after all.β She bit her li-ps seductively. βSo be a good boy and come undress me.β Something pricked in the back of my mind, a warning I couldnβt put into words. But it was something that told me to resist her, that I couldnβt trust her. But I wanted her, so I put a lid on that warning, and a few minutes later, my tongue grazed her vagi-na. Chapter 4 Evelyn POV I struggled to keep my head straight, as I fought for consciousness. I heard footsteps and I knew that the weird omega was back. I staggered up, reaching for a weapon. My hand found the neck of an empty wine bottle. I swung it in an arc and hit him across the head. He went down with a thud, and I ran out of the room and directly into a man. βI'm sorry,β I mumbled as I tried to scoot past him. βMiss, are you alright?β he asked. I turned and saw the omega coming after me. βHelp me,β I said, with panicked eyes and a voice filled with urgency. The stranger saw the omega, grabbed my wrist, then dragged me into his room. In one smooth motion, he slammed the door shut, locked it, then spun me into his che-st With fear of the omega still overwhelming me, I buried my face in his arms and whimpered weakly, latching onto his trousers to steady myself. βHeβs gone,β said the stranger. I raised my head from his bare front body and peered at him. Despite my blurry vision, I could tell he was handsome. βWhatβs your name?β I whispered. He chuckled, then backed away and walked to his table. βSuppose I told you, would you remember? You seem a little drunk.β I shook my head. βI was poisoned. And there's still quite some amount in my system. But Iβll try to remember. Please, whatβs your name?β βMy name isn't important. You look exhausted. I need to get you home.β I chuckled. βIβd feel safer staying hereβ¦ with you.β He walked toward me. βI am a wolf in heat. You know what that means.β It meant he wanted a woman se-xually. Any woman. βI can do just the same that omega could do to you. Are you still not afraid of me?β I chuckled. βI just found my fiancΓ©e cheating on me with my fatherβs wife. YouββI rested my palm on his body the other hand, seem like an honorable person. I'd rather sleep with you than with that cheat or a creepy omega. Besides, you don't seem all that scary.β I held his face, looking into his blue eyes. βA person with a story and many secrets, yes, but not scary.β βYour li-ps are so beautiful, Evelyn,β he said, and I looked up at him. βHow did you know my name?β He chuckled and gestured to my necklace. βYour necklace says it. Am I wrong?β βAh, right. Silly me. And here I thought you were one of those crazy stalkers I have.β βAnd if I was? Would you run away?β βNo,β I whispered, and the stranger kissed me. I returned his kiss with a fervent passsion, and we gnawed at each otherβs li-ps, each trying to outdo the otherβs needs. I moaned as he kissed me. His hands wandered, touching me gently. A flicker of apprehension came to my mind, but I pushed it back, telling myself this was right. This was what I wanted. He struggled to unbutton my blouse while continuing to steal kisses from my li-ps. I sighed in pleasure when, moments later, his touch landed on my body and he latched hungrily at it. βOh, the goddess,β I moaned as I wrapped my hands around his head. I felt the heat in my pusssy. βTo the moon goddess,β he said, βyou have the most gorgeous body and eyes I have ever seen.β He approached and wrapped his hands around my waist. He picked me up bridal style and carried me to the bed. There, he laid me on the mattress and kissed me again. With his tongue, he languidly strolled down my body to my mound, then inserted a finger. βSo tight,β he growled. I moaned and squirmed under his touch, parting my legs further. He moaned in approval and then shifted, placing himself at my entrance. I flinched in fear when I saw the size of him. He noticed my apprehension and he stopped. βAre you all right?β he asked. βDo you want me to stop?β I shook my head. βNo. Itβs just that it's my first time.β He chuckled and patted my hair. βIβll be gentle,β he said and kissed me pass-ionately. My body soon became receptive, and he got into me slowly. I squirmed as he filled me, the sensation painful at first. He sighed in pleasure. βSo tight. So wet,β he whispered, then kissed my forehead and drove his full length into me. I grabbed him and cried out. βShh. Shh. It's alright. Itβll feel good in a minute,β he said and started moving inside me. Slowly, my body adjusted to his size, and I loosened my grip on his shoulders. As I relaxed around him, he could feel my calmness and he increased his pace. His growls and my moans filled the room, the both of us reaching the peak of ecstasy in unison. βI need to take a shower,β I said after the climax subsided. He nodded and lifted me, taking me to the bathroom where he washed me. As he kissed me deeply with the water pouring over our bodies, mating tension rose between us againβ¦ I woke early the next morning, feeling sore all over from the previous nightβs activities. The handsome stranger with whom I enjoyed those activities was still asleep. So I rose from the bed and went for my bag, leaving behind an envelope that contained a check. Then I got dressed and tiptoed out of the room, closing the door quietly behind me. Chapter 5 I stirred in my sleep, my body sore from the business of last night. Suddenly my eyes shot open, when I heard my bedroom door open, and in walked Quinn. I glared at her and shut my eyes. βSign of bad luck. I open my eyes and I see the adulterous stepmother of mine.β I said sarcastically. Quinn glared at me and she opened my curtain window. βYou should get up. It's time for breakfast.β I peered at her. βYou never care if I eat or not. Is this your guilty consciousness getting to you?β Quinn studied me, and I squirmed uncomfortably under her intense gaze. βDid you have se-x last night?β Quinn asked. I shot her a surprised look. βHmm. Seems like you did.β Quinn said and I looked away. βI have no idea what you are talking about. Get out of my room.β I said and Quinn walked towards me. She didnβt look convinced. βWeβll talk about this later,β she said. βFor now, you have a pack function to attend, so come down for breakfast,β Quinn said and walked out of the bedroom. I stared at my closed door and I wondered why all of a sudden, Quinn was so nice to me. I'd find out at breakfast. I got up to shower with the events of the previous night running through my mind. Wouldnβt it be nice if that was all I had to think about? A short while later, I went to the dining room where Kevin, my stepbrother, was seated at the tablet at Quinnβs right hand. But what caught my attention was Alex. βWhat are you doing here?βI clenched my fists in rage. βDonβt make a scene,β Quinn said. βJust sit and have breakfast quietly.β βI refuse to share a table with this scumbag,β I said. βGet him out of here. Or rather, I wouldnβt want to disturb your happy family, so Iβd rather have my breakfast in my bedroom.β Alex stood and held my hands. βEve, let's talk in private.β Kevinβs gaze shifted from me to Quinn, to Alex. βWhatβs going on here? Is there something that I don't know about?β Kelvin asked. He and Alex had been very good buddies and that's how he and I met. I kept my focus on Alex. βLet go of me. I have nothing to say to you.β Alex simply stared at me. βI asked you not to make a fuss at breakfast,β Quinn said. βWhy can't you obey simple instructions, hmm?β I stared at Quinn in disbelief. βMaybe I would have yesterday when I still respected you. But not after my discovery last night.β Kevin straightened in his chair and addressed me, βI can take anything you do, but I won't accept you insulting my mom, Evelyn. Just sit down if you are asked to.β I shot him a glare. βYou stay out of this,β I said and looked at Quinn. βOr would you like for me to tell your son about your shameful acts?β βShut your trap,β Quinn said, banging her hand on the table. I chuckled at Quinnβs discomfort. She obviously didnβt want her son knowing about her escapade. I pulled out of Alexβs grasp. βI am going to check on my father,β I announced to the room, then turned to the kitchen maid. βI'll have breakfast in my bedroom, Sophia,β I said and turned to walk upstairs. βPrepare yourself,β Quinn called out. βYour engagement is in four days.β I paused and looked back at her. βExcuse me?β I asked, my eyes strained and narrowed. Quinn folded her hands. βYou heard me. Prepare for your engagement ceremony in four days. Bring the omega you slept with last night.β I gaped at her. βWhat do you mean, the omega she slept with?β Kevin asked. βHer fiancΓ©e is standing right in front of her.β He shifted his gaze from his mother to me. βWhat is going on, Eve?β βAlex cheated on me with your mother, and I caught them in the act, so our engagement is off.β Kevin turned to his mom with disbelief etched into his features. βYour mother is a despicable woman,β I added. βOne who sleeps with her stepdaughterβs fiancΓ©e. Thatβs how dirty and disgusting she is. Now, you must understand why I refuse to cower under her authority?β I said, looking Quinn directly in the eye. βEvelyn Carson!β Quinn yelled as she sprang from her chair. βShut up.β βLet's talk about this in private,β Alex implored. βIt can be solved.β I curled my li-p in disgust. βBold of you to assume Iβm still interested in being your wife. You think because I have no wolf and am deemed a worthless omega that I would settle for a man who doesnβt know the line between family and se-xual relationships?β βOh, come on now. Get rid of your pride. Nobody will want to marry someone who already slept with a man,β Alex said. βPfft.β I scoffed. βYou're finally showing your true colors. I wish I'd never been with you. β I turned to Quinn. βAnd about that engagement party. Fine. Set it up. Iβll bring him home that day. Ensure you send out invitations. I'd rather be married quickly to this stranger than marry a cheat.β I nodded toward the kitchen maid. βSophia, breakfast to my bedroom, please,β I said, then left the room. Kevin turned to Quinn and asked, βWhat was she talking about, Mom?β I heard Kelvin say. βShut up, and eat your breakfast,β she said. I know she's planning to get rid of me but I would make sure she's thrown out before she can even achieve her aim. I'll prove to her that the Alpha's blood runs in my veins. Three days passed since I and Quinn had fought over the engagement ceremony. Immediately after their argument, I uploaded a profile on a dating site, expressing my need for a contract husband just for the engagement ceremony. I continuously pressed the refresh button on my computer but had no bites, and I was running out of time. The engagement ceremony was tomorrow. While I was in the bathroom, a notification bell sounded on my computer. I rushed to it to check the message. It was from an anonymous commenter and said, βI have time tomorrow. How much would I be paid? Hit me up.β Chapter 6 The next morning, Sophia knocked on my door. βMadam Evelyn. It's morning. Please wake up.β I turned in my bed, then rose and stretched with a smile. It was my engagement day and Quinn and Alex were in for a surprise. I was almost giddy with the prospect, especially since Iβv done my own investigation and learned that the omega waiter whoβd poisoned me five nights ago had done it under the commands of one of the βhigher upsβ. It turned out that higher up had been Quinn. I smirked in bliss as my mind went back to the message I had received from the anonymous man whoβd agreed to take part in my engagement today. We had agreed on his entrance to the engagement party and how much I would pay him for his appearance, while I figured out the best way to get rid of my adulterous stepmom and treacherous ex-fiancΓ©e. Sophia pulled me from my thoughts, saying, βYour breakfast is served downstairs.β I looked at her. βWhy downstairs? I do not want to have breakfast while seeing their faces. I made sure I made myself clear a few days back.β I said with my eyebrows raised. βI apologize,β said Sophia, bowing her head. βThe madam wanted you to have breakfast with the family downstairs.β I rubbed my temple. βAll right. Iβll join them.β Only because I didnβt want them to ruin this beautiful morning for me. βJust run my bath for me.β Sophia nodded and headed to the bathroom. Thirty minutes later, I walked down the stairs confidently, even with the long scar running across my face.. Alex stared, looking pained, as I walked into the room. Too bad youβre not marrying me, huh, as-shole? He stabbed at his sausages, likely angry at himself for ruining his plan to inherit the Carson fortune, using me, was now thwarted badly. Quinn noticed Alexβs face and she cleared her throat βWelcome to the table, Eve,β she said to me. I looked at her, said nothing and sat down beside my step brother. βCongratulations on your engagement party, Sis,β said Kevin, handing me a small box. I nodded curtly and took the box from him. I opened it and saw a small bracelet. βThank you,β I said and went back to eating. Silence permeated the breakfast table. Afterward, Alex left the room, looking like he was going to go brood. Quinn seemed excited about the prospect of marrying me off, probably figuring she could finally have Alex, Carson, and the house to herself. She was in for a serious surprise. I had plans to make their lives miserable for making a fool of me. Kevin was the only one who seemed neutral. As the preparations for the engagement party began in earnest, I left to go upstairs and battle with my hair, clothes, and makeup. A short while later, after my hair had been arranged with pins and diamond hair accessories, I heard a soft knock on my bedroom door. βCan I come in?β I heard Kelvin ask. βYeah sure.β I said and he walked in. His face held surprise when he saw me, then gulped and looked away. I looked extremely attractive today, so he was probably wondering if they had all looked down on me because I was always dressed plainly. βI donβt have all day, Kevin,β I said as he continued to stand there mute. βSo spill it.β He sighed. βI'm sorry about what my mom did to you, and I know it's shameless of me to ask, but can you please let it go? If the elders find out this party isn't an engagement ceremony for you and Alex, and it's because he cheated on you with my mom, my mom will lose her dignity and respect as a woman in our pack.β βI have no plans to tell the elders why Alex and I arenβt getting married, and you shouldnβt be begging for forgiveness on your momβs behalf. If she needed it, she would have asked for it herself. Now, is that all you wanted? And why are you suddenly so humble and calm toward me when youβre normally so cold and arrogant?β Kevin shrugged, then turned to the room, glancing back once before he walked out. My attendants went back to preparing me for the party. After a couple of more hours, I was ready, but filled with nerves because my arranged partner hadnβt yet arrived. Quinn texted me, βYou should come down with that omega now. The partyβs about to begin.β I bit my fingers in fright. But then my phone pinged with a text message from my anonymous partner. βIβm here,β it said. I let out a sigh of relief. With renewed confidence, I strutted out of my room and down to the party pavilion. I texted him to walk into the compound and go to the pavilion, then raced to meet him. When I arrived at the entrance, Quinn and Alex were already there. Only that the stranger who exited the car wasnβt a complete stranger. He approached me. βHello, my love,β he said, then locked kiss on my li-ps. I was shocked, though my body remained rigid as my brain tried to figure out what was happening. When our li-ps separated, he said, βAre you happy to see me?β He smiled and leaned in toward my ear. βWasnβt very nice of you to leave the other night, and without even bothering to ask my name, too. It's Kian, by the way, Kian Sylvester,β he whispered. βHow did you find me?β I whispered back. βCoincidence, or maybe youβd call it fate, my beautiful. But before we continue our banter, won't you introduce me to your family?β I straightened myself. βOf course,β I said, still trying to absorb the fact that my paid partner for the day was the man I had spent my very first night with. I turned and took in my stepmotherβs expression. The look of shock there in her face satisfied me. I smiled. Anybody could see Kian wasn't just a random omega. Even though I knew little about him, I could feel his powerful aura. I shifted my gaze from Quinn to encompass everyone there. βElders, Mother, Brother, this is Kian Sylvester, the man Iβm set to marry,β I announced with a small smile. βWhat is the meaning of this?β Quinn asked. βWho is this good-for-nothing man you have brought home to marry?β Silence descended on the crowd. βDo not say another insulting word toward my woman,β Kian said in an authoritative voice. βDo you hear me?β He scoffed. βYou call me a nobody? Well, ask Alex here who I am.β He turned to Alex. βWonβt you tell them, Brother?β he asked with a smile. Wait, I don't remember Alex having a brother. Did he??? Alex folded his hands into fists. βWhat are you doing here?β he asked through clenched teeth. βI thought that was clearβ¦ Iβm here to ask for my womanβs hand in marriage.β He smirked mischievously. βOh, Iβm sorry. Did you think I wouldnβt amount to anything after Father kicked me out?β Alex glared at him. βGo back to wherever youβve been hiding all these years before I tear your fcking face off.β βYou will not address our Alpha in such a manner, you scumbag.β Kianβs aide inserted himself between Kian and Alex. He turned to face the now murmuring crowd. I stood transfixed. He was an alpha? And Alexβs brother? Oh, the moon goddess! βThis is Alpha Kian Sylvester of the Blood Moon Pack, the strongest pack on this continent. Pay your respects properly.β Kianβs aide addressed the crowd. | Start Reading | 1 | https://facebook.com/61558999080853 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1714719600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879789 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410725 | 1723321827 | 995 | 328628403299992 | 1 | 6.7053029729062E+15 | 1714806000 | person_profile | taken-down | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 321330554388277 | 0 | Start Reading | 120207810472520056 | befant.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | β€οΈπWhat happens nextπClick Here to read onπ | https://befant.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=11192&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1714573086 | 3.2133055438828E+14 | Start Reading | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441206868_1116532276285473_1322182524522961747_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=dVdBCJR8m9IQ7kNvgGxBIHN&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYB7kMrKVOgJ8YW8xzKGRsgCufQFrP2OVnCXBDScENWSEw&oe=6672BD09 | person_profile | 0 | Start Reading | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440418966_448917680872294_3438075365541597509_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=A81_9g5fi4IQ7kNvgGjLewp&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCte60qkl7CLEFTwKWYv-5UrqhAQ7J86fd-7fhXEnOTxA&oe=6672950C | 0 | 3 | Evelynβs POV I sat at the bar, downing drinks and trying to forget about my problems. βPour me another, please,β I said to the bartender. As the omega refilled my glass, I looked at my phone and sighed for the umpteenth time. Still no word from my boyfriend, Alex, and no news from my fatherβs doctor either. Just as Iβd prayed the moon goddess would spare my mother and bring her back to me, I now prayed for my fatherβs life. Out of the blue, heβd slipped into a coma, and a month later, the doctors still had no answers. Meanwhile, I lost hope and my heart broke more with each passing day. The pack wasnβt faring well without their alpha, either. They needed a leader, and as my fatherβs only legitimate child, I would become the next alpha of my pack if he didnβt make it. I sighed again as I wondered if the pack would be better off with my stepbrother Kevin in the role. He was a male with a powerful wolf. Conversely, I was a female with no wolf. If that werenβt bad enough, an ug-ly scar that ran from my cheek to my ear marred my face so prominently that others stared constantly. Even patrons in the bar stared, though I did my best to ignore them. I took a swig, downing the last of my drink. βAnother,β I said to the bartender. βMiss, youβve had quite a lot already. Maybe itβs best to stop and go home for now?β the bartender, an obvious omega said. I looked at her and rolled my eyes. βI donβt want to go home. I want to drink until I forget about life. So give me another, please.β As the bartender hesitated, a waiter approached. βI have the perfect drink for you,β said the omega. βA new brand of whiskey, and itβs strong. Itβll take the edge off and make you forget. I can promise you that.β βIβll take it,β I slurred. The omega waiter nodded. βVery well. Iβll be back in a jiffy.β Once he left, I focused on my phone once again. Still nothing from Alex or my fatherβs doctor. A minute later, the omega waiter approached with an open bottle. βHere you go. Thisβll help you forget all your worries and cares. Dare I say, youβll be in ecstasy for at least forty-eight hours.β βYouβd do well, as a brand ambassador,β I said with a chuckle. βAll right. Let me sample its glories.β The waiter nodded and poured a substantial amount into my tumbler. I tipped the glass back, gulped its contents in a single swig, then slammed the tumbler back onto the bar. I addressed the bartender as I grabbed my bag to retrieve my wallet. βTab, please.β It was time for me to get going. I needed to see my father. The bartender acknowledged my request, then walked to the register. Before the bartender got there, my image wavered. I rubbed my suddenly blurry eyes. βWhat the heck?β I mumbled as I stood. I almost ended up on the barroom floor, barely able to catch myself in time. I gripped the edge of the bar, working to stay upright. The omega waiter rushed to me, grabbing me by the waist to help me. βPrincess, are you okay?β I gently extracted myself from him. βYeah. Fine,β I said, then put a hand to my forehead. Too hot, and my stomach was queasy too. That thought barely registered before blackness engulfed me. Sometime later, I sighed, then opened my eyes. My face twisted in confusion. βThis is not my house. It looked more like a hotel room. What was I doing here? And how did I get here?β I muttered to myself, rubbing my blurry eyes. Before I could think long enough to answer either of those questions, giggling came from the room next door. Then a familiar female voice said, βOh, Alex. Do you know how long Iβve waited for you to touch me?β I covered my mouth to hold back a gasp. Iβd know that voice anywhere. It was my stepmother, Quinn. But what βAlexβ was she talking to? It couldnβt be my Alex. That couldnβt be possible. Even the idea of that was outrageous. Yet, I didnβt know any other Alex, and I didnβt think Quinn did either. Still, there had to be some reasonable explanation. My legs felt like jelly, so I used the roomβs furniture and walls for balance as I staggered to the hotel room door. I opened it and, with blurry vision, looked around. When I didnβt see anyone, I walked to the next door. Quinnβs voice came from the other side. βYouβre not truly going to marry that scarred wench, are you? I mean, she doesnβt even have a wolf. Meanwhile, you could easily have all of this with me.β βTrue,β said a male voiceβAlexβs voice. My Alex! What the hel? How could he? βBut sheβs the heiress,β he said, continuing. βAnd I can always come to your room at night whenever I get bored with her.β Quinn chuckled, and I could barely believe what I was hearing. So it was all about me being the daughter of their alpha. Alex was with me just to get his hands on my fatherβs properties and wealth. βPlease,β Quinn said flippantly. βShe might be Alphaβs daughter, but with that scarred face of hers and no wolf, sheβs no better than a rogue omega. Itβll be my son, Kevin, who ends up with everything, not that weak girl. Besides, youβre too handsome to have such a disgusting wife.β I folded my fists in anger. How evil could Quinn be? And Alexβcould he be more of an ingrate? Still, I couldnβt help but press my ear to the door to hear more. βYou say that like itβs a certainty,β Alex said. βJust remember that, unless I marry Evelyn, Kevin gets nothing.β So they had a plan. Alex intended to marry me to secure the properties and the seat of the pack. Then it seemed he, along with Quinn, intended to ensure everything would somehow be transferred to Quinnβs son, Kevin. Theyβd plotted against me! I had to pick my gaping mouth up off the floor. βBut enough with all that for now,β said Alex. βI want a taste of that fleshy hole of yours.β βOnly if you tell me I can steal you away from that silly girl. She doesnβt deserve you. Youβre too good for her.β Alex laughed. βOf course. Once everythingβs in place, you can do whatever you want with her. In the meantime, you can still have me, especially once me and Evelyn are married, and all of us are living in the same house.β βNo worries about access,β Quinn said with a giggle. βThatβs right,β Alex said. βAnd Iβm looking forward to having constant access to this beautiful succulent body of yours, too.β I couldnβt take any more. I barged into the hotel room, allowing the back of the door to slam against the wall. βHow dare you!β I thundered. Chapter 2 I stare from Quinnβs nonchalant face to Alexβs petrified face. βYou ungrateful slime!β I yelled. I reached for the vase on the roomβs front table and flung it at Alexβs head. He ducked, and the vase hit the wall behind him, shattering. That I missed made me even angrier. Quinn wore a smug smirk as I staggered a few steps into the room. I shook my head. It didnβt feel right. It felt like something more than a hangover, like Iβd been poisoned. Still, I wanted to pounce on these two traitors, so I pressed on, getting dizzier by the step. Quinnβs smirk grew evil as she saw me struggle to keep consciousness. She looked like a villain whose plan was falling into place perfectly. I saw it, the mischievous look in her eyes. It seemed like it had been her plan for Me to get poisoned, and be brought here, so I could find her and Alex in Bed. βWhat can you do about it?β She asked Me and I scoffed, unable to believe the amount of shamelessness I was seeing in Quinn. Then ignored her, turning my attention to Alex. βI fcking trusted you!β I screamed. βHow could you do this? And with my stepmother? Whatβs wrong with you?β βOh, stop being such a drama queen,β Alex said. βWhat if I have an interest in older women? That doesnβt mean I don't love you.β βThatβs my fuking stepmother, Alex! My dadβs wife! This is the height of immorality,β I said, shaking my head. βI can't believe you! Really!β I yelled again. βEve, dear,β Quinn said, βyou need to stop yelling. You donβt seem well.β I glared at her and clenched my fists, wanting to pummel the two of them until they couldnβt feel anything but pain. Instead, I said, βDonβt pretend to care about me. You think I donβt know how much you hate me? Goddess knows, you donβt hesitate to show it. So stop pretending like you really care what happens to me. For all I know, you planned this whole thing so I could see you both, have a heart attack, and die.β Quinn gasped and laughed mockingly. βI am not that creative, Evelyn. Besides, why would I want you to know Alex and I fell in love?β I stared at her in disbelief. βIn love? You conniving snake. It's only been a month since Father slipped into a coma, and youβre claiming to be in love? With my boyfriend?β Alex came over and rubbed my arms. βNow, calm down.β I kept my focus on Quinn as I got away from Alex. βHow shameless can you be? Is your love that fickle? Does it change that fast?β βCome on,β Alex said, drawing my eyes. βIt's no big thing. Hey, maybe you could even join us. What do you think?β I glared at him. βJoinβ¦?β I landed a loud slap on his face. βYou filthy pig. Youβre worse than a rogue. And you donβt think thereβs anything immoral about what youβre suggesting? About what youβre doing? Sleeping with my stepmotherβ¦ your future mother-in-law?β Alexβs face contorted into a frown. βOh, stop being such a goody two shoes.β Alex grabbed my elbows. I pulled away from him. βDonβt touch me! To think I wanted to be your wife. Ever since the day I met you, I wanted that, too. How silly of me. I should have heeded the warnings about you.β βDonβt be disrespectful, Eve,β Quinn said. βIβm still your fatherβs wife and head of this pack. And I will not tolerate it.β βLeader of the pack? Is that so? You havenβt even done anything to find out why my father, your husband, ended up in a coma. Pfft. Youβre a terrible excuse for a leaderβ¦ and a mother.β βExcuse me?β Quinn rose from the bed and approached with her eyes narrowed. βAre you undermining me?β I shook my head. βSimply stating the bitter truth. Ever since you came into my fatherβs house, thereβs been nothing but pain and discomfort. I wish it was you instead of my dad in that coma.β Quinn slapped me hard across the face. βThatβs for your insolence.β She slapped me again just as hard. βThatβs for hitting Alex.β She slapped me once more. βAnd thatβs for wishing me dead.β Alex grabbed her hand. βQuinn, please. Thatβs enough.β Quinn glared at him. βThis young lady is a spoiled brat. She needs to be taught a lesson.β She turned back to me. βIβm in charge of this pack and also your legal guardian, and Iβve had it up to my guts with your tantrums.β I stared at her in disbelief. βWake the fvck up, Eve,β Quinn yelled. βI make the rules now, and you will do as I say. Do you hear me, you worthless omega?β I wished I had a wolf so I could shift and have it out with this crazy bit-ch. But maybe not having a wolf was what allowed me to remain calm, despite the fact that Iβd never been hit in the face before. Either way, I kept my cool while I stared into my adulterous stepmotherβs eyes. Eventually, I shook her head and said, βYou disgust me,β then turned and left the room. As the door closed behind me, tears came to my eyes. What a betrayal. As if it werenβt bad enough that Alex cheated on me, he chose to do it with my stepmother. Why? Why me, of all people? I aimlessly headed back to the room I came from, still staggering to get my things. I opened the door and then stopped, wondering why she was bothering to go back there. Everything was a blur, and I wasnβt sure if it was because of my welling eyes or the pill Iβd obviously been given. But then I felt a presence behind me. Chapter 3 βWho are you?β I asked, as I tried to shake off the wave of discomfort and dizziness that had suddenly hit me. I wiped my eyes. βYou!β I exclaimed, looking at the omega waiter from the bar. βWhat are you doing here?β Nerves crept up my spine as I stared at the man who had given me the drinkβthe drink that had obviously been dru-gged. βOh, come on Princess.β He stepped forward, forcing me to go back up into the room. βYou know why Iβm here,β he said with a wicked grin. βAnd your body wants it. I know it does.β I wanted to puke, βPlease let me go home. I need to go home to my dad.β βIβll let you go homeββhe started to unclasp his beltββas soon as you give me what I want.β I backed up another step. βIt will be over soon, Princess. I promise.β βWhy?β I asked, still seeing him through blurry eyes and wondering if there was any way I could escape him. He gave me a perverted smile, then wagged his brows. βWell, your body is a nice prize on its own, but there are better reasons.β I didnβt need him to tell me those reasons. If he took my first time, I'd be forced to marry him, which would damage my reputation and leave utterly no chance of becoming an Alpha heir. I couldnβt bear the thought of sleep with him, let alone marrying him. I had to find a way out. But the blurry vision was making me dizzy. All I thought to do was plead. βI need to get home immediately,β I said as authoritatively as I could in my current condition. βIt's late.β The omega smirked. βYou know I canβt let you leave, Princess. Not without a taste of the forbidden fruit.β He approached. As soon as he got within range, I slapped him hard with all the strength I could find. His face twisted in rage. βThis isn't the fuking palace.β He hit me back so hard that he knocked me onto the bed. βThis is my turf. I do as I wish.β Alex POV βWe need to get Eve,β I said. βShe didnβt look too good.β Quinn stared at me in disgust. βAre you really worrying about her right now?β I looked at my phone, biting my finger as I saw all of Eveβs messages for the first time. And now, she wasnβt responding to me. What if she went off and slept with some other guy? I turned to Quinn. βIβm just worried. She didnβt look well. She seemed off, like she was sick or something.β Quinn rose from the bed and sauntered to a table in the corner, where she picked up a bottle of booze and poured a glass. With the glass in hand, she strutted seductively back to me. βHere. Drink this. It would help calm you.β I accepted the drink and took a gulp, then walked to the window. Quinn approached from behind and wrapped her arms around my bare waist. βI fear she isn't okay,β I said. Quinn sighed in irritation. βShe was drunk. Thatβs how she is these days. She gets drunk, and I don't even know her whereabouts. She probably goes out sleeping around. Maybe sheβs out sleeping with some omega right now,β she said with mischief in her voice. I spun around, squinting at her. βWait a second. Did youβ¦? Was this your idea, when you said I should be your sneaky link? You know I can't afford to lose Eve.β Quinn sighed. βWas what my idea? To get her drunk and have her brought to our hotel? Pfft. Donβt accuse me of such outrageous things. Yes, I wanted her to find out about us, but I didnβt do that.β I ran my hands through my hair, unsure whether I should believe her. βAnd why are you so worried about her sleeping around?β Quinn asked. βWhy should you care what she does?β βFuk,β I whispered. I always knew this play-boy attitude of mine would get me into a ton of trouble one day, but I never expected it to be with a girl I actually cared about. Yes, I was using her for her inheritance, but that didnβt mean I had no feelings for her. βListen,β Quinn said. βIβm sure you feel like sheβll betray you because you betrayed her. But do you really think sheβll risk it, knowing sheβll have to marry anyone she sleeps with? Not only that, in her position, Eve would lose her dignity in the community, too. Sheβd end up begging you to take her back.β βAre you sure about that?β Quinn took the glass from me and kissed me slowly. Once she drew her li-ps away from mine, she peered at me. βIβm here to help you,β she said. βSo even if she doesnβt beg for you, I can always ensure you end up owning some Carson family properties. Iβm married to Alpha Carson after all.β She bit her li-ps seductively. βSo be a good boy and come undress me.β Something pricked in the back of my mind, a warning I couldnβt put into words. But it was something that told me to resist her, that I couldnβt trust her. But I wanted her, so I put a lid on that warning, and a few minutes later, my tongue grazed her vagi-na. Chapter 4 Evelyn POV I struggled to keep my head straight, as I fought for consciousness. I heard footsteps and I knew that the weird omega was back. I staggered up, reaching for a weapon. My hand found the neck of an empty wine bottle. I swung it in an arc and hit him across the head. He went down with a thud, and I ran out of the room and directly into a man. βI'm sorry,β I mumbled as I tried to scoot past him. βMiss, are you alright?β he asked. I turned and saw the omega coming after me. βHelp me,β I said, with panicked eyes and a voice filled with urgency. The stranger saw the omega, grabbed my wrist, then dragged me into his room. In one smooth motion, he slammed the door shut, locked it, then spun me into his che-st With fear of the omega still overwhelming me, I buried my face in his arms and whimpered weakly, latching onto his trousers to steady myself. βHeβs gone,β said the stranger. I raised my head from his bare front body and peered at him. Despite my blurry vision, I could tell he was handsome. βWhatβs your name?β I whispered. He chuckled, then backed away and walked to his table. βSuppose I told you, would you remember? You seem a little drunk.β I shook my head. βI was poisoned. And there's still quite some amount in my system. But Iβll try to remember. Please, whatβs your name?β βMy name isn't important. You look exhausted. I need to get you home.β I chuckled. βIβd feel safer staying hereβ¦ with you.β He walked toward me. βI am a wolf in heat. You know what that means.β It meant he wanted a woman se-xually. Any woman. βI can do just the same that omega could do to you. Are you still not afraid of me?β I chuckled. βI just found my fiancΓ©e cheating on me with my fatherβs wife. YouββI rested my palm on his body the other hand, seem like an honorable person. I'd rather sleep with you than with that cheat or a creepy omega. Besides, you don't seem all that scary.β I held his face, looking into his blue eyes. βA person with a story and many secrets, yes, but not scary.β βYour li-ps are so beautiful, Evelyn,β he said, and I looked up at him. βHow did you know my name?β He chuckled and gestured to my necklace. βYour necklace says it. Am I wrong?β βAh, right. Silly me. And here I thought you were one of those crazy stalkers I have.β βAnd if I was? Would you run away?β βNo,β I whispered, and the stranger kissed me. I returned his kiss with a fervent passsion, and we gnawed at each otherβs li-ps, each trying to outdo the otherβs needs. I moaned as he kissed me. His hands wandered, touching me gently. A flicker of apprehension came to my mind, but I pushed it back, telling myself this was right. This was what I wanted. He struggled to unbutton my blouse while continuing to steal kisses from my li-ps. I sighed in pleasure when, moments later, his touch landed on my body and he latched hungrily at it. βOh, the goddess,β I moaned as I wrapped my hands around his head. I felt the heat in my pusssy. βTo the moon goddess,β he said, βyou have the most gorgeous body and eyes I have ever seen.β He approached and wrapped his hands around my waist. He picked me up bridal style and carried me to the bed. There, he laid me on the mattress and kissed me again. With his tongue, he languidly strolled down my body to my mound, then inserted a finger. βSo tight,β he growled. I moaned and squirmed under his touch, parting my legs further. He moaned in approval and then shifted, placing himself at my entrance. I flinched in fear when I saw the size of him. He noticed my apprehension and he stopped. βAre you all right?β he asked. βDo you want me to stop?β I shook my head. βNo. Itβs just that it's my first time.β He chuckled and patted my hair. βIβll be gentle,β he said and kissed me pass-ionately. My body soon became receptive, and he got into me slowly. I squirmed as he filled me, the sensation painful at first. He sighed in pleasure. βSo tight. So wet,β he whispered, then kissed my forehead and drove his full length into me. I grabbed him and cried out. βShh. Shh. It's alright. Itβll feel good in a minute,β he said and started moving inside me. Slowly, my body adjusted to his size, and I loosened my grip on his shoulders. As I relaxed around him, he could feel my calmness and he increased his pace. His growls and my moans filled the room, the both of us reaching the peak of ecstasy in unison. βI need to take a shower,β I said after the climax subsided. He nodded and lifted me, taking me to the bathroom where he washed me. As he kissed me deeply with the water pouring over our bodies, mating tension rose between us againβ¦ I woke early the next morning, feeling sore all over from the previous nightβs activities. The handsome stranger with whom I enjoyed those activities was still asleep. So I rose from the bed and went for my bag, leaving behind an envelope that contained a check. Then I got dressed and tiptoed out of the room, closing the door quietly behind me. Chapter 5 I stirred in my sleep, my body sore from the business of last night. Suddenly my eyes shot open, when I heard my bedroom door open, and in walked Quinn. I glared at her and shut my eyes. βSign of bad luck. I open my eyes and I see the adulterous stepmother of mine.β I said sarcastically. Quinn glared at me and she opened my curtain window. βYou should get up. It's time for breakfast.β I peered at her. βYou never care if I eat or not. Is this your guilty consciousness getting to you?β Quinn studied me, and I squirmed uncomfortably under her intense gaze. βDid you have se-x last night?β Quinn asked. I shot her a surprised look. βHmm. Seems like you did.β Quinn said and I looked away. βI have no idea what you are talking about. Get out of my room.β I said and Quinn walked towards me. She didnβt look convinced. βWeβll talk about this later,β she said. βFor now, you have a pack function to attend, so come down for breakfast,β Quinn said and walked out of the bedroom. I stared at my closed door and I wondered why all of a sudden, Quinn was so nice to me. I'd find out at breakfast. I got up to shower with the events of the previous night running through my mind. Wouldnβt it be nice if that was all I had to think about? A short while later, I went to the dining room where Kevin, my stepbrother, was seated at the tablet at Quinnβs right hand. But what caught my attention was Alex. βWhat are you doing here?βI clenched my fists in rage. βDonβt make a scene,β Quinn said. βJust sit and have breakfast quietly.β βI refuse to share a table with this scumbag,β I said. βGet him out of here. Or rather, I wouldnβt want to disturb your happy family, so Iβd rather have my breakfast in my bedroom.β Alex stood and held my hands. βEve, let's talk in private.β Kevinβs gaze shifted from me to Quinn, to Alex. βWhatβs going on here? Is there something that I don't know about?β Kelvin asked. He and Alex had been very good buddies and that's how he and I met. I kept my focus on Alex. βLet go of me. I have nothing to say to you.β Alex simply stared at me. βI asked you not to make a fuss at breakfast,β Quinn said. βWhy can't you obey simple instructions, hmm?β I stared at Quinn in disbelief. βMaybe I would have yesterday when I still respected you. But not after my discovery last night.β Kevin straightened in his chair and addressed me, βI can take anything you do, but I won't accept you insulting my mom, Evelyn. Just sit down if you are asked to.β I shot him a glare. βYou stay out of this,β I said and looked at Quinn. βOr would you like for me to tell your son about your shameful acts?β βShut your trap,β Quinn said, banging her hand on the table. I chuckled at Quinnβs discomfort. She obviously didnβt want her son knowing about her escapade. I pulled out of Alexβs grasp. βI am going to check on my father,β I announced to the room, then turned to the kitchen maid. βI'll have breakfast in my bedroom, Sophia,β I said and turned to walk upstairs. βPrepare yourself,β Quinn called out. βYour engagement is in four days.β I paused and looked back at her. βExcuse me?β I asked, my eyes strained and narrowed. Quinn folded her hands. βYou heard me. Prepare for your engagement ceremony in four days. Bring the omega you slept with last night.β I gaped at her. βWhat do you mean, the omega she slept with?β Kevin asked. βHer fiancΓ©e is standing right in front of her.β He shifted his gaze from his mother to me. βWhat is going on, Eve?β βAlex cheated on me with your mother, and I caught them in the act, so our engagement is off.β Kevin turned to his mom with disbelief etched into his features. βYour mother is a despicable woman,β I added. βOne who sleeps with her stepdaughterβs fiancΓ©e. Thatβs how dirty and disgusting she is. Now, you must understand why I refuse to cower under her authority?β I said, looking Quinn directly in the eye. βEvelyn Carson!β Quinn yelled as she sprang from her chair. βShut up.β βLet's talk about this in private,β Alex implored. βIt can be solved.β I curled my li-p in disgust. βBold of you to assume Iβm still interested in being your wife. You think because I have no wolf and am deemed a worthless omega that I would settle for a man who doesnβt know the line between family and se-xual relationships?β βOh, come on now. Get rid of your pride. Nobody will want to marry someone who already slept with a man,β Alex said. βPfft.β I scoffed. βYou're finally showing your true colors. I wish I'd never been with you. β I turned to Quinn. βAnd about that engagement party. Fine. Set it up. Iβll bring him home that day. Ensure you send out invitations. I'd rather be married quickly to this stranger than marry a cheat.β I nodded toward the kitchen maid. βSophia, breakfast to my bedroom, please,β I said, then left the room. Kevin turned to Quinn and asked, βWhat was she talking about, Mom?β I heard Kelvin say. βShut up, and eat your breakfast,β she said. I know she's planning to get rid of me but I would make sure she's thrown out before she can even achieve her aim. I'll prove to her that the Alpha's blood runs in my veins. Three days passed since I and Quinn had fought over the engagement ceremony. Immediately after their argument, I uploaded a profile on a dating site, expressing my need for a contract husband just for the engagement ceremony. I continuously pressed the refresh button on my computer but had no bites, and I was running out of time. The engagement ceremony was tomorrow. While I was in the bathroom, a notification bell sounded on my computer. I rushed to it to check the message. It was from an anonymous commenter and said, βI have time tomorrow. How much would I be paid? Hit me up.β Chapter 6 The next morning, Sophia knocked on my door. βMadam Evelyn. It's morning. Please wake up.β I turned in my bed, then rose and stretched with a smile. It was my engagement day and Quinn and Alex were in for a surprise. I was almost giddy with the prospect, especially since Iβv done my own investigation and learned that the omega waiter whoβd poisoned me five nights ago had done it under the commands of one of the βhigher upsβ. It turned out that higher up had been Quinn. I smirked in bliss as my mind went back to the message I had received from the anonymous man whoβd agreed to take part in my engagement today. We had agreed on his entrance to the engagement party and how much I would pay him for his appearance, while I figured out the best way to get rid of my adulterous stepmom and treacherous ex-fiancΓ©e. Sophia pulled me from my thoughts, saying, βYour breakfast is served downstairs.β I looked at her. βWhy downstairs? I do not want to have breakfast while seeing their faces. I made sure I made myself clear a few days back.β I said with my eyebrows raised. βI apologize,β said Sophia, bowing her head. βThe madam wanted you to have breakfast with the family downstairs.β I rubbed my temple. βAll right. Iβll join them.β Only because I didnβt want them to ruin this beautiful morning for me. βJust run my bath for me.β Sophia nodded and headed to the bathroom. Thirty minutes later, I walked down the stairs confidently, even with the long scar running across my face.. Alex stared, looking pained, as I walked into the room. Too bad youβre not marrying me, huh, as-shole? He stabbed at his sausages, likely angry at himself for ruining his plan to inherit the Carson fortune, using me, was now thwarted badly. Quinn noticed Alexβs face and she cleared her throat βWelcome to the table, Eve,β she said to me. I looked at her, said nothing and sat down beside my step brother. βCongratulations on your engagement party, Sis,β said Kevin, handing me a small box. I nodded curtly and took the box from him. I opened it and saw a small bracelet. βThank you,β I said and went back to eating. Silence permeated the breakfast table. Afterward, Alex left the room, looking like he was going to go brood. Quinn seemed excited about the prospect of marrying me off, probably figuring she could finally have Alex, Carson, and the house to herself. She was in for a serious surprise. I had plans to make their lives miserable for making a fool of me. Kevin was the only one who seemed neutral. As the preparations for the engagement party began in earnest, I left to go upstairs and battle with my hair, clothes, and makeup. A short while later, after my hair had been arranged with pins and diamond hair accessories, I heard a soft knock on my bedroom door. βCan I come in?β I heard Kelvin ask. βYeah sure.β I said and he walked in. His face held surprise when he saw me, then gulped and looked away. I looked extremely attractive today, so he was probably wondering if they had all looked down on me because I was always dressed plainly. βI donβt have all day, Kevin,β I said as he continued to stand there mute. βSo spill it.β He sighed. βI'm sorry about what my mom did to you, and I know it's shameless of me to ask, but can you please let it go? If the elders find out this party isn't an engagement ceremony for you and Alex, and it's because he cheated on you with my mom, my mom will lose her dignity and respect as a woman in our pack.β βI have no plans to tell the elders why Alex and I arenβt getting married, and you shouldnβt be begging for forgiveness on your momβs behalf. If she needed it, she would have asked for it herself. Now, is that all you wanted? And why are you suddenly so humble and calm toward me when youβre normally so cold and arrogant?β Kevin shrugged, then turned to the room, glancing back once before he walked out. My attendants went back to preparing me for the party. After a couple of more hours, I was ready, but filled with nerves because my arranged partner hadnβt yet arrived. Quinn texted me, βYou should come down with that omega now. The partyβs about to begin.β I bit my fingers in fright. But then my phone pinged with a text message from my anonymous partner. βIβm here,β it said. I let out a sigh of relief. With renewed confidence, I strutted out of my room and down to the party pavilion. I texted him to walk into the compound and go to the pavilion, then raced to meet him. When I arrived at the entrance, Quinn and Alex were already there. Only that the stranger who exited the car wasnβt a complete stranger. He approached me. βHello, my love,β he said, then locked kiss on my li-ps. I was shocked, though my body remained rigid as my brain tried to figure out what was happening. When our li-ps separated, he said, βAre you happy to see me?β He smiled and leaned in toward my ear. βWasnβt very nice of you to leave the other night, and without even bothering to ask my name, too. It's Kian, by the way, Kian Sylvester,β he whispered. βHow did you find me?β I whispered back. βCoincidence, or maybe youβd call it fate, my beautiful. But before we continue our banter, won't you introduce me to your family?β I straightened myself. βOf course,β I said, still trying to absorb the fact that my paid partner for the day was the man I had spent my very first night with. I turned and took in my stepmotherβs expression. The look of shock there in her face satisfied me. I smiled. Anybody could see Kian wasn't just a random omega. Even though I knew little about him, I could feel his powerful aura. I shifted my gaze from Quinn to encompass everyone there. βElders, Mother, Brother, this is Kian Sylvester, the man Iβm set to marry,β I announced with a small smile. βWhat is the meaning of this?β Quinn asked. βWho is this good-for-nothing man you have brought home to marry?β Silence descended on the crowd. βDo not say another insulting word toward my woman,β Kian said in an authoritative voice. βDo you hear me?β He scoffed. βYou call me a nobody? Well, ask Alex here who I am.β He turned to Alex. βWonβt you tell them, Brother?β he asked with a smile. Wait, I don't remember Alex having a brother. Did he??? Alex folded his hands into fists. βWhat are you doing here?β he asked through clenched teeth. βI thought that was clearβ¦ Iβm here to ask for my womanβs hand in marriage.β He smirked mischievously. βOh, Iβm sorry. Did you think I wouldnβt amount to anything after Father kicked me out?β Alex glared at him. βGo back to wherever youβve been hiding all these years before I tear your fcking face off.β βYou will not address our Alpha in such a manner, you scumbag.β Kianβs aide inserted himself between Kian and Alex. He turned to face the now murmuring crowd. I stood transfixed. He was an alpha? And Alexβs brother? Oh, the moon goddess! βThis is Alpha Kian Sylvester of the Blood Moon Pack, the strongest pack on this continent. Pay your respects properly.β Kianβs aide addressed the crowd. | Start Reading | 1 | https://facebook.com/61558999080853 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1714719600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879790 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410725 | 1723321827 | 995 | 419884320825184 | 2 | 9.8322917290411E+14 | 1715324400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120211247750980002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πRead the next chaptersπ | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715251588 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440431022_1166780181174166_1449615004424045769_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ssYQnuZpPYsQ7kNvgHmcUYx&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAg6nk4ek0-cO74Ybsi34gZWKZw6eyhjXVEj-KenavL2A&oe=66729FB7 | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440326607_1101917951061451_218003203580443970_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ewmwJlub1ogQ7kNvgEC4W2l&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBKcXMw_stFOfJ438cFwPQrBayK6hvpbrS8lhLYoQFaOw&oe=66729FB6 | 0 | 3 | Felix White was my childhood sweetheart. From the moment we were born, the elders in our families had us engaged to one another. I liked him a lot and he treated me well. I had thought he'd be happy to marry me. But I was wrong... At a gathering, there was another lively discussion about my future marriage to Felix. Aunt Mel, Felix's mother exclaimed. "How time flies! A couple more years, Lulu'll be my daughter-in-law!" I felt sweet inside and stole a glance at Felix, but he didn't look happy. "You're right! Maybe when they graduate, we'll have our grandchildren." Mom chimed in. "Mom...Aunt Mel...I'm only 18." I protested. Talking about the child made me feel embarrassed. As usual, my little protest didn't work. They were still talking feverishly. I didn't want to waste my breath, but Felix suddenly stood up. Fury was written all over his face, and his lanky figure was trembling slightly. He glared at me and spat, "It's all your fault. Stop shamelessly following me everywhere!" In that instant, the room turned dead silent. I could feel the blood rush to my head, making my face flush and my ears ring. Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? I don't like her!" He yelled. Everyone's gaze was on me, and I could feel my heart throbbing in pain. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. Dad clenched his fists and Mom also looked angry. Seeing that, Uncle Austin, Felix's father shouted at Felix, "Brat, apologize!" "I am not wrong!" Felix threw down his cutlery and started to leave. In a rage, Uncle Austin grabbed Felix by the collar and slapped him. Felix slumped to the ground in pain, leaving a streak of blood on the floor. He shot me a scathing glare. "Are you happy now, Luna?" Why would I be happy? I was not the one to blame for this mess! If he didn't like me he should have rejected me earlier instead of accusing me of shamelessly clinging to him! I was not shameless. I just thought we loved each other. "Felix, listen to me, I just likeβ" I tried to explain. "But I don't need your LIKE!" Felix interrupted me with a look of disgust. I bit my lip hard to prevent my tears from falling. I didn't do anything wrong, so I couldn't allow myself to cry. If loving him was the reason why he humiliated me, then I would gladly change! I gritted my teeth. "I, Luna Lawson, swear that I will NEVER bother you again." | Massive story | 670 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715238000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879791 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410725 | 1723321827 | 995 | 419884320825184 | 2 | 9.8322917290411E+14 | 1715324400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120211247750980002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πRead the next chaptersπ | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715251588 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440431022_1166780181174166_1449615004424045769_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ssYQnuZpPYsQ7kNvgHmcUYx&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAg6nk4ek0-cO74Ybsi34gZWKZw6eyhjXVEj-KenavL2A&oe=66729FB7 | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440326607_1101917951061451_218003203580443970_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ewmwJlub1ogQ7kNvgEC4W2l&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBKcXMw_stFOfJ438cFwPQrBayK6hvpbrS8lhLYoQFaOw&oe=66729FB6 | 0 | 3 | Felix White was my childhood sweetheart. From the moment we were born, the elders in our families had us engaged to one another. I liked him a lot and he treated me well. I had thought he'd be happy to marry me. But I was wrong... At a gathering, there was another lively discussion about my future marriage to Felix. Aunt Mel, Felix's mother exclaimed. "How time flies! A couple more years, Lulu'll be my daughter-in-law!" I felt sweet inside and stole a glance at Felix, but he didn't look happy. "You're right! Maybe when they graduate, we'll have our grandchildren." Mom chimed in. "Mom...Aunt Mel...I'm only 18." I protested. Talking about the child made me feel embarrassed. As usual, my little protest didn't work. They were still talking feverishly. I didn't want to waste my breath, but Felix suddenly stood up. Fury was written all over his face, and his lanky figure was trembling slightly. He glared at me and spat, "It's all your fault. Stop shamelessly following me everywhere!" In that instant, the room turned dead silent. I could feel the blood rush to my head, making my face flush and my ears ring. Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? I don't like her!" He yelled. Everyone's gaze was on me, and I could feel my heart throbbing in pain. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. Dad clenched his fists and Mom also looked angry. Seeing that, Uncle Austin, Felix's father shouted at Felix, "Brat, apologize!" "I am not wrong!" Felix threw down his cutlery and started to leave. In a rage, Uncle Austin grabbed Felix by the collar and slapped him. Felix slumped to the ground in pain, leaving a streak of blood on the floor. He shot me a scathing glare. "Are you happy now, Luna?" Why would I be happy? I was not the one to blame for this mess! If he didn't like me he should have rejected me earlier instead of accusing me of shamelessly clinging to him! I was not shameless. I just thought we loved each other. "Felix, listen to me, I just likeβ" I tried to explain. "But I don't need your LIKE!" Felix interrupted me with a look of disgust. I bit my lip hard to prevent my tears from falling. I didn't do anything wrong, so I couldn't allow myself to cry. If loving him was the reason why he humiliated me, then I would gladly change! I gritted my teeth. "I, Luna Lawson, swear that I will NEVER bother you again." | Massive story | 670 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715238000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879792 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410725 | 1723321828 | 995 | 419884320825184 | 2 | 9.8322917290411E+14 | 1715324400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120211247750980002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πRead the next chaptersπ | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715251588 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440431022_1166780181174166_1449615004424045769_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ssYQnuZpPYsQ7kNvgHmcUYx&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAg6nk4ek0-cO74Ybsi34gZWKZw6eyhjXVEj-KenavL2A&oe=66729FB7 | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440326607_1101917951061451_218003203580443970_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ewmwJlub1ogQ7kNvgEC4W2l&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBKcXMw_stFOfJ438cFwPQrBayK6hvpbrS8lhLYoQFaOw&oe=66729FB6 | 0 | 3 | Felix White was my childhood sweetheart. From the moment we were born, the elders in our families had us engaged to one another. I liked him a lot and he treated me well. I had thought he'd be happy to marry me. But I was wrong... At a gathering, there was another lively discussion about my future marriage to Felix. Aunt Mel, Felix's mother exclaimed. "How time flies! A couple more years, Lulu'll be my daughter-in-law!" I felt sweet inside and stole a glance at Felix, but he didn't look happy. "You're right! Maybe when they graduate, we'll have our grandchildren." Mom chimed in. "Mom...Aunt Mel...I'm only 18." I protested. Talking about the child made me feel embarrassed. As usual, my little protest didn't work. They were still talking feverishly. I didn't want to waste my breath, but Felix suddenly stood up. Fury was written all over his face, and his lanky figure was trembling slightly. He glared at me and spat, "It's all your fault. Stop shamelessly following me everywhere!" In that instant, the room turned dead silent. I could feel the blood rush to my head, making my face flush and my ears ring. Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? I don't like her!" He yelled. Everyone's gaze was on me, and I could feel my heart throbbing in pain. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. Dad clenched his fists and Mom also looked angry. Seeing that, Uncle Austin, Felix's father shouted at Felix, "Brat, apologize!" "I am not wrong!" Felix threw down his cutlery and started to leave. In a rage, Uncle Austin grabbed Felix by the collar and slapped him. Felix slumped to the ground in pain, leaving a streak of blood on the floor. He shot me a scathing glare. "Are you happy now, Luna?" Why would I be happy? I was not the one to blame for this mess! If he didn't like me he should have rejected me earlier instead of accusing me of shamelessly clinging to him! I was not shameless. I just thought we loved each other. "Felix, listen to me, I just likeβ" I tried to explain. "But I don't need your LIKE!" Felix interrupted me with a look of disgust. I bit my lip hard to prevent my tears from falling. I didn't do anything wrong, so I couldn't allow myself to cry. If loving him was the reason why he humiliated me, then I would gladly change! I gritted my teeth. "I, Luna Lawson, swear that I will NEVER bother you again." | Massive story | 670 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715238000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879793 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410725 | 1723321828 | 995 | 419884320825184 | 2 | 9.8322917290411E+14 | 1715324400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120211247750980002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πRead the next chaptersπ | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715251588 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440431022_1166780181174166_1449615004424045769_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ssYQnuZpPYsQ7kNvgHmcUYx&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAg6nk4ek0-cO74Ybsi34gZWKZw6eyhjXVEj-KenavL2A&oe=66729FB7 | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440326607_1101917951061451_218003203580443970_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ewmwJlub1ogQ7kNvgEC4W2l&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBKcXMw_stFOfJ438cFwPQrBayK6hvpbrS8lhLYoQFaOw&oe=66729FB6 | 0 | 3 | Felix White was my childhood sweetheart. From the moment we were born, the elders in our families had us engaged to one another. I liked him a lot and he treated me well. I had thought he'd be happy to marry me. But I was wrong... At a gathering, there was another lively discussion about my future marriage to Felix. Aunt Mel, Felix's mother exclaimed. "How time flies! A couple more years, Lulu'll be my daughter-in-law!" I felt sweet inside and stole a glance at Felix, but he didn't look happy. "You're right! Maybe when they graduate, we'll have our grandchildren." Mom chimed in. "Mom...Aunt Mel...I'm only 18." I protested. Talking about the child made me feel embarrassed. As usual, my little protest didn't work. They were still talking feverishly. I didn't want to waste my breath, but Felix suddenly stood up. Fury was written all over his face, and his lanky figure was trembling slightly. He glared at me and spat, "It's all your fault. Stop shamelessly following me everywhere!" In that instant, the room turned dead silent. I could feel the blood rush to my head, making my face flush and my ears ring. Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? I don't like her!" He yelled. Everyone's gaze was on me, and I could feel my heart throbbing in pain. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. Dad clenched his fists and Mom also looked angry. Seeing that, Uncle Austin, Felix's father shouted at Felix, "Brat, apologize!" "I am not wrong!" Felix threw down his cutlery and started to leave. In a rage, Uncle Austin grabbed Felix by the collar and slapped him. Felix slumped to the ground in pain, leaving a streak of blood on the floor. He shot me a scathing glare. "Are you happy now, Luna?" Why would I be happy? I was not the one to blame for this mess! If he didn't like me he should have rejected me earlier instead of accusing me of shamelessly clinging to him! I was not shameless. I just thought we loved each other. "Felix, listen to me, I just likeβ" I tried to explain. "But I don't need your LIKE!" Felix interrupted me with a look of disgust. I bit my lip hard to prevent my tears from falling. I didn't do anything wrong, so I couldn't allow myself to cry. If loving him was the reason why he humiliated me, then I would gladly change! I gritted my teeth. "I, Luna Lawson, swear that I will NEVER bother you again." | Massive story | 670 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715238000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879794 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410725 | 1723321828 | 995 | 419884320825184 | 2 | 9.8322917290411E+14 | 1715324400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120211247750980002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πRead the next chaptersπ | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715251588 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440431022_1166780181174166_1449615004424045769_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ssYQnuZpPYsQ7kNvgHmcUYx&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAg6nk4ek0-cO74Ybsi34gZWKZw6eyhjXVEj-KenavL2A&oe=66729FB7 | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440326607_1101917951061451_218003203580443970_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ewmwJlub1ogQ7kNvgEC4W2l&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBKcXMw_stFOfJ438cFwPQrBayK6hvpbrS8lhLYoQFaOw&oe=66729FB6 | 0 | 3 | Felix White was my childhood sweetheart. From the moment we were born, the elders in our families had us engaged to one another. I liked him a lot and he treated me well. I had thought he'd be happy to marry me. But I was wrong... At a gathering, there was another lively discussion about my future marriage to Felix. Aunt Mel, Felix's mother exclaimed. "How time flies! A couple more years, Lulu'll be my daughter-in-law!" I felt sweet inside and stole a glance at Felix, but he didn't look happy. "You're right! Maybe when they graduate, we'll have our grandchildren." Mom chimed in. "Mom...Aunt Mel...I'm only 18." I protested. Talking about the child made me feel embarrassed. As usual, my little protest didn't work. They were still talking feverishly. I didn't want to waste my breath, but Felix suddenly stood up. Fury was written all over his face, and his lanky figure was trembling slightly. He glared at me and spat, "It's all your fault. Stop shamelessly following me everywhere!" In that instant, the room turned dead silent. I could feel the blood rush to my head, making my face flush and my ears ring. Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? I don't like her!" He yelled. Everyone's gaze was on me, and I could feel my heart throbbing in pain. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. Dad clenched his fists and Mom also looked angry. Seeing that, Uncle Austin, Felix's father shouted at Felix, "Brat, apologize!" "I am not wrong!" Felix threw down his cutlery and started to leave. In a rage, Uncle Austin grabbed Felix by the collar and slapped him. Felix slumped to the ground in pain, leaving a streak of blood on the floor. He shot me a scathing glare. "Are you happy now, Luna?" Why would I be happy? I was not the one to blame for this mess! If he didn't like me he should have rejected me earlier instead of accusing me of shamelessly clinging to him! I was not shameless. I just thought we loved each other. "Felix, listen to me, I just likeβ" I tried to explain. "But I don't need your LIKE!" Felix interrupted me with a look of disgust. I bit my lip hard to prevent my tears from falling. I didn't do anything wrong, so I couldn't allow myself to cry. If loving him was the reason why he humiliated me, then I would gladly change! I gritted my teeth. "I, Luna Lawson, swear that I will NEVER bother you again." | Massive story | 670 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715238000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879795 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410725 | 1723321828 | 995 | 419884320825184 | 2 | 9.8322917290411E+14 | 1715324400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120211247750980002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πRead the next chaptersπ | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715251588 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440431022_1166780181174166_1449615004424045769_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ssYQnuZpPYsQ7kNvgHmcUYx&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAg6nk4ek0-cO74Ybsi34gZWKZw6eyhjXVEj-KenavL2A&oe=66729FB7 | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440326607_1101917951061451_218003203580443970_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ewmwJlub1ogQ7kNvgEC4W2l&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBKcXMw_stFOfJ438cFwPQrBayK6hvpbrS8lhLYoQFaOw&oe=66729FB6 | 0 | 3 | Felix White was my childhood sweetheart. From the moment we were born, the elders in our families had us engaged to one another. I liked him a lot and he treated me well. I had thought he'd be happy to marry me. But I was wrong... At a gathering, there was another lively discussion about my future marriage to Felix. Aunt Mel, Felix's mother exclaimed. "How time flies! A couple more years, Lulu'll be my daughter-in-law!" I felt sweet inside and stole a glance at Felix, but he didn't look happy. "You're right! Maybe when they graduate, we'll have our grandchildren." Mom chimed in. "Mom...Aunt Mel...I'm only 18." I protested. Talking about the child made me feel embarrassed. As usual, my little protest didn't work. They were still talking feverishly. I didn't want to waste my breath, but Felix suddenly stood up. Fury was written all over his face, and his lanky figure was trembling slightly. He glared at me and spat, "It's all your fault. Stop shamelessly following me everywhere!" In that instant, the room turned dead silent. I could feel the blood rush to my head, making my face flush and my ears ring. Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? I don't like her!" He yelled. Everyone's gaze was on me, and I could feel my heart throbbing in pain. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. Dad clenched his fists and Mom also looked angry. Seeing that, Uncle Austin, Felix's father shouted at Felix, "Brat, apologize!" "I am not wrong!" Felix threw down his cutlery and started to leave. In a rage, Uncle Austin grabbed Felix by the collar and slapped him. Felix slumped to the ground in pain, leaving a streak of blood on the floor. He shot me a scathing glare. "Are you happy now, Luna?" Why would I be happy? I was not the one to blame for this mess! If he didn't like me he should have rejected me earlier instead of accusing me of shamelessly clinging to him! I was not shameless. I just thought we loved each other. "Felix, listen to me, I just likeβ" I tried to explain. "But I don't need your LIKE!" Felix interrupted me with a look of disgust. I bit my lip hard to prevent my tears from falling. I didn't do anything wrong, so I couldn't allow myself to cry. If loving him was the reason why he humiliated me, then I would gladly change! I gritted my teeth. "I, Luna Lawson, swear that I will NEVER bother you again." | Massive story | 670 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715238000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879796 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410725 | 1723321828 | 995 | 419884320825184 | 2 | 9.8322917290411E+14 | 1715324400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120211247750980002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πRead the next chaptersπ | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715251588 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440431022_1166780181174166_1449615004424045769_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ssYQnuZpPYsQ7kNvgHmcUYx&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAg6nk4ek0-cO74Ybsi34gZWKZw6eyhjXVEj-KenavL2A&oe=66729FB7 | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440326607_1101917951061451_218003203580443970_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ewmwJlub1ogQ7kNvgEC4W2l&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBKcXMw_stFOfJ438cFwPQrBayK6hvpbrS8lhLYoQFaOw&oe=66729FB6 | 0 | 3 | Felix White was my childhood sweetheart. From the moment we were born, the elders in our families had us engaged to one another. I liked him a lot and he treated me well. I had thought he'd be happy to marry me. But I was wrong... At a gathering, there was another lively discussion about my future marriage to Felix. Aunt Mel, Felix's mother exclaimed. "How time flies! A couple more years, Lulu'll be my daughter-in-law!" I felt sweet inside and stole a glance at Felix, but he didn't look happy. "You're right! Maybe when they graduate, we'll have our grandchildren." Mom chimed in. "Mom...Aunt Mel...I'm only 18." I protested. Talking about the child made me feel embarrassed. As usual, my little protest didn't work. They were still talking feverishly. I didn't want to waste my breath, but Felix suddenly stood up. Fury was written all over his face, and his lanky figure was trembling slightly. He glared at me and spat, "It's all your fault. Stop shamelessly following me everywhere!" In that instant, the room turned dead silent. I could feel the blood rush to my head, making my face flush and my ears ring. Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? I don't like her!" He yelled. Everyone's gaze was on me, and I could feel my heart throbbing in pain. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. Dad clenched his fists and Mom also looked angry. Seeing that, Uncle Austin, Felix's father shouted at Felix, "Brat, apologize!" "I am not wrong!" Felix threw down his cutlery and started to leave. In a rage, Uncle Austin grabbed Felix by the collar and slapped him. Felix slumped to the ground in pain, leaving a streak of blood on the floor. He shot me a scathing glare. "Are you happy now, Luna?" Why would I be happy? I was not the one to blame for this mess! If he didn't like me he should have rejected me earlier instead of accusing me of shamelessly clinging to him! I was not shameless. I just thought we loved each other. "Felix, listen to me, I just likeβ" I tried to explain. "But I don't need your LIKE!" Felix interrupted me with a look of disgust. I bit my lip hard to prevent my tears from falling. I didn't do anything wrong, so I couldn't allow myself to cry. If loving him was the reason why he humiliated me, then I would gladly change! I gritted my teeth. "I, Luna Lawson, swear that I will NEVER bother you again." | Massive story | 670 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715238000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879797 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410725 | 1723321828 | 995 | 419884320825184 | 2 | 9.8322917290411E+14 | 1715324400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120211247750980002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πRead the next chaptersπ | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715251588 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440431022_1166780181174166_1449615004424045769_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ssYQnuZpPYsQ7kNvgHmcUYx&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAg6nk4ek0-cO74Ybsi34gZWKZw6eyhjXVEj-KenavL2A&oe=66729FB7 | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440326607_1101917951061451_218003203580443970_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ewmwJlub1ogQ7kNvgEC4W2l&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBKcXMw_stFOfJ438cFwPQrBayK6hvpbrS8lhLYoQFaOw&oe=66729FB6 | 0 | 3 | Felix White was my childhood sweetheart. From the moment we were born, the elders in our families had us engaged to one another. I liked him a lot and he treated me well. I had thought he'd be happy to marry me. But I was wrong... At a gathering, there was another lively discussion about my future marriage to Felix. Aunt Mel, Felix's mother exclaimed. "How time flies! A couple more years, Lulu'll be my daughter-in-law!" I felt sweet inside and stole a glance at Felix, but he didn't look happy. "You're right! Maybe when they graduate, we'll have our grandchildren." Mom chimed in. "Mom...Aunt Mel...I'm only 18." I protested. Talking about the child made me feel embarrassed. As usual, my little protest didn't work. They were still talking feverishly. I didn't want to waste my breath, but Felix suddenly stood up. Fury was written all over his face, and his lanky figure was trembling slightly. He glared at me and spat, "It's all your fault. Stop shamelessly following me everywhere!" In that instant, the room turned dead silent. I could feel the blood rush to my head, making my face flush and my ears ring. Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? I don't like her!" He yelled. Everyone's gaze was on me, and I could feel my heart throbbing in pain. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. Dad clenched his fists and Mom also looked angry. Seeing that, Uncle Austin, Felix's father shouted at Felix, "Brat, apologize!" "I am not wrong!" Felix threw down his cutlery and started to leave. In a rage, Uncle Austin grabbed Felix by the collar and slapped him. Felix slumped to the ground in pain, leaving a streak of blood on the floor. He shot me a scathing glare. "Are you happy now, Luna?" Why would I be happy? I was not the one to blame for this mess! If he didn't like me he should have rejected me earlier instead of accusing me of shamelessly clinging to him! I was not shameless. I just thought we loved each other. "Felix, listen to me, I just likeβ" I tried to explain. "But I don't need your LIKE!" Felix interrupted me with a look of disgust. I bit my lip hard to prevent my tears from falling. I didn't do anything wrong, so I couldn't allow myself to cry. If loving him was the reason why he humiliated me, then I would gladly change! I gritted my teeth. "I, Luna Lawson, swear that I will NEVER bother you again." | Massive story | 670 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715238000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879798 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410725 | 1723321828 | 995 | 419884320825184 | 2 | 9.8322917290411E+14 | 1715324400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120211247750980002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πRead the next chaptersπ | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715251588 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440431022_1166780181174166_1449615004424045769_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ssYQnuZpPYsQ7kNvgHmcUYx&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAg6nk4ek0-cO74Ybsi34gZWKZw6eyhjXVEj-KenavL2A&oe=66729FB7 | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440326607_1101917951061451_218003203580443970_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ewmwJlub1ogQ7kNvgEC4W2l&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBKcXMw_stFOfJ438cFwPQrBayK6hvpbrS8lhLYoQFaOw&oe=66729FB6 | 0 | 3 | Felix White was my childhood sweetheart. From the moment we were born, the elders in our families had us engaged to one another. I liked him a lot and he treated me well. I had thought he'd be happy to marry me. But I was wrong... At a gathering, there was another lively discussion about my future marriage to Felix. Aunt Mel, Felix's mother exclaimed. "How time flies! A couple more years, Lulu'll be my daughter-in-law!" I felt sweet inside and stole a glance at Felix, but he didn't look happy. "You're right! Maybe when they graduate, we'll have our grandchildren." Mom chimed in. "Mom...Aunt Mel...I'm only 18." I protested. Talking about the child made me feel embarrassed. As usual, my little protest didn't work. They were still talking feverishly. I didn't want to waste my breath, but Felix suddenly stood up. Fury was written all over his face, and his lanky figure was trembling slightly. He glared at me and spat, "It's all your fault. Stop shamelessly following me everywhere!" In that instant, the room turned dead silent. I could feel the blood rush to my head, making my face flush and my ears ring. Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? I don't like her!" He yelled. Everyone's gaze was on me, and I could feel my heart throbbing in pain. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. Dad clenched his fists and Mom also looked angry. Seeing that, Uncle Austin, Felix's father shouted at Felix, "Brat, apologize!" "I am not wrong!" Felix threw down his cutlery and started to leave. In a rage, Uncle Austin grabbed Felix by the collar and slapped him. Felix slumped to the ground in pain, leaving a streak of blood on the floor. He shot me a scathing glare. "Are you happy now, Luna?" Why would I be happy? I was not the one to blame for this mess! If he didn't like me he should have rejected me earlier instead of accusing me of shamelessly clinging to him! I was not shameless. I just thought we loved each other. "Felix, listen to me, I just likeβ" I tried to explain. "But I don't need your LIKE!" Felix interrupted me with a look of disgust. I bit my lip hard to prevent my tears from falling. I didn't do anything wrong, so I couldn't allow myself to cry. If loving him was the reason why he humiliated me, then I would gladly change! I gritted my teeth. "I, Luna Lawson, swear that I will NEVER bother you again." | Massive story | 670 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715238000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879799 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410725 | 1723321828 | 995 | 419884320825184 | 2 | 9.8322917290411E+14 | 1715324400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120211247750980002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πRead the next chaptersπ | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715251588 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440431022_1166780181174166_1449615004424045769_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ssYQnuZpPYsQ7kNvgHmcUYx&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAg6nk4ek0-cO74Ybsi34gZWKZw6eyhjXVEj-KenavL2A&oe=66729FB7 | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440326607_1101917951061451_218003203580443970_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ewmwJlub1ogQ7kNvgEC4W2l&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBKcXMw_stFOfJ438cFwPQrBayK6hvpbrS8lhLYoQFaOw&oe=66729FB6 | 0 | 3 | Felix White was my childhood sweetheart. From the moment we were born, the elders in our families had us engaged to one another. I liked him a lot and he treated me well. I had thought he'd be happy to marry me. But I was wrong... At a gathering, there was another lively discussion about my future marriage to Felix. Aunt Mel, Felix's mother exclaimed. "How time flies! A couple more years, Lulu'll be my daughter-in-law!" I felt sweet inside and stole a glance at Felix, but he didn't look happy. "You're right! Maybe when they graduate, we'll have our grandchildren." Mom chimed in. "Mom...Aunt Mel...I'm only 18." I protested. Talking about the child made me feel embarrassed. As usual, my little protest didn't work. They were still talking feverishly. I didn't want to waste my breath, but Felix suddenly stood up. Fury was written all over his face, and his lanky figure was trembling slightly. He glared at me and spat, "It's all your fault. Stop shamelessly following me everywhere!" In that instant, the room turned dead silent. I could feel the blood rush to my head, making my face flush and my ears ring. Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? I don't like her!" He yelled. Everyone's gaze was on me, and I could feel my heart throbbing in pain. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. Dad clenched his fists and Mom also looked angry. Seeing that, Uncle Austin, Felix's father shouted at Felix, "Brat, apologize!" "I am not wrong!" Felix threw down his cutlery and started to leave. In a rage, Uncle Austin grabbed Felix by the collar and slapped him. Felix slumped to the ground in pain, leaving a streak of blood on the floor. He shot me a scathing glare. "Are you happy now, Luna?" Why would I be happy? I was not the one to blame for this mess! If he didn't like me he should have rejected me earlier instead of accusing me of shamelessly clinging to him! I was not shameless. I just thought we loved each other. "Felix, listen to me, I just likeβ" I tried to explain. "But I don't need your LIKE!" Felix interrupted me with a look of disgust. I bit my lip hard to prevent my tears from falling. I didn't do anything wrong, so I couldn't allow myself to cry. If loving him was the reason why he humiliated me, then I would gladly change! I gritted my teeth. "I, Luna Lawson, swear that I will NEVER bother you again." | Massive story | 670 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715238000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879800 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410725 | 1723321828 | 995 | 858887796262509 | 2 | 8.0915660068031E+14 | 1715410800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120211247750770002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πRead the next chaptersπ | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715251568 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438172556_1000382361510248_6179197804503582160_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=DCdirLq4kioQ7kNvgElzu-n&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBuGStY8gmUlTAinRcnKDSi19qby0K51UAKCotueVo8FA&oe=6672AAA5 | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438144895_433133876341869_1863517058371972618_n.jpg?_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=lKgVQcIe5G8Q7kNvgHiJu9s&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDjUUCPYBLMxBgA5_sXvi_6e0uzKzEswzCZkl9z8QhY8Q&oe=6672A75D | 0 | 3 | I had never seen Felix like this - Fury was written all over his face, and his lanky figure was trembling slightly. Felix and I grew up together. Our parents were best friends, and they tried to pair us up again just now. I've liked him since little, and he's always been really good to me. But now this good boy glared at me, "This is all your fault. Just stay away from me! Stop following me around!" In that instant, all the discussion about our wedding halted, and the room turned dead silent. I hadn't expected him to say something like that. I stared at him dumbfounded. Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? I'll never marry her, so you all can just forget it!" His eyes were filled with hate. It made me want to curl up into a ball out of embarrassment. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. It was fine if he didn't like me, and he could have told me in private, yet he had to trample all over my dignity and self-worth in front of his whole family and mine β¦ My father was always mild-mannered, yet his face had flushed crimson because of Felix's harsh words. Mom also looked angry and embarrassed. Her jaw was agape, and her expression was one of utter disbelief. Uncle Austin, Felix's father was the first to react. He grabbed Felix by the collar and slapped him, scolding, "Who taught you to behave like that?" The slap sent him reeling, and he hit his head on the corner of the wall. Felix let out a low hiss of pain as he stared at Uncle Austin in disbelief. He slumped to the floor in pain, leaving an unmistakable streak of red on the pristine white walls. Aunt Mel rushed forward while crying out anxiously, "Felix! My son, Are you alright?" But Felix shot me a scathing glare as if I had committed an unspeakable sin. "Are you happy now, Luna?" I stared back at him with wide eyes, and my vision grew blurry from my tears. Even though I liked him, that didn't mean he could throw wild accusations and embarrass me as he pleased! I liked him, but I, too, had my sense of dignity! He could choose not to reciprocate my feelings, but he couldn't use my affection for him as a weapon to hurt me. Felix struggled to stand up and turned to leave, but I forced the humiliation down and called out, "I'm sorry, Felix. I never thought that my actions would have bugged you so much." I bit my lip hard, and the sharp tang of blood exploded across my tongue. "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix." | Massive story | 670 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715238000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879801 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410725 | 1723321828 | 995 | 858887796262509 | 2 | 8.0915660068031E+14 | 1715410800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120211247750770002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πRead the next chaptersπ | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715251568 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438172556_1000382361510248_6179197804503582160_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=DCdirLq4kioQ7kNvgElzu-n&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBuGStY8gmUlTAinRcnKDSi19qby0K51UAKCotueVo8FA&oe=6672AAA5 | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438144895_433133876341869_1863517058371972618_n.jpg?_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=lKgVQcIe5G8Q7kNvgHiJu9s&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDjUUCPYBLMxBgA5_sXvi_6e0uzKzEswzCZkl9z8QhY8Q&oe=6672A75D | 0 | 3 | I had never seen Felix like this - Fury was written all over his face, and his lanky figure was trembling slightly. Felix and I grew up together. Our parents were best friends, and they tried to pair us up again just now. I've liked him since little, and he's always been really good to me. But now this good boy glared at me, "This is all your fault. Just stay away from me! Stop following me around!" In that instant, all the discussion about our wedding halted, and the room turned dead silent. I hadn't expected him to say something like that. I stared at him dumbfounded. Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? I'll never marry her, so you all can just forget it!" His eyes were filled with hate. It made me want to curl up into a ball out of embarrassment. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. It was fine if he didn't like me, and he could have told me in private, yet he had to trample all over my dignity and self-worth in front of his whole family and mine β¦ My father was always mild-mannered, yet his face had flushed crimson because of Felix's harsh words. Mom also looked angry and embarrassed. Her jaw was agape, and her expression was one of utter disbelief. Uncle Austin, Felix's father was the first to react. He grabbed Felix by the collar and slapped him, scolding, "Who taught you to behave like that?" The slap sent him reeling, and he hit his head on the corner of the wall. Felix let out a low hiss of pain as he stared at Uncle Austin in disbelief. He slumped to the floor in pain, leaving an unmistakable streak of red on the pristine white walls. Aunt Mel rushed forward while crying out anxiously, "Felix! My son, Are you alright?" But Felix shot me a scathing glare as if I had committed an unspeakable sin. "Are you happy now, Luna?" I stared back at him with wide eyes, and my vision grew blurry from my tears. Even though I liked him, that didn't mean he could throw wild accusations and embarrass me as he pleased! I liked him, but I, too, had my sense of dignity! He could choose not to reciprocate my feelings, but he couldn't use my affection for him as a weapon to hurt me. Felix struggled to stand up and turned to leave, but I forced the humiliation down and called out, "I'm sorry, Felix. I never thought that my actions would have bugged you so much." I bit my lip hard, and the sharp tang of blood exploded across my tongue. "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix." | Massive story | 670 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715238000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879802 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410726 | 1723321828 | 995 | 858887796262509 | 2 | 8.0915660068031E+14 | 1715410800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120211247750770002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πRead the next chaptersπ | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715251568 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438172556_1000382361510248_6179197804503582160_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=DCdirLq4kioQ7kNvgElzu-n&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBuGStY8gmUlTAinRcnKDSi19qby0K51UAKCotueVo8FA&oe=6672AAA5 | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438144895_433133876341869_1863517058371972618_n.jpg?_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=lKgVQcIe5G8Q7kNvgHiJu9s&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDjUUCPYBLMxBgA5_sXvi_6e0uzKzEswzCZkl9z8QhY8Q&oe=6672A75D | 0 | 3 | I had never seen Felix like this - Fury was written all over his face, and his lanky figure was trembling slightly. Felix and I grew up together. Our parents were best friends, and they tried to pair us up again just now. I've liked him since little, and he's always been really good to me. But now this good boy glared at me, "This is all your fault. Just stay away from me! Stop following me around!" In that instant, all the discussion about our wedding halted, and the room turned dead silent. I hadn't expected him to say something like that. I stared at him dumbfounded. Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? I'll never marry her, so you all can just forget it!" His eyes were filled with hate. It made me want to curl up into a ball out of embarrassment. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. It was fine if he didn't like me, and he could have told me in private, yet he had to trample all over my dignity and self-worth in front of his whole family and mine β¦ My father was always mild-mannered, yet his face had flushed crimson because of Felix's harsh words. Mom also looked angry and embarrassed. Her jaw was agape, and her expression was one of utter disbelief. Uncle Austin, Felix's father was the first to react. He grabbed Felix by the collar and slapped him, scolding, "Who taught you to behave like that?" The slap sent him reeling, and he hit his head on the corner of the wall. Felix let out a low hiss of pain as he stared at Uncle Austin in disbelief. He slumped to the floor in pain, leaving an unmistakable streak of red on the pristine white walls. Aunt Mel rushed forward while crying out anxiously, "Felix! My son, Are you alright?" But Felix shot me a scathing glare as if I had committed an unspeakable sin. "Are you happy now, Luna?" I stared back at him with wide eyes, and my vision grew blurry from my tears. Even though I liked him, that didn't mean he could throw wild accusations and embarrass me as he pleased! I liked him, but I, too, had my sense of dignity! He could choose not to reciprocate my feelings, but he couldn't use my affection for him as a weapon to hurt me. Felix struggled to stand up and turned to leave, but I forced the humiliation down and called out, "I'm sorry, Felix. I never thought that my actions would have bugged you so much." I bit my lip hard, and the sharp tang of blood exploded across my tongue. "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix." | Massive story | 670 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715238000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879803 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410726 | 1723321829 | 995 | 858887796262509 | 2 | 8.0915660068031E+14 | 1715410800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120211247750770002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πRead the next chaptersπ | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715251568 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438172556_1000382361510248_6179197804503582160_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=DCdirLq4kioQ7kNvgElzu-n&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBuGStY8gmUlTAinRcnKDSi19qby0K51UAKCotueVo8FA&oe=6672AAA5 | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438144895_433133876341869_1863517058371972618_n.jpg?_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=lKgVQcIe5G8Q7kNvgHiJu9s&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDjUUCPYBLMxBgA5_sXvi_6e0uzKzEswzCZkl9z8QhY8Q&oe=6672A75D | 0 | 3 | I had never seen Felix like this - Fury was written all over his face, and his lanky figure was trembling slightly. Felix and I grew up together. Our parents were best friends, and they tried to pair us up again just now. I've liked him since little, and he's always been really good to me. But now this good boy glared at me, "This is all your fault. Just stay away from me! Stop following me around!" In that instant, all the discussion about our wedding halted, and the room turned dead silent. I hadn't expected him to say something like that. I stared at him dumbfounded. Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? I'll never marry her, so you all can just forget it!" His eyes were filled with hate. It made me want to curl up into a ball out of embarrassment. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. It was fine if he didn't like me, and he could have told me in private, yet he had to trample all over my dignity and self-worth in front of his whole family and mine β¦ My father was always mild-mannered, yet his face had flushed crimson because of Felix's harsh words. Mom also looked angry and embarrassed. Her jaw was agape, and her expression was one of utter disbelief. Uncle Austin, Felix's father was the first to react. He grabbed Felix by the collar and slapped him, scolding, "Who taught you to behave like that?" The slap sent him reeling, and he hit his head on the corner of the wall. Felix let out a low hiss of pain as he stared at Uncle Austin in disbelief. He slumped to the floor in pain, leaving an unmistakable streak of red on the pristine white walls. Aunt Mel rushed forward while crying out anxiously, "Felix! My son, Are you alright?" But Felix shot me a scathing glare as if I had committed an unspeakable sin. "Are you happy now, Luna?" I stared back at him with wide eyes, and my vision grew blurry from my tears. Even though I liked him, that didn't mean he could throw wild accusations and embarrass me as he pleased! I liked him, but I, too, had my sense of dignity! He could choose not to reciprocate my feelings, but he couldn't use my affection for him as a weapon to hurt me. Felix struggled to stand up and turned to leave, but I forced the humiliation down and called out, "I'm sorry, Felix. I never thought that my actions would have bugged you so much." I bit my lip hard, and the sharp tang of blood exploded across my tongue. "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix." | Massive story | 670 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715238000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879804 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410726 | 1723321829 | 995 | 858887796262509 | 2 | 8.0915660068031E+14 | 1715410800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120211247750770002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πRead the next chaptersπ | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715251568 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438172556_1000382361510248_6179197804503582160_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=DCdirLq4kioQ7kNvgElzu-n&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBuGStY8gmUlTAinRcnKDSi19qby0K51UAKCotueVo8FA&oe=6672AAA5 | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438144895_433133876341869_1863517058371972618_n.jpg?_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=lKgVQcIe5G8Q7kNvgHiJu9s&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDjUUCPYBLMxBgA5_sXvi_6e0uzKzEswzCZkl9z8QhY8Q&oe=6672A75D | 0 | 3 | I had never seen Felix like this - Fury was written all over his face, and his lanky figure was trembling slightly. Felix and I grew up together. Our parents were best friends, and they tried to pair us up again just now. I've liked him since little, and he's always been really good to me. But now this good boy glared at me, "This is all your fault. Just stay away from me! Stop following me around!" In that instant, all the discussion about our wedding halted, and the room turned dead silent. I hadn't expected him to say something like that. I stared at him dumbfounded. Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? I'll never marry her, so you all can just forget it!" His eyes were filled with hate. It made me want to curl up into a ball out of embarrassment. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. It was fine if he didn't like me, and he could have told me in private, yet he had to trample all over my dignity and self-worth in front of his whole family and mine β¦ My father was always mild-mannered, yet his face had flushed crimson because of Felix's harsh words. Mom also looked angry and embarrassed. Her jaw was agape, and her expression was one of utter disbelief. Uncle Austin, Felix's father was the first to react. He grabbed Felix by the collar and slapped him, scolding, "Who taught you to behave like that?" The slap sent him reeling, and he hit his head on the corner of the wall. Felix let out a low hiss of pain as he stared at Uncle Austin in disbelief. He slumped to the floor in pain, leaving an unmistakable streak of red on the pristine white walls. Aunt Mel rushed forward while crying out anxiously, "Felix! My son, Are you alright?" But Felix shot me a scathing glare as if I had committed an unspeakable sin. "Are you happy now, Luna?" I stared back at him with wide eyes, and my vision grew blurry from my tears. Even though I liked him, that didn't mean he could throw wild accusations and embarrass me as he pleased! I liked him, but I, too, had my sense of dignity! He could choose not to reciprocate my feelings, but he couldn't use my affection for him as a weapon to hurt me. Felix struggled to stand up and turned to leave, but I forced the humiliation down and called out, "I'm sorry, Felix. I never thought that my actions would have bugged you so much." I bit my lip hard, and the sharp tang of blood exploded across my tongue. "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix." | Massive story | 670 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715238000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879805 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410726 | 1723321829 | 995 | 858887796262509 | 2 | 8.0915660068031E+14 | 1715410800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120211247750770002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πRead the next chaptersπ | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715251568 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438172556_1000382361510248_6179197804503582160_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=DCdirLq4kioQ7kNvgElzu-n&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBuGStY8gmUlTAinRcnKDSi19qby0K51UAKCotueVo8FA&oe=6672AAA5 | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438144895_433133876341869_1863517058371972618_n.jpg?_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=lKgVQcIe5G8Q7kNvgHiJu9s&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDjUUCPYBLMxBgA5_sXvi_6e0uzKzEswzCZkl9z8QhY8Q&oe=6672A75D | 0 | 3 | I had never seen Felix like this - Fury was written all over his face, and his lanky figure was trembling slightly. Felix and I grew up together. Our parents were best friends, and they tried to pair us up again just now. I've liked him since little, and he's always been really good to me. But now this good boy glared at me, "This is all your fault. Just stay away from me! Stop following me around!" In that instant, all the discussion about our wedding halted, and the room turned dead silent. I hadn't expected him to say something like that. I stared at him dumbfounded. Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? I'll never marry her, so you all can just forget it!" His eyes were filled with hate. It made me want to curl up into a ball out of embarrassment. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. It was fine if he didn't like me, and he could have told me in private, yet he had to trample all over my dignity and self-worth in front of his whole family and mine β¦ My father was always mild-mannered, yet his face had flushed crimson because of Felix's harsh words. Mom also looked angry and embarrassed. Her jaw was agape, and her expression was one of utter disbelief. Uncle Austin, Felix's father was the first to react. He grabbed Felix by the collar and slapped him, scolding, "Who taught you to behave like that?" The slap sent him reeling, and he hit his head on the corner of the wall. Felix let out a low hiss of pain as he stared at Uncle Austin in disbelief. He slumped to the floor in pain, leaving an unmistakable streak of red on the pristine white walls. Aunt Mel rushed forward while crying out anxiously, "Felix! My son, Are you alright?" But Felix shot me a scathing glare as if I had committed an unspeakable sin. "Are you happy now, Luna?" I stared back at him with wide eyes, and my vision grew blurry from my tears. Even though I liked him, that didn't mean he could throw wild accusations and embarrass me as he pleased! I liked him, but I, too, had my sense of dignity! He could choose not to reciprocate my feelings, but he couldn't use my affection for him as a weapon to hurt me. Felix struggled to stand up and turned to leave, but I forced the humiliation down and called out, "I'm sorry, Felix. I never thought that my actions would have bugged you so much." I bit my lip hard, and the sharp tang of blood exploded across my tongue. "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix." | Massive story | 670 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715238000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879806 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410726 | 1723321829 | 995 | 858887796262509 | 2 | 8.0915660068031E+14 | 1715410800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120211247750770002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πRead the next chaptersπ | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715251568 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438172556_1000382361510248_6179197804503582160_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=DCdirLq4kioQ7kNvgElzu-n&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBuGStY8gmUlTAinRcnKDSi19qby0K51UAKCotueVo8FA&oe=6672AAA5 | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438144895_433133876341869_1863517058371972618_n.jpg?_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=lKgVQcIe5G8Q7kNvgHiJu9s&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDjUUCPYBLMxBgA5_sXvi_6e0uzKzEswzCZkl9z8QhY8Q&oe=6672A75D | 0 | 3 | I had never seen Felix like this - Fury was written all over his face, and his lanky figure was trembling slightly. Felix and I grew up together. Our parents were best friends, and they tried to pair us up again just now. I've liked him since little, and he's always been really good to me. But now this good boy glared at me, "This is all your fault. Just stay away from me! Stop following me around!" In that instant, all the discussion about our wedding halted, and the room turned dead silent. I hadn't expected him to say something like that. I stared at him dumbfounded. Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? I'll never marry her, so you all can just forget it!" His eyes were filled with hate. It made me want to curl up into a ball out of embarrassment. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. It was fine if he didn't like me, and he could have told me in private, yet he had to trample all over my dignity and self-worth in front of his whole family and mine β¦ My father was always mild-mannered, yet his face had flushed crimson because of Felix's harsh words. Mom also looked angry and embarrassed. Her jaw was agape, and her expression was one of utter disbelief. Uncle Austin, Felix's father was the first to react. He grabbed Felix by the collar and slapped him, scolding, "Who taught you to behave like that?" The slap sent him reeling, and he hit his head on the corner of the wall. Felix let out a low hiss of pain as he stared at Uncle Austin in disbelief. He slumped to the floor in pain, leaving an unmistakable streak of red on the pristine white walls. Aunt Mel rushed forward while crying out anxiously, "Felix! My son, Are you alright?" But Felix shot me a scathing glare as if I had committed an unspeakable sin. "Are you happy now, Luna?" I stared back at him with wide eyes, and my vision grew blurry from my tears. Even though I liked him, that didn't mean he could throw wild accusations and embarrass me as he pleased! I liked him, but I, too, had my sense of dignity! He could choose not to reciprocate my feelings, but he couldn't use my affection for him as a weapon to hurt me. Felix struggled to stand up and turned to leave, but I forced the humiliation down and called out, "I'm sorry, Felix. I never thought that my actions would have bugged you so much." I bit my lip hard, and the sharp tang of blood exploded across my tongue. "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix." | Massive story | 670 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715238000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879807 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410726 | 1723321829 | 995 | 858887796262509 | 2 | 8.0915660068031E+14 | 1715410800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120211247750770002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πRead the next chaptersπ | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715251568 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438172556_1000382361510248_6179197804503582160_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=DCdirLq4kioQ7kNvgElzu-n&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBuGStY8gmUlTAinRcnKDSi19qby0K51UAKCotueVo8FA&oe=6672AAA5 | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438144895_433133876341869_1863517058371972618_n.jpg?_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=lKgVQcIe5G8Q7kNvgHiJu9s&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDjUUCPYBLMxBgA5_sXvi_6e0uzKzEswzCZkl9z8QhY8Q&oe=6672A75D | 0 | 3 | I had never seen Felix like this - Fury was written all over his face, and his lanky figure was trembling slightly. Felix and I grew up together. Our parents were best friends, and they tried to pair us up again just now. I've liked him since little, and he's always been really good to me. But now this good boy glared at me, "This is all your fault. Just stay away from me! Stop following me around!" In that instant, all the discussion about our wedding halted, and the room turned dead silent. I hadn't expected him to say something like that. I stared at him dumbfounded. Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? I'll never marry her, so you all can just forget it!" His eyes were filled with hate. It made me want to curl up into a ball out of embarrassment. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. It was fine if he didn't like me, and he could have told me in private, yet he had to trample all over my dignity and self-worth in front of his whole family and mine β¦ My father was always mild-mannered, yet his face had flushed crimson because of Felix's harsh words. Mom also looked angry and embarrassed. Her jaw was agape, and her expression was one of utter disbelief. Uncle Austin, Felix's father was the first to react. He grabbed Felix by the collar and slapped him, scolding, "Who taught you to behave like that?" The slap sent him reeling, and he hit his head on the corner of the wall. Felix let out a low hiss of pain as he stared at Uncle Austin in disbelief. He slumped to the floor in pain, leaving an unmistakable streak of red on the pristine white walls. Aunt Mel rushed forward while crying out anxiously, "Felix! My son, Are you alright?" But Felix shot me a scathing glare as if I had committed an unspeakable sin. "Are you happy now, Luna?" I stared back at him with wide eyes, and my vision grew blurry from my tears. Even though I liked him, that didn't mean he could throw wild accusations and embarrass me as he pleased! I liked him, but I, too, had my sense of dignity! He could choose not to reciprocate my feelings, but he couldn't use my affection for him as a weapon to hurt me. Felix struggled to stand up and turned to leave, but I forced the humiliation down and called out, "I'm sorry, Felix. I never thought that my actions would have bugged you so much." I bit my lip hard, and the sharp tang of blood exploded across my tongue. "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix." | Massive story | 670 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715238000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879810 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410726 | 1723321829 | 995 | 1154523119004398 | 2 | 1.4377422001822E+15 | 1715842800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120211289111250002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πRead the next chaptersπ | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715329887 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442399618_2321306068077367_7267370041668681897_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=1jk1GTk5KOgQ7kNvgGBH6pF&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYC3q2XEJv5RpmrFVa_5fSvp7lnI1cysPlau-JGoSXZokQ&oe=6672A913 | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442385369_1121751435801135_773466184479018381_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=iyfL6T8EXtwQ7kNvgGUwC6A&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYB2SWYqILaR35Ci_VXgVhmMnrzvOfFwiyEZCtHBT4THMw&oe=6672BBCF | 0 | 3 | My crush actually flipped the table and humiliated me in front of our whole family! During dinner, everyone was engaged in an enthusiastic discussion about my wedding to Felix. I've known Felix since we were born. I liked himβa lot, and he's always been nice and gentle to me. So I was stunned when he suddenly erupted. He shot to his feet and glared at me, "This is all your fault. Just stay away from me! Stop following me around!" In that instant, the room turned dead silent. I could feel the blood rush to my head, making my face flush and my ears ring. Tears welled up in my eyes, "Felix, I..." He snarled, "If it weren't for you shamelessly pestering me all the time, they wouldn't try to pair us up!" I forced myself to suppress the hurt I felt and tried to reason with him. "Felix, listen to me. I just likeβ" "Shut up! I don't need your affection. In fact, they're nothing more than shackles to me. I don't want to be associated with you in any wayβnot ever," Felix interrupted. His words were venomous, and his eyes were filled with a cold hatred that made me shiver. It was like he was looking at a piece of trash. My heart ached, and I found myself gasping for breath. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet in the end, it was all my fault? I should never have liked him. If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I swore I would make him regret it! | Massive story | 670 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715410800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879812 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410726 | 1723321829 | 995 | 1154523119004398 | 2 | 1.4377422001822E+15 | 1715842800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120211289111250002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πRead the next chaptersπ | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715329887 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442399618_2321306068077367_7267370041668681897_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=1jk1GTk5KOgQ7kNvgGBH6pF&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYC3q2XEJv5RpmrFVa_5fSvp7lnI1cysPlau-JGoSXZokQ&oe=6672A913 | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442385369_1121751435801135_773466184479018381_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=iyfL6T8EXtwQ7kNvgGUwC6A&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYB2SWYqILaR35Ci_VXgVhmMnrzvOfFwiyEZCtHBT4THMw&oe=6672BBCF | 0 | 3 | My crush actually flipped the table and humiliated me in front of our whole family! During dinner, everyone was engaged in an enthusiastic discussion about my wedding to Felix. I've known Felix since we were born. I liked himβa lot, and he's always been nice and gentle to me. So I was stunned when he suddenly erupted. He shot to his feet and glared at me, "This is all your fault. Just stay away from me! Stop following me around!" In that instant, the room turned dead silent. I could feel the blood rush to my head, making my face flush and my ears ring. Tears welled up in my eyes, "Felix, I..." He snarled, "If it weren't for you shamelessly pestering me all the time, they wouldn't try to pair us up!" I forced myself to suppress the hurt I felt and tried to reason with him. "Felix, listen to me. I just likeβ" "Shut up! I don't need your affection. In fact, they're nothing more than shackles to me. I don't want to be associated with you in any wayβnot ever," Felix interrupted. His words were venomous, and his eyes were filled with a cold hatred that made me shiver. It was like he was looking at a piece of trash. My heart ached, and I found myself gasping for breath. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet in the end, it was all my fault? I should never have liked him. If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I swore I would make him regret it! | Massive story | 670 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715410800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879813 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410726 | 1723321829 | 995 | 1154523119004398 | 2 | 1.4377422001822E+15 | 1715842800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120211289111250002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πRead the next chaptersπ | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715329887 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442399618_2321306068077367_7267370041668681897_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=1jk1GTk5KOgQ7kNvgGBH6pF&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYC3q2XEJv5RpmrFVa_5fSvp7lnI1cysPlau-JGoSXZokQ&oe=6672A913 | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442385369_1121751435801135_773466184479018381_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=iyfL6T8EXtwQ7kNvgGUwC6A&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYB2SWYqILaR35Ci_VXgVhmMnrzvOfFwiyEZCtHBT4THMw&oe=6672BBCF | 0 | 3 | My crush actually flipped the table and humiliated me in front of our whole family! During dinner, everyone was engaged in an enthusiastic discussion about my wedding to Felix. I've known Felix since we were born. I liked himβa lot, and he's always been nice and gentle to me. So I was stunned when he suddenly erupted. He shot to his feet and glared at me, "This is all your fault. Just stay away from me! Stop following me around!" In that instant, the room turned dead silent. I could feel the blood rush to my head, making my face flush and my ears ring. Tears welled up in my eyes, "Felix, I..." He snarled, "If it weren't for you shamelessly pestering me all the time, they wouldn't try to pair us up!" I forced myself to suppress the hurt I felt and tried to reason with him. "Felix, listen to me. I just likeβ" "Shut up! I don't need your affection. In fact, they're nothing more than shackles to me. I don't want to be associated with you in any wayβnot ever," Felix interrupted. His words were venomous, and his eyes were filled with a cold hatred that made me shiver. It was like he was looking at a piece of trash. My heart ached, and I found myself gasping for breath. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet in the end, it was all my fault? I should never have liked him. If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I swore I would make him regret it! | Massive story | 670 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715410800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879814 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410726 | 1723321829 | 995 | 1154523119004398 | 2 | 1.4377422001822E+15 | 1715842800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120211289111250002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πRead the next chaptersπ | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715329887 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442399618_2321306068077367_7267370041668681897_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=1jk1GTk5KOgQ7kNvgGBH6pF&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYC3q2XEJv5RpmrFVa_5fSvp7lnI1cysPlau-JGoSXZokQ&oe=6672A913 | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442385369_1121751435801135_773466184479018381_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=iyfL6T8EXtwQ7kNvgGUwC6A&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYB2SWYqILaR35Ci_VXgVhmMnrzvOfFwiyEZCtHBT4THMw&oe=6672BBCF | 0 | 3 | My crush actually flipped the table and humiliated me in front of our whole family! During dinner, everyone was engaged in an enthusiastic discussion about my wedding to Felix. I've known Felix since we were born. I liked himβa lot, and he's always been nice and gentle to me. So I was stunned when he suddenly erupted. He shot to his feet and glared at me, "This is all your fault. Just stay away from me! Stop following me around!" In that instant, the room turned dead silent. I could feel the blood rush to my head, making my face flush and my ears ring. Tears welled up in my eyes, "Felix, I..." He snarled, "If it weren't for you shamelessly pestering me all the time, they wouldn't try to pair us up!" I forced myself to suppress the hurt I felt and tried to reason with him. "Felix, listen to me. I just likeβ" "Shut up! I don't need your affection. In fact, they're nothing more than shackles to me. I don't want to be associated with you in any wayβnot ever," Felix interrupted. His words were venomous, and his eyes were filled with a cold hatred that made me shiver. It was like he was looking at a piece of trash. My heart ached, and I found myself gasping for breath. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet in the end, it was all my fault? I should never have liked him. If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I swore I would make him regret it! | Massive story | 670 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715410800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879815 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410726 | 1723321829 | 995 | 1154523119004398 | 2 | 1.4377422001822E+15 | 1715842800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120211289111250002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πRead the next chaptersπ | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715329887 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442399618_2321306068077367_7267370041668681897_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=1jk1GTk5KOgQ7kNvgGBH6pF&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYC3q2XEJv5RpmrFVa_5fSvp7lnI1cysPlau-JGoSXZokQ&oe=6672A913 | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442385369_1121751435801135_773466184479018381_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=iyfL6T8EXtwQ7kNvgGUwC6A&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYB2SWYqILaR35Ci_VXgVhmMnrzvOfFwiyEZCtHBT4THMw&oe=6672BBCF | 0 | 3 | My crush actually flipped the table and humiliated me in front of our whole family! During dinner, everyone was engaged in an enthusiastic discussion about my wedding to Felix. I've known Felix since we were born. I liked himβa lot, and he's always been nice and gentle to me. So I was stunned when he suddenly erupted. He shot to his feet and glared at me, "This is all your fault. Just stay away from me! Stop following me around!" In that instant, the room turned dead silent. I could feel the blood rush to my head, making my face flush and my ears ring. Tears welled up in my eyes, "Felix, I..." He snarled, "If it weren't for you shamelessly pestering me all the time, they wouldn't try to pair us up!" I forced myself to suppress the hurt I felt and tried to reason with him. "Felix, listen to me. I just likeβ" "Shut up! I don't need your affection. In fact, they're nothing more than shackles to me. I don't want to be associated with you in any wayβnot ever," Felix interrupted. His words were venomous, and his eyes were filled with a cold hatred that made me shiver. It was like he was looking at a piece of trash. My heart ached, and I found myself gasping for breath. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet in the end, it was all my fault? I should never have liked him. If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I swore I would make him regret it! | Massive story | 670 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715410800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879816 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410726 | 1723321830 | 995 | 1154523119004398 | 2 | 1.4377422001822E+15 | 1715842800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120211289111250002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πRead the next chaptersπ | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715329887 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442399618_2321306068077367_7267370041668681897_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=1jk1GTk5KOgQ7kNvgGBH6pF&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYC3q2XEJv5RpmrFVa_5fSvp7lnI1cysPlau-JGoSXZokQ&oe=6672A913 | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442385369_1121751435801135_773466184479018381_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=iyfL6T8EXtwQ7kNvgGUwC6A&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYB2SWYqILaR35Ci_VXgVhmMnrzvOfFwiyEZCtHBT4THMw&oe=6672BBCF | 0 | 3 | My crush actually flipped the table and humiliated me in front of our whole family! During dinner, everyone was engaged in an enthusiastic discussion about my wedding to Felix. I've known Felix since we were born. I liked himβa lot, and he's always been nice and gentle to me. So I was stunned when he suddenly erupted. He shot to his feet and glared at me, "This is all your fault. Just stay away from me! Stop following me around!" In that instant, the room turned dead silent. I could feel the blood rush to my head, making my face flush and my ears ring. Tears welled up in my eyes, "Felix, I..." He snarled, "If it weren't for you shamelessly pestering me all the time, they wouldn't try to pair us up!" I forced myself to suppress the hurt I felt and tried to reason with him. "Felix, listen to me. I just likeβ" "Shut up! I don't need your affection. In fact, they're nothing more than shackles to me. I don't want to be associated with you in any wayβnot ever," Felix interrupted. His words were venomous, and his eyes were filled with a cold hatred that made me shiver. It was like he was looking at a piece of trash. My heart ached, and I found myself gasping for breath. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet in the end, it was all my fault? I should never have liked him. If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I swore I would make him regret it! | Massive story | 670 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715410800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879817 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410726 | 1723321830 | 995 | 1154523119004398 | 2 | 1.4377422001822E+15 | 1715842800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120211289111250002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πRead the next chaptersπ | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715329887 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442399618_2321306068077367_7267370041668681897_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=1jk1GTk5KOgQ7kNvgGBH6pF&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYC3q2XEJv5RpmrFVa_5fSvp7lnI1cysPlau-JGoSXZokQ&oe=6672A913 | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442385369_1121751435801135_773466184479018381_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=iyfL6T8EXtwQ7kNvgGUwC6A&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYB2SWYqILaR35Ci_VXgVhmMnrzvOfFwiyEZCtHBT4THMw&oe=6672BBCF | 0 | 3 | My crush actually flipped the table and humiliated me in front of our whole family! During dinner, everyone was engaged in an enthusiastic discussion about my wedding to Felix. I've known Felix since we were born. I liked himβa lot, and he's always been nice and gentle to me. So I was stunned when he suddenly erupted. He shot to his feet and glared at me, "This is all your fault. Just stay away from me! Stop following me around!" In that instant, the room turned dead silent. I could feel the blood rush to my head, making my face flush and my ears ring. Tears welled up in my eyes, "Felix, I..." He snarled, "If it weren't for you shamelessly pestering me all the time, they wouldn't try to pair us up!" I forced myself to suppress the hurt I felt and tried to reason with him. "Felix, listen to me. I just likeβ" "Shut up! I don't need your affection. In fact, they're nothing more than shackles to me. I don't want to be associated with you in any wayβnot ever," Felix interrupted. His words were venomous, and his eyes were filled with a cold hatred that made me shiver. It was like he was looking at a piece of trash. My heart ached, and I found myself gasping for breath. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet in the end, it was all my fault? I should never have liked him. If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I swore I would make him regret it! | Massive story | 670 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715410800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879818 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410726 | 1723321830 | 995 | 1154523119004398 | 2 | 1.4377422001822E+15 | 1715842800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120211289111250002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πRead the next chaptersπ | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715329887 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442399618_2321306068077367_7267370041668681897_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=1jk1GTk5KOgQ7kNvgGBH6pF&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYC3q2XEJv5RpmrFVa_5fSvp7lnI1cysPlau-JGoSXZokQ&oe=6672A913 | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442385369_1121751435801135_773466184479018381_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=iyfL6T8EXtwQ7kNvgGUwC6A&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYB2SWYqILaR35Ci_VXgVhmMnrzvOfFwiyEZCtHBT4THMw&oe=6672BBCF | 0 | 3 | My crush actually flipped the table and humiliated me in front of our whole family! During dinner, everyone was engaged in an enthusiastic discussion about my wedding to Felix. I've known Felix since we were born. I liked himβa lot, and he's always been nice and gentle to me. So I was stunned when he suddenly erupted. He shot to his feet and glared at me, "This is all your fault. Just stay away from me! Stop following me around!" In that instant, the room turned dead silent. I could feel the blood rush to my head, making my face flush and my ears ring. Tears welled up in my eyes, "Felix, I..." He snarled, "If it weren't for you shamelessly pestering me all the time, they wouldn't try to pair us up!" I forced myself to suppress the hurt I felt and tried to reason with him. "Felix, listen to me. I just likeβ" "Shut up! I don't need your affection. In fact, they're nothing more than shackles to me. I don't want to be associated with you in any wayβnot ever," Felix interrupted. His words were venomous, and his eyes were filled with a cold hatred that made me shiver. It was like he was looking at a piece of trash. My heart ached, and I found myself gasping for breath. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet in the end, it was all my fault? I should never have liked him. If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I swore I would make him regret it! | Massive story | 670 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715410800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879819 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410726 | 1723321830 | 995 | 1154523119004398 | 2 | 1.4377422001822E+15 | 1715842800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120211289111250002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πRead the next chaptersπ | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715329887 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442399618_2321306068077367_7267370041668681897_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=1jk1GTk5KOgQ7kNvgGBH6pF&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYC3q2XEJv5RpmrFVa_5fSvp7lnI1cysPlau-JGoSXZokQ&oe=6672A913 | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442385369_1121751435801135_773466184479018381_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=iyfL6T8EXtwQ7kNvgGUwC6A&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYB2SWYqILaR35Ci_VXgVhmMnrzvOfFwiyEZCtHBT4THMw&oe=6672BBCF | 0 | 3 | My crush actually flipped the table and humiliated me in front of our whole family! During dinner, everyone was engaged in an enthusiastic discussion about my wedding to Felix. I've known Felix since we were born. I liked himβa lot, and he's always been nice and gentle to me. So I was stunned when he suddenly erupted. He shot to his feet and glared at me, "This is all your fault. Just stay away from me! Stop following me around!" In that instant, the room turned dead silent. I could feel the blood rush to my head, making my face flush and my ears ring. Tears welled up in my eyes, "Felix, I..." He snarled, "If it weren't for you shamelessly pestering me all the time, they wouldn't try to pair us up!" I forced myself to suppress the hurt I felt and tried to reason with him. "Felix, listen to me. I just likeβ" "Shut up! I don't need your affection. In fact, they're nothing more than shackles to me. I don't want to be associated with you in any wayβnot ever," Felix interrupted. His words were venomous, and his eyes were filled with a cold hatred that made me shiver. It was like he was looking at a piece of trash. My heart ached, and I found myself gasping for breath. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet in the end, it was all my fault? I should never have liked him. If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I swore I would make him regret it! | Massive story | 670 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715410800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879821 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410727 | 1723321830 | 995 | 2115068452192199 | 1 | 7.5946080672893E+15 | 1715583600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120210797601370002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πRead the next chaptersπ | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1716634519 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438221346_347076918382053_5509872404599054561_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=sisTEz4NT9EQ7kNvgHKLxoB&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCtqMSOg0KYjS4Qe6YSMcVwv7m8-3gjX2xmRdEJ4QbNtQ&oe=66729A9D | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438240590_982215810240924_7779339330704555568_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=k8YDPZIgCtIQ7kNvgEe3WoY&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDgQf2PDgTNWbeeCeovqRzYZ15FNuJAKpZSDMwPWPKx8w&oe=6672A3E0 | 0 | 3 | I had never seen Felix like this - fury was written all over his face, and his lanky figure was trembling slightly. I've known Felix since we were born. Our mothers were best friends and they were trying to pair us up again just now. I had a crush on him, and he always treated me kindly. But now, he glared at me and spat, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around! That's why they misunderstood! Stay away from me!" I hadn't expected him to say something like that. I stared at him dumbfounded. Both my parents and Felix's parents ceased their conversation about our wedding and future. Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? I'm my own man. I'll never marry her, so you all can just stop trying to pair us up!" Felix shouted as he glared at everyone in the house. His eyes were filled with hate. It made me want to curl up into a ball out of embarrassment. The house remained completely silent. Everyone's gaze was on me, and I could feel my heart throbbing in pain. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. He had trampled all over my dignity and self-worth in front of his whole family and mineβ¦ My father, usually calm, flushed crimson at Felix's harsh words, his fists clenched. Mom, too, looked angry and embarrassed, jaw agape, her expression one of disbelief. Uncle Austin, Felix's father, slapped Felix, scolding, "You rebellious boy! Who taught you to behave like that?" The impact of slap sent Felix reeling, and he hit his head on the corner of the wall. Felix slumped to the floor in pain, leaving an unmistakable streak of red on the white walls. Aunt Mel rushed forward with concern, "Felix, my son! Are you alright?" Felix shot me a scathing glare as if I had committed an unspeakable crime. "Are you happy now, Luna?" he spat. I stared back at him with wide eyes, tears streaming down my face and onto the floor. Even though I liked him, that didn't mean he could throw wild accusations and embarrass me as he pleased! I liked him, but I, too, had my sense of dignity! If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I would gladly change! "I'm sorry, Felix. I never thought that my actions would have bugged you so much," I forced the humiliation down as I continued, "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix." I bit my lip hard, and the sharp tang of blood exploded across my tongue. I, Luna Lawson, also swear to myself - I won't endure the same humiliation AGAIN! | Massive story | 670 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715410800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879822 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410727 | 1723321830 | 995 | 2115068452192199 | 1 | 7.5946080672893E+15 | 1715583600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120210797601370002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πRead the next chaptersπ | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1716634519 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438221346_347076918382053_5509872404599054561_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=sisTEz4NT9EQ7kNvgHKLxoB&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCtqMSOg0KYjS4Qe6YSMcVwv7m8-3gjX2xmRdEJ4QbNtQ&oe=66729A9D | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438240590_982215810240924_7779339330704555568_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=k8YDPZIgCtIQ7kNvgEe3WoY&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDgQf2PDgTNWbeeCeovqRzYZ15FNuJAKpZSDMwPWPKx8w&oe=6672A3E0 | 0 | 3 | I had never seen Felix like this - fury was written all over his face, and his lanky figure was trembling slightly. I've known Felix since we were born. Our mothers were best friends and they were trying to pair us up again just now. I had a crush on him, and he always treated me kindly. But now, he glared at me and spat, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around! That's why they misunderstood! Stay away from me!" I hadn't expected him to say something like that. I stared at him dumbfounded. Both my parents and Felix's parents ceased their conversation about our wedding and future. Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? I'm my own man. I'll never marry her, so you all can just stop trying to pair us up!" Felix shouted as he glared at everyone in the house. His eyes were filled with hate. It made me want to curl up into a ball out of embarrassment. The house remained completely silent. Everyone's gaze was on me, and I could feel my heart throbbing in pain. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. He had trampled all over my dignity and self-worth in front of his whole family and mineβ¦ My father, usually calm, flushed crimson at Felix's harsh words, his fists clenched. Mom, too, looked angry and embarrassed, jaw agape, her expression one of disbelief. Uncle Austin, Felix's father, slapped Felix, scolding, "You rebellious boy! Who taught you to behave like that?" The impact of slap sent Felix reeling, and he hit his head on the corner of the wall. Felix slumped to the floor in pain, leaving an unmistakable streak of red on the white walls. Aunt Mel rushed forward with concern, "Felix, my son! Are you alright?" Felix shot me a scathing glare as if I had committed an unspeakable crime. "Are you happy now, Luna?" he spat. I stared back at him with wide eyes, tears streaming down my face and onto the floor. Even though I liked him, that didn't mean he could throw wild accusations and embarrass me as he pleased! I liked him, but I, too, had my sense of dignity! If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I would gladly change! "I'm sorry, Felix. I never thought that my actions would have bugged you so much," I forced the humiliation down as I continued, "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix." I bit my lip hard, and the sharp tang of blood exploded across my tongue. I, Luna Lawson, also swear to myself - I won't endure the same humiliation AGAIN! | Massive story | 670 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715410800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879823 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410727 | 1723321830 | 995 | 2115068452192199 | 1 | 7.5946080672893E+15 | 1715583600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120210797601370002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πRead the next chaptersπ | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1716634519 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438221346_347076918382053_5509872404599054561_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=sisTEz4NT9EQ7kNvgHKLxoB&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCtqMSOg0KYjS4Qe6YSMcVwv7m8-3gjX2xmRdEJ4QbNtQ&oe=66729A9D | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438240590_982215810240924_7779339330704555568_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=k8YDPZIgCtIQ7kNvgEe3WoY&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDgQf2PDgTNWbeeCeovqRzYZ15FNuJAKpZSDMwPWPKx8w&oe=6672A3E0 | 0 | 3 | I had never seen Felix like this - fury was written all over his face, and his lanky figure was trembling slightly. I've known Felix since we were born. Our mothers were best friends and they were trying to pair us up again just now. I had a crush on him, and he always treated me kindly. But now, he glared at me and spat, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around! That's why they misunderstood! Stay away from me!" I hadn't expected him to say something like that. I stared at him dumbfounded. Both my parents and Felix's parents ceased their conversation about our wedding and future. Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? I'm my own man. I'll never marry her, so you all can just stop trying to pair us up!" Felix shouted as he glared at everyone in the house. His eyes were filled with hate. It made me want to curl up into a ball out of embarrassment. The house remained completely silent. Everyone's gaze was on me, and I could feel my heart throbbing in pain. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. He had trampled all over my dignity and self-worth in front of his whole family and mineβ¦ My father, usually calm, flushed crimson at Felix's harsh words, his fists clenched. Mom, too, looked angry and embarrassed, jaw agape, her expression one of disbelief. Uncle Austin, Felix's father, slapped Felix, scolding, "You rebellious boy! Who taught you to behave like that?" The impact of slap sent Felix reeling, and he hit his head on the corner of the wall. Felix slumped to the floor in pain, leaving an unmistakable streak of red on the white walls. Aunt Mel rushed forward with concern, "Felix, my son! Are you alright?" Felix shot me a scathing glare as if I had committed an unspeakable crime. "Are you happy now, Luna?" he spat. I stared back at him with wide eyes, tears streaming down my face and onto the floor. Even though I liked him, that didn't mean he could throw wild accusations and embarrass me as he pleased! I liked him, but I, too, had my sense of dignity! If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I would gladly change! "I'm sorry, Felix. I never thought that my actions would have bugged you so much," I forced the humiliation down as I continued, "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix." I bit my lip hard, and the sharp tang of blood exploded across my tongue. I, Luna Lawson, also swear to myself - I won't endure the same humiliation AGAIN! | Massive story | 670 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715410800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879824 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410727 | 1723321831 | 995 | 2115068452192199 | 1 | 7.5946080672893E+15 | 1715583600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120210797601370002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πRead the next chaptersπ | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1716634519 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438221346_347076918382053_5509872404599054561_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=sisTEz4NT9EQ7kNvgHKLxoB&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCtqMSOg0KYjS4Qe6YSMcVwv7m8-3gjX2xmRdEJ4QbNtQ&oe=66729A9D | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438240590_982215810240924_7779339330704555568_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=k8YDPZIgCtIQ7kNvgEe3WoY&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDgQf2PDgTNWbeeCeovqRzYZ15FNuJAKpZSDMwPWPKx8w&oe=6672A3E0 | 0 | 3 | I had never seen Felix like this - fury was written all over his face, and his lanky figure was trembling slightly. I've known Felix since we were born. Our mothers were best friends and they were trying to pair us up again just now. I had a crush on him, and he always treated me kindly. But now, he glared at me and spat, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around! That's why they misunderstood! Stay away from me!" I hadn't expected him to say something like that. I stared at him dumbfounded. Both my parents and Felix's parents ceased their conversation about our wedding and future. Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? I'm my own man. I'll never marry her, so you all can just stop trying to pair us up!" Felix shouted as he glared at everyone in the house. His eyes were filled with hate. It made me want to curl up into a ball out of embarrassment. The house remained completely silent. Everyone's gaze was on me, and I could feel my heart throbbing in pain. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. He had trampled all over my dignity and self-worth in front of his whole family and mineβ¦ My father, usually calm, flushed crimson at Felix's harsh words, his fists clenched. Mom, too, looked angry and embarrassed, jaw agape, her expression one of disbelief. Uncle Austin, Felix's father, slapped Felix, scolding, "You rebellious boy! Who taught you to behave like that?" The impact of slap sent Felix reeling, and he hit his head on the corner of the wall. Felix slumped to the floor in pain, leaving an unmistakable streak of red on the white walls. Aunt Mel rushed forward with concern, "Felix, my son! Are you alright?" Felix shot me a scathing glare as if I had committed an unspeakable crime. "Are you happy now, Luna?" he spat. I stared back at him with wide eyes, tears streaming down my face and onto the floor. Even though I liked him, that didn't mean he could throw wild accusations and embarrass me as he pleased! I liked him, but I, too, had my sense of dignity! If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I would gladly change! "I'm sorry, Felix. I never thought that my actions would have bugged you so much," I forced the humiliation down as I continued, "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix." I bit my lip hard, and the sharp tang of blood exploded across my tongue. I, Luna Lawson, also swear to myself - I won't endure the same humiliation AGAIN! | Massive story | 670 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715410800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879825 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410727 | 1723321831 | 995 | 2115068452192199 | 1 | 7.5946080672893E+15 | 1715583600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120210797601370002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πRead the next chaptersπ | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1716634519 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438221346_347076918382053_5509872404599054561_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=sisTEz4NT9EQ7kNvgHKLxoB&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCtqMSOg0KYjS4Qe6YSMcVwv7m8-3gjX2xmRdEJ4QbNtQ&oe=66729A9D | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438240590_982215810240924_7779339330704555568_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=k8YDPZIgCtIQ7kNvgEe3WoY&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDgQf2PDgTNWbeeCeovqRzYZ15FNuJAKpZSDMwPWPKx8w&oe=6672A3E0 | 0 | 3 | I had never seen Felix like this - fury was written all over his face, and his lanky figure was trembling slightly. I've known Felix since we were born. Our mothers were best friends and they were trying to pair us up again just now. I had a crush on him, and he always treated me kindly. But now, he glared at me and spat, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around! That's why they misunderstood! Stay away from me!" I hadn't expected him to say something like that. I stared at him dumbfounded. Both my parents and Felix's parents ceased their conversation about our wedding and future. Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? I'm my own man. I'll never marry her, so you all can just stop trying to pair us up!" Felix shouted as he glared at everyone in the house. His eyes were filled with hate. It made me want to curl up into a ball out of embarrassment. The house remained completely silent. Everyone's gaze was on me, and I could feel my heart throbbing in pain. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. He had trampled all over my dignity and self-worth in front of his whole family and mineβ¦ My father, usually calm, flushed crimson at Felix's harsh words, his fists clenched. Mom, too, looked angry and embarrassed, jaw agape, her expression one of disbelief. Uncle Austin, Felix's father, slapped Felix, scolding, "You rebellious boy! Who taught you to behave like that?" The impact of slap sent Felix reeling, and he hit his head on the corner of the wall. Felix slumped to the floor in pain, leaving an unmistakable streak of red on the white walls. Aunt Mel rushed forward with concern, "Felix, my son! Are you alright?" Felix shot me a scathing glare as if I had committed an unspeakable crime. "Are you happy now, Luna?" he spat. I stared back at him with wide eyes, tears streaming down my face and onto the floor. Even though I liked him, that didn't mean he could throw wild accusations and embarrass me as he pleased! I liked him, but I, too, had my sense of dignity! If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I would gladly change! "I'm sorry, Felix. I never thought that my actions would have bugged you so much," I forced the humiliation down as I continued, "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix." I bit my lip hard, and the sharp tang of blood exploded across my tongue. I, Luna Lawson, also swear to myself - I won't endure the same humiliation AGAIN! | Massive story | 670 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715410800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879826 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410727 | 1723321831 | 995 | 2115068452192199 | 1 | 7.5946080672893E+15 | 1715583600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120210797601370002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πRead the next chaptersπ | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1716634519 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438221346_347076918382053_5509872404599054561_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=sisTEz4NT9EQ7kNvgHKLxoB&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCtqMSOg0KYjS4Qe6YSMcVwv7m8-3gjX2xmRdEJ4QbNtQ&oe=66729A9D | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438240590_982215810240924_7779339330704555568_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=k8YDPZIgCtIQ7kNvgEe3WoY&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDgQf2PDgTNWbeeCeovqRzYZ15FNuJAKpZSDMwPWPKx8w&oe=6672A3E0 | 0 | 3 | I had never seen Felix like this - fury was written all over his face, and his lanky figure was trembling slightly. I've known Felix since we were born. Our mothers were best friends and they were trying to pair us up again just now. I had a crush on him, and he always treated me kindly. But now, he glared at me and spat, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around! That's why they misunderstood! Stay away from me!" I hadn't expected him to say something like that. I stared at him dumbfounded. Both my parents and Felix's parents ceased their conversation about our wedding and future. Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? I'm my own man. I'll never marry her, so you all can just stop trying to pair us up!" Felix shouted as he glared at everyone in the house. His eyes were filled with hate. It made me want to curl up into a ball out of embarrassment. The house remained completely silent. Everyone's gaze was on me, and I could feel my heart throbbing in pain. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. He had trampled all over my dignity and self-worth in front of his whole family and mineβ¦ My father, usually calm, flushed crimson at Felix's harsh words, his fists clenched. Mom, too, looked angry and embarrassed, jaw agape, her expression one of disbelief. Uncle Austin, Felix's father, slapped Felix, scolding, "You rebellious boy! Who taught you to behave like that?" The impact of slap sent Felix reeling, and he hit his head on the corner of the wall. Felix slumped to the floor in pain, leaving an unmistakable streak of red on the white walls. Aunt Mel rushed forward with concern, "Felix, my son! Are you alright?" Felix shot me a scathing glare as if I had committed an unspeakable crime. "Are you happy now, Luna?" he spat. I stared back at him with wide eyes, tears streaming down my face and onto the floor. Even though I liked him, that didn't mean he could throw wild accusations and embarrass me as he pleased! I liked him, but I, too, had my sense of dignity! If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I would gladly change! "I'm sorry, Felix. I never thought that my actions would have bugged you so much," I forced the humiliation down as I continued, "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix." I bit my lip hard, and the sharp tang of blood exploded across my tongue. I, Luna Lawson, also swear to myself - I won't endure the same humiliation AGAIN! | Massive story | 670 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715410800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879859 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410733 | 1723321831 | 995 | 1151488566099663 | 1 | 3.741970716041E+15 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 219004054622622 | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | 120209611805750689 | wwwedb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πAttention! Do not read in publicοΌπ | https://wwwedb.com/market/meganovel/13?lpid=11783&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717743552 | 2.1900405462262E+14 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447260728_1518945155389917_2874266976111342341_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=g0H6jXhQP3sQ7kNvgGXGGZL&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYD5RKLxmmvz3_WMQm6M7TyxkgQmm5IfWgwhhyK_F2vFIg&oe=6672BD2F | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447272334_8058147917584464_4203412527007476159_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ookoAxwxG_QQ7kNvgE9thCo&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCeO_9K7nk0lXXIJiyjXCwWONM-nS-S5ZtufKX8Y6JJ9A&oe=6672A008 | 0 | 3 | One Neah βWhere the heck is she?β I hear the Beta scream. I already knew Beta Kyle was talking about me, the only servant of the house. I groan and get to my feet, grabbing the cleaning basket and taking it with me. The moment Beta Kyle sees me, he strides towards me and his hand slices against my cheek. I donβt make a sound. Years of experience has taught me to keep my mouth shut at all times and only speak when spoken too, even if what they are doing to me hurts. βAlpha Trey and I are expecting company and you still have not cleaned the office like you were asked.β Beta Kyle spits at me I nod my head and my hand tightens on the cleaning basket. If I could just find the courage to swing it at his head, it would make my day. I resisted, he was stronger than me and I didnβt need locking up for another week with no food. My stomach already hurt enough. βWe are trying to make a good impression on Alpha Dane. Do you not understand how important it is for us to join ourselves with his pack?!β I donβt answer, I know it's a trick, to try and get me to say something so that he can give himself a reason to punish me. I keep my eyes low so that I didnβt have to look at his face. Alpha Dane, I had only ever heard rumours about him. Words exchanged between the other pack members when I was in the room. From what I gathered, he was a ruthless man, a Wolf feared by others. He didnβt mess around and he had the largest pack. βHe is the Alpha of Black Shadow, the biggest pack in the world, we need him!β Beta Kyle continues. Yet he doesnβt tell me why. We had never been attacked and we had never attacked anyone, so why did we need another pack to help us? He places his hands on my shoulders, digging his nails into my thinning skin and turns me around, kicking me in the but as he shoves me towards the office. βUseless Wolf.β He mutters as he moves away. Quietly closing the door, I lean back against it, observing the already clean office. There was nothing out of place, it looked perfectly fine for a meeting with this so-called powerful Alpha. Closing my eyes, I slide down to the floor. I hated this house. I thought that when I turned eighteen, I could finally escape, but four years later, here I still am, a slave in my own home. Doing all the dirty tasks for my brother, Alpha Trey and the pack. While my ex mate, Beta Kyle waltzes around reminding me of how worthless I am. Someone clears their throat and I freeze, I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair, just around the corner. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of drink. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that donβt quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door as my heart pounded. βIs this the way you greet all Alphaβs?β His deep voice rumbles through the room, there was an edge of amusement to his tone. βIβm sorry.β I whisper, getting to my feet. βIβ¦I thought I was alone.β I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. He doesnβt introduce himself either, why should he? βCome forward.β He orders and I already feel a lump forming in my throat. Alpha Trey was going to finish me. I step around the corner, doing as Iβm told, allowing him to see me properly. I close my eyes, expecting the worst. βYou smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?β I nod, though I couldnβt tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they found out about me. βI would prefer it if you spoke to me.β He growls, βIβm not in the mood to play games.β βYes.β I whisper. I couldnβt help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? βWhy do you smell strange? And how is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.β βIβ¦..β I hated the question. βSpit it out, I havenβt got all day!β He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldnβt scent him. I knew why I hadnβt been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever wanted or liked to do. They never let me tell my side of the story. All they do is laugh and mock me. βYou should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. Itβs rude to not look at them. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?β His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them, there was no way I was making eye contact. βMy Wolf abilities were bound,β I mutter. Twice, I wanted to add. Twice my abilities were bound. But he probably wasnβt interested in that part. He leans forward, carefully placing his glass on the small table next to the chair. I could feel him staring at me, βWhy would someone do that?β If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. βIt was a punishment.β I whisper. It wasnβt far from the entire truth but it was the simplest answer I could give. Thereβs a twitch in his cheek. Was he angry to hear of such a punishment? Or maybe, just like the others, he was amused by it. I couldnβt tell. The door swings open and my brother screeches at me βNeah, what the heck are you doing in my office?β He turns to the crimson eyed man. βI am so sorry that my sister is bothering you, Alpha Dane.β Crap, it was him. My brother spins around, his hand stretching out to hit me. I close my eyes, bracing myself, ready to feel the burn. βI wouldnβt do that if I were you.β Alpha Daneβs voice rumbles through the room. Peeking through slits, I see Alpha Dane has risen to his feet, his hand coiled around my brother's wrist. He was taller than my brother, more muscly too. βNeah,β My name rolls off of his tongue, βwas kindly showing me to your office, Alpha Trey, as you failed to meet me at the front of your house like I requested. I was lucky someone was present, at least someone understands the importance of this deal.β What? I had no idea what he was talking about. And he had no reason to lie for me. My brother glares at me, clenching his jaw tight. I was going to pay for this later. I would have to try and steal some food. βGo and get Beta Kyle.β Alpha Trey seethes. βTell him that our guest is here.β I nod my head and hurry from the room, the last thing I wanted was to be caught between bickering men. βBeta Kyle,β I whisper as I enter the dining hall. He instantly glares at me with his dark eyes. I had spoken without being spoken to. βAlpha Trey is in the office with Alpha Dane. I was sent to inform you.β He slams the newspaper down on the table and glares at me as he walks by. βYouβre lucky that the Alpha sent you to get me, otherwise you wouldn't be seeing sunlight for a few days.β Pausing behind me, he yanks my head back, locking his fingers in my hair, leaning in close to me, I feel his hot breath on my skin. He doesnβt speak, it was just his way of proving that he could do what he wants when he wants. I try to keep myself busy so I can stay as far away from the office as possible. My peace doesnβt last long when I hear my brother calling out to me. Quietly, I pad towards the office and plaster a smile on my face as I open the door. βNeah, go get the champagne and some glasses, we are celebrating.β I bow my head and hurry to the drinks cabinet. Quickly finding what my brother has asked for. As I re-enter the office, I can feel Alpha Dane watching my every move, even the hairs on the back of my neck stand up. No one ever watches me this closely. Approaching the small table by Alpha Danes chair, I start to fill the glasses. He takes the champagne bottle from me, telling me he is more than capable of filling his own glass. I feel my cheeks flame, not from embarrassment, but because I knew that I would be punished for this. I should have been quicker. I should have filled the glasses before entering the office. I should haveβ¦. My brain freezes when I see my brother glaring at me. βNeah is your sister, correct?β Alpha Dane questions my brother. βShe is.β Alpha Trey mutters with disgust. He looks away from me to focus on the man asking questions. βWhy do you treat her like vermin?β Straight to the point, my brother wouldnβt like that. He only liked sharing information on his terms. No one had spoken to my brother about his treatment of me because everyone took great joy in beating me. I didnβt know what to do. I couldnβt move but I knew I had to get out of there. If this deal goes to pot because of me, then that would be my fault too. βNeah was responsible for our parents' death.β Alpha Trey spits I closed my eyes, battling back the tears that were threatening to break free. βResponsible how?β Alpha Daneβs voice rumbles through me. He was definitely angry. βShe served them Wolfsbane.β Two Neah Donβt make a sound. Donβt make a sound. I knew Alpha Dane was studying me. They all did, no one could ever quite believe how someone could do something so disgusting as poisoning their own parents. I stood there, with my head hanging low, wishing for the ground to open up and suck me in. There are movements around me. He was standing directly in front of me. With a rough finger he tilts my face up towards his, forcing me to look at him. Slowly, his hand latches onto my throat but he doesnβt squeeze. βYou poisoned your parents?β βI was six.β I splutter. βI just made them lemonade.β My voice comes out all squeaky as I try to defend myself. I could barely remember my parents, but I could remember all the guilt I had been made to feel since that day. His crimson eyes flash to my brothers. βHardly seems fair to blame a six year old.β βA six year old should know the difference between plants.β Alpha Trey snaps βSounds to me like she was set up.β Alpha Dane shrugs his shoulders, letting go of my throat. βWe all know that standard wolfsbane doesnβt affect us anymore. We evolved from that thing centuries ago.β What? What did he mean? Wolfsbane wasnβt lethal. It had been drummed into me since I could walk. βWhich only leaves Blood of Wolfsbane.β Alpha Dane mutters βYou werenβt there, Alpha Dane.β My brother muttered through gritted teeth as his eyes narrowed to slits. βIt was Wolfsbane.β He nods his head. βYou are right, I was not present.β Great, now there was someone else who could remind me of something I had done by accident, years ago. βBut tell me this, where would a six year old get Blood of Wolfsbane?β βI didnβt ask you here to talk about my slave!β Alpha Trey spits. βOr what happened to my parents.β Alpha Dane grabs his leather jacket from the chair. Unlike other Alphaβs he seemed to dress more casually. A simple black tee and jeans covered his huge frame. And unlike other Alphaβs, his arms are bare of tattoos, not a single bit of ink poked out anywhere. βYouβre right and now I have a few things to mull over.β βI thought we agreed.β My brother exclaims βNothing has been signed. Now I will show myself out.β The moment he is out of the office, both my brother and Beta Kyle round on me. βWhat the heck did you say to him?β My brother demands, slamming a hand into my stomach. βN..nothing. Well, he just asked me why I smelled funny.β βDid you tell him?β Beta Kyle demands. He was practically spitting in my face. I hated him. I hated him so much that I had vowed to one day get my revenge and rip his stomach out through his mouth. βWELL?β My brother yells when I donβt immediately respond and smacks me across the side of the head. My head involuntarily moves up and down. βBut I didnβt say it was you.β I tried to sound strong and confident but it just comes out as a whisper. If they werenβt Wolves, they probably wouldnβt have heard me. My brother's hand locks into my black hair as he yanks my head back, sending a shooting pain through my skull. βIf you have ruined this, you wonβt see daylight again.β He drags me by my hair from the office and down the hallway towards the basement door. βPleaseβ¦.β I beg. βHe was an Alphaβ¦Iβ¦ I had to answer him.β My cheeks burn with my tears as he flings the door open. On the other side of the door is Alpha Dane. He is leaning against the wall with his arms folded, staring out at us. My brother's hand falls from my hair, relieving the pressure on the back of my skull.. βAlpha Dane, I thought you had left.β Alpha Trey murmurs angrily. βI said I would show myself out. I thought I had found the door, but instead I find a basement, riddled in your sister's strange scent. Is this how you treat your family?β βAs I said,β my brother holds his ground, βShe is responsible for the death of my parents, so yes, this is what she deserves.β βYou should keep your nose out of other packs' business!β Beta Kyle adds. Alpha Dane laughs. βIf I agree to this deal, everything about your business becomes my business. So tell me, what would your punishment be for her? No food, locked away for a week, beatings?β βWe donβtβ¦.β βReally?β He cocks a brow, βYou really expect me to believe that you would have just let her sleep? I have already stopped you from hitting her once. " His eyes roam over me. "She is underfed, bags hover under her tired blue eyes. For a sister of an Alpha, she is certainly not treated like one. Regardless of what she allegedly did when she was a pup.β βShe did do it!β Alpha Trey seethes βAnd she has nothing to do with our deal.β βThatβs for me to decide.β His crimson eyes flicker around the hallway. βWhere is your mate? I would be interested to know how she feels about this.β I close my eyes, silently begging my brother not to call his Luna. Luna Cassandra is worse than Beta Kyle and Alpha Trey together. βOn second thoughts, why bother her. Iβm certain she is just as vile as you.β He sneers I peer through slits to see his crimson eyes on me. There was no reason for him to defend me and yet he was. I was a nobody, no one special. Just who everyone called a traitor. Only instead of being given a death sentence, my brother had decided to make me spend my life suffering. βI have a proposition for you, Alpha Trey.β Alpha Dane is smirking at my brother βWe have already agreed on terms.β βWell, Iβm adding one. And if you donβt agree, you will not get my help. Instead, you will become my enemy. And we both know, you donβt want that.β βI take it that your new terms have something to do with her?β Alpha Trey mutters through clenched teeth. βYou would be correct. Let me take her away to my pack and then you, Trey will have a deal.β Me? Why would he want me? As my brother and his Beta discuss me, Alpha Dane is still studying me. His look made me nervous. What could someone like him possibly want with me? βDeal.β Alpha Trey sticks out his hand for Alpha Dane to shake. He doesnβt take it, instead his crimson eyes shift from me to my brother. βI will have paperwork drawn up and will return tomorrow.β He reaches a hand out and cups my face, βEnsure you have everything packed.β He drags his thumb across my bottom lip and strides to the opposite end of the hallway and straight to the front door. He knew exactly where the front door was, so what was he up to? He pauses at the door. βIf I find out any one of you has laid a hand on her. The contract will be the last thing you need to worry about.β He struts out, slamming the door behind him. βGet out of my sight!β My brother snaps at me. Hurrying away, I make my way up the stairs and into my tiny bedroom. It was practically empty, the only things I had were a few changes of clothes. It would take me less than a minute to pack By morning, I hadnβt slept. Alpha Danes questions were on repeat and why was I so interesting to a Wolf like him. There was a reason he had the biggest pack. They were known for their fighting abilities, thatβs why my brother wanted to link Moonshine with Alpha Danes pack, but where did I fit in to all this? And what o earth is Blood of Wolfsbane? Three Dane βTenth brideβs the charm.β Jenson mocks as the driver pulls up in front of Moonshines packhouse. βShut up!β Eric snaps at him βBoth of you shut your mouths. Before you say something you regret!β βHe will never learn.β My wolf, Aero muses. The driver pulls open the door. βJust give me a second, I need to speak to my men.β The door closes and neither one of them speaks. βShe isnβt like the others. Donβt speak to her, donβt look at her. And you Jenson, keep your hands to yourself or you might just lose them this time.β I was more rattled than usual. Neah was different to the previous selected mates. I didnβt know what it was or whether it was because I was used to confident women, but there was something about her. And Aero appeared to like her too, more than any of the others. I had to have her. βI mean it!β I snap at Jenson's smug face, βBeing my brother wonβt change my mind!β He runs his fingers over his lips as though he was zipping them shut. They follow me from the car. Standing in front of the old packhouse, all three of us stare up at it. Because until a month ago, I knew nothing about them and even after my visit, all I had learned was the Alpha is a beast. My knuckles hammer on the door. Itβs barely open an inch when I force myself through making his Beta stumble back. I spot her straight away, hiding herself behind a corner. βAre you ready?β I call out. βIf you just want toβ¦..β Beta Kyle starts. βI was not talking to you. I was speaking to Neah.β The expression on Beta Kyleβs face was a picture. His jaw hung open and his eyes are wide. He clearly had never been told what to do, even by his Alpha. Neah steps out from her hiding spot, clutching a barely full carrier bag. She drags her teeth across her bottom lip and nods her head. βWhere are the rest of your things? I told you everything needs to be packedβ βThatβs all she has.β Trey snorts as he makes his appearance. βThatβs it?β I stare at him. βThatβs all her belongings? Sheβs what, in her early twenties and thatβs all she has?β βWhat more does she need?!β His Beta sneers. βKill him, let me rip out his throat and he will regret the day he crossed us.β βWhat are you waiting for?β I hear a horrible shrill voice that seems to vibrate through the floors. Looking away from the Beta, I see a woman holding on to a statue of herself that sat at the bottom of the stairs. Her blonde hair hung in waves around her face as her green eyes studied me and she sways her hips as she moves to Trey. I noticed Neahβs reaction yesterday. When I asked Trey where his mate was. Her whole body had tensed up in fear. She was afraid of this woman and I wanted to know why. βTake her Alpha Dane. Iβm sure she will be as useful a slave to you as she is to us.β Her shrill voice goes straight through me. βLook at the silly girl, sheβs going to pass out.β The blonde bimbo laughs βYou donβt get to talk about her like that anymore.β I glare at the blonde, βShe is not your toy. She is not your slave and I suggest that you, Alpha Trey keep your wife in check. There is only so much disobedience that I will tolerate.β βDISOBEDIENCE!β The woman screeches just as Neahβs hip hits the floor. βHow dare you! If anyone is disobedient, itβs that rat in the corner.β βWho the heck is she calling a rat?β Aero growls βYou should make yourself familiar with our agreement.β I snap. βIt seems your mate has not told you everything.β Waving Eric forward, he pulls a thick wad of paper from the folder under his arm. The contract that I have drawn up. βAll that for your help?β His mateβs eyes are wide βI donβt do half-witted contracts.β Taking the contract from Eric, I shove it against Treyβs chest βShall we go to the office?β Trey leads the way with his mate clinging on to him and his Beta hurrying behind. My men follow them while I stay behind to check on my new mate. βYou are more than welcome to join us, after all, you are involved in this deal. Or my car is outfront, you can take your stuff and wait there for me.β βAre those my only options?β she whispers, keeping her eyes low βFor now. Personally, I think you should sit in with us. It will give me great pleasure in pissing off that mate of your brothers.β She keeps her blue eyes low as she continues to clutch that bag of hers. This close to her, I could really see how ill she looked. Even her heart beat is slow, like itβs fighting to hang on to life. βSo what will it be?β βIβ¦.β Her head rotates between the front door and the direction of the office. βIβ¦.. The office I guess.β βGood choice.β I hold out a hand for her but she doesnβt take it. Pushing herself up to her feet. She wobbles a little, but steadies herself. Walking a few steps behind her, I see the evil glares she receives from Trey and the other two idiots as she enters the office.. βTake a seat.β I whisper as I walk past her. My hand grazes her lower back and she immediately tenses up. She stands, frozen to the spot. Only her eyes dart about when she shakes her head. βSit!β I say it a little louder βShe doesnβt have that privilege here!β The blonde snaps, with her lips curved up in amusement βSitting is not a privilege.β I growl, wondering what else they were forcing her to do. I couldnβt see any bruises on her arms or legs, a good sign, I hoped. βIt better be!β Aero paces in my head. He wanted her out of this place as much as I did. The blonde physically recoils in her seat. Her mouth falls wide open, shocked that I had said something. βAnd I suggest,β I look at Trey, βYou tell your mate to keep her mouth shut. Or I can shut it for her.β βAlpha Dane, you are in my homeβ¦..β βAnd you want my help, correct?β The three of them were fuming. No one liked being told what to do in their own home, yet they were doing just that to Neah. I point to the empty chair between Jenson and Eric and she finally sits down. βLetβs just get this done.β Trey snaps, βThe sooner she is gone, the happier I can be.β βYou should read the contract.β I muse βI agreed that you could take her as part of our deal.β βIdiot!β Eric murmurs. He knew as well as I did that contracts should be read before they are signed They sign without reading and practically throw the contract back at me. βDone.β Trey mutters βGood, you can get her out of my house.β Treyβs mate screeches. If I had it my way, I would just take Neah, then I wouldnβt have to put up with the twidles, but this way, they canβt have her back. Even if they begged. A contract was a contract and it was impossible for them to get out of. Getting to my feet, I hold a hand out to Neah, βCome, we are leaving this rat hole before I lose my temper.β Her warm fingers slip into my hand as she rises to her feet. Her other hand clutches the bag to her chest as she walks with me to the front door. She doesnβt even look back to say goodbye and that confirmed everything I needed to know. She hated them as much as they hated her. She pauses at the open front door, her hand falling from mine. Her blue eyes are wide as she stares at the limo. βCome.β I instruct Eric and Jenson are standing behind her, watching her curiously. βIs she okay?β Eric links me. βNeah?β I step in front of her and she doesnβt move. She seems to be staring right through me. βItβs time to go.β βOkay.β Her lips barely move She takes a step forward, almost as if she is in slow motion. Her hands grip the door frame, her knuckles turn white as her heartbeat increases. Her lips part a little and her hand falls from the door frame just as her eyes roll to the back of her head. βIβve got you.β I mutter, catching her just before she hits the floor. Her entire body tenses up as I lift her and carry her to the car. She was so weak and was even lighter than I expected. She probably didnβt weigh much more than a small child. Jenson and Eric get in the car first. Jenson cocks his eyebrow at me and has a smirk plastered to his face as I slide in with Neah on my lap. βKeep your thoughts to yourself, Jenson!β I hold her close, listening to her breathe and her heart as it slowed. Letting my fingers comb through her dark hair as she becomes a little more with it. Suddenly, she sits up right, moving away from me and trying to make herself as small as possible. Deciding not to force her to do anything, I keep my attention on my Beta and my brother, talking about pack stuff while casting a glance over to her every so often to make sure she was alright. βCome.β I mutter as the limo comes to a stop. I donβt wait for the driver and get out myself, holding a hand out for her. βIβm fine.β She speaks at last while glancing at the others and shuffles herself forward to the open door. She stares up at my home, gasping a little. It was easily three times the size of her previous home and I hoped that she would be happy here. That I could provide her with a life that was better than her last. βLet me give you a tour.β I suggest as she continues to clutch that carrier bag to her chest. She follows me in, not speaking a word. I had no idea if she was listening to what I was saying or not βThe omegas swap out on a rotational basis. Good for the youngsters to learn some responsibilities before they get proper jobs.β I tell her while showing her the dining hall with a table long enough to fit twenty people around. We move through to the kitchen. Where I point out a board on the wall. βIf there is anything you need, you just add it to the board and it will be ordered in.β Her brow furrows and still she says nothing. Picking up a pen, I smile. Maybe she felt intimidated by me. βSo tell me, what do you need because there is no way you are living under my roof with just the things that are in that bag.β Her dazzling blue eyes dart around the room βWell?β I ask. βI donβt need anything.β She whispers Sighing, I start scribbling things down. Underwear, jeans, workout clothes, dresses, shoes, anything I can think of that will cover her for a few days. Holding the pen between my teeth, I grab her around the waist. My thumbs meet just above her belly button and my fingers touch her spine. She was so thin, how was she even alive? Four Dane She looked like a deer caught in headlights as I write her size down. She was tinier than I thought. Skin and bone. If I had moved my hands up any higher, I would have felt every rib sticking out. It sickened me, she should be strong, powerful, she had Alpha blood running through her veins. I also saw how she scrunched her face up when I measured her. It wasnβt fear, it was pain. She was hiding something underneath the baggy maids dress. βI know you want to say something, so just say it. Iβm not interested in the crap Trey drummed into you. You donβt have to wait until someone asks you a question. You are free to say what you want. Are you injured?" "No." She was lying, I could feel it. She shakes her head as if it would confirm her answer and a lock of her black hair falls from the band that was supposed to be holding it back. Neah was going to be a tough girl to crack. A life of being starved had made her quite protective over herself. I will make Trey pay for what he has done to her. βYou have to say something, Neah. I cannot read your mind. When I mark you, at least I will know what you are feeling.β βMark me?β I didnβt think her eyes could get any wider. βYes, I will mark you.β She was completely and utterly shocked by the idea. Her pink lips part a little as she continues to stare at me. I thought she knew. I thought that was why she came so willingly. My Beta had kept asking me if I was certain I wanted her as my bride. There was no doubt about it, she had a strange scent but something was luring me to her. I couldnβt take my eyes off of her when I first saw her. My Wolf Aero was going mad for her too. Though he hadnβt said a word about her. Annoyed with me for not taking her home with us yesterday. βYouβ¦.You brought me so that you could mark me.β She takes a step back, walking into the kitchen island. She winces a little and quickly covers up her pain, relaxing her face.. βIf Trey had bothered reading the contract, he would have discovered that you are to be my bride, not a slave. He would also have read that if he or his ridiculously silly mate tried doing anything to you going forward, that pack would become mine, or rather, yours. I never bought you, Neah, you were always destined to be mine.β βIβm a murderer.β She gasps. βWhy would someone like you want me for a bride?β βBloodβ Aero growls interrupting my thoughts. I glance down at her baggy dress. A blood stain had appeared right where I had my hands wrapped around her. βWhatβs that? Are you injured?β I demand, I had barely touched her. She covers the stain with her hand. βItβs nothing. Itβs just a cut that I keep knocking and it opens up again. I forget itβs there.β Forget? How could she forget a wound? βWhy isnβt she healing?β I feel Aeroβs panic. βSheβs been with us less than two hours and already she has some form of injury.β His need to protect her was strong. It hadnβt occurred to me that her lack of abilities included not being able to heal. I would have to find someone who could reverse the binding and soon. βShow me!β βItβs fine.β She mumbles I was already so sick of hearing that phrase. βItβs not optional.β I mutter. βIf you wonβt show me, I will have to find a way to look, myself.β Her heart skips a beat. She looks around the kitchen. βCan.... can we go somewhere more private?β βPrivate?β I didnβt really do privacy. What Wolf did?! She bobs her head but still keeps her focus slightly off of me. Almost afraid to look me directly in the eyes. βOffice,β Aero mutters. βI was just going to suggest that!β I snap back at my Wolf. I feel his eyes roll as he retreats to some dark corner of my mind. βThis way.β I gesture to the door. Neah waits for me and follows closely behind. The scent of blood steadily grew stronger, it was more than just a cut. I already knew that. In the office, I hit the remote and the blinds start to drop, blocking out the sunlight. Neah hesitates and slowly begins to unfasten the buttons of the dress but only where the large blood stain was. Keeping everything else covered from me. She pulls the dress to one side. The wound was about four inches long and already fairly infected. βSee, itβs fine.β she whispers. βYou need to stop saying that.β She closes her mouth and starts to fasten the buttons. βNo,β I grabbed her hands, I had caught sight of another bruise. βLet me see the rest of them.β It wasnβt optional. She gasps as my fingers rip apart the rest of the buttons. Her sports bra had seen better days, just the same as her underwear. But it was the bruising I was most concerned about. Bruise upon bruise, scars that had come from whips. Her hip bones and ribs stuck out too. Turning her around, and pulling the dress from her, I find that her back is just the same. Yet interestingly, there was nothing above her chest and nothing below her thighs. Her arms were completely bare of wounds too. There was only one reason why someone would do that. To either hide what they were doing to someone, or to keep up appearances. They didnβt want guests to see. More importantly, they didnβt want me to see, considering the meeting was arranged over a month ago. She fumbles with the dress, pulling it tightly around her thin frame. βYou need to see a doctor.β βItβs β¦..β she trails off when she sees the anger on my face. βIt always heals, eventually.β βDid Trey do this?β I mutter with my teeth gritted and gesture to her body She lowers her blue eyes. βCassandra?β She still doesnβt answer me. βThat prick that follows Trey around? All three of them?β She pulls her dress tighter around her and silently nods. She brings her hand up to her face, brushing her cheek, wiping away an escaped tear. βAnyone else?β βThe pack.β She whispers. βIβm going to kill them all.β Aero growls. He will have to get in line, βBecause of what you allegedly did to your parents.β She nods. βI donβt believe you were responsible.β She tilts her head up towards me, her brow knits together as her eyes finally find mine. βBecause of Blood of Wolfsbane?" Five Neah βIβ¦I donβt know what Blood of Wolfsbane is?β I whisper He frowns at me. βYour brother said you knew the difference between plants.β βIβ¦β I didnβt have an answer. I couldnβt remember, not fully. βBlood of Wolfsbane is Wolfsbane fed by our blood. The leaves will have a red hue to them. I canβt imagine a child would know what it is because it is not freely grown. Your brotherβs story doesnβt add up.β βOh.β βI wonβt stop until I find out who did this, Neah.β His crimson eyes narrow. βI will make them pay for the suffering you have endured.β He sits on the edge of his desk, studying me. βRight now, you do need to see someone about the infection.β I kept my mouth closed, I was still trying to process his news of me being set up. Why had my brother never considered it? βCome, I will show you our bedroom. You can shower before we see the pack doctor.β Frozen to the spot, I donβt move. Did he just say βour bedroom,β? As in, we are sharing a bedroom? I guess he thinks he can mke love with me whenever he wants if Iβm his contract bride. A shiver runs down my spine at the thought. Glancing up, I see him watching me. He is stood at the open door, waiting for me. Ensuring my dress has me covered, I step out into the hallway. No one was around and the hallways were quiet. As we moved, Alpha Dane would tell me what each room was, but he seemed more focussed on getting me to the bedroom. His bedroom is huge, with massive windows, just like the rest of the house. The bed sat pressed up against the wall. All around it, thin drapes hung from the ceiling, but they were tied back at each bed post. What surprised me the most was that the bath and the shower were in the same room. Only the toilet was in a small room to the side of the shower. No privacy, whatsoever. Though, he didnβt seem to care about that. He makes me jump when I feel his warm breath on my skin. βYou donβt need to be afraid.β I may not be able to smell him, but he would be able to scent the changes in my emotions. Crossing the room, he pulls open the glass door to the shower and turns it on. The moment he closes the door, the steam of the shower quickly fogs up the glass. And still, I find myself afraid. He gave me no clue as to what he was expecting from me. βHey,β His rough fingers tip my face up. βItβs just you and me and for now, I will let you shower in peace.β Walking away, he pulls his phone out of his pocket and messes around with it before placing it on the bedside table. βThe alarm is set for ten minutes. I will come back then. I will bring you something to wear so just stay in the towel. Understand?β He stares at me, waiting for an answer and I just nod. A ten minute shower. I was lucky if I got a minute shower back home and the water was always cold. He moves to the door and with his hand resting on the door knob he looks back over his shoulder at me. βI really wish you would talk more, Neah.β Alpha Dane leaves me in peace and I make a mad dash for the shower as if Iβm in some kind of fantasy land and this was all a dream. Maybe it was, maybe I was about to wake up in the basement of my home. The smells of the soaps and shampoos are divine as I lather them into myself. And my hair has never felt so clean. The wound on my stomach stung as the hot water hit it, but I didnβt care, it was worth it. Someone in the room clears their throat and I freeze. Thanking the steam for keeping me semi hidden. βNeah, are you done? The alarm went off five minutes ago.β Alpha Daneβs voice seems louder in here. I had been so caught up in the freedom of a simple shower that I hadnβt even heard the alarm or the Alpha come back into the room. βComing.β I mutter, turning off the water and pulling a towel around me to hide the hideousness underneath. Stepping out, I already see that my ripped dress, underwear and worn sandals had been removed from the floor. Alpha Dane sits on the end of the bed with what looked like folded clothes on his lap and a pair of trainers. βItβs not much, as we donβt have anyone with as small a waist as you.β He smiles as he hands over the clothes. A matching navy blue sweatshirt and joggers. βYou will have to make do without the underwear for now. Should be here first thing tomorrow.β He watches me with a cocked eyebrow as I pull the joggers on and tug the sweatshirt over my head before removing the towel. Maybe he was used to the women parading themselves in front of him, or throwing themselves at him because he has power, but I wasnβt like that. βLetβs go.β He rises to his feet and this time, I follow him. Something told me that if I didnβt get this wound looked at, it would put him in a bad mood. The pack doctor was young, unlike the one back home who was old and afraid to let anyone take over from him. She smiles at us as we enter the pack hospital and rewraps her dark hair into a bun. βRaven, this is Neah.β Alpha Dane introduces me with a grin. I keep my eyes low as I hear Raven say, βAlpha Dane, what seems to be the problem apart from the strange smell she has brought with her.β It didnβt sound like a hurtful comment like I was used to, but more a comment of curiosity. βShe will tell you herself when she finds her tongue.β βI have a wound.β I whisper. βAnd you are not healing?β Raven asks, confused βI donβt have my Wolf.β I hated saying it. It was just a constant reminder that I did not fit in. βHer Wolf was bound when she was a kid.β Alpha Dane tells her. βThatβs why her scent is strange. Her Wolf is there, locked away, waiting to be freed.β My eyes flicker up only to find him staring straight back at me. I had always believed that my Wolf was gone. Not that she was trapped. Ravenβs dark eyes hover on me. βWow, okay.β She grabs my hand. βThis way, letβs take a look at this wound of yours.β She leads me into an empty room and asks me to lay on the bed and to show her my wound. Pulling up the sweatshirt, just enough for her to see the wound. Her eyes widen, a flicker of rage passing over them as she takes in the infected wound and the bruising that surrounds it. Her fingers carefully press around the wound. βHow long ago?β βA few days.β I mutter, though I wasnβt sure. Every beating blurred into another one. Any day that I wasnβt hit was a good day. Raven shakes her head. βThis is longer than a few days ago, the infection has had at least a week to develop.β βNeah, you need to tell us the truth.β Alpha Dane orders βI donβt know.β βNEAH!β His deep voice rumbles through me and I close my eyes, fearing his anger. Anger brought punishment, punishment brought pain. βI swear, I donβt know. The beatings, they happen so often that they just kind ofβ¦. Iβm never not bruised.β Thereβs silence and I was too afraid to open my eyes. Alpha Trey had said it over and over, that if anyone found out, he would make my life a misery, more than it already was. I used to wonder who would ever find out that didnβt already know. Now here I was, sitting in another packβs hospital, revealing the truth. βHeal her!β Alpha Dane shouts after what seems like forever. He storms from the room, pulling a phone out of his pocket. βYou will have to forgive my brother. His temper is short, especially when it comes to things like this.β Raven mutters as she gently inspects my wound βYour brother?β I whisper, opening my eyes βAh, I see he informed you. Iβm guessing he didnβt tell you that Jenson is our brother too?β I shake my head, Iβm guessing Jenson was one of the men that came to my brother's house. She chuckles. βJenson is considered to be our brotherβs Gamma.β βGamma?β I had never heard of the term. βYep and Alpha Dane has a love/hate for me working here. He wants me to represent our family, but he knows this is what Iβm good at.β She grabs a pot of cream from the cupboard. βNow this needs to be applied three times a day. It should clear up the infection, if it hasnβt changed in a couple of days, I will take another look. My brother is waiting for you out front.β βThanks.β I mumble, taking the pot of cream from her. I looked at the label, but couldnβt read it. I had never learned to read. She bobs her head at me as I hurry out to find Alpha Dane on his phone, snapping at someone. He hangs up as soon as he sees me and asks what Raven said. βCream, three times a day.β I show him the pot and he takes it from me. βGood, come.β He strides off and I have to run to keep up with him. I follow him through the house and into the office. βShow me.β He orders, pulling the lid off the pot. It wasnβt going to be negotiable, not when he had used the same tone moments before he ripped my dress open earlier. Slowly lifting my sweatshirt, he crouches down in front of me and gently smothers the wound in the cold cream. βI donβt want you to lie to me, Neah. Not ever. If you canβt remember, that is what you need to tell me. Is that clear? I donβt want to have to guess what you mean.β βOkay.β I couldnβt say anything else, I was too focussed on the warmth of his hands. One presses against my lower back, holding me steady while the other gently rubs cream into my wound. The only touch I had received from another man was a beating. βStop holding your breath.β He tells me, getting to his feet. βI am not going to hurt you.β It seemed impossible to believe given my history. The act, the words coming from him, it just didnβt feel real. | Galaxy in the Story | 301 | https://facebook.com/61555427913037 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717743600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879861 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410733 | 1723321831 | 995 | 1151488566099663 | 1 | 3.741970716041E+15 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 219004054622622 | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | 120209611805750689 | wwwedb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πAttention! Do not read in publicοΌπ | https://wwwedb.com/market/meganovel/13?lpid=11783&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717743552 | 2.1900405462262E+14 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447260728_1518945155389917_2874266976111342341_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=g0H6jXhQP3sQ7kNvgGXGGZL&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYD5RKLxmmvz3_WMQm6M7TyxkgQmm5IfWgwhhyK_F2vFIg&oe=6672BD2F | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447272334_8058147917584464_4203412527007476159_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ookoAxwxG_QQ7kNvgE9thCo&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCeO_9K7nk0lXXIJiyjXCwWONM-nS-S5ZtufKX8Y6JJ9A&oe=6672A008 | 0 | 3 | One Neah βWhere the heck is she?β I hear the Beta scream. I already knew Beta Kyle was talking about me, the only servant of the house. I groan and get to my feet, grabbing the cleaning basket and taking it with me. The moment Beta Kyle sees me, he strides towards me and his hand slices against my cheek. I donβt make a sound. Years of experience has taught me to keep my mouth shut at all times and only speak when spoken too, even if what they are doing to me hurts. βAlpha Trey and I are expecting company and you still have not cleaned the office like you were asked.β Beta Kyle spits at me I nod my head and my hand tightens on the cleaning basket. If I could just find the courage to swing it at his head, it would make my day. I resisted, he was stronger than me and I didnβt need locking up for another week with no food. My stomach already hurt enough. βWe are trying to make a good impression on Alpha Dane. Do you not understand how important it is for us to join ourselves with his pack?!β I donβt answer, I know it's a trick, to try and get me to say something so that he can give himself a reason to punish me. I keep my eyes low so that I didnβt have to look at his face. Alpha Dane, I had only ever heard rumours about him. Words exchanged between the other pack members when I was in the room. From what I gathered, he was a ruthless man, a Wolf feared by others. He didnβt mess around and he had the largest pack. βHe is the Alpha of Black Shadow, the biggest pack in the world, we need him!β Beta Kyle continues. Yet he doesnβt tell me why. We had never been attacked and we had never attacked anyone, so why did we need another pack to help us? He places his hands on my shoulders, digging his nails into my thinning skin and turns me around, kicking me in the but as he shoves me towards the office. βUseless Wolf.β He mutters as he moves away. Quietly closing the door, I lean back against it, observing the already clean office. There was nothing out of place, it looked perfectly fine for a meeting with this so-called powerful Alpha. Closing my eyes, I slide down to the floor. I hated this house. I thought that when I turned eighteen, I could finally escape, but four years later, here I still am, a slave in my own home. Doing all the dirty tasks for my brother, Alpha Trey and the pack. While my ex mate, Beta Kyle waltzes around reminding me of how worthless I am. Someone clears their throat and I freeze, I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair, just around the corner. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of drink. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that donβt quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door as my heart pounded. βIs this the way you greet all Alphaβs?β His deep voice rumbles through the room, there was an edge of amusement to his tone. βIβm sorry.β I whisper, getting to my feet. βIβ¦I thought I was alone.β I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. He doesnβt introduce himself either, why should he? βCome forward.β He orders and I already feel a lump forming in my throat. Alpha Trey was going to finish me. I step around the corner, doing as Iβm told, allowing him to see me properly. I close my eyes, expecting the worst. βYou smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?β I nod, though I couldnβt tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they found out about me. βI would prefer it if you spoke to me.β He growls, βIβm not in the mood to play games.β βYes.β I whisper. I couldnβt help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? βWhy do you smell strange? And how is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.β βIβ¦..β I hated the question. βSpit it out, I havenβt got all day!β He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldnβt scent him. I knew why I hadnβt been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever wanted or liked to do. They never let me tell my side of the story. All they do is laugh and mock me. βYou should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. Itβs rude to not look at them. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?β His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them, there was no way I was making eye contact. βMy Wolf abilities were bound,β I mutter. Twice, I wanted to add. Twice my abilities were bound. But he probably wasnβt interested in that part. He leans forward, carefully placing his glass on the small table next to the chair. I could feel him staring at me, βWhy would someone do that?β If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. βIt was a punishment.β I whisper. It wasnβt far from the entire truth but it was the simplest answer I could give. Thereβs a twitch in his cheek. Was he angry to hear of such a punishment? Or maybe, just like the others, he was amused by it. I couldnβt tell. The door swings open and my brother screeches at me βNeah, what the heck are you doing in my office?β He turns to the crimson eyed man. βI am so sorry that my sister is bothering you, Alpha Dane.β Crap, it was him. My brother spins around, his hand stretching out to hit me. I close my eyes, bracing myself, ready to feel the burn. βI wouldnβt do that if I were you.β Alpha Daneβs voice rumbles through the room. Peeking through slits, I see Alpha Dane has risen to his feet, his hand coiled around my brother's wrist. He was taller than my brother, more muscly too. βNeah,β My name rolls off of his tongue, βwas kindly showing me to your office, Alpha Trey, as you failed to meet me at the front of your house like I requested. I was lucky someone was present, at least someone understands the importance of this deal.β What? I had no idea what he was talking about. And he had no reason to lie for me. My brother glares at me, clenching his jaw tight. I was going to pay for this later. I would have to try and steal some food. βGo and get Beta Kyle.β Alpha Trey seethes. βTell him that our guest is here.β I nod my head and hurry from the room, the last thing I wanted was to be caught between bickering men. βBeta Kyle,β I whisper as I enter the dining hall. He instantly glares at me with his dark eyes. I had spoken without being spoken to. βAlpha Trey is in the office with Alpha Dane. I was sent to inform you.β He slams the newspaper down on the table and glares at me as he walks by. βYouβre lucky that the Alpha sent you to get me, otherwise you wouldn't be seeing sunlight for a few days.β Pausing behind me, he yanks my head back, locking his fingers in my hair, leaning in close to me, I feel his hot breath on my skin. He doesnβt speak, it was just his way of proving that he could do what he wants when he wants. I try to keep myself busy so I can stay as far away from the office as possible. My peace doesnβt last long when I hear my brother calling out to me. Quietly, I pad towards the office and plaster a smile on my face as I open the door. βNeah, go get the champagne and some glasses, we are celebrating.β I bow my head and hurry to the drinks cabinet. Quickly finding what my brother has asked for. As I re-enter the office, I can feel Alpha Dane watching my every move, even the hairs on the back of my neck stand up. No one ever watches me this closely. Approaching the small table by Alpha Danes chair, I start to fill the glasses. He takes the champagne bottle from me, telling me he is more than capable of filling his own glass. I feel my cheeks flame, not from embarrassment, but because I knew that I would be punished for this. I should have been quicker. I should have filled the glasses before entering the office. I should haveβ¦. My brain freezes when I see my brother glaring at me. βNeah is your sister, correct?β Alpha Dane questions my brother. βShe is.β Alpha Trey mutters with disgust. He looks away from me to focus on the man asking questions. βWhy do you treat her like vermin?β Straight to the point, my brother wouldnβt like that. He only liked sharing information on his terms. No one had spoken to my brother about his treatment of me because everyone took great joy in beating me. I didnβt know what to do. I couldnβt move but I knew I had to get out of there. If this deal goes to pot because of me, then that would be my fault too. βNeah was responsible for our parents' death.β Alpha Trey spits I closed my eyes, battling back the tears that were threatening to break free. βResponsible how?β Alpha Daneβs voice rumbles through me. He was definitely angry. βShe served them Wolfsbane.β Two Neah Donβt make a sound. Donβt make a sound. I knew Alpha Dane was studying me. They all did, no one could ever quite believe how someone could do something so disgusting as poisoning their own parents. I stood there, with my head hanging low, wishing for the ground to open up and suck me in. There are movements around me. He was standing directly in front of me. With a rough finger he tilts my face up towards his, forcing me to look at him. Slowly, his hand latches onto my throat but he doesnβt squeeze. βYou poisoned your parents?β βI was six.β I splutter. βI just made them lemonade.β My voice comes out all squeaky as I try to defend myself. I could barely remember my parents, but I could remember all the guilt I had been made to feel since that day. His crimson eyes flash to my brothers. βHardly seems fair to blame a six year old.β βA six year old should know the difference between plants.β Alpha Trey snaps βSounds to me like she was set up.β Alpha Dane shrugs his shoulders, letting go of my throat. βWe all know that standard wolfsbane doesnβt affect us anymore. We evolved from that thing centuries ago.β What? What did he mean? Wolfsbane wasnβt lethal. It had been drummed into me since I could walk. βWhich only leaves Blood of Wolfsbane.β Alpha Dane mutters βYou werenβt there, Alpha Dane.β My brother muttered through gritted teeth as his eyes narrowed to slits. βIt was Wolfsbane.β He nods his head. βYou are right, I was not present.β Great, now there was someone else who could remind me of something I had done by accident, years ago. βBut tell me this, where would a six year old get Blood of Wolfsbane?β βI didnβt ask you here to talk about my slave!β Alpha Trey spits. βOr what happened to my parents.β Alpha Dane grabs his leather jacket from the chair. Unlike other Alphaβs he seemed to dress more casually. A simple black tee and jeans covered his huge frame. And unlike other Alphaβs, his arms are bare of tattoos, not a single bit of ink poked out anywhere. βYouβre right and now I have a few things to mull over.β βI thought we agreed.β My brother exclaims βNothing has been signed. Now I will show myself out.β The moment he is out of the office, both my brother and Beta Kyle round on me. βWhat the heck did you say to him?β My brother demands, slamming a hand into my stomach. βN..nothing. Well, he just asked me why I smelled funny.β βDid you tell him?β Beta Kyle demands. He was practically spitting in my face. I hated him. I hated him so much that I had vowed to one day get my revenge and rip his stomach out through his mouth. βWELL?β My brother yells when I donβt immediately respond and smacks me across the side of the head. My head involuntarily moves up and down. βBut I didnβt say it was you.β I tried to sound strong and confident but it just comes out as a whisper. If they werenβt Wolves, they probably wouldnβt have heard me. My brother's hand locks into my black hair as he yanks my head back, sending a shooting pain through my skull. βIf you have ruined this, you wonβt see daylight again.β He drags me by my hair from the office and down the hallway towards the basement door. βPleaseβ¦.β I beg. βHe was an Alphaβ¦Iβ¦ I had to answer him.β My cheeks burn with my tears as he flings the door open. On the other side of the door is Alpha Dane. He is leaning against the wall with his arms folded, staring out at us. My brother's hand falls from my hair, relieving the pressure on the back of my skull.. βAlpha Dane, I thought you had left.β Alpha Trey murmurs angrily. βI said I would show myself out. I thought I had found the door, but instead I find a basement, riddled in your sister's strange scent. Is this how you treat your family?β βAs I said,β my brother holds his ground, βShe is responsible for the death of my parents, so yes, this is what she deserves.β βYou should keep your nose out of other packs' business!β Beta Kyle adds. Alpha Dane laughs. βIf I agree to this deal, everything about your business becomes my business. So tell me, what would your punishment be for her? No food, locked away for a week, beatings?β βWe donβtβ¦.β βReally?β He cocks a brow, βYou really expect me to believe that you would have just let her sleep? I have already stopped you from hitting her once. " His eyes roam over me. "She is underfed, bags hover under her tired blue eyes. For a sister of an Alpha, she is certainly not treated like one. Regardless of what she allegedly did when she was a pup.β βShe did do it!β Alpha Trey seethes βAnd she has nothing to do with our deal.β βThatβs for me to decide.β His crimson eyes flicker around the hallway. βWhere is your mate? I would be interested to know how she feels about this.β I close my eyes, silently begging my brother not to call his Luna. Luna Cassandra is worse than Beta Kyle and Alpha Trey together. βOn second thoughts, why bother her. Iβm certain she is just as vile as you.β He sneers I peer through slits to see his crimson eyes on me. There was no reason for him to defend me and yet he was. I was a nobody, no one special. Just who everyone called a traitor. Only instead of being given a death sentence, my brother had decided to make me spend my life suffering. βI have a proposition for you, Alpha Trey.β Alpha Dane is smirking at my brother βWe have already agreed on terms.β βWell, Iβm adding one. And if you donβt agree, you will not get my help. Instead, you will become my enemy. And we both know, you donβt want that.β βI take it that your new terms have something to do with her?β Alpha Trey mutters through clenched teeth. βYou would be correct. Let me take her away to my pack and then you, Trey will have a deal.β Me? Why would he want me? As my brother and his Beta discuss me, Alpha Dane is still studying me. His look made me nervous. What could someone like him possibly want with me? βDeal.β Alpha Trey sticks out his hand for Alpha Dane to shake. He doesnβt take it, instead his crimson eyes shift from me to my brother. βI will have paperwork drawn up and will return tomorrow.β He reaches a hand out and cups my face, βEnsure you have everything packed.β He drags his thumb across my bottom lip and strides to the opposite end of the hallway and straight to the front door. He knew exactly where the front door was, so what was he up to? He pauses at the door. βIf I find out any one of you has laid a hand on her. The contract will be the last thing you need to worry about.β He struts out, slamming the door behind him. βGet out of my sight!β My brother snaps at me. Hurrying away, I make my way up the stairs and into my tiny bedroom. It was practically empty, the only things I had were a few changes of clothes. It would take me less than a minute to pack By morning, I hadnβt slept. Alpha Danes questions were on repeat and why was I so interesting to a Wolf like him. There was a reason he had the biggest pack. They were known for their fighting abilities, thatβs why my brother wanted to link Moonshine with Alpha Danes pack, but where did I fit in to all this? And what o earth is Blood of Wolfsbane? Three Dane βTenth brideβs the charm.β Jenson mocks as the driver pulls up in front of Moonshines packhouse. βShut up!β Eric snaps at him βBoth of you shut your mouths. Before you say something you regret!β βHe will never learn.β My wolf, Aero muses. The driver pulls open the door. βJust give me a second, I need to speak to my men.β The door closes and neither one of them speaks. βShe isnβt like the others. Donβt speak to her, donβt look at her. And you Jenson, keep your hands to yourself or you might just lose them this time.β I was more rattled than usual. Neah was different to the previous selected mates. I didnβt know what it was or whether it was because I was used to confident women, but there was something about her. And Aero appeared to like her too, more than any of the others. I had to have her. βI mean it!β I snap at Jenson's smug face, βBeing my brother wonβt change my mind!β He runs his fingers over his lips as though he was zipping them shut. They follow me from the car. Standing in front of the old packhouse, all three of us stare up at it. Because until a month ago, I knew nothing about them and even after my visit, all I had learned was the Alpha is a beast. My knuckles hammer on the door. Itβs barely open an inch when I force myself through making his Beta stumble back. I spot her straight away, hiding herself behind a corner. βAre you ready?β I call out. βIf you just want toβ¦..β Beta Kyle starts. βI was not talking to you. I was speaking to Neah.β The expression on Beta Kyleβs face was a picture. His jaw hung open and his eyes are wide. He clearly had never been told what to do, even by his Alpha. Neah steps out from her hiding spot, clutching a barely full carrier bag. She drags her teeth across her bottom lip and nods her head. βWhere are the rest of your things? I told you everything needs to be packedβ βThatβs all she has.β Trey snorts as he makes his appearance. βThatβs it?β I stare at him. βThatβs all her belongings? Sheβs what, in her early twenties and thatβs all she has?β βWhat more does she need?!β His Beta sneers. βKill him, let me rip out his throat and he will regret the day he crossed us.β βWhat are you waiting for?β I hear a horrible shrill voice that seems to vibrate through the floors. Looking away from the Beta, I see a woman holding on to a statue of herself that sat at the bottom of the stairs. Her blonde hair hung in waves around her face as her green eyes studied me and she sways her hips as she moves to Trey. I noticed Neahβs reaction yesterday. When I asked Trey where his mate was. Her whole body had tensed up in fear. She was afraid of this woman and I wanted to know why. βTake her Alpha Dane. Iβm sure she will be as useful a slave to you as she is to us.β Her shrill voice goes straight through me. βLook at the silly girl, sheβs going to pass out.β The blonde bimbo laughs βYou donβt get to talk about her like that anymore.β I glare at the blonde, βShe is not your toy. She is not your slave and I suggest that you, Alpha Trey keep your wife in check. There is only so much disobedience that I will tolerate.β βDISOBEDIENCE!β The woman screeches just as Neahβs hip hits the floor. βHow dare you! If anyone is disobedient, itβs that rat in the corner.β βWho the heck is she calling a rat?β Aero growls βYou should make yourself familiar with our agreement.β I snap. βIt seems your mate has not told you everything.β Waving Eric forward, he pulls a thick wad of paper from the folder under his arm. The contract that I have drawn up. βAll that for your help?β His mateβs eyes are wide βI donβt do half-witted contracts.β Taking the contract from Eric, I shove it against Treyβs chest βShall we go to the office?β Trey leads the way with his mate clinging on to him and his Beta hurrying behind. My men follow them while I stay behind to check on my new mate. βYou are more than welcome to join us, after all, you are involved in this deal. Or my car is outfront, you can take your stuff and wait there for me.β βAre those my only options?β she whispers, keeping her eyes low βFor now. Personally, I think you should sit in with us. It will give me great pleasure in pissing off that mate of your brothers.β She keeps her blue eyes low as she continues to clutch that bag of hers. This close to her, I could really see how ill she looked. Even her heart beat is slow, like itβs fighting to hang on to life. βSo what will it be?β βIβ¦.β Her head rotates between the front door and the direction of the office. βIβ¦.. The office I guess.β βGood choice.β I hold out a hand for her but she doesnβt take it. Pushing herself up to her feet. She wobbles a little, but steadies herself. Walking a few steps behind her, I see the evil glares she receives from Trey and the other two idiots as she enters the office.. βTake a seat.β I whisper as I walk past her. My hand grazes her lower back and she immediately tenses up. She stands, frozen to the spot. Only her eyes dart about when she shakes her head. βSit!β I say it a little louder βShe doesnβt have that privilege here!β The blonde snaps, with her lips curved up in amusement βSitting is not a privilege.β I growl, wondering what else they were forcing her to do. I couldnβt see any bruises on her arms or legs, a good sign, I hoped. βIt better be!β Aero paces in my head. He wanted her out of this place as much as I did. The blonde physically recoils in her seat. Her mouth falls wide open, shocked that I had said something. βAnd I suggest,β I look at Trey, βYou tell your mate to keep her mouth shut. Or I can shut it for her.β βAlpha Dane, you are in my homeβ¦..β βAnd you want my help, correct?β The three of them were fuming. No one liked being told what to do in their own home, yet they were doing just that to Neah. I point to the empty chair between Jenson and Eric and she finally sits down. βLetβs just get this done.β Trey snaps, βThe sooner she is gone, the happier I can be.β βYou should read the contract.β I muse βI agreed that you could take her as part of our deal.β βIdiot!β Eric murmurs. He knew as well as I did that contracts should be read before they are signed They sign without reading and practically throw the contract back at me. βDone.β Trey mutters βGood, you can get her out of my house.β Treyβs mate screeches. If I had it my way, I would just take Neah, then I wouldnβt have to put up with the twidles, but this way, they canβt have her back. Even if they begged. A contract was a contract and it was impossible for them to get out of. Getting to my feet, I hold a hand out to Neah, βCome, we are leaving this rat hole before I lose my temper.β Her warm fingers slip into my hand as she rises to her feet. Her other hand clutches the bag to her chest as she walks with me to the front door. She doesnβt even look back to say goodbye and that confirmed everything I needed to know. She hated them as much as they hated her. She pauses at the open front door, her hand falling from mine. Her blue eyes are wide as she stares at the limo. βCome.β I instruct Eric and Jenson are standing behind her, watching her curiously. βIs she okay?β Eric links me. βNeah?β I step in front of her and she doesnβt move. She seems to be staring right through me. βItβs time to go.β βOkay.β Her lips barely move She takes a step forward, almost as if she is in slow motion. Her hands grip the door frame, her knuckles turn white as her heartbeat increases. Her lips part a little and her hand falls from the door frame just as her eyes roll to the back of her head. βIβve got you.β I mutter, catching her just before she hits the floor. Her entire body tenses up as I lift her and carry her to the car. She was so weak and was even lighter than I expected. She probably didnβt weigh much more than a small child. Jenson and Eric get in the car first. Jenson cocks his eyebrow at me and has a smirk plastered to his face as I slide in with Neah on my lap. βKeep your thoughts to yourself, Jenson!β I hold her close, listening to her breathe and her heart as it slowed. Letting my fingers comb through her dark hair as she becomes a little more with it. Suddenly, she sits up right, moving away from me and trying to make herself as small as possible. Deciding not to force her to do anything, I keep my attention on my Beta and my brother, talking about pack stuff while casting a glance over to her every so often to make sure she was alright. βCome.β I mutter as the limo comes to a stop. I donβt wait for the driver and get out myself, holding a hand out for her. βIβm fine.β She speaks at last while glancing at the others and shuffles herself forward to the open door. She stares up at my home, gasping a little. It was easily three times the size of her previous home and I hoped that she would be happy here. That I could provide her with a life that was better than her last. βLet me give you a tour.β I suggest as she continues to clutch that carrier bag to her chest. She follows me in, not speaking a word. I had no idea if she was listening to what I was saying or not βThe omegas swap out on a rotational basis. Good for the youngsters to learn some responsibilities before they get proper jobs.β I tell her while showing her the dining hall with a table long enough to fit twenty people around. We move through to the kitchen. Where I point out a board on the wall. βIf there is anything you need, you just add it to the board and it will be ordered in.β Her brow furrows and still she says nothing. Picking up a pen, I smile. Maybe she felt intimidated by me. βSo tell me, what do you need because there is no way you are living under my roof with just the things that are in that bag.β Her dazzling blue eyes dart around the room βWell?β I ask. βI donβt need anything.β She whispers Sighing, I start scribbling things down. Underwear, jeans, workout clothes, dresses, shoes, anything I can think of that will cover her for a few days. Holding the pen between my teeth, I grab her around the waist. My thumbs meet just above her belly button and my fingers touch her spine. She was so thin, how was she even alive? Four Dane She looked like a deer caught in headlights as I write her size down. She was tinier than I thought. Skin and bone. If I had moved my hands up any higher, I would have felt every rib sticking out. It sickened me, she should be strong, powerful, she had Alpha blood running through her veins. I also saw how she scrunched her face up when I measured her. It wasnβt fear, it was pain. She was hiding something underneath the baggy maids dress. βI know you want to say something, so just say it. Iβm not interested in the crap Trey drummed into you. You donβt have to wait until someone asks you a question. You are free to say what you want. Are you injured?" "No." She was lying, I could feel it. She shakes her head as if it would confirm her answer and a lock of her black hair falls from the band that was supposed to be holding it back. Neah was going to be a tough girl to crack. A life of being starved had made her quite protective over herself. I will make Trey pay for what he has done to her. βYou have to say something, Neah. I cannot read your mind. When I mark you, at least I will know what you are feeling.β βMark me?β I didnβt think her eyes could get any wider. βYes, I will mark you.β She was completely and utterly shocked by the idea. Her pink lips part a little as she continues to stare at me. I thought she knew. I thought that was why she came so willingly. My Beta had kept asking me if I was certain I wanted her as my bride. There was no doubt about it, she had a strange scent but something was luring me to her. I couldnβt take my eyes off of her when I first saw her. My Wolf Aero was going mad for her too. Though he hadnβt said a word about her. Annoyed with me for not taking her home with us yesterday. βYouβ¦.You brought me so that you could mark me.β She takes a step back, walking into the kitchen island. She winces a little and quickly covers up her pain, relaxing her face.. βIf Trey had bothered reading the contract, he would have discovered that you are to be my bride, not a slave. He would also have read that if he or his ridiculously silly mate tried doing anything to you going forward, that pack would become mine, or rather, yours. I never bought you, Neah, you were always destined to be mine.β βIβm a murderer.β She gasps. βWhy would someone like you want me for a bride?β βBloodβ Aero growls interrupting my thoughts. I glance down at her baggy dress. A blood stain had appeared right where I had my hands wrapped around her. βWhatβs that? Are you injured?β I demand, I had barely touched her. She covers the stain with her hand. βItβs nothing. Itβs just a cut that I keep knocking and it opens up again. I forget itβs there.β Forget? How could she forget a wound? βWhy isnβt she healing?β I feel Aeroβs panic. βSheβs been with us less than two hours and already she has some form of injury.β His need to protect her was strong. It hadnβt occurred to me that her lack of abilities included not being able to heal. I would have to find someone who could reverse the binding and soon. βShow me!β βItβs fine.β She mumbles I was already so sick of hearing that phrase. βItβs not optional.β I mutter. βIf you wonβt show me, I will have to find a way to look, myself.β Her heart skips a beat. She looks around the kitchen. βCan.... can we go somewhere more private?β βPrivate?β I didnβt really do privacy. What Wolf did?! She bobs her head but still keeps her focus slightly off of me. Almost afraid to look me directly in the eyes. βOffice,β Aero mutters. βI was just going to suggest that!β I snap back at my Wolf. I feel his eyes roll as he retreats to some dark corner of my mind. βThis way.β I gesture to the door. Neah waits for me and follows closely behind. The scent of blood steadily grew stronger, it was more than just a cut. I already knew that. In the office, I hit the remote and the blinds start to drop, blocking out the sunlight. Neah hesitates and slowly begins to unfasten the buttons of the dress but only where the large blood stain was. Keeping everything else covered from me. She pulls the dress to one side. The wound was about four inches long and already fairly infected. βSee, itβs fine.β she whispers. βYou need to stop saying that.β She closes her mouth and starts to fasten the buttons. βNo,β I grabbed her hands, I had caught sight of another bruise. βLet me see the rest of them.β It wasnβt optional. She gasps as my fingers rip apart the rest of the buttons. Her sports bra had seen better days, just the same as her underwear. But it was the bruising I was most concerned about. Bruise upon bruise, scars that had come from whips. Her hip bones and ribs stuck out too. Turning her around, and pulling the dress from her, I find that her back is just the same. Yet interestingly, there was nothing above her chest and nothing below her thighs. Her arms were completely bare of wounds too. There was only one reason why someone would do that. To either hide what they were doing to someone, or to keep up appearances. They didnβt want guests to see. More importantly, they didnβt want me to see, considering the meeting was arranged over a month ago. She fumbles with the dress, pulling it tightly around her thin frame. βYou need to see a doctor.β βItβs β¦..β she trails off when she sees the anger on my face. βIt always heals, eventually.β βDid Trey do this?β I mutter with my teeth gritted and gesture to her body She lowers her blue eyes. βCassandra?β She still doesnβt answer me. βThat prick that follows Trey around? All three of them?β She pulls her dress tighter around her and silently nods. She brings her hand up to her face, brushing her cheek, wiping away an escaped tear. βAnyone else?β βThe pack.β She whispers. βIβm going to kill them all.β Aero growls. He will have to get in line, βBecause of what you allegedly did to your parents.β She nods. βI donβt believe you were responsible.β She tilts her head up towards me, her brow knits together as her eyes finally find mine. βBecause of Blood of Wolfsbane?" Five Neah βIβ¦I donβt know what Blood of Wolfsbane is?β I whisper He frowns at me. βYour brother said you knew the difference between plants.β βIβ¦β I didnβt have an answer. I couldnβt remember, not fully. βBlood of Wolfsbane is Wolfsbane fed by our blood. The leaves will have a red hue to them. I canβt imagine a child would know what it is because it is not freely grown. Your brotherβs story doesnβt add up.β βOh.β βI wonβt stop until I find out who did this, Neah.β His crimson eyes narrow. βI will make them pay for the suffering you have endured.β He sits on the edge of his desk, studying me. βRight now, you do need to see someone about the infection.β I kept my mouth closed, I was still trying to process his news of me being set up. Why had my brother never considered it? βCome, I will show you our bedroom. You can shower before we see the pack doctor.β Frozen to the spot, I donβt move. Did he just say βour bedroom,β? As in, we are sharing a bedroom? I guess he thinks he can mke love with me whenever he wants if Iβm his contract bride. A shiver runs down my spine at the thought. Glancing up, I see him watching me. He is stood at the open door, waiting for me. Ensuring my dress has me covered, I step out into the hallway. No one was around and the hallways were quiet. As we moved, Alpha Dane would tell me what each room was, but he seemed more focussed on getting me to the bedroom. His bedroom is huge, with massive windows, just like the rest of the house. The bed sat pressed up against the wall. All around it, thin drapes hung from the ceiling, but they were tied back at each bed post. What surprised me the most was that the bath and the shower were in the same room. Only the toilet was in a small room to the side of the shower. No privacy, whatsoever. Though, he didnβt seem to care about that. He makes me jump when I feel his warm breath on my skin. βYou donβt need to be afraid.β I may not be able to smell him, but he would be able to scent the changes in my emotions. Crossing the room, he pulls open the glass door to the shower and turns it on. The moment he closes the door, the steam of the shower quickly fogs up the glass. And still, I find myself afraid. He gave me no clue as to what he was expecting from me. βHey,β His rough fingers tip my face up. βItβs just you and me and for now, I will let you shower in peace.β Walking away, he pulls his phone out of his pocket and messes around with it before placing it on the bedside table. βThe alarm is set for ten minutes. I will come back then. I will bring you something to wear so just stay in the towel. Understand?β He stares at me, waiting for an answer and I just nod. A ten minute shower. I was lucky if I got a minute shower back home and the water was always cold. He moves to the door and with his hand resting on the door knob he looks back over his shoulder at me. βI really wish you would talk more, Neah.β Alpha Dane leaves me in peace and I make a mad dash for the shower as if Iβm in some kind of fantasy land and this was all a dream. Maybe it was, maybe I was about to wake up in the basement of my home. The smells of the soaps and shampoos are divine as I lather them into myself. And my hair has never felt so clean. The wound on my stomach stung as the hot water hit it, but I didnβt care, it was worth it. Someone in the room clears their throat and I freeze. Thanking the steam for keeping me semi hidden. βNeah, are you done? The alarm went off five minutes ago.β Alpha Daneβs voice seems louder in here. I had been so caught up in the freedom of a simple shower that I hadnβt even heard the alarm or the Alpha come back into the room. βComing.β I mutter, turning off the water and pulling a towel around me to hide the hideousness underneath. Stepping out, I already see that my ripped dress, underwear and worn sandals had been removed from the floor. Alpha Dane sits on the end of the bed with what looked like folded clothes on his lap and a pair of trainers. βItβs not much, as we donβt have anyone with as small a waist as you.β He smiles as he hands over the clothes. A matching navy blue sweatshirt and joggers. βYou will have to make do without the underwear for now. Should be here first thing tomorrow.β He watches me with a cocked eyebrow as I pull the joggers on and tug the sweatshirt over my head before removing the towel. Maybe he was used to the women parading themselves in front of him, or throwing themselves at him because he has power, but I wasnβt like that. βLetβs go.β He rises to his feet and this time, I follow him. Something told me that if I didnβt get this wound looked at, it would put him in a bad mood. The pack doctor was young, unlike the one back home who was old and afraid to let anyone take over from him. She smiles at us as we enter the pack hospital and rewraps her dark hair into a bun. βRaven, this is Neah.β Alpha Dane introduces me with a grin. I keep my eyes low as I hear Raven say, βAlpha Dane, what seems to be the problem apart from the strange smell she has brought with her.β It didnβt sound like a hurtful comment like I was used to, but more a comment of curiosity. βShe will tell you herself when she finds her tongue.β βI have a wound.β I whisper. βAnd you are not healing?β Raven asks, confused βI donβt have my Wolf.β I hated saying it. It was just a constant reminder that I did not fit in. βHer Wolf was bound when she was a kid.β Alpha Dane tells her. βThatβs why her scent is strange. Her Wolf is there, locked away, waiting to be freed.β My eyes flicker up only to find him staring straight back at me. I had always believed that my Wolf was gone. Not that she was trapped. Ravenβs dark eyes hover on me. βWow, okay.β She grabs my hand. βThis way, letβs take a look at this wound of yours.β She leads me into an empty room and asks me to lay on the bed and to show her my wound. Pulling up the sweatshirt, just enough for her to see the wound. Her eyes widen, a flicker of rage passing over them as she takes in the infected wound and the bruising that surrounds it. Her fingers carefully press around the wound. βHow long ago?β βA few days.β I mutter, though I wasnβt sure. Every beating blurred into another one. Any day that I wasnβt hit was a good day. Raven shakes her head. βThis is longer than a few days ago, the infection has had at least a week to develop.β βNeah, you need to tell us the truth.β Alpha Dane orders βI donβt know.β βNEAH!β His deep voice rumbles through me and I close my eyes, fearing his anger. Anger brought punishment, punishment brought pain. βI swear, I donβt know. The beatings, they happen so often that they just kind ofβ¦. Iβm never not bruised.β Thereβs silence and I was too afraid to open my eyes. Alpha Trey had said it over and over, that if anyone found out, he would make my life a misery, more than it already was. I used to wonder who would ever find out that didnβt already know. Now here I was, sitting in another packβs hospital, revealing the truth. βHeal her!β Alpha Dane shouts after what seems like forever. He storms from the room, pulling a phone out of his pocket. βYou will have to forgive my brother. His temper is short, especially when it comes to things like this.β Raven mutters as she gently inspects my wound βYour brother?β I whisper, opening my eyes βAh, I see he informed you. Iβm guessing he didnβt tell you that Jenson is our brother too?β I shake my head, Iβm guessing Jenson was one of the men that came to my brother's house. She chuckles. βJenson is considered to be our brotherβs Gamma.β βGamma?β I had never heard of the term. βYep and Alpha Dane has a love/hate for me working here. He wants me to represent our family, but he knows this is what Iβm good at.β She grabs a pot of cream from the cupboard. βNow this needs to be applied three times a day. It should clear up the infection, if it hasnβt changed in a couple of days, I will take another look. My brother is waiting for you out front.β βThanks.β I mumble, taking the pot of cream from her. I looked at the label, but couldnβt read it. I had never learned to read. She bobs her head at me as I hurry out to find Alpha Dane on his phone, snapping at someone. He hangs up as soon as he sees me and asks what Raven said. βCream, three times a day.β I show him the pot and he takes it from me. βGood, come.β He strides off and I have to run to keep up with him. I follow him through the house and into the office. βShow me.β He orders, pulling the lid off the pot. It wasnβt going to be negotiable, not when he had used the same tone moments before he ripped my dress open earlier. Slowly lifting my sweatshirt, he crouches down in front of me and gently smothers the wound in the cold cream. βI donβt want you to lie to me, Neah. Not ever. If you canβt remember, that is what you need to tell me. Is that clear? I donβt want to have to guess what you mean.β βOkay.β I couldnβt say anything else, I was too focussed on the warmth of his hands. One presses against my lower back, holding me steady while the other gently rubs cream into my wound. The only touch I had received from another man was a beating. βStop holding your breath.β He tells me, getting to his feet. βI am not going to hurt you.β It seemed impossible to believe given my history. The act, the words coming from him, it just didnβt feel real. | Galaxy in the Story | 301 | https://facebook.com/61555427913037 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717743600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879863 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410733 | 1723321831 | 995 | 1402556640428550 | 1 | 2.8823912318998E+15 | 1716706800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 219004054622622 | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | 120210888594870646 | befant.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πAttention! Do not read in publicοΌπ | https://befant.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=11504&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1716446512 | 2.1900405462262E+14 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442485268_417302314557004_1623455597791525274_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ZKlLdgWgBaEQ7kNvgFEDALn&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDhvfqX1BlGJmtdbWyLQzE6lFecnCOHnMvyZjX28W4B3A&oe=6672C0B6 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442480714_993193531797256_1849337189330138636_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=9IBxx-WTtfYQ7kNvgFF3xlK&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAN5-xdfbbs_L0zw_lzRWrH1BLA1A7tthBE9IOohDm8OQ&oe=6672AA3E | 0 | 3 | My sister Cassandra bullied me for years and married Alpha King Alexander, the most powerful man in our country. She had a perfect marriage and family. Mom, Dad, and Alexander all loved her. But she died in childbirth. Everything turned upside down. I was forced to take her place to solidify our packβs relationship with the royals. Although I had hope for Alexander, I knew he never wanted me. "You really are trying to replace her, aren't you?" he said quietly, his voice laced with hate. "No, I swear I'm not," His cold fingers lifted my chin, forcing my eyes to meet his. "You know, I promised your sister I would never love another woman." His words pierced through me. The pain of losing Cassandra, even after two years, was still fresh, and I knew that Alexander's heart belonged to her and always would. "And I will keep that promise to her", he added. "I always know that," I whispered, trying to keep my voice steady despite the tears threatening to spill over. "I don't want to come between you and her memory." "Then tell me why you're wearing your sisterβs clothes." His words were still cold and questioning. "I'm sorry, I didn't want to do it, my mom forced me to wear this dress." I tried to explain, "Please believe me." "How could I believe someone who tried to seduce me at your sister's funeral?" The pressure from Alexander made me breathless. "No. No. I never thought of doing this. It was a misunderstanding." I shook my head desperately and argued for myself. "You're not worthy of wearing this dress." Alexander turned to leave. Painful marriage and the crime of poisoning my sister ruined my life again. I ran away with my babies and discovered my true identity, the princess of the neighbouring kingdom. βWho are you?βAlexander demanded from the masked woman in front of him βAlpha Alexander, you have the wrong person. My name is Fay," "You make me feel so familiar," He insisted, reaching for my mask to see my face. "No!" A hand stopped him β it was Alpha Victor's Beta Allen, "Don't touch her!" He growled, grabbing Allenβs collar threateningly. "Alpha Alexander, I'm sorry but I think you misunderstood. She is my wife, Fay" Beta Allen revealed, shocking him to the core. | Galaxy in the Story | 301 | https://facebook.com/61555427913037 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716447600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879865 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410733 | 1723321831 | 995 | 1402556640428550 | 1 | 2.8823912318998E+15 | 1716706800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 219004054622622 | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | 120210888594870646 | befant.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πAttention! Do not read in publicοΌπ | https://befant.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=11504&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1716446512 | 2.1900405462262E+14 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442485268_417302314557004_1623455597791525274_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ZKlLdgWgBaEQ7kNvgFEDALn&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDhvfqX1BlGJmtdbWyLQzE6lFecnCOHnMvyZjX28W4B3A&oe=6672C0B6 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442480714_993193531797256_1849337189330138636_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=9IBxx-WTtfYQ7kNvgFF3xlK&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAN5-xdfbbs_L0zw_lzRWrH1BLA1A7tthBE9IOohDm8OQ&oe=6672AA3E | 0 | 3 | My sister Cassandra bullied me for years and married Alpha King Alexander, the most powerful man in our country. She had a perfect marriage and family. Mom, Dad, and Alexander all loved her. But she died in childbirth. Everything turned upside down. I was forced to take her place to solidify our packβs relationship with the royals. Although I had hope for Alexander, I knew he never wanted me. "You really are trying to replace her, aren't you?" he said quietly, his voice laced with hate. "No, I swear I'm not," His cold fingers lifted my chin, forcing my eyes to meet his. "You know, I promised your sister I would never love another woman." His words pierced through me. The pain of losing Cassandra, even after two years, was still fresh, and I knew that Alexander's heart belonged to her and always would. "And I will keep that promise to her", he added. "I always know that," I whispered, trying to keep my voice steady despite the tears threatening to spill over. "I don't want to come between you and her memory." "Then tell me why you're wearing your sisterβs clothes." His words were still cold and questioning. "I'm sorry, I didn't want to do it, my mom forced me to wear this dress." I tried to explain, "Please believe me." "How could I believe someone who tried to seduce me at your sister's funeral?" The pressure from Alexander made me breathless. "No. No. I never thought of doing this. It was a misunderstanding." I shook my head desperately and argued for myself. "You're not worthy of wearing this dress." Alexander turned to leave. Painful marriage and the crime of poisoning my sister ruined my life again. I ran away with my babies and discovered my true identity, the princess of the neighbouring kingdom. βWho are you?βAlexander demanded from the masked woman in front of him βAlpha Alexander, you have the wrong person. My name is Fay," "You make me feel so familiar," He insisted, reaching for my mask to see my face. "No!" A hand stopped him β it was Alpha Victor's Beta Allen, "Don't touch her!" He growled, grabbing Allenβs collar threateningly. "Alpha Alexander, I'm sorry but I think you misunderstood. She is my wife, Fay" Beta Allen revealed, shocking him to the core. | Galaxy in the Story | 301 | https://facebook.com/61555427913037 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716447600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879869 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410733 | 1723321831 | 995 | 1402556640428550 | 1 | 2.8823912318998E+15 | 1716706800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 219004054622622 | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | 120210888594870646 | befant.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πAttention! Do not read in publicοΌπ | https://befant.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=11504&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1716446512 | 2.1900405462262E+14 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442485268_417302314557004_1623455597791525274_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ZKlLdgWgBaEQ7kNvgFEDALn&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDhvfqX1BlGJmtdbWyLQzE6lFecnCOHnMvyZjX28W4B3A&oe=6672C0B6 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442480714_993193531797256_1849337189330138636_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=9IBxx-WTtfYQ7kNvgFF3xlK&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAN5-xdfbbs_L0zw_lzRWrH1BLA1A7tthBE9IOohDm8OQ&oe=6672AA3E | 0 | 3 | My sister Cassandra bullied me for years and married Alpha King Alexander, the most powerful man in our country. She had a perfect marriage and family. Mom, Dad, and Alexander all loved her. But she died in childbirth. Everything turned upside down. I was forced to take her place to solidify our packβs relationship with the royals. Although I had hope for Alexander, I knew he never wanted me. "You really are trying to replace her, aren't you?" he said quietly, his voice laced with hate. "No, I swear I'm not," His cold fingers lifted my chin, forcing my eyes to meet his. "You know, I promised your sister I would never love another woman." His words pierced through me. The pain of losing Cassandra, even after two years, was still fresh, and I knew that Alexander's heart belonged to her and always would. "And I will keep that promise to her", he added. "I always know that," I whispered, trying to keep my voice steady despite the tears threatening to spill over. "I don't want to come between you and her memory." "Then tell me why you're wearing your sisterβs clothes." His words were still cold and questioning. "I'm sorry, I didn't want to do it, my mom forced me to wear this dress." I tried to explain, "Please believe me." "How could I believe someone who tried to seduce me at your sister's funeral?" The pressure from Alexander made me breathless. "No. No. I never thought of doing this. It was a misunderstanding." I shook my head desperately and argued for myself. "You're not worthy of wearing this dress." Alexander turned to leave. Painful marriage and the crime of poisoning my sister ruined my life again. I ran away with my babies and discovered my true identity, the princess of the neighbouring kingdom. βWho are you?βAlexander demanded from the masked woman in front of him βAlpha Alexander, you have the wrong person. My name is Fay," "You make me feel so familiar," He insisted, reaching for my mask to see my face. "No!" A hand stopped him β it was Alpha Victor's Beta Allen, "Don't touch her!" He growled, grabbing Allenβs collar threateningly. "Alpha Alexander, I'm sorry but I think you misunderstood. She is my wife, Fay" Beta Allen revealed, shocking him to the core. | Galaxy in the Story | 301 | https://facebook.com/61555427913037 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716447600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879871 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410733 | 1723321831 | 995 | 1402556640428550 | 1 | 2.8823912318998E+15 | 1716706800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 219004054622622 | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | 120210888594870646 | befant.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πAttention! Do not read in publicοΌπ | https://befant.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=11504&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1716446512 | 2.1900405462262E+14 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442485268_417302314557004_1623455597791525274_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ZKlLdgWgBaEQ7kNvgFEDALn&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDhvfqX1BlGJmtdbWyLQzE6lFecnCOHnMvyZjX28W4B3A&oe=6672C0B6 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442480714_993193531797256_1849337189330138636_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=9IBxx-WTtfYQ7kNvgFF3xlK&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAN5-xdfbbs_L0zw_lzRWrH1BLA1A7tthBE9IOohDm8OQ&oe=6672AA3E | 0 | 3 | My sister Cassandra bullied me for years and married Alpha King Alexander, the most powerful man in our country. She had a perfect marriage and family. Mom, Dad, and Alexander all loved her. But she died in childbirth. Everything turned upside down. I was forced to take her place to solidify our packβs relationship with the royals. Although I had hope for Alexander, I knew he never wanted me. "You really are trying to replace her, aren't you?" he said quietly, his voice laced with hate. "No, I swear I'm not," His cold fingers lifted my chin, forcing my eyes to meet his. "You know, I promised your sister I would never love another woman." His words pierced through me. The pain of losing Cassandra, even after two years, was still fresh, and I knew that Alexander's heart belonged to her and always would. "And I will keep that promise to her", he added. "I always know that," I whispered, trying to keep my voice steady despite the tears threatening to spill over. "I don't want to come between you and her memory." "Then tell me why you're wearing your sisterβs clothes." His words were still cold and questioning. "I'm sorry, I didn't want to do it, my mom forced me to wear this dress." I tried to explain, "Please believe me." "How could I believe someone who tried to seduce me at your sister's funeral?" The pressure from Alexander made me breathless. "No. No. I never thought of doing this. It was a misunderstanding." I shook my head desperately and argued for myself. "You're not worthy of wearing this dress." Alexander turned to leave. Painful marriage and the crime of poisoning my sister ruined my life again. I ran away with my babies and discovered my true identity, the princess of the neighbouring kingdom. βWho are you?βAlexander demanded from the masked woman in front of him βAlpha Alexander, you have the wrong person. My name is Fay," "You make me feel so familiar," He insisted, reaching for my mask to see my face. "No!" A hand stopped him β it was Alpha Victor's Beta Allen, "Don't touch her!" He growled, grabbing Allenβs collar threateningly. "Alpha Alexander, I'm sorry but I think you misunderstood. She is my wife, Fay" Beta Allen revealed, shocking him to the core. | Galaxy in the Story | 301 | https://facebook.com/61555427913037 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716447600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879875 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410734 | 1723321831 | 995 | 3652610685000724 | 1 | 1.1526254957867E+15 | 1716620400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 219004054622622 | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | 120210888594870646 | befant.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πAttention! Do not read in publicοΌπ | https://befant.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=11504&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1716446512 | 2.1900405462262E+14 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442485268_417302314557004_1623455597791525274_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ZKlLdgWgBaEQ7kNvgFEDALn&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDhvfqX1BlGJmtdbWyLQzE6lFecnCOHnMvyZjX28W4B3A&oe=6672C0B6 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442480714_993193531797256_1849337189330138636_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=9IBxx-WTtfYQ7kNvgFF3xlK&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAN5-xdfbbs_L0zw_lzRWrH1BLA1A7tthBE9IOohDm8OQ&oe=6672AA3E | 0 | 3 | My sister Cassandra bullied me for years and married Alpha King Alexander, the most powerful man in our country. She had a perfect marriage and family. Mom, Dad, and Alexander all loved her. But she died in childbirth. Everything turned upside down. I was forced to take her place to solidify our packβs relationship with the royals. Although I had hope for Alexander, I knew he never wanted me. "You really are trying to replace her, aren't you?" he said quietly, his voice laced with hate. "No, I swear I'm not," His cold fingers lifted my chin, forcing my eyes to meet his. "You know, I promised your sister I would never love another woman." His words pierced through me. The pain of losing Cassandra, even after two years, was still fresh, and I knew that Alexander's heart belonged to her and always would. "And I will keep that promise to her", he added. "I always know that," I whispered, trying to keep my voice steady despite the tears threatening to spill over. "I don't want to come between you and her memory." "Then tell me why you're wearing your sisterβs clothes." His words were still cold and questioning. "I'm sorry, I didn't want to do it, my mom forced me to wear this dress." I tried to explain, "Please believe me." "How could I believe someone who tried to seduce me at your sister's funeral?" The pressure from Alexander made me breathless. "No. No. I never thought of doing this. It was a misunderstanding." I shook my head desperately and argued for myself. "You're not worthy of wearing this dress." Alexander turned to leave. Painful marriage and the crime of poisoning my sister ruined my life again. I ran away with my babies and discovered my true identity, the princess of the neighbouring kingdom. βWho are you?βAlexander demanded from the masked woman in front of him βAlpha Alexander, you have the wrong person. My name is Fay," "You make me feel so familiar," He insisted, reaching for my mask to see my face. "No!" A hand stopped him β it was Alpha Victor's Beta Allen, "Don't touch her!" He growled, grabbing Allenβs collar threateningly. "Alpha Alexander, I'm sorry but I think you misunderstood. She is my wife, Fay" Beta Allen revealed, shocking him to the core. | Galaxy in the Story | 301 | https://facebook.com/61555427913037 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716447600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879879 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410734 | 1723321831 | 995 | 3652610685000724 | 1 | 1.1526254957867E+15 | 1716620400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 219004054622622 | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | 120210888594870646 | befant.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πAttention! Do not read in publicοΌπ | https://befant.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=11504&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1716446512 | 2.1900405462262E+14 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442485268_417302314557004_1623455597791525274_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ZKlLdgWgBaEQ7kNvgFEDALn&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDhvfqX1BlGJmtdbWyLQzE6lFecnCOHnMvyZjX28W4B3A&oe=6672C0B6 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442480714_993193531797256_1849337189330138636_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=9IBxx-WTtfYQ7kNvgFF3xlK&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAN5-xdfbbs_L0zw_lzRWrH1BLA1A7tthBE9IOohDm8OQ&oe=6672AA3E | 0 | 3 | My sister Cassandra bullied me for years and married Alpha King Alexander, the most powerful man in our country. She had a perfect marriage and family. Mom, Dad, and Alexander all loved her. But she died in childbirth. Everything turned upside down. I was forced to take her place to solidify our packβs relationship with the royals. Although I had hope for Alexander, I knew he never wanted me. "You really are trying to replace her, aren't you?" he said quietly, his voice laced with hate. "No, I swear I'm not," His cold fingers lifted my chin, forcing my eyes to meet his. "You know, I promised your sister I would never love another woman." His words pierced through me. The pain of losing Cassandra, even after two years, was still fresh, and I knew that Alexander's heart belonged to her and always would. "And I will keep that promise to her", he added. "I always know that," I whispered, trying to keep my voice steady despite the tears threatening to spill over. "I don't want to come between you and her memory." "Then tell me why you're wearing your sisterβs clothes." His words were still cold and questioning. "I'm sorry, I didn't want to do it, my mom forced me to wear this dress." I tried to explain, "Please believe me." "How could I believe someone who tried to seduce me at your sister's funeral?" The pressure from Alexander made me breathless. "No. No. I never thought of doing this. It was a misunderstanding." I shook my head desperately and argued for myself. "You're not worthy of wearing this dress." Alexander turned to leave. Painful marriage and the crime of poisoning my sister ruined my life again. I ran away with my babies and discovered my true identity, the princess of the neighbouring kingdom. βWho are you?βAlexander demanded from the masked woman in front of him βAlpha Alexander, you have the wrong person. My name is Fay," "You make me feel so familiar," He insisted, reaching for my mask to see my face. "No!" A hand stopped him β it was Alpha Victor's Beta Allen, "Don't touch her!" He growled, grabbing Allenβs collar threateningly. "Alpha Alexander, I'm sorry but I think you misunderstood. She is my wife, Fay" Beta Allen revealed, shocking him to the core. | Galaxy in the Story | 301 | https://facebook.com/61555427913037 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716447600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879881 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410734 | 1723321832 | 995 | 3652610685000724 | 1 | 1.1526254957867E+15 | 1716620400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 219004054622622 | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | 120210888594870646 | befant.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πAttention! Do not read in publicοΌπ | https://befant.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=11504&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1716446512 | 2.1900405462262E+14 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442485268_417302314557004_1623455597791525274_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ZKlLdgWgBaEQ7kNvgFEDALn&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDhvfqX1BlGJmtdbWyLQzE6lFecnCOHnMvyZjX28W4B3A&oe=6672C0B6 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442480714_993193531797256_1849337189330138636_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=9IBxx-WTtfYQ7kNvgFF3xlK&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAN5-xdfbbs_L0zw_lzRWrH1BLA1A7tthBE9IOohDm8OQ&oe=6672AA3E | 0 | 3 | My sister Cassandra bullied me for years and married Alpha King Alexander, the most powerful man in our country. She had a perfect marriage and family. Mom, Dad, and Alexander all loved her. But she died in childbirth. Everything turned upside down. I was forced to take her place to solidify our packβs relationship with the royals. Although I had hope for Alexander, I knew he never wanted me. "You really are trying to replace her, aren't you?" he said quietly, his voice laced with hate. "No, I swear I'm not," His cold fingers lifted my chin, forcing my eyes to meet his. "You know, I promised your sister I would never love another woman." His words pierced through me. The pain of losing Cassandra, even after two years, was still fresh, and I knew that Alexander's heart belonged to her and always would. "And I will keep that promise to her", he added. "I always know that," I whispered, trying to keep my voice steady despite the tears threatening to spill over. "I don't want to come between you and her memory." "Then tell me why you're wearing your sisterβs clothes." His words were still cold and questioning. "I'm sorry, I didn't want to do it, my mom forced me to wear this dress." I tried to explain, "Please believe me." "How could I believe someone who tried to seduce me at your sister's funeral?" The pressure from Alexander made me breathless. "No. No. I never thought of doing this. It was a misunderstanding." I shook my head desperately and argued for myself. "You're not worthy of wearing this dress." Alexander turned to leave. Painful marriage and the crime of poisoning my sister ruined my life again. I ran away with my babies and discovered my true identity, the princess of the neighbouring kingdom. βWho are you?βAlexander demanded from the masked woman in front of him βAlpha Alexander, you have the wrong person. My name is Fay," "You make me feel so familiar," He insisted, reaching for my mask to see my face. "No!" A hand stopped him β it was Alpha Victor's Beta Allen, "Don't touch her!" He growled, grabbing Allenβs collar threateningly. "Alpha Alexander, I'm sorry but I think you misunderstood. She is my wife, Fay" Beta Allen revealed, shocking him to the core. | Galaxy in the Story | 301 | https://facebook.com/61555427913037 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716447600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879883 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410734 | 1723321832 | 995 | 823186193195561 | 2 | 8.0277135791871E+14 | 1713855600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 108401345691237 | 0 | JoyReels | 120207415742550738 | play.google.com | Watch more | NONE | video | Watch the whole series NOW! | https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.joyreels.video | 1713691848 | 1.0840134569124E+14 | JoyReels | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439676940_7362821953755311_5256953621424023644_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=_vc2CQ_HVzIQ7kNvgE8S7dl&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYD56ou6eB464wx5CMlKgKymJTZrKhKgRcRVHp4d8EuRyA&oe=6672C957 | person_profile | 0 | JoyReels | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/437583744_461330729810523_2224001464126544659_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=vgcoiByPXU4Q7kNvgFO08k0&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDZEhjredGM8AlnfMAPI9zF5Tdtt22kXSrrwhHBsYm_7w&oe=6672A296 | 0 | 3 | l binge-watched 42 episodes, andeach one was captivating.<br /> ππMassive hit dramasππThousands of short dramas are being updated continuouslyβ€οΈβπ₯ | JoyReels | 2321 | https://facebook.com/JoyReels02 | 0 | WATCH_MORE | 1713769200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879464 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 6/7/25, 5:23 AM | 1718410686 | 1749291790 | 995 | 879774243583886 | 1 | 7.7709018441484E+14 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 108282622378515 | 0 | Claire Ryan Nina | 120211459511530017 | cooolink.com | Download | NONE | image | Free download ποΈποΈποΈ | https://cooolink.com/w2a/lp/bangtoon/cooolinkBtComics2?utm_source=fb_onelink&utm_medium={{placement}}&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_adset_name={{adset.name}}&utm_ad_name={{ad.name}}&utm_adset_nameid={{adset.id}}&utm_ad_nameid={{ad.id}}&utm_campaignid={{campaign.id}}&utm_channel={{site_source_name}} | 1718362844 | 1.0828262237852E+14 | Claire Ryan Nina | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448290522_3693054217576856_5970327516077619661_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=9eXWskQTliIQ7kNvgGK_SP_&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDRAiKB0A6-fwgB6CI7X_PD5QkIBLYQ5-W3v8je5jhU-g&oe=667295F5 | person_profile | 0 | Claire Ryan Nina | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448210487_1887743791659735_9029097905732513724_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=taq1MPn5DFYQ7kNvgGG3vt7&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYA7f4xHRJmJhKnp3ZbX-gaEO_QLsii8rER_o_t6tta2tQ&oe=6672B3BF | 0 | 3 | This manga is definitely worth watching! πππ | Claire Ryan Nina | 0 | https://facebook.com/61552215344479 | 0 | DOWNLOAD | 1718348400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879471 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 3/15/25, 6:04 AM | 1718410686 | 1742036663 | 995 | 1248457373230438 | 1 | 4.6250771632241E+14 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 108255439048790 | 0 | Buchanan Freebery Blaine | 120208580834970482 | cooolink.com | Download | NONE | image | Free download ποΈποΈποΈ | https://cooolink.com/w2a/lp/bangtoon/cooolinkBtComics2?utm_source=fb_onelink&utm_medium={{placement}}&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_adset_name={{adset.name}}&utm_ad_name={{ad.name}}&utm_adset_nameid={{adset.id}}&utm_ad_nameid={{ad.id}}&utm_campaignid={{campaign.id}}&utm_channel={{site_source_name}} | 1718362694 | 1.0825543904879E+14 | Buchanan Freebery Blaine | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448453730_1510814616191971_2887344324614582447_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=1bjVmo66iqUQ7kNvgFp7krQ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCgyfHXf5oxIfZdG8lt5atiHRJf8ewawTntmGLuvAQmNw&oe=66729DBC | person_profile | 0 | Buchanan Freebery Blaine | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448049678_456918893701662_5346630007443298725_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=R0XpmvPiJj8Q7kNvgEOCcJk&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYA243cy9sitGf0CAQ_pteLcMBKRT7cRT_CBB6siXfbSmA&oe=6672AC73 | 0 | 3 | This manga is definitely worth watching! πππ | Buchanan Freebery Blaine | 0 | https://facebook.com/61552547469039 | 0 | DOWNLOAD | 1718348400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879374 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410683 | 1723321833 | 995 | 277783365363020 | 11 | 1.0031649581254E+15 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 123481120996569 | 0 | CariFree | 120210229436560417 | www.carifree.com/father's-day | Shop Now | NONE | dco | Celebrate Dad with a Healthy Smile β 10% Off With HAPPYDADS | Keep Dad's smile shining bright with CariFree Gel 1100. Our nano-hydroxyapatite formula fights cavities and promotes overall dental health π¦·. CariFree Gel 1100 not only strengthens enamel but also helps prevent future dental issues, making it the perfect gift for Father's Day. Show Dad how much you care with the gift of lasting oral health. Order today and save with this special offer! | https://carifree.com/product/gel-1100/ | 1718392083 | 1.2348112099657E+14 | CariFree | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448248503_1620230182108081_8377705390332873225_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=BICU3Rzl4acQ7kNvgFsMGgA&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDBh-Q5Ql5QXAOMqzLI3C0wbmnvIUILewC1CkIhaO9Wxg&oe=6672BE4A | person_profile | 0 | CariFree | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448245551_795268429030401_3894684251357994738_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Nt6pb8738SEQ7kNvgH-B_jE&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBztGDaVAZlsbAYuSXtyI0_qOrRdefAmEOsui-N4UQ6Fw&oe=6672A1A8 | 0 | 3 | This Father's Day, show Dad you care with the gift of a healthier smile π. CariFree Gel 1100, our advanced cavity prevention formula, is now 10% off! Made with nano-hydroxyapatite, CariFree toothpaste strengthens teeth and protects against cavities, ensuring Dad's smile stays bright and healthy π. Whether Dad is always on the go or enjoys a quiet evening at home, CariFree is the perfect addition to his daily routine. Donβt miss this limited-time offer to give Dad the best in dental care. Order now and save 10% with code HAPPYDADS at checkout! | CariFree | 6267 | https://facebook.com/CariFree | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1718348400 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879382 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 6/4/25, 4:55 AM | 1718410683 | 1749030913 | 995 | 825213972443038 | 1 | 9.989286746921E+14 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 137682100876 | 0 | Hassle Free Home Services | 6583401110570 | myhasslefreehome.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | Weβll take your to-do list. You take the weekend. Home management, repairs, and preventative care. | {{product.description}} | https://myhasslefreehome.com/?utm_source=meta&utm_medium=paid&utm_campaign=auto-placement-June-2024&utm_content=2024-06-14_ErikLawyerCEO | 1718395107 | 137682100876 | Hassle Free Home Services | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448406071_470990475615031_4895314488295366825_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=N-_uAYj38SMQ7kNvgFDmjlJ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYChKY_852OWHlq9eaSpOAtdZnA7aEdtvsBEsvmggsp5mw&oe=6672C659 | person_profile | 0 | Hassle Free Home Services | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448259985_1011403103931570_190283779618200744_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=vU961lU9d6MQ7kNvgH3DiH_&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBh2x07AHtX8gGcZknGpmFIkv2z9pd5FRyq8bhUMW4xqA&oe=667297FB | 0 | 3 | π« Your neighbors have worked with us for over 20 years. π Outsource home management to local professionals. | Hassle Free Home Services | 438 | https://facebook.com/hasslefreehomeservices | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718348400 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879455 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410686 | 1723321833 | 995 | 775779611041597 | 1 | 1.1478768297613E+15 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 108255439048790 | 0 | Buchanan Freebery Blaine | 120208580832050482 | cooolink.com | Download | NONE | image | Free download ποΈποΈποΈ | https://cooolink.com/w2a/lp/bangtoon/cooolinkBtComics2?utm_source=fb_onelink&utm_medium={{placement}}&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_adset_name={{adset.name}}&utm_ad_name={{ad.name}}&utm_adset_nameid={{adset.id}}&utm_ad_nameid={{ad.id}}&utm_campaignid={{campaign.id}}&utm_channel={{site_source_name}} | 1718362690 | 1.0825543904879E+14 | Buchanan Freebery Blaine | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448250184_1000717674768787_1756571312639717067_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=_N8niHizAlIQ7kNvgGpOQj0&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAbkGUgJs66CP_KLG3-oEXfhdduGNaPaax_lu2t1Jg3gA&oe=6672B8C5 | person_profile | 0 | Buchanan Freebery Blaine | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448097159_443847975265419_2310099666709080041_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=PFXLvY9iBuwQ7kNvgHeMmp2&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYD9wmZ225ZZRuv5zIoRrrjOPjwpFiLerFJ4Zo7QnH_3FQ&oe=6672BD9A | 0 | 3 | This manga is definitely worth watching! πππ | Buchanan Freebery Blaine | 0 | https://facebook.com/61552547469039 | 0 | DOWNLOAD | 1718348400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879479 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410686 | 1723321834 | 995 | 1682521799153803 | 1 | 1.3541028593138E+15 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 108282622378515 | 0 | Claire Ryan Nina | 120211459523270017 | cooolink.com | Download | NONE | image | Free download ποΈποΈποΈ | https://cooolink.com/w2a/lp/bangtoon/cooolinkBtComics2?utm_source=fb_onelink&utm_medium={{placement}}&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_adset_name={{adset.name}}&utm_ad_name={{ad.name}}&utm_adset_nameid={{adset.id}}&utm_ad_nameid={{ad.id}}&utm_campaignid={{campaign.id}}&utm_channel={{site_source_name}} | 1718362891 | 1.0828262237852E+14 | Claire Ryan Nina | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448240605_1652464772171338_5475447444827132775_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=DHRDoNMxjOQQ7kNvgG_lpCz&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDQLTohdKAfFeJYx851ukpTZUl-JKQ0dgrQsw8kf5dq5Q&oe=66729863 | person_profile | 0 | Claire Ryan Nina | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448277623_3637597936491073_2353182527238991819_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=yVBB3c0sYvYQ7kNvgF-GMu-&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCwS7yHK1v5JVNJ_SeqoEoFRfRlby74azTjhi9qCw9SvA&oe=6672BE60 | 0 | 3 | This manga is definitely worth watching! πππ | Claire Ryan Nina | 0 | https://facebook.com/61552215344479 | 0 | DOWNLOAD | 1718348400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879442 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410685 | 1723321834 | 995 | 7169360509831753 | 1 | 3.4579198311718E+15 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 163805856980135 | 0 | Horizon Science Academy Cincinnati | 120214845330070001 | hs.horizondayton.org | Learn more | NONE | video | Spark Curiosity, Spark Innovation | College dreams start here! | https://hs.horizondayton.org/ | 1718131434 | 1.6380585698014E+14 | Horizon Science Academy Cincinnati | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448274814_491857953183136_7303681267559199488_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=mK8DFG4YvvkQ7kNvgHHTZ6_&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYC9uzkE1ecmBjXHPRDP4ljcq_x7jLuUC6RnJ--w9lQSxQ&oe=667299BC | person_profile | 0 | Horizon Science Academy Cincinnati | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448249033_1558379175113218_8210133580288370650_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=s-96yPbIW-0Q7kNvgGAz52j&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYB23o8MvwC2-bNoiz7Gilif92MjSGG_sUKkiaAVqdQWcw&oe=667295F4 | 0 | 3 | Join Horizon Science Academy Cincinnati for a transformative, tuition-free K-8 experience. | Horizon Science Academy Cincinnati | 495 | https://facebook.com/hsacincy | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718348400 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879457 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410686 | 1723321834 | 995 | 816463830547071 | 1 | 1.7276353647118E+15 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 108255439048790 | 0 | Buchanan Freebery Blaine | 120208580839500482 | cooolink.com | Download | NONE | image | Free download ποΈποΈποΈ | https://cooolink.com/w2a/lp/bangtoon/cooolinkBtComics2?utm_source=fb_onelink&utm_medium={{placement}}&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_adset_name={{adset.name}}&utm_ad_name={{ad.name}}&utm_adset_nameid={{adset.id}}&utm_ad_nameid={{ad.id}}&utm_campaignid={{campaign.id}}&utm_channel={{site_source_name}} | 1718362710 | 1.0825543904879E+14 | Buchanan Freebery Blaine | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448318926_475822871504388_3072139613901649394_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=JItqKJN6pvsQ7kNvgH1HT_H&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYA13K5TCtZwEkPCEeKouChxKrbZpLg48bQvvDjySKRrwA&oe=6672A92C | person_profile | 0 | Buchanan Freebery Blaine | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448311258_450168224319105_7360390435890937201_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=1rs6QQWJ23cQ7kNvgECG7Uy&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAF0yUmOCOTKrb9EHEa2i5L0-S7XfUC2ajpDcHZ8u-hpQ&oe=6672A246 | 0 | 3 | This manga is definitely worth watching! πππ | Buchanan Freebery Blaine | 0 | https://facebook.com/61552547469039 | 0 | DOWNLOAD | 1718348400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879473 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410686 | 1723321834 | 995 | 1407771186565875 | 1 | 2.4088271893067E+15 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 108255439048790 | 0 | Buchanan Freebery Blaine | 120208580815200482 | cooolink.com | Download | NONE | image | Free download ποΈποΈποΈ | https://cooolink.com/w2a/lp/bangtoon/cooolinkBtComics2?utm_source=fb_onelink&utm_medium={{placement}}&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_adset_name={{adset.name}}&utm_ad_name={{ad.name}}&utm_adset_nameid={{adset.id}}&utm_ad_nameid={{ad.id}}&utm_campaignid={{campaign.id}}&utm_channel={{site_source_name}} | 1718362634 | 1.0825543904879E+14 | Buchanan Freebery Blaine | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448164819_1547140095837388_4708299496639491149_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pcxQCValrdIQ7kNvgHFzISn&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDxC8X8a9LqtIh33Y_qGZQy59gnp9kXNZGv3UF1BJ4dpw&oe=6672A729 | person_profile | 0 | Buchanan Freebery Blaine | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448099929_1198196197742483_7462067875632261199_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ASaN_aGhkj8Q7kNvgE4Nex8&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAxOxk_YarmL-kUXJiOpad552xUQIVHMCrBqrXA1Xsgsg&oe=6672B872 | 0 | 3 | This manga is definitely worth watching! πππ | Buchanan Freebery Blaine | 0 | https://facebook.com/61552547469039 | 0 | DOWNLOAD | 1718348400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879493 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410686 | 1723321834 | 995 | 813640966904981 | 1 | 3.7200638203822E+14 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 214305385109285 | 0 | Delaney Worldwide | 120209559015690084 | delaneyworldwide.com | Learn More | NONE | carousel | Dependable Moving Solutions | Get in touch now! | https://www.delaneyworldwide.com/local-long-distance/ | 1715588544 | 2.1430538510928E+14 | Delaney Worldwide | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441399617_1017638039650615_5708233538021390002_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=BtpzyWWgWBkQ7kNvgENJJwi&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYB7BllZOLavbTPIOhuoKlfZSl5V7MbXSpAB2BbDg_8gRQ&oe=6672A52F | person_profile | 0 | Delaney Worldwide Inc | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441571027_1828547217628349_2289319947431957499_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pN8jlAIYL_kQ7kNvgHoFoLw&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCrq6POtRADpsShMx18_t6_hQWrDigUUdbiM02LGw_VUw&oe=6672AC03 | 0 | 3 | Get in touch now! | Delaney Worldwide | 2 | https://facebook.com/61557773368721 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716188400 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879828 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410728 | 1723321834 | 995 | 2115068452192199 | 1 | 7.5946080672893E+15 | 1715583600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120210797601370002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πRead the next chaptersπ | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1716634519 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438221346_347076918382053_5509872404599054561_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=sisTEz4NT9EQ7kNvgHKLxoB&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCtqMSOg0KYjS4Qe6YSMcVwv7m8-3gjX2xmRdEJ4QbNtQ&oe=66729A9D | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438240590_982215810240924_7779339330704555568_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=k8YDPZIgCtIQ7kNvgEe3WoY&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDgQf2PDgTNWbeeCeovqRzYZ15FNuJAKpZSDMwPWPKx8w&oe=6672A3E0 | 0 | 3 | I had never seen Felix like this - fury was written all over his face, and his lanky figure was trembling slightly. I've known Felix since we were born. Our mothers were best friends and they were trying to pair us up again just now. I had a crush on him, and he always treated me kindly. But now, he glared at me and spat, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around! That's why they misunderstood! Stay away from me!" I hadn't expected him to say something like that. I stared at him dumbfounded. Both my parents and Felix's parents ceased their conversation about our wedding and future. Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? I'm my own man. I'll never marry her, so you all can just stop trying to pair us up!" Felix shouted as he glared at everyone in the house. His eyes were filled with hate. It made me want to curl up into a ball out of embarrassment. The house remained completely silent. Everyone's gaze was on me, and I could feel my heart throbbing in pain. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. He had trampled all over my dignity and self-worth in front of his whole family and mineβ¦ My father, usually calm, flushed crimson at Felix's harsh words, his fists clenched. Mom, too, looked angry and embarrassed, jaw agape, her expression one of disbelief. Uncle Austin, Felix's father, slapped Felix, scolding, "You rebellious boy! Who taught you to behave like that?" The impact of slap sent Felix reeling, and he hit his head on the corner of the wall. Felix slumped to the floor in pain, leaving an unmistakable streak of red on the white walls. Aunt Mel rushed forward with concern, "Felix, my son! Are you alright?" Felix shot me a scathing glare as if I had committed an unspeakable crime. "Are you happy now, Luna?" he spat. I stared back at him with wide eyes, tears streaming down my face and onto the floor. Even though I liked him, that didn't mean he could throw wild accusations and embarrass me as he pleased! I liked him, but I, too, had my sense of dignity! If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I would gladly change! "I'm sorry, Felix. I never thought that my actions would have bugged you so much," I forced the humiliation down as I continued, "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix." I bit my lip hard, and the sharp tang of blood exploded across my tongue. I, Luna Lawson, also swear to myself - I won't endure the same humiliation AGAIN! | Massive story | 670 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715410800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879371 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410683 | 1723321834 | 995 | 1690307808378445 | 11 | 2.8338250934358E+15 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 123481120996569 | 0 | CariFree | 120210229557080417 | www.carifree.com/father's-day | Shop Now | NONE | dco | The Perfect Gift for Dad: Practical & On Sale β 10% Off With HAPPYDADS | Give Dad the perfect combination of practicality and savings with CariFree Gel 1100. Our innovative formula fights cavities and strengthens enamel, making it an essential addition to any dental care routine. This Fatherβs Day, enjoy 10% off and make Dad's smile shine even brighter. He'll love the practicality of the gift and the fact that you got it on sale! Hurry, this limited-time offer won't last long. Order now and make Father's Day extra special! | https://carifree.com/product/gel-1100/ | 1718392173 | 1.2348112099657E+14 | CariFree | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448358695_805720357944974_6206463257774206883_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=VSSw2w8aRkoQ7kNvgHfnOyu&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYD5wmoCu7gAh5rVMlx7lwkpyFZ9C2BTNf9_KuptdpoNUA&oe=6672BD79 | person_profile | 0 | CariFree | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448357430_1019833832473895_9103159104283525034_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=PYZTO3GMgPoQ7kNvgH06_vb&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAWG6hT31zA5XVvqcAA22NPoV68tG5L7WaQWPszdfckQQ&oe=6672B24A | 0 | 3 | Every Dad loves two things in a gift: number one, it's practical, and number two, it's on sale! π This Father's Day, hit the jackpot with CariFree Gel 1100, now 10% off! Our advanced cavity prevention formula is as practical as it gets, using nano-hydroxyapatite to strengthen teeth and fight cavities π¦·. Plus, with this special Father's Day discount, youβre giving Dad the gift of savings too! Trust us, heβll be all smiles when he finds out. π Donβt wait β show Dad you know him well and grab this deal today! Use code HAPPYDADS at checkout and save 10% today! | CariFree | 6267 | https://facebook.com/CariFree | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1718348400 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879373 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410683 | 1723321834 | 995 | 1690307808378445 | 11 | 2.8338250934358E+15 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 123481120996569 | 0 | CariFree | 120210229557080417 | www.carifree.com/father's-day | Shop Now | NONE | dco | The Perfect Gift for Dad: Practical & On Sale β 10% Off With HAPPYDADS | Give Dad the perfect combination of practicality and savings with CariFree Gel 1100. Our innovative formula fights cavities and strengthens enamel, making it an essential addition to any dental care routine. This Fatherβs Day, enjoy 10% off and make Dad's smile shine even brighter. He'll love the practicality of the gift and the fact that you got it on sale! Hurry, this limited-time offer won't last long. Order now and make Father's Day extra special! | https://carifree.com/product/gel-1100/ | 1718392173 | 1.2348112099657E+14 | CariFree | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448358695_805720357944974_6206463257774206883_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=VSSw2w8aRkoQ7kNvgHfnOyu&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYD5wmoCu7gAh5rVMlx7lwkpyFZ9C2BTNf9_KuptdpoNUA&oe=6672BD79 | person_profile | 0 | CariFree | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448357430_1019833832473895_9103159104283525034_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=PYZTO3GMgPoQ7kNvgH06_vb&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAWG6hT31zA5XVvqcAA22NPoV68tG5L7WaQWPszdfckQQ&oe=6672B24A | 0 | 3 | Every Dad loves two things in a gift: number one, it's practical, and number two, it's on sale! π This Father's Day, hit the jackpot with CariFree Gel 1100, now 10% off! Our advanced cavity prevention formula is as practical as it gets, using nano-hydroxyapatite to strengthen teeth and fight cavities π¦·. Plus, with this special Father's Day discount, youβre giving Dad the gift of savings too! Trust us, heβll be all smiles when he finds out. π Donβt wait β show Dad you know him well and grab this deal today! Use code HAPPYDADS at checkout and save 10% today! | CariFree | 6267 | https://facebook.com/CariFree | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1718348400 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879829 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410728 | 1723321834 | 995 | 2115068452192199 | 1 | 7.5946080672893E+15 | 1715583600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120210797601370002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πRead the next chaptersπ | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1716634519 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438221346_347076918382053_5509872404599054561_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=sisTEz4NT9EQ7kNvgHKLxoB&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCtqMSOg0KYjS4Qe6YSMcVwv7m8-3gjX2xmRdEJ4QbNtQ&oe=66729A9D | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438240590_982215810240924_7779339330704555568_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=k8YDPZIgCtIQ7kNvgEe3WoY&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDgQf2PDgTNWbeeCeovqRzYZ15FNuJAKpZSDMwPWPKx8w&oe=6672A3E0 | 0 | 3 | I had never seen Felix like this - fury was written all over his face, and his lanky figure was trembling slightly. I've known Felix since we were born. Our mothers were best friends and they were trying to pair us up again just now. I had a crush on him, and he always treated me kindly. But now, he glared at me and spat, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around! That's why they misunderstood! Stay away from me!" I hadn't expected him to say something like that. I stared at him dumbfounded. Both my parents and Felix's parents ceased their conversation about our wedding and future. Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? I'm my own man. I'll never marry her, so you all can just stop trying to pair us up!" Felix shouted as he glared at everyone in the house. His eyes were filled with hate. It made me want to curl up into a ball out of embarrassment. The house remained completely silent. Everyone's gaze was on me, and I could feel my heart throbbing in pain. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. He had trampled all over my dignity and self-worth in front of his whole family and mineβ¦ My father, usually calm, flushed crimson at Felix's harsh words, his fists clenched. Mom, too, looked angry and embarrassed, jaw agape, her expression one of disbelief. Uncle Austin, Felix's father, slapped Felix, scolding, "You rebellious boy! Who taught you to behave like that?" The impact of slap sent Felix reeling, and he hit his head on the corner of the wall. Felix slumped to the floor in pain, leaving an unmistakable streak of red on the white walls. Aunt Mel rushed forward with concern, "Felix, my son! Are you alright?" Felix shot me a scathing glare as if I had committed an unspeakable crime. "Are you happy now, Luna?" he spat. I stared back at him with wide eyes, tears streaming down my face and onto the floor. Even though I liked him, that didn't mean he could throw wild accusations and embarrass me as he pleased! I liked him, but I, too, had my sense of dignity! If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I would gladly change! "I'm sorry, Felix. I never thought that my actions would have bugged you so much," I forced the humiliation down as I continued, "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix." I bit my lip hard, and the sharp tang of blood exploded across my tongue. I, Luna Lawson, also swear to myself - I won't endure the same humiliation AGAIN! | Massive story | 670 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715410800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879381 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410683 | 1723321835 | 995 | 468832532402739 | 1 | 3.7697147823839E+14 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 137682100876 | 0 | Hassle Free Home Services | 6583401129970 | myhasslefreehome.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | Weβll take your to-do list. You take the weekend. Home management, repairs, and preventative care. | {{product.description}} | https://myhasslefreehome.com/?utm_source=meta&utm_medium=paid&utm_campaign=auto-placement-June-2024&utm_content=2024-06-14_ErikLoveLust | 1718395133 | 137682100876 | Hassle Free Home Services | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/417398008_263960826774708_4514569952948210329_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=4Eek3--_GAEQ7kNvgGzjKZJ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDXqBlf2BEKs99OF_34XF5pGQjHg2NuOMtWLTqYRk-naA&oe=6672C539 | person_profile | 0 | Hassle Free Home Services | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/417482266_768370512125974_5918608896931645830_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=kFtsT6w4CGMQ7kNvgFowVHJ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDgjZZkxYci3TSR_Z2ugAqFIYtHKgi0feOLGFA0ObBx0Q&oe=6672BFF1 | 0 | 3 | π« Your neighbors have worked with us for over 20 years. π Outsource home management to local professionals. | Hassle Free Home Services | 438 | https://facebook.com/hasslefreehomeservices | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718348400 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879383 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410683 | 1723321835 | 995 | 825213972443038 | 1 | 9.989286746921E+14 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 137682100876 | 0 | Hassle Free Home Services | 6583401110570 | myhasslefreehome.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | Weβll take your to-do list. You take the weekend. Home management, repairs, and preventative care. | {{product.description}} | https://myhasslefreehome.com/?utm_source=meta&utm_medium=paid&utm_campaign=auto-placement-June-2024&utm_content=2024-06-14_ErikLawyerCEO | 1718395107 | 137682100876 | Hassle Free Home Services | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448406071_470990475615031_4895314488295366825_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=N-_uAYj38SMQ7kNvgFDmjlJ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYChKY_852OWHlq9eaSpOAtdZnA7aEdtvsBEsvmggsp5mw&oe=6672C659 | person_profile | 0 | Hassle Free Home Services | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448259985_1011403103931570_190283779618200744_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=vU961lU9d6MQ7kNvgH3DiH_&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBh2x07AHtX8gGcZknGpmFIkv2z9pd5FRyq8bhUMW4xqA&oe=667297FB | 0 | 3 | π« Your neighbors have worked with us for over 20 years. π Outsource home management to local professionals. | Hassle Free Home Services | 438 | https://facebook.com/hasslefreehomeservices | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718348400 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879387 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410683 | 1723321835 | 995 | 1221844152519929 | 1 | 1.6536758687297E+15 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 137682100876 | 0 | Hassle Free Home Services | 6583402902170 | myhasslefreehome.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | Weβll take your to-do list. You take the weekend. Home management, repairs, and preventative care. | {{product.description}} | https://myhasslefreehome.com/?utm_source=meta&utm_medium=paid&utm_campaign=auto-placement-June-2024&utm_content=2024-06-14_ErikCEOExecTimeProblem | 1718396728 | 137682100876 | Hassle Free Home Services | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448397594_318202048019095_3021886480661866571_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=OszzC2UtLJkQ7kNvgH4wHGd&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCMx_1wHPNF6yGlm2BAGp_2nwKCm8tN5GXmqdotNlS9IA&oe=6672A389 | person_profile | 0 | Hassle Free Home Services | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448402186_825977045701722_6715641718647541900_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=wfPUqycO9ZYQ7kNvgGiM8Jt&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDEgIMyNiopud9QcrJhW4PhyA9bKTadrEVhMIJkEMI_6Q&oe=6672B4B1 | 0 | 3 | π« Your neighbors have worked with us for over 20 years. π Outsource home management to local professionals. | Hassle Free Home Services | 438 | https://facebook.com/hasslefreehomeservices | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718348400 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879397 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410684 | 1723321835 | 995 | 462022433004837 | 1 | 9.5894306268181E+14 | 1717570800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 106230892147834 | 0 | Wahooly | 120208392257340620 | shopwahooly.com | Shop now | NONE | video | Free Worldwide Shipping! | βββββ 5/5 Reviews! | https://shopwahooly.com/products/breeze-blaster-waist-clip-fan | 1716119836 | 1.0623089214783E+14 | Wahooly | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/443822777_1197856958326133_4617825129157588669_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=cHxSQuUzeKcQ7kNvgEtbck3&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBqobbs0NnmTQ3x43rAprqClsomNCUwG-Nr4kkw9qFHOQ&oe=6672CAA7 | person_profile | 0 | Wahooly | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441313516_306702719165923_5611297010797729232_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Hd4pjLdsfWMQ7kNvgH-QC6E&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAUjaEnMmONGBkB2jAPZUCx8VDF2qAIiUBuurH87NhK4Q&oe=66729F56 | 0 | 3 | Stay cool on-the-go with our Breeze Blaster Waist Clip Fan β perfect for outdoor jobs, travels, and more! π¬οΈ | Wahooly | 67 | https://facebook.com/Wahoooly | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1717484400 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879403 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410684 | 1723321835 | 995 | 395942533186562 | 6 | 1.1253808420402E+15 | 1715929200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 101065786425886 | 0 | Fit Fusion Hub | 120205440052460685 | fitfusionhub.co | Shop now | NONE | video | Free Worldwide Shipping! | βββββ 5/5 Reviews! | https://fitfusionhub.co/products/adjustable-squat-blocks | 1711385052 | 1.0106578642589E+14 | Fit Fusion Hub | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434558423_799224488763855_375982975789020658_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=tBShnHSf9XQQ7kNvgFtuPNm&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCgJHSE1Te8imjpmh8XGBlPj1Mpi-7gjlb6YOk3IormaA&oe=6672B4A3 | person_profile | 0 | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/433175380_757940223099853_1695113958356397612_n.jpg?_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=WFnncMCDNScQ7kNvgHjFGtm&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYB0Gcwgt44fghsPEuNYOtgWt5w41UxOGQrVd3iRUTTMnQ&oe=6672C1F0 | 0 | 3 | Raise the bar on your squats and deadlifts with the Adjustable Squat Block β custom stability for peak performance! ποΈββοΈ | Fit Fusion Hub | 54 | https://facebook.com/fitfusionhub | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1715842800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879404 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410684 | 1723321835 | 995 | 433697319024398 | 6 | 1.6550246085646E+15 | 1715497200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 101065786425886 | 0 | Fit Fusion Hub | 120205439851020685 | fitfusionhub.co | Shop now | NONE | video | Free Worldwide Shipping! | βββββ 5/5 Reviews! | https://fitfusionhub.co/products/boxing-resistance-bands | 1711384631 | 1.0106578642589E+14 | Fit Fusion Hub | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/431574138_333371179735017_6865493517643319687_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=67Vhov6erSIQ7kNvgEwZSOk&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDLHkCYPyCsLM92-9Ysp04a3o4EE9pSx4nGgwbV7XoVxQ&oe=6672CBBD | person_profile | 0 | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434017644_1862051540904358_4679136093091877076_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=9v44PFLvPC8Q7kNvgFx-QWE&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYD2PvPziIpWXCYoozXRhF8yqX75uaXLDUOLvML4MEk6tA&oe=6672A1CC | 0 | 3 | Boost your athletic edge with Boxing Resistance Bands β train for power, strength, and agility, and be the champion you're meant to be! π₯ | Fit Fusion Hub | 54 | https://facebook.com/fitfusionhub | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1715410800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879409 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410684 | 1723321835 | 995 | 782761196703175 | 5 | 3.5342400771126E+14 | 1713596400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 101065786425886 | 0 | Fit Fusion Hub | 120205438995860685 | fitfusionhub.co | Shop now | NONE | video | Free Worldwide Shipping! | βββββ 5/5 Reviews! | https://fitfusionhub.co/products/waist-twisting-disc | 1711382962 | 1.0106578642589E+14 | Fit Fusion Hub | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/433479221_420110183937191_478106752442852752_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=1fHUm0GEORQQ7kNvgHy3ki0&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYB9VxT6iy8TL0rKIn4JT7IsZz8LZCTbXbdrlyT1ZW76Rw&oe=6672AC3F | person_profile | 0 | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/433490542_7094954960616616_7004627976478776710_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=4jJJuSfCnwUQ7kNvgGcJ9Gn&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYC3xjqNqWA2UvXXOwcME5C1woOOEB0NZSJNv_JJnlhSgg&oe=6672C3C2 | 0 | 3 | Spin into shape with the Waist Twisting Disc β Fun meets fitness with a twist of magnetic magic for balance and core strength! | Fit Fusion Hub | 54 | https://facebook.com/fitfusionhub | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1713423600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879417 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410685 | 1723321835 | 995 | 1111542586591821 | 2 | 3.9518835014886E+14 | 1717398000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 308744682317431 | 0 | Amazing dramaapp | 120210211339460233 | fblp.drama-time.com | Watch More | NONE | dco | Download Nowπππ | https://fblp.drama-time.com/IY6bS7-0530-EN-668636.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=1749262542004264962 | 1717167732 | 3.0874468231743E+14 | Amazing dramaapp | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/445370170_939571347949573_7395819333494214654_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=lTqK46MWVOEQ7kNvgGHcWEA&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDozmFF1fXExac0VRCFWA3ivHXze3apS5EgX_P-CqZCdg&oe=6672980D | person_profile | 0 | Amazing dramaapp | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/445235337_478825357922824_3831513101680749515_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=mAoA4qz1S3oQ7kNvgEbkoy1&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCAWE8ERgRHLoeImvdK9svyLsrhJ2MMerIsyASbWqooZQ&oe=6672C478 | 0 | 3 | My Mom is a Big Shot ONLY on Drama Time.π¬ Don't miss out! Watch the series you've been wanting to see. No regrets, just pure entertainment! #Must SeeTV #No Regrets #Watch Now | Amazing dramaapp | 26 | https://facebook.com/61559003640620 | 0 | WATCH_MORE | 1717225200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879422 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410685 | 1723321836 | 995 | 1605179996693847 | 1 | 8.2374082252888E+14 | 1717398000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 308744682317431 | 0 | Amazing dramaapp | 120210211357610233 | fblp.drama-time.com | Watch More | NONE | dco | Download Nowπππ | https://fblp.drama-time.com/IY6bS7-0530-EN-668636.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=1749262542004264962 | 1717167747 | 3.0874468231743E+14 | Amazing dramaapp | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447216330_1013646530491723_6471114213187782855_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=kYDQIkC2fLcQ7kNvgF-Qy1L&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBMdFzdjdic6IXa-yJ05wdmj5oO9oUyE6JfKa6gBSUc6A&oe=6672BC0E | person_profile | 0 | Amazing dramaapp | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447306763_437503968996030_3535214343164963730_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Mt2i_7rPjLgQ7kNvgEaFiF5&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYA4GeU6IZKcODHKg9SnLT5JUDyB9CnJ8d6GwCKGW1uYgQ&oe=6672C308 | 0 | 3 | My Mom is a Big Shot ONLY on Drama Time.π¬ Don't miss out! Watch the series you've been wanting to see. No regrets, just pure entertainment! #Must SeeTV #No Regrets #Watch Now | Amazing dramaapp | 26 | https://facebook.com/61559003640620 | 0 | WATCH_MORE | 1717225200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879425 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410685 | 1723321836 | 995 | 2159638524434546 | 1 | 9.6143829566379E+14 | 1717484400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 308744682317431 | 0 | Amazing dramaapp | 120210212795140233 | fblp.drama-time.com | Watch More | NONE | dco | Download Nowπππ | https://fblp.drama-time.com/IY6bS7-0530-EN-668636.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=1777998279593623554 | 1717170198 | 3.0874468231743E+14 | Amazing dramaapp | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/445235329_669837955327704_2089153290860508039_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=x0G8U_liIwkQ7kNvgHEz_uN&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAXLg-dHuYowDDtA_bcLCCABn_DDjRYXC7qgIwzC330KA&oe=66729CC6 | person_profile | 0 | Amazing dramaapp | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/445417710_3306161976359767_2112175207822166929_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=c1zMxSHhsygQ7kNvgEUSNhK&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBOeeuIxRBDMPvxpMTmVEWDuL8iRL6aC7iiKSVKuDnyIw&oe=6672B7E1 | 0 | 3 | My Mom is a Big Shot ONLY on Drama Time.π¬ Don't miss out! Watch the series you've been wanting to see. No regrets, just pure entertainment! #Must SeeTV #No Regrets #Watch Now | Amazing dramaapp | 26 | https://facebook.com/61559003640620 | 0 | WATCH_MORE | 1717225200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879441 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410685 | 1723321836 | 995 | 1166759227810529 | 1 | 3.1041095545587E+14 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 163805856980135 | 0 | Horizon Science Academy Cincinnati | 120211298434110191 | www.horizoncincy.org | Learn more | NONE | video | Start Your Child's Journey At Horizon | Limited spots are available! | https://www.horizoncincy.org/ | 1718137812 | 1.6380585698014E+14 | Horizon Science Academy Cincinnati | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447994170_6003036086487330_5045362966344685653_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=sG8q9cEB-tAQ7kNvgHFWxHO&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAXpsjJUtcM84Mqd2a5zW5MoT5QXmVs_46tnuMurkyA4w&oe=6672CA32 | person_profile | 0 | Horizon Science Academy Cincinnati | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448019686_1542389986341741_6942571891388402793_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=jzSRwnfjFxUQ7kNvgHB_Mq5&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBWz40ZNg9Xl1FSoY1EEAyIfFk9ExpImsOXh4QLgbvHQQ&oe=6672C873 | 0 | 3 | Our K-8 charter school offers free, top-tier education emphasizing STEM and college readiness. | Horizon Science Academy Cincinnati | 495 | https://facebook.com/hsacincy | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718348400 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879453 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410685 | 1723321836 | 995 | 490621113300849 | 1 | 3.6224648317253E+14 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 108304702377057 | 0 | Rich Rachel Bentley | 120211073045940589 | cooolink.com | Download | NONE | image | Free download ποΈποΈποΈ | https://cooolink.com/w2a/lp/bangtoon/cooolinkBtComics2?utm_source=fb_onelink&utm_medium={{placement}}&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_adset_name={{adset.name}}&utm_ad_name={{ad.name}}&utm_adset_nameid={{adset.id}}&utm_ad_nameid={{ad.id}}&utm_campaignid={{campaign.id}}&utm_channel={{site_source_name}} | 1718363008 | 1.0830470237706E+14 | Rich Rachel Bentley | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448398656_970315048105930_762793674204836178_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=T0zSDU0CIl0Q7kNvgGYGZ04&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDLPTTNA0cUzQJsDbuYhE-viQZR0iywMHhiEjhwOPjaIg&oe=6672B2BD | person_profile | 0 | Rich Rachel Bentley | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448188328_433860996210944_8348768221716717228_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=1GgzYCdMkEcQ7kNvgHSjEgD&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDlz2mV8xxP0mO-LWJLoAnzwA5mPyOtUIj4GYbTK0jGvA&oe=6672BCE3 | 0 | 3 | This manga is definitely worth watching! πππ | Rich Rachel Bentley | 0 | https://facebook.com/61552807764867 | 0 | DOWNLOAD | 1718348400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879467 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410686 | 1723321836 | 995 | 987932499649155 | 1 | 4.7315140854262E+14 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 108255439048790 | 0 | Buchanan Freebery Blaine | 120208580844640482 | cooolink.com | Download | NONE | image | Free download ποΈποΈποΈ | https://cooolink.com/w2a/lp/bangtoon/cooolinkBtComics2?utm_source=fb_onelink&utm_medium={{placement}}&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_adset_name={{adset.name}}&utm_ad_name={{ad.name}}&utm_adset_nameid={{adset.id}}&utm_ad_nameid={{ad.id}}&utm_campaignid={{campaign.id}}&utm_channel={{site_source_name}} | 1718362736 | 1.0825543904879E+14 | Buchanan Freebery Blaine | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448276195_1603093800262108_863554229769020681_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=djmh2RQMyY0Q7kNvgFRYGIO&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCpLOAsruBUuEcHUmHntyWGyISB6-FRyMbi-iZROQ73gQ&oe=6672B87B | person_profile | 0 | Buchanan Freebery Blaine | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448246268_2259971587728003_5198672421259012398_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=-PZeX7ixFdQQ7kNvgGnxcXU&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAt4ijuoPNwZBz5cf1On4MYhm0PHMlXF7o1gV9zpOiStw&oe=6672A8FC | 0 | 3 | This manga is definitely worth watching! πππ | Buchanan Freebery Blaine | 0 | https://facebook.com/61552547469039 | 0 | DOWNLOAD | 1718348400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879487 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410686 | 1723321836 | 995 | 481369540909827 | 1 | 1.2705164739091E+15 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 465231436915042 | 0 | Round Hill Pines Beach Resort | 120209928064440713 | roundhillpinesresort.com | Learn more | NONE | image | Purely Lake Tahoe. | Free parking after 5pm | https://www.roundhillpinesresort.com/ | 1716313393 | 4.6523143691504E+14 | Round Hill Pines Beach Resort | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442399839_1155585775792639_3141734500634698788_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=EWCA7d4MFScQ7kNvgHql_DI&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYC9uTLAjhHTeht96PnuOLlFxmnpohGVFKXFjHPWhUqaig&oe=6672BB05 | person_profile | 0 | Round Hill Pines Beach Resort | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441494432_1443238833234526_5087560177690967038_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=yyzHagjU4yAQ7kNvgGnmroR&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBOwIAi8g43g1BbW3Rznyl_VcY5swW2i78Rt_Z_pOkFDw&oe=6672CB92 | 0 | 3 | When beach play works up an appetite, Beach Bums offers casual lakeside dining for the whole family. | Round Hill Pines Beach Resort | 6705 | https://facebook.com/roundhillpines | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716620400 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879495 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410687 | 1723321837 | 995 | 989063109520358 | 1 | 9.7705697704554E+14 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 214305385109285 | 0 | Delaney Worldwide | 120209559278060084 | delaneyworldwide.com | Learn More | NONE | carousel | Discover Effortless Relocations With Us | Choose us for stress-free moves! | https://www.delaneyworldwide.com/local-long-distance/ | 1715588930 | 2.1430538510928E+14 | Delaney Worldwide | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441450794_7441351729289684_4996825761901876544_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Gqx580w7YTAQ7kNvgEgN5BK&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDPE1JtfOQCvTojXQeSzAabpBNe_V8RIQoOrPmz0rHygw&oe=6672AADD | person_profile | 0 | Delaney Worldwide Inc | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440496763_742214424660267_3958153346325376394_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=-QQUxV3SEocQ7kNvgEV1ovs&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYB3aqBCARnHG6HXMZghhQVg1qh1Dg0KIkBP9pePtit3QA&oe=6672BDCF | 0 | 3 | Choose us for stress-free moves! | Delaney Worldwide | 2 | https://facebook.com/61557773368721 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716188400 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879501 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410687 | 1723321837 | 995 | 660581109579844 | 2 | 9.314627187491E+14 | 1717138800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120211846693390779 | qweasdzxconline.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πRead the next chaptersπ | https://qweasdzxconline.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11090&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715085862 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438129100_1146045226739178_2601865360875538189_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pgaM6op9EH4Q7kNvgFvStUz&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAnzNXAdVZ3R4dAiEpauXywjYljw4eXW7quZ6rvyHSXBw&oe=6672A490 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440747644_315502774915635_6353252339687881796_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YicSkuGzOiMQ7kNvgEoi2bQ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAN9i2X9Y9MK7cgBix3paDsplYdUdBGGi_LOwLoSJKKaQ&oe=6672CB97 | 0 | 3 | π"Ned Fletcher, with how you're treating Angie right now, aren't you worried that you're going to regret it when you finally regain your memories one day? You loved her so much before and you two got married for love! Despite you forgetting your feelings about her, how could you post so many indecent photos of her on social media?" Ned spoke nonchalantly, saying, "Why are you still holding me hostage with morals and principles? She was the one who framed me by lowly methods. I was just warning her. If Ingrid hadn't asked me to stop, I'd have gone even further! By the way, show your respect to Ingrid. Sheβs not a new girl but my only one forever and never!" Angeline Emmerson heard the talk standing outside the door. She used to be treated ever so lovingly by Ned in the past. Angeline felt her eyes reddening and filling with tears. The Ned she knew had died in the car accident that happened four years ago. The one inside was merely a stranger! Angeline inhaled deeply. Then, she pushed the door open. Ned looked up and saw her entering. "Who brought you here?" Angeline stared at Ned and said, "I've already made a police report regarding your spiked drink at the event and your spreading of my photos for revenge." Hearing this, everyone's reactions differed from one another. Angeline continued, "Ned Fletcher, it's true that I wanted to try rekindling our relationship, but I would never have stooped so low as to do those disgusting things to you. I didn't want to let go of this relationship because I was worried that the Ned I knew would return someday and blame me for giving up on him so easily," Angeline placed the divorce agreement she'd been hugging onto the table. "I tried my best, but I'm tired now. Ned Fletcher, I'm giving up on you. I don't want you anymore." Ned's eyes traveled from the divorce agreement to Angeline's face. There was a hint of surprise in his cold eyes. "Let's finalize the divorce after the police have cleared my name and you have publicly apologized to me." | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716966000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879503 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410688 | 1723321837 | 995 | 660581109579844 | 2 | 9.314627187491E+14 | 1717138800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120211846693390779 | qweasdzxconline.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πRead the next chaptersπ | https://qweasdzxconline.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11090&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715085862 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438129100_1146045226739178_2601865360875538189_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pgaM6op9EH4Q7kNvgFvStUz&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAnzNXAdVZ3R4dAiEpauXywjYljw4eXW7quZ6rvyHSXBw&oe=6672A490 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440747644_315502774915635_6353252339687881796_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YicSkuGzOiMQ7kNvgEoi2bQ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAN9i2X9Y9MK7cgBix3paDsplYdUdBGGi_LOwLoSJKKaQ&oe=6672CB97 | 0 | 3 | π"Ned Fletcher, with how you're treating Angie right now, aren't you worried that you're going to regret it when you finally regain your memories one day? You loved her so much before and you two got married for love! Despite you forgetting your feelings about her, how could you post so many indecent photos of her on social media?" Ned spoke nonchalantly, saying, "Why are you still holding me hostage with morals and principles? She was the one who framed me by lowly methods. I was just warning her. If Ingrid hadn't asked me to stop, I'd have gone even further! By the way, show your respect to Ingrid. Sheβs not a new girl but my only one forever and never!" Angeline Emmerson heard the talk standing outside the door. She used to be treated ever so lovingly by Ned in the past. Angeline felt her eyes reddening and filling with tears. The Ned she knew had died in the car accident that happened four years ago. The one inside was merely a stranger! Angeline inhaled deeply. Then, she pushed the door open. Ned looked up and saw her entering. "Who brought you here?" Angeline stared at Ned and said, "I've already made a police report regarding your spiked drink at the event and your spreading of my photos for revenge." Hearing this, everyone's reactions differed from one another. Angeline continued, "Ned Fletcher, it's true that I wanted to try rekindling our relationship, but I would never have stooped so low as to do those disgusting things to you. I didn't want to let go of this relationship because I was worried that the Ned I knew would return someday and blame me for giving up on him so easily," Angeline placed the divorce agreement she'd been hugging onto the table. "I tried my best, but I'm tired now. Ned Fletcher, I'm giving up on you. I don't want you anymore." Ned's eyes traveled from the divorce agreement to Angeline's face. There was a hint of surprise in his cold eyes. "Let's finalize the divorce after the police have cleared my name and you have publicly apologized to me." | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716966000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879505 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410688 | 1723321837 | 995 | 660581109579844 | 2 | 9.314627187491E+14 | 1717138800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120211846693390779 | qweasdzxconline.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πRead the next chaptersπ | https://qweasdzxconline.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11090&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715085862 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438129100_1146045226739178_2601865360875538189_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pgaM6op9EH4Q7kNvgFvStUz&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAnzNXAdVZ3R4dAiEpauXywjYljw4eXW7quZ6rvyHSXBw&oe=6672A490 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440747644_315502774915635_6353252339687881796_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YicSkuGzOiMQ7kNvgEoi2bQ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAN9i2X9Y9MK7cgBix3paDsplYdUdBGGi_LOwLoSJKKaQ&oe=6672CB97 | 0 | 3 | π"Ned Fletcher, with how you're treating Angie right now, aren't you worried that you're going to regret it when you finally regain your memories one day? You loved her so much before and you two got married for love! Despite you forgetting your feelings about her, how could you post so many indecent photos of her on social media?" Ned spoke nonchalantly, saying, "Why are you still holding me hostage with morals and principles? She was the one who framed me by lowly methods. I was just warning her. If Ingrid hadn't asked me to stop, I'd have gone even further! By the way, show your respect to Ingrid. Sheβs not a new girl but my only one forever and never!" Angeline Emmerson heard the talk standing outside the door. She used to be treated ever so lovingly by Ned in the past. Angeline felt her eyes reddening and filling with tears. The Ned she knew had died in the car accident that happened four years ago. The one inside was merely a stranger! Angeline inhaled deeply. Then, she pushed the door open. Ned looked up and saw her entering. "Who brought you here?" Angeline stared at Ned and said, "I've already made a police report regarding your spiked drink at the event and your spreading of my photos for revenge." Hearing this, everyone's reactions differed from one another. Angeline continued, "Ned Fletcher, it's true that I wanted to try rekindling our relationship, but I would never have stooped so low as to do those disgusting things to you. I didn't want to let go of this relationship because I was worried that the Ned I knew would return someday and blame me for giving up on him so easily," Angeline placed the divorce agreement she'd been hugging onto the table. "I tried my best, but I'm tired now. Ned Fletcher, I'm giving up on you. I don't want you anymore." Ned's eyes traveled from the divorce agreement to Angeline's face. There was a hint of surprise in his cold eyes. "Let's finalize the divorce after the police have cleared my name and you have publicly apologized to me." | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716966000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879507 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410689 | 1723321837 | 995 | 660581109579844 | 2 | 9.314627187491E+14 | 1717138800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120211846693390779 | qweasdzxconline.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πRead the next chaptersπ | https://qweasdzxconline.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11090&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715085862 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438129100_1146045226739178_2601865360875538189_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pgaM6op9EH4Q7kNvgFvStUz&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAnzNXAdVZ3R4dAiEpauXywjYljw4eXW7quZ6rvyHSXBw&oe=6672A490 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440747644_315502774915635_6353252339687881796_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YicSkuGzOiMQ7kNvgEoi2bQ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAN9i2X9Y9MK7cgBix3paDsplYdUdBGGi_LOwLoSJKKaQ&oe=6672CB97 | 0 | 3 | π"Ned Fletcher, with how you're treating Angie right now, aren't you worried that you're going to regret it when you finally regain your memories one day? You loved her so much before and you two got married for love! Despite you forgetting your feelings about her, how could you post so many indecent photos of her on social media?" Ned spoke nonchalantly, saying, "Why are you still holding me hostage with morals and principles? She was the one who framed me by lowly methods. I was just warning her. If Ingrid hadn't asked me to stop, I'd have gone even further! By the way, show your respect to Ingrid. Sheβs not a new girl but my only one forever and never!" Angeline Emmerson heard the talk standing outside the door. She used to be treated ever so lovingly by Ned in the past. Angeline felt her eyes reddening and filling with tears. The Ned she knew had died in the car accident that happened four years ago. The one inside was merely a stranger! Angeline inhaled deeply. Then, she pushed the door open. Ned looked up and saw her entering. "Who brought you here?" Angeline stared at Ned and said, "I've already made a police report regarding your spiked drink at the event and your spreading of my photos for revenge." Hearing this, everyone's reactions differed from one another. Angeline continued, "Ned Fletcher, it's true that I wanted to try rekindling our relationship, but I would never have stooped so low as to do those disgusting things to you. I didn't want to let go of this relationship because I was worried that the Ned I knew would return someday and blame me for giving up on him so easily," Angeline placed the divorce agreement she'd been hugging onto the table. "I tried my best, but I'm tired now. Ned Fletcher, I'm giving up on you. I don't want you anymore." Ned's eyes traveled from the divorce agreement to Angeline's face. There was a hint of surprise in his cold eyes. "Let's finalize the divorce after the police have cleared my name and you have publicly apologized to me." | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716966000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879509 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410689 | 1723321837 | 995 | 660581109579844 | 2 | 9.314627187491E+14 | 1717138800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120211846693390779 | qweasdzxconline.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πRead the next chaptersπ | https://qweasdzxconline.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11090&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715085862 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438129100_1146045226739178_2601865360875538189_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pgaM6op9EH4Q7kNvgFvStUz&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAnzNXAdVZ3R4dAiEpauXywjYljw4eXW7quZ6rvyHSXBw&oe=6672A490 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440747644_315502774915635_6353252339687881796_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YicSkuGzOiMQ7kNvgEoi2bQ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAN9i2X9Y9MK7cgBix3paDsplYdUdBGGi_LOwLoSJKKaQ&oe=6672CB97 | 0 | 3 | π"Ned Fletcher, with how you're treating Angie right now, aren't you worried that you're going to regret it when you finally regain your memories one day? You loved her so much before and you two got married for love! Despite you forgetting your feelings about her, how could you post so many indecent photos of her on social media?" Ned spoke nonchalantly, saying, "Why are you still holding me hostage with morals and principles? She was the one who framed me by lowly methods. I was just warning her. If Ingrid hadn't asked me to stop, I'd have gone even further! By the way, show your respect to Ingrid. Sheβs not a new girl but my only one forever and never!" Angeline Emmerson heard the talk standing outside the door. She used to be treated ever so lovingly by Ned in the past. Angeline felt her eyes reddening and filling with tears. The Ned she knew had died in the car accident that happened four years ago. The one inside was merely a stranger! Angeline inhaled deeply. Then, she pushed the door open. Ned looked up and saw her entering. "Who brought you here?" Angeline stared at Ned and said, "I've already made a police report regarding your spiked drink at the event and your spreading of my photos for revenge." Hearing this, everyone's reactions differed from one another. Angeline continued, "Ned Fletcher, it's true that I wanted to try rekindling our relationship, but I would never have stooped so low as to do those disgusting things to you. I didn't want to let go of this relationship because I was worried that the Ned I knew would return someday and blame me for giving up on him so easily," Angeline placed the divorce agreement she'd been hugging onto the table. "I tried my best, but I'm tired now. Ned Fletcher, I'm giving up on you. I don't want you anymore." Ned's eyes traveled from the divorce agreement to Angeline's face. There was a hint of surprise in his cold eyes. "Let's finalize the divorce after the police have cleared my name and you have publicly apologized to me." | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716966000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879510 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410689 | 1723321837 | 995 | 660581109579844 | 2 | 9.314627187491E+14 | 1717138800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120211846693390779 | qweasdzxconline.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πRead the next chaptersπ | https://qweasdzxconline.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11090&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715085862 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438129100_1146045226739178_2601865360875538189_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pgaM6op9EH4Q7kNvgFvStUz&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAnzNXAdVZ3R4dAiEpauXywjYljw4eXW7quZ6rvyHSXBw&oe=6672A490 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440747644_315502774915635_6353252339687881796_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YicSkuGzOiMQ7kNvgEoi2bQ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAN9i2X9Y9MK7cgBix3paDsplYdUdBGGi_LOwLoSJKKaQ&oe=6672CB97 | 0 | 3 | π"Ned Fletcher, with how you're treating Angie right now, aren't you worried that you're going to regret it when you finally regain your memories one day? You loved her so much before and you two got married for love! Despite you forgetting your feelings about her, how could you post so many indecent photos of her on social media?" Ned spoke nonchalantly, saying, "Why are you still holding me hostage with morals and principles? She was the one who framed me by lowly methods. I was just warning her. If Ingrid hadn't asked me to stop, I'd have gone even further! By the way, show your respect to Ingrid. Sheβs not a new girl but my only one forever and never!" Angeline Emmerson heard the talk standing outside the door. She used to be treated ever so lovingly by Ned in the past. Angeline felt her eyes reddening and filling with tears. The Ned she knew had died in the car accident that happened four years ago. The one inside was merely a stranger! Angeline inhaled deeply. Then, she pushed the door open. Ned looked up and saw her entering. "Who brought you here?" Angeline stared at Ned and said, "I've already made a police report regarding your spiked drink at the event and your spreading of my photos for revenge." Hearing this, everyone's reactions differed from one another. Angeline continued, "Ned Fletcher, it's true that I wanted to try rekindling our relationship, but I would never have stooped so low as to do those disgusting things to you. I didn't want to let go of this relationship because I was worried that the Ned I knew would return someday and blame me for giving up on him so easily," Angeline placed the divorce agreement she'd been hugging onto the table. "I tried my best, but I'm tired now. Ned Fletcher, I'm giving up on you. I don't want you anymore." Ned's eyes traveled from the divorce agreement to Angeline's face. There was a hint of surprise in his cold eyes. "Let's finalize the divorce after the police have cleared my name and you have publicly apologized to me." | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716966000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879516 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410690 | 1723321837 | 995 | 345924945175506 | 17 | 4.0432693580309E+14 | 1716706800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 342924965562549 | 0 | Random Reading | 120211511879180002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πRead the next chaptersπ | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715765000 | 3.4292496556255E+14 | Random Reading | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/435922042_247479561755579_3821431404594820167_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=nE-xcpCRFGQQ7kNvgEfKZT9&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBJeZyYE3h8dCQPrEYbRlpN1rYGD4UiCmm_vtZ3RVK93A&oe=6672C788 | person_profile | 0 | Random Reading | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436197202_765438095699980_1525197823077953944_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=z0L5gnt-ND4Q7kNvgGji8Ss&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYD7CD-CwJ5p5YX30VimVQrwGnmzPWqX979uoxbURL0mGw&oe=6672C1E1 | 0 | 3 | I had never seen Felix like this - fury was written all over his face, and his lanky figure was trembling slightly. I've known Felix since we were born. Our mothers were best friends and they were trying to pair us up again just now. I had a crush on him, and he always treated me kindly. But now, he glared at me and spat, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around! That's why they misunderstood! Stay away from me!" I hadn't expected him to say something like that. I stared at him dumbfounded. Both my parents and Felix's parents ceased their conversation about our wedding and future. Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? I'm my own man. I'll never marry her, so you all can just stop trying to pair us up!" Felix shouted as he glared at everyone in the house. His eyes were filled with hate. It made me want to curl up into a ball out of embarrassment. The house remained completely silent. Everyone's gaze was on me, and I could feel my heart throbbing in pain. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. He had trampled all over my dignity and self-worth in front of his whole family and mineβ¦ My father, usually calm, flushed crimson at Felix's harsh words, his fists clenched. Mom, too, looked angry and embarrassed, jaw agape, her expression one of disbelief. Uncle Austin, Felix's father, slapped Felix, scolding, "You rebellious boy! Who taught you to behave like that?" The impact of slap sent Felix reeling, and he hit his head on the corner of the wall. Felix slumped to the floor in pain, leaving an unmistakable streak of red on the white walls. Aunt Mel rushed forward with concern, "Felix, my son! Are you alright?" Felix shot me a scathing glare as if I had committed an unspeakable crime. "Are you happy now, Luna?" he spat. I stared back at him with wide eyes, tears streaming down my face and onto the floor. Even though I liked him, that didn't mean he could throw wild accusations and embarrass me as he pleased! I liked him, but I, too, had my sense of dignity! If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I would gladly change! "I'm sorry, Felix. I never thought that my actions would have bugged you so much," I forced the humiliation down as I continued, "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix." I bit my lip hard, and the sharp tang of blood exploded across my tongue. I, Luna Lawson, also swear to myself - I won't endure the same humiliation AGAIN! | Random Reading | 9 | https://facebook.com/61559743679549 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716447600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879517 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410690 | 1723321837 | 995 | 345924945175506 | 17 | 4.0432693580309E+14 | 1716706800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 342924965562549 | 0 | Random Reading | 120211511879180002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πRead the next chaptersπ | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715765000 | 3.4292496556255E+14 | Random Reading | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/435922042_247479561755579_3821431404594820167_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=nE-xcpCRFGQQ7kNvgEfKZT9&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBJeZyYE3h8dCQPrEYbRlpN1rYGD4UiCmm_vtZ3RVK93A&oe=6672C788 | person_profile | 0 | Random Reading | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436197202_765438095699980_1525197823077953944_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=z0L5gnt-ND4Q7kNvgGji8Ss&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYD7CD-CwJ5p5YX30VimVQrwGnmzPWqX979uoxbURL0mGw&oe=6672C1E1 | 0 | 3 | I had never seen Felix like this - fury was written all over his face, and his lanky figure was trembling slightly. I've known Felix since we were born. Our mothers were best friends and they were trying to pair us up again just now. I had a crush on him, and he always treated me kindly. But now, he glared at me and spat, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around! That's why they misunderstood! Stay away from me!" I hadn't expected him to say something like that. I stared at him dumbfounded. Both my parents and Felix's parents ceased their conversation about our wedding and future. Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? I'm my own man. I'll never marry her, so you all can just stop trying to pair us up!" Felix shouted as he glared at everyone in the house. His eyes were filled with hate. It made me want to curl up into a ball out of embarrassment. The house remained completely silent. Everyone's gaze was on me, and I could feel my heart throbbing in pain. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. He had trampled all over my dignity and self-worth in front of his whole family and mineβ¦ My father, usually calm, flushed crimson at Felix's harsh words, his fists clenched. Mom, too, looked angry and embarrassed, jaw agape, her expression one of disbelief. Uncle Austin, Felix's father, slapped Felix, scolding, "You rebellious boy! Who taught you to behave like that?" The impact of slap sent Felix reeling, and he hit his head on the corner of the wall. Felix slumped to the floor in pain, leaving an unmistakable streak of red on the white walls. Aunt Mel rushed forward with concern, "Felix, my son! Are you alright?" Felix shot me a scathing glare as if I had committed an unspeakable crime. "Are you happy now, Luna?" he spat. I stared back at him with wide eyes, tears streaming down my face and onto the floor. Even though I liked him, that didn't mean he could throw wild accusations and embarrass me as he pleased! I liked him, but I, too, had my sense of dignity! If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I would gladly change! "I'm sorry, Felix. I never thought that my actions would have bugged you so much," I forced the humiliation down as I continued, "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix." I bit my lip hard, and the sharp tang of blood exploded across my tongue. I, Luna Lawson, also swear to myself - I won't endure the same humiliation AGAIN! | Random Reading | 9 | https://facebook.com/61559743679549 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716447600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879525 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410691 | 1723321838 | 995 | 404621832409719 | 28 | 9.6783316154479E+14 | 1716534000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120210797601370002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πRead the next chaptersπ | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1716634519 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438221346_347076918382053_5509872404599054561_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=sisTEz4NT9EQ7kNvgHKLxoB&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCtqMSOg0KYjS4Qe6YSMcVwv7m8-3gjX2xmRdEJ4QbNtQ&oe=66729A9D | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438240590_982215810240924_7779339330704555568_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=k8YDPZIgCtIQ7kNvgEe3WoY&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDgQf2PDgTNWbeeCeovqRzYZ15FNuJAKpZSDMwPWPKx8w&oe=6672A3E0 | 0 | 3 | I had never seen Felix like this - fury was written all over his face, and his lanky figure was trembling slightly. I've known Felix since we were born. Our mothers were best friends and they were trying to pair us up again just now. I had a crush on him, and he always treated me kindly. But now, he glared at me and spat, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around! That's why they misunderstood! Stay away from me!" I hadn't expected him to say something like that. I stared at him dumbfounded. Both my parents and Felix's parents ceased their conversation about our wedding and future. Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? I'm my own man. I'll never marry her, so you all can just stop trying to pair us up!" Felix shouted as he glared at everyone in the house. His eyes were filled with hate. It made me want to curl up into a ball out of embarrassment. The house remained completely silent. Everyone's gaze was on me, and I could feel my heart throbbing in pain. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. He had trampled all over my dignity and self-worth in front of his whole family and mineβ¦ My father, usually calm, flushed crimson at Felix's harsh words, his fists clenched. Mom, too, looked angry and embarrassed, jaw agape, her expression one of disbelief. Uncle Austin, Felix's father, slapped Felix, scolding, "You rebellious boy! Who taught you to behave like that?" The impact of slap sent Felix reeling, and he hit his head on the corner of the wall. Felix slumped to the floor in pain, leaving an unmistakable streak of red on the white walls. Aunt Mel rushed forward with concern, "Felix, my son! Are you alright?" Felix shot me a scathing glare as if I had committed an unspeakable crime. "Are you happy now, Luna?" he spat. I stared back at him with wide eyes, tears streaming down my face and onto the floor. Even though I liked him, that didn't mean he could throw wild accusations and embarrass me as he pleased! I liked him, but I, too, had my sense of dignity! If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I would gladly change! "I'm sorry, Felix. I never thought that my actions would have bugged you so much," I forced the humiliation down as I continued, "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix." I bit my lip hard, and the sharp tang of blood exploded across my tongue. I, Luna Lawson, also swear to myself - I won't endure the same humiliation AGAIN! | Massive story | 670 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716361200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879529 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410692 | 1723321838 | 995 | 404621832409719 | 28 | 9.6783316154479E+14 | 1716534000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120210797601370002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πRead the next chaptersπ | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1716634519 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438221346_347076918382053_5509872404599054561_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=sisTEz4NT9EQ7kNvgHKLxoB&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCtqMSOg0KYjS4Qe6YSMcVwv7m8-3gjX2xmRdEJ4QbNtQ&oe=66729A9D | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438240590_982215810240924_7779339330704555568_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=k8YDPZIgCtIQ7kNvgEe3WoY&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDgQf2PDgTNWbeeCeovqRzYZ15FNuJAKpZSDMwPWPKx8w&oe=6672A3E0 | 0 | 3 | I had never seen Felix like this - fury was written all over his face, and his lanky figure was trembling slightly. I've known Felix since we were born. Our mothers were best friends and they were trying to pair us up again just now. I had a crush on him, and he always treated me kindly. But now, he glared at me and spat, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around! That's why they misunderstood! Stay away from me!" I hadn't expected him to say something like that. I stared at him dumbfounded. Both my parents and Felix's parents ceased their conversation about our wedding and future. Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? I'm my own man. I'll never marry her, so you all can just stop trying to pair us up!" Felix shouted as he glared at everyone in the house. His eyes were filled with hate. It made me want to curl up into a ball out of embarrassment. The house remained completely silent. Everyone's gaze was on me, and I could feel my heart throbbing in pain. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. He had trampled all over my dignity and self-worth in front of his whole family and mineβ¦ My father, usually calm, flushed crimson at Felix's harsh words, his fists clenched. Mom, too, looked angry and embarrassed, jaw agape, her expression one of disbelief. Uncle Austin, Felix's father, slapped Felix, scolding, "You rebellious boy! Who taught you to behave like that?" The impact of slap sent Felix reeling, and he hit his head on the corner of the wall. Felix slumped to the floor in pain, leaving an unmistakable streak of red on the white walls. Aunt Mel rushed forward with concern, "Felix, my son! Are you alright?" Felix shot me a scathing glare as if I had committed an unspeakable crime. "Are you happy now, Luna?" he spat. I stared back at him with wide eyes, tears streaming down my face and onto the floor. Even though I liked him, that didn't mean he could throw wild accusations and embarrass me as he pleased! I liked him, but I, too, had my sense of dignity! If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I would gladly change! "I'm sorry, Felix. I never thought that my actions would have bugged you so much," I forced the humiliation down as I continued, "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix." I bit my lip hard, and the sharp tang of blood exploded across my tongue. I, Luna Lawson, also swear to myself - I won't endure the same humiliation AGAIN! | Massive story | 670 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716361200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879533 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410692 | 1723321838 | 995 | 468089762273303 | 1 | 1.6919708815392E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 273913162469522 | 0 | New world publications | 120212928768730170 | wwwedb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πAttention! Do not read in publicοΌπ | https://wwwedb.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11782&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717757425 | 2.7391316246952E+14 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959759_1311554859802432_4227718076479884991_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GwKF1hWO7f4Q7kNvgGcgnOa&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAaDJ90YtTRVgl1h4Qq29YmZWIZCVWKY5MqqmnLhItL8w&oe=6672A69D | person_profile | 0 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959270_7187349571370885_4976612476689122460_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=NNss872fdPgQ7kNvgE-PVII&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAp0ikcilFTLm0se1WcAfumGS3USCJAFn0NgxepicFnPw&oe=6672B455 | 0 | 3 | The clearing of a throat makes me jump. I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of alcohol. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that donβt quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door. Shrinking down to the ground. βIs this the way you greet all Alphaβs?β His deep voice rumbles through the room, an edge of amusement to his tone. βIβm sorry.β I whisper, getting to my feet. βIβ¦I thought I was alone.β I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. βCome forward.β He orders. Alpha Trey was going to kill me. I do as Iβm told. Allowing him to see me properly and I am met with narrowed crimson eyes. I close my own eyes, expecting the worst. βYou smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?β My head moved up and down, though I couldnβt tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they discovered the truth about me. βI would prefer it if you spoke to me.β He growls, βIβm not in the mood to play games.β βYes.β I whisper. βI amβ¦I am a Wolf.β I couldnβt help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? I wasnβt sure how much more my body could take. βHow is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.β βIβ¦..β I hated the question. βI havenβt got all day!β He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldnβt scent him. I knew why I hadnβt been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever liked to do. They never hear my side of the story. All they do is accept Alpha Trey's word as the truth. βYou should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?β His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them. There was no way I was making direct eye contact. βMy Wolf abilities were bound.β βWhy?β If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. βIt was a punishment.β βFor what?β βFor killing my parents.β | New world publications | 9 | https://facebook.com/61557831245498 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718089200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879537 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410693 | 1723321838 | 995 | 468089762273303 | 1 | 1.6919708815392E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 273913162469522 | 0 | New world publications | 120212928768730170 | wwwedb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πAttention! Do not read in publicοΌπ | https://wwwedb.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11782&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717757425 | 2.7391316246952E+14 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959759_1311554859802432_4227718076479884991_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GwKF1hWO7f4Q7kNvgGcgnOa&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAaDJ90YtTRVgl1h4Qq29YmZWIZCVWKY5MqqmnLhItL8w&oe=6672A69D | person_profile | 0 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959270_7187349571370885_4976612476689122460_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=NNss872fdPgQ7kNvgE-PVII&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAp0ikcilFTLm0se1WcAfumGS3USCJAFn0NgxepicFnPw&oe=6672B455 | 0 | 3 | The clearing of a throat makes me jump. I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of alcohol. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that donβt quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door. Shrinking down to the ground. βIs this the way you greet all Alphaβs?β His deep voice rumbles through the room, an edge of amusement to his tone. βIβm sorry.β I whisper, getting to my feet. βIβ¦I thought I was alone.β I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. βCome forward.β He orders. Alpha Trey was going to kill me. I do as Iβm told. Allowing him to see me properly and I am met with narrowed crimson eyes. I close my own eyes, expecting the worst. βYou smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?β My head moved up and down, though I couldnβt tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they discovered the truth about me. βI would prefer it if you spoke to me.β He growls, βIβm not in the mood to play games.β βYes.β I whisper. βI amβ¦I am a Wolf.β I couldnβt help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? I wasnβt sure how much more my body could take. βHow is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.β βIβ¦..β I hated the question. βI havenβt got all day!β He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldnβt scent him. I knew why I hadnβt been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever liked to do. They never hear my side of the story. All they do is accept Alpha Trey's word as the truth. βYou should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?β His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them. There was no way I was making direct eye contact. βMy Wolf abilities were bound.β βWhy?β If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. βIt was a punishment.β βFor what?β βFor killing my parents.β | New world publications | 9 | https://facebook.com/61557831245498 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718089200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879545 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410693 | 1723321838 | 995 | 785695356970863 | 1 | 1.8811915023045E+15 | 1718002800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 144939265372419 | 0 | Indulge in story | 120214343181970348 | shgjfh.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πRead the next chaptersπ | https://shgjfh.com/market/meganovel/13?lpid=11844&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717762144 | 1.4493926537242E+14 | Indulge in story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447256994_962585992003167_5083994497026705008_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=xvSiU4eM0HIQ7kNvgGaLPgU&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDfHZvL4fwCX9_hfvxj2Lbnpddf0pG1uD9Gqv9GoXUxJw&oe=6672B331 | person_profile | 0 | Indulge in story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447590700_1016773316708518_420838429285916977_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=KYgitKO0u2cQ7kNvgF55Rj_&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDyXqxq5I-PXqx461m_CajttJGgWqxofCm2izR9EzU9dg&oe=6672B6AD | 0 | 3 | The roads were soaked. It had been raining for a whole day in Southbury. Aria Carver's backpack was thrown out of the door by the butler in disdain. "Mr. Kent doesn't want to see you, Ms. Carver. So, I have to say some words in his stead. Your birth parents are in the countryside. Your father's last name is Carver. "The Kent family mistook you for their daughter in the past. But now that Ms. Lily has been found, I hope that you can do what's best for everyone and stop contacting the Kent family." The butler, Alfred Dun, took out a card. "Here's 10,000. Mr. Kent instructed me to give it to you as compensation." "No need." Aria didn't even look at the card as she picked up her backpack. Alfred looked at her in disdain. She didn't want the money? Was she acting tough? She should really think about her circumstances. The Kents had found their real daughter. They wouldn't want a country bumpkin like her anymore. She was an embarrassment. "As you wish, Ms. Carver." Alfred closed the door with a loud bang. Aria paid him no mind. She only took a black backpack when she left the Kent Residence. She stood proud and tall. She left the Kent Residence without taking anything that didn't belong to her. The rain falling on her made her look a little defeated. The people on the second floor saw her and started snickering. They didn't care if she could hear them. "She's finally gone." "I know right? I was so afraid that she might not want to go back to the countryside, and would try to stay with us." Aria didn't respond, but a sneer appeared on her face. Were the Kents ignorant? Yes, they were. Aria chewed on a gummy absentmindedly. She had a head of long and glossy black hair. Her face was a little pale, but it didn't make her look weak. Instead, she looked quite mysterious. β¦ At the same time, the Carver family was having an international meeting at their home in Janovin. Warren Carver sat at the head of the table. He held a cane in his hands and looked really intimidating. "It's been so many years. Is there still no leads on your sister?" He was talking to his six grandsons. The Carver family was the wealthiest in Janovin. The six scions of the family were all very remarkable people. Any single one of them would cause a stir if they went out in the open. At that moment, they all looked saddened. Longing and sorrow filled their eyes. They were the ones that lost their youngest sister back then. She was only a baby when she went missing. She never caused a fuss and was always very adorable. It had been 18 years. They had never stopped looking since. All the leads went cold at a secluded village in the mountains. They had no idea how many times the human traffickers moved their baby sister around. "Grandpa, let's keep looking. We will definitely find her!" Suddenly, a chubby man, Frank Levin, rushed into the room with some documents in his hand. He panted as he said, "Mr. Chairman! Little Ms. Carver has been found!" Warren, who was usually composed, stood up immediately. He was so excited that his hands were shaking. "Where is she? Send someone to pick her up right now!" Frank handed the documents over. "She's in Southbury. We're still looking into her exact location." "Then let's go to Southbury! Get a car ready!" Warren was very excited. β¦ It was evening in Southbury. Aria, who had been kicked out of the Kent Residence, didn't go to the countryside. She waited for the rain to stop before she headed back to the place she was staying at. It was a very insignificant neighborhood. When she was parking her car, someone called out to her, "You're back, Aria." "Yeah. I'm back." Aria smiled. Maria Goode, a fruit vendor, handed her an apple. "I haven't seen you in two weeks. No one else could help me with my arthritis." "Don't forget about me, Aria. My hand always trembles when I'm playing chess." Everyone knew that Aria was a very beloved figure in the Elmer district. Some retired government officials loved to chat with her as she treated their conditions. The place might look plain and simple on the surface, but there was more than met the eye. The person who talked about his hand was Jasper Garland, a former national chess champion. Aria didn't delve into the identities of the other residents. She chose to live in this neighborhood because it was a nice place. Chapter 2 More Than Meets the Eye "I'll offer treatment for everyone at the community square tomorrow." Then, Aria reminded them, "Remember to take the medicine. Don't stay up late to watch soap operas. They won't end so soon." "The Tiara" was all the rage in the Elmer district at that time. All the older men and women were hooked on it. A lot of them looked guilty after Aria said that. "Weβ¦We will sleep at 10:00 pm from now on." In the past, no one could have imagined that this group of people would be so obedient to one person. A lot of them had made great contributions to the country. Even their identities were kept a secret. Elmer district's community manager, Joel Hayes, had been hoping that Aria would come back sooner. He could finally breathe a sigh of relief. "Dr. Carver, I have been keeping an eye on your house. I've not allowed anyone to approach your property." "Thanks for the hard work." Aria bowed slightly and handed him an apple. Joel accepted the apple with a smile. "It's no trouble at all. I trust you won't be leaving anytime soon?" A community manager like him could never keep the neighborhood's residents under control. "Yeah. I won't be leaving," Aria said as she took the key. Joel replied joyfully, "That's wonderful! I'll leave you be so you can unpack your stuff. Let me know if you need anything." Aria nodded. She inserted the key and opened the door after Joel left. The lock was very old. It didn't seem like there was anything special about it. But after she undid the first lock, an LCD lock appeared before her. "Confirmation to proceed with iris scan." Aria said casually, "Do it." "Proceeding with iris scan. Please wait." "Iris scan completed. Welcome home, master." It was a very classy computerized voice that hadn't been activated for some time. The metal door opened automatically with a "clack". The house was instantly illuminated. There was a bookshelf that was about six feet tall which was filled with medical books and containers with herbs in them. There was a lot of greenery at the door. Most of them were herbs. All of them were labeled. In the middle of the living room sat a very cool-looking black and red motorcycle. Aria walked over to the kitchen and took a bottle of water from the fridge. She wanted to drink some water and watch some TV. Suddenly, the phone that was charging on her desk rang. It was a custom ringtone. "Richie Carver, wakey wakey, It's time for work! Richie Carver, wakey wakey, It's time for work! Richieβ" Aria took the call when it was about to ring for the third time. "Speak." "Boss, there's a huge job in Southbury. Should we take it?" Aria took a sip of the water. "What's it about?" "The richest man in Janovin is looking for his long-lost granddaughter. They say she's in Southbury. It shouldn't be hard to find her. This job pays a lot." Aria yawned. "Not interested." "Hold on! Please wait, boss! There's another one. The type you like! It's also a huge job!" The person on the other end of the call was very servile. Aria placed her chin on the palm lazily. "Tell me about it." "The York family of Janovin is looking for you. They're offering 10 million for you to treat a patient. "They also said that people who can find you or provide information about you will be rewarded as well. They're so stacked!" "Why are they so generous?" Aria went into work mode immediately. She tapped the phone and said, "Send me the details of the job." "Sure thing!" The next moment, the floor-to-ceiling windows became a screen, and the job information was projected on it. The York family had been around for ages. They had protected the country for generations. If Aria's memory served correctly, they even lived in the Guardian Mansion once. The York family had sent out invitations to quite a few renowned doctors. The invitation was in effect for a week. The location for the consultation was set at the Caesar Hotel in Southbury. They wanted to get a doctor who would be able to treat the illness of Landon York, who was in charge of the York family operations. There wasn't much description of Landon's condition. They only mentioned that he had been frail for a long time and that his condition couldn't be revealed to the public. It seemed like there was more than met the eye. Aria stretched her legs. "I'll take this job." Chapter 3 Saving Someone on the Streets "You have a good eye, boss! I'll prepare an account to receive payment from the Yorks!" Aria said calmly, "No need to rush. Let me sleep first. Do it tomorrow." Other than making money, Aria's biggest interest was treating all sorts of rare diseases. This job from the York family was a nice one for her. Honestly, she was probably the only person who wasn't fazed by the York's visit to Southbury. All of the prominent families in the city were scrambling into action. A family like the Kents had to reach out to everyone they knew and utilize all of their connections in an attempt to get an invitation from the Yorks. Even regular people were talking about how the city was especially lively that month. First, the richest man in Janovin came to look for his granddaughter. Then, the York family came to receive treatment. Some said that the Yorks came to Southbury because the legendary Whiz Doctor was in town. There were a lot of rumors about the Whiz Doctor, but some of them were quite outlandish. This time, the Whiz Doctor might actually appear due to the York family's invitation. β¦ The following morning, Aria woke up late. Like any other working adult, she didn't feel like leaving her cool and comfortable room or her cozy bed to get out into the morning sun. But she had to work. So, she got up and washed her face. Without putting any makeup on, she grabbed her bag and left. In order to avoid the morning rush, she scanned a shared bicycle. "Are you heading out to work, Aria?" "Yeah." She was greeting everyone along the way and also had a piece of toast in her mouth given to her by Kenneth Kane. She rode the bicycle steadily without rushing and merged into traffic after a while. β¦ After 30 minutes, Aria arrived at Southbury's renowned Caesar Hotel. Everyone at the entrance and the lobby looked very busy. In the past few days, almost all of the luxury cars in the city gathered at the hotel. In comparison, Aria stood out a lot as the only person who came on a shared bicycle. As soon as she came to a stop, Jose Garcia, a security guard, came over to chase her away. "Get lost, you broke college student. The hotel is not open to the public today." She planted one foot on the ground and met his gaze. Then, she said coolly, "I'm here to save someone's life." "You? Save someone's life?" Jose burst into laughter. "Young lady, you're still so young, but you're quite the braggart." Aria paused for a moment. Then, she showed him proof of her accepting the job on her phone. "Please tell the people inside that Dr. Whiz has arrived." "Dr. Whiz? You can call me Dr. Genius!" Jose gave her an impatient look. "I've seen many invitations. You're the first one to show it on the phoneβ¦" Jose noticed a luxury car rolling up as he spoke. So, he waved at Aria. "Go. Get out of the way." Then, he rushed over to the car and opened the door. "Welcome, Dr. Gunther and Ms. Kent. I'll inform the staff to prepare some tea for you." The people in the car just nodded at him. They didn't even reply. But Jose had a big smile on his face like he had won the lottery. The car drove past Aria. Lily looked out the window and recognized Aria. Her gaze wavered slightly. The old woman next to her, Salome Gunther, asked, "What's wrong, Lily?" She smiled softly. "Nothing." Aria's gaze remained calm. She walked away resolutely. There was even an amused expression on her face. She used to be someone who held people's lives in her hands, yet she had become the target of another person's shunning. Oh, how the mighty had fallen. Aria pursed her lips. She offered treatment to patients based on her mood and would never help those who were greedy or selfish. She had decided to give up on offering treatment to the York family's patient. So, she took out her phone and was about to reject the job. Suddenly, someone on the sidewalk screamed. "Oh, no! Someone has fainted!" People started flocking toward the voice. "Oh, God! It's a child!" "His face is so paleβ¦" Hearing the commotion, Aria didn't hesitate at all. She parked her bicycle and rushed toward the crowd. The little boy on the ground was only three or four years old. His forehead was drenched. It seemed like he had been sweating profusely. A woman named Francine Gibson grabbed a man in a white lab coat. "Young man, you're a doctor, right? Please save the boy." "No can do, lady. The kid's family isn't here. I can't make any decisions without consulting them." The man in the lab coat, Jimmy Cornell, added with disdain, "Besides, I don't provide treatment to just anyone." Aria heard the exchange between the two of them. She pushed through the crowd and said in a professional manner, "Please give the boy some space. Let the air flow through. The patient needs fresh air." Her tone sounded so authoritative that no one doubted her. Then, she crouched down and placed her fingers on the boy's neck. Francine said anxiously, "Young lady, how old are you? Can you really make him better?" Chapter 4 Doubt "That's right, young lady. We should probably call an ambulance. This boy appears to be lost. I called out for some time just now, but no one came over," an old man said. He was concerned that Aria might be blamed if anything happened to the boy. Aria quickly unbuttoned the boy's coat and brought him to some shade. "Don't worry. I'm a licensed doctor." Then, she opened her bag and took out a medical kit. It was equipped with needles and scalpels of all sizes, all arranged neatly in rows. Aria felt the boy's pulse again. "Stop it! How can you simply touch the patient?" Jimmy yelled. He couldn't allow Aria to do as she pleased. She ignored him and continued to monitor the boy's pulse and heart rate. Jimmy sneered. "I'm Jimmy Cornell, currently studying at Janovin Medical University. My mentor is Dr. Salome Gunther. I'm not just a random bystander. You say you're a licensed doctor? How old are you?" Aria continued to ignore him. Her focus was on the boy. She took out a needle and began to sterilize it. "I'm talking to you! Even that old man knows we should wait for an ambulance. Why can't you get it through your head?" This was the first time Jimmy had been completely ignored by someone. Aria had one knee to the ground. Her demeanor was cool and emotionless. "Do nothing and wait for the ambulance? Wait as the optimal treatment period passes by? Is that what your mentor taught you?" "Who said we should do nothing while we wait for the ambulance? You're the one delaying treatment with those needles. Please don't show off your pseudo-science methods, and let me perform CPR on the patient." Aria shot him a cold glare after she heard what he said. Who would've thought that such a pretty young lady could have such a vicious gaze? "He has a heat stroke. Do you think CPR would help? What a worthless doctor," Aria said as she applied pressure to the boy's fingers. Her tone was glacial. Jimmy lost his cool immediately. "Who are you calling worthless? Do you even know who my mentor is?" He had just received an award overseas for his medical skills. He was incredulous at the woman's audacity to doubt his abilities. "I'm not interested in your mentor. Move." Jimmy's eyes turned bloodshot. "I'll let it slide this time since you're just a lowly traditional medicine practitioner. His lips are turning blue. It's a heart issue." "Hypoxia and ischemia might impact the respiratory system and cause the lips to turn blue." Aria looked at Jimmy with a cold stare, then added, "But a heat stroke can cause that symptom, too. The difference is that his pulse is steady. Moreover, his lips are parched. "It's clear that he had been exposed to high temperatures for a prolonged period. You don't even look at these symptoms, yet you claim to be a medical student?" "That's true. You have to look at the symptoms first. I was taught that too," someone in the crowd agreed with Aria. Then, people in the crowd started chattering. "It seems like the Janovin Medical University isn't anything special at all." "That young lady is way more reliable. I noticed she was quite professional when taking the boy's pulse." Jimmy couldn't take the humiliation anymore. "Alright. So, he has a heat stroke. Will your acupuncture cure him of it? If so, why are we even learning modern medicine?" "You can't represent everyone else who practices modern medicine." Aria glared at him icily. "I'll say it one more time. Move." There were two types of people she hated the mostβthose who looked down on traditional medicine and lousy doctors getting in the way of her treatment. "Sure, I'll move. I'd like to see how skilled you are." Jimmy crossed his arms. "If you can heal him with these needles, I'll get on my knees and apologize to you." "I'm looking forward to that." Aria located the acupuncture points and raised her hand. Chapter 5 Acupuncture Works Aria stuck the first needle into the boy without any hesitation. The boy immediately frowned. It was like he was regaining his consciousness. It looked like he was struggling as his brows furrowed even deeper. Someone in the crowd yelled, "He's waking up!" Jimmy was stunned. His face grew pale. "This can't beβ¦" How did she pull that off? Just one needle? Could a person really regain consciousness from that? Aria raised her hand again. Her gaze was focused, and she looked very composed. She stuck the second needle into the boy's fingertips to draw some blood. Right after she did that, the boy opened his eyes. His pupils were dark and round, while his eyelashes were extraordinarily long. He glanced at Aria quietly, but his face was still quite pale. Everyone in the crowd was stunned. Francine spoke up, "Young lady, you healed with a few pokes of the needle?" Aria applied some light pressure on the needle. She saw that the bloodletting was done, so she removed the needle and pressed a cotton ball on the wound to stop the bleeding. "Madam, it's not that simple. Applying acupuncture to the fingertips can help with dissipating the heat. He was inflicted with heat stroke, which was caused by the high temperature. I just helped him cool down with acupuncture." "Spare me the theatrics. That kid hasn't spoken a word since he regained consciousness. You probably left him with some side effects with your treatment!" Jimmy snorted. Francine was a little annoyed. "The boy has already regained consciousness. Why are you talking about side effects? Are you just trying to get out of apologizing to the young lady?" "That's none of your business!" Jimmy looked at Francine and suddenly sneered. "I understand now. You're all in on this. You pulled me here, and she's trying to scam me. "This is an organized scam, isn't it? I knew traditional medicine practitioners were all fake." Aria's expression grew cold when she heard that. She was about to raise her hand. Then, the boy spoke up in a weak but icy tone, "Traditional medicine has always been an essential part of Celestria's culture. You're a lousy doctor, sir. You should put more effort into studying." "Youβ¦" Jimmy was at a loss for words. The boy spoke up right after he said he wasn't healed. The boy even spoke out against him. It was clear that the boy wasn't on his side. Francine burst out into laughter. "Hey, kid. He's talking about you. You should put more effort into studying." "I won't waste my breath with you bottom feeders anymore. You're just a group of peasants," Jimmy said in disdain. Aria flicked a needle in his direction. It brushed past his face and got stuck in a tree nearby. Such a violent display caused Jimmy to freeze up. Even his legs felt like they were about to give out. Aria smiled as she said casually, "Don't you think you've forgotten about something?" She was just a young woman, but she had a very vicious and commanding presence, which caused Jimmy to feel fear. He tried to keep his cool. "What did I forget?" "An apology," Aria said as she tapped on her phone. She looked devilishly charming. Jimmy didn't want to do that. So, he said arrogantly, "Everyone makes mistakes. I don't have any more time to waste with a traditional medicine practitioner like you." Francine couldn't stand his attitude anymore. "Is this how a student of Dr. Salome Gunther would act? You lost a bet to that young woman, and yet you refuse to apologize? Such ethicsβ¦" "What's wrong with my ethics? Who here can prove I lost a bet to her? None of you will ever have enough money to pay for Dr. Gunther's treatment. "Me being here and providing free medical services is an honor for all of you. How dare you peasants keep babbling about such nonsense? Don't you dare cause trouble here! Do you even know where you are right now?" Francine's hands trembled in anger. "Youβ¦ You!" Jimmy snorted. He looked at all of them with utter disdain. They were in a modern society. He didn't believe that Aria would dare to do anything to him. Chapter 6 Teaching Him a Lesson Jimmy had always thought that the common folk were beneath him. He didn't notice that Aria's gaze changed as she looked up. Viciousness and contempt filled her eyes. She casually toyed with a piece of candy in her palm. Then, she flicked toward Jimmy. He felt his knee give out as he fell to the ground. "Ah!" The pain caused him to frown. He tried to get up but realized that he couldn't move his body at all. He couldn't talk, and his hands wouldn't budge. It felt like his movements had been sealed with the attack. Aria walked up to him and said calmly, "As a medical student, you failed miserably at determining the patient's symptoms, and you even declared a verdict without a second thought. "Being a doctor doesn't mean you're better than anyone else. It's a job for you to help people in need. You're unskilled and unethical. Now that you're on your knees, I'll accept your apology. Consider this a lesson I'm teaching you in your mentor's stead." "You!" Jimmy's eyes were filled with hatred. Aria leaned in and whispered in his ear. "Since you're such a shameless person, it'll probably be okay if you remain on your knees here for a couple of hours." "What did you do to me? I want to call the cops! I have been assaulted!" Jimmy yelled. Aria smiled. "And who can prove anything? Mr. Cornell, you got on your knees yourself. I didn't even touch you." "I know right? He deserves that!" The people in the crowd felt great satisfaction seeing Jimmy in that state. "The young lady didn't do anything. Stop lying!" That was the truth. He was the one who refused to help the boy. He was also the one who was running his mouth after Aria provided treatment for the boy. He was also the one who had been cursing at everyone in the crowd and was shameless enough to refuse to apologize. He was a true disgrace to the medical profession. Did he really think he could just say all those things without repercussions? He even tried to blame Aria for his condition. The women in the crowd started to yell, "Everyone, come and take a look! There's an unskilled medical student here. He's on his knees to apologize right now!" "You! All of you!" Jimmy's face was flushed, and his breath was labored. That was why people didn't mess with the ordinary citizens who were brave, kind, and despised delinquency. Jimmy was a fool for being so domineering in front of them. The more people looked at him, the lower Jimmy's head hung. He wished the ground would open up and swallow him up. He was afraid that someone would recognize him. The malice in his eyes grew as he looked at Aria. They were both in the medical industry. So, they were bound to meet again someday. He swore he would get back at her the next time they met. Aria didn't spare him another glance. Besides, if they crossed paths again, she didn't mind breaking his legs. Quite a lot of the older people in the crowd asked for Aria's contact information. They had seen how she performed acupuncture on the boy. It was clear that she was an extremely skilled doctor. They were determined to secure her contact information. Aria didn't turn any of them down, so she added them to her contacts. Francine asked enthusiastically, "Young lady, you were so skilled with the needles. Is there a traditional medicine practitioner in your family?" Aria thought about Georgina Harris, the woman who used to be her grandmother while she was living with the Kents. Georgina was the only one who showed her any kindness. She came up with a solid reason. "Yes. My grandmother practices traditional medicine. She runs a care center." "No wonder. I'll introduce some clients to her soon!" "Sure." Aria thanked Francine politely. Aria didn't have the airs of a renowned doctor at all. She was a legend hiding in plain sight. The boy hadn't spoken at all since he talked to Jimmy. He just sat there quietly as he observed everything. His eyes were very bright, and he looked really adorable. After she finished talking to everyone else, Aria looked at him. "Are you still lightheaded?" He shook his head. Then, he looked up at Aria. "Miss, I'm Miles. Thanks for saving me. If it weren't for you, I would've been dead." Miles York's voice was very sweet. His eyes were round, and his face was very smooth and cute. He did a cute little bow when he thanked Aria. "Your name is Miles? Where is your family?" Aria asked with a raised eyebrow. "They're all inside!" Miles said as he pointed behind him at the Caesar Hotel. Not just anyone could get in there at the moment. Chapter 7 Saved Someone Important People in the crowd exclaimed in surprise and started talking. "Everyone in Caesar Hotel today is quite important. I heard that there are a lot of prominent medical families in there." "Then this boyβ¦" Aria wasn't surprised at all. After all, Miles was very well-dressed. The watch he was wearing on his wrist was quite expensive as well. "Remember to bring bodyguards when you come out next time," Aria said as she packed her medical kit up. When Miles realized that she was leaving, he clung to her leg. Aria couldn't get on the bicycle, so she looked down at him. Miles didn't speak. He just held on to her sleeve. He took a step whenever she did. They were going nowhere like that. She stopped in her tracks. "I'll take you back to your parents." "Okay!" Miles got what he wanted. He nodded and said, "I'll have my parents thank you properly, miss." Aria adjusted his collar for him. "No need for that. I don't take payment for helping kids." "Andβ¦" Miles shifted his gaze. "Do you have a boyfriend, miss?" Aria stood up straight. "No." "Then, I'll ask my brother, Landon, to be your boyfriend as thanks." Miles smiled as he started describing Landon. "Landon doesn't like to talk, but he's very handsome. He makes a lot of money, too. It'll be good for your ego if you go out with him. A lot of pretty ladies want to marry him, you know." Aria smiled when she heard that. "I have no plans of getting married right now." "Okay," Miles replied with disappointment as he drooped his head. He continued walking with Aria dejectedly. When they arrived at the hotel entrance, he looked at Aria enthusiastically and said, "Miss, why don't you meet with Landon first? You should make your decision after you see him." He was sure that Aria would fall for Landon when she saw him. He was a very handsome man, after all. Aria smiled. "You're trying so hard to promote your brother to me. Does he know about this?" "He's always sick. Everyone in the family has been telling him to get married. You're such a skilled doctor, and you're pretty, too. I'm sure a lot of people want to be your boyfriend. So, I'm just trying to get you to give Landon a chance." Aria looked at his parched lips. Then, she went to buy him a bottle of water and some crackers. "Stop talking so much. You're still recovering." Miles was very obedient. He ate whatever Aria gave him. He couldn't open the bottle himself, so he raised it up to Aria and said weakly, "Please help me open it." Landon's assistant, Troy Jepson, came to meet Miles and was shocked to see what was happening. He was sure that the woman with Miles was that imposter that the Kents kicked out. Why was Miles with her? He even asked her to help him open his bottle. Did he change his entire personality? Something flashed in Troy's eyes, but he quickly suppressed his emotions. He knew who Aria was, but she didn't know him. Troy took care not to expose his identity as he walked up to them in a hurry. "Mr. Miles! I've finally found you. I'm so glad you're okay." "This pretty lady saved me," Miles said as he held Aria's hand. He had a defiant look on his face. It was like he was finally himself again. Troy politely said, "Thanks, Ms. Carver." Aria looked at him calmly. "He already thanked me." Her attitude made it hard for Troy to grasp the situation. So, he said to Miles, "Mr. Miles, Mr. Landon called in some favors to track you down. He's in the car right now. He didn't even take his afternoon meds yet." Miles looked up in surprise. He didn't expect Landon to come out here personally. | Indulge in story | 598 | https://facebook.com/61552702618591 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717830000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879547 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410693 | 1723321838 | 995 | 785695356970863 | 1 | 1.8811915023045E+15 | 1718002800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 144939265372419 | 0 | Indulge in story | 120214343181970348 | shgjfh.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πRead the next chaptersπ | https://shgjfh.com/market/meganovel/13?lpid=11844&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717762144 | 1.4493926537242E+14 | Indulge in story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447256994_962585992003167_5083994497026705008_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=xvSiU4eM0HIQ7kNvgGaLPgU&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDfHZvL4fwCX9_hfvxj2Lbnpddf0pG1uD9Gqv9GoXUxJw&oe=6672B331 | person_profile | 0 | Indulge in story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447590700_1016773316708518_420838429285916977_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=KYgitKO0u2cQ7kNvgF55Rj_&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDyXqxq5I-PXqx461m_CajttJGgWqxofCm2izR9EzU9dg&oe=6672B6AD | 0 | 3 | The roads were soaked. It had been raining for a whole day in Southbury. Aria Carver's backpack was thrown out of the door by the butler in disdain. "Mr. Kent doesn't want to see you, Ms. Carver. So, I have to say some words in his stead. Your birth parents are in the countryside. Your father's last name is Carver. "The Kent family mistook you for their daughter in the past. But now that Ms. Lily has been found, I hope that you can do what's best for everyone and stop contacting the Kent family." The butler, Alfred Dun, took out a card. "Here's 10,000. Mr. Kent instructed me to give it to you as compensation." "No need." Aria didn't even look at the card as she picked up her backpack. Alfred looked at her in disdain. She didn't want the money? Was she acting tough? She should really think about her circumstances. The Kents had found their real daughter. They wouldn't want a country bumpkin like her anymore. She was an embarrassment. "As you wish, Ms. Carver." Alfred closed the door with a loud bang. Aria paid him no mind. She only took a black backpack when she left the Kent Residence. She stood proud and tall. She left the Kent Residence without taking anything that didn't belong to her. The rain falling on her made her look a little defeated. The people on the second floor saw her and started snickering. They didn't care if she could hear them. "She's finally gone." "I know right? I was so afraid that she might not want to go back to the countryside, and would try to stay with us." Aria didn't respond, but a sneer appeared on her face. Were the Kents ignorant? Yes, they were. Aria chewed on a gummy absentmindedly. She had a head of long and glossy black hair. Her face was a little pale, but it didn't make her look weak. Instead, she looked quite mysterious. β¦ At the same time, the Carver family was having an international meeting at their home in Janovin. Warren Carver sat at the head of the table. He held a cane in his hands and looked really intimidating. "It's been so many years. Is there still no leads on your sister?" He was talking to his six grandsons. The Carver family was the wealthiest in Janovin. The six scions of the family were all very remarkable people. Any single one of them would cause a stir if they went out in the open. At that moment, they all looked saddened. Longing and sorrow filled their eyes. They were the ones that lost their youngest sister back then. She was only a baby when she went missing. She never caused a fuss and was always very adorable. It had been 18 years. They had never stopped looking since. All the leads went cold at a secluded village in the mountains. They had no idea how many times the human traffickers moved their baby sister around. "Grandpa, let's keep looking. We will definitely find her!" Suddenly, a chubby man, Frank Levin, rushed into the room with some documents in his hand. He panted as he said, "Mr. Chairman! Little Ms. Carver has been found!" Warren, who was usually composed, stood up immediately. He was so excited that his hands were shaking. "Where is she? Send someone to pick her up right now!" Frank handed the documents over. "She's in Southbury. We're still looking into her exact location." "Then let's go to Southbury! Get a car ready!" Warren was very excited. β¦ It was evening in Southbury. Aria, who had been kicked out of the Kent Residence, didn't go to the countryside. She waited for the rain to stop before she headed back to the place she was staying at. It was a very insignificant neighborhood. When she was parking her car, someone called out to her, "You're back, Aria." "Yeah. I'm back." Aria smiled. Maria Goode, a fruit vendor, handed her an apple. "I haven't seen you in two weeks. No one else could help me with my arthritis." "Don't forget about me, Aria. My hand always trembles when I'm playing chess." Everyone knew that Aria was a very beloved figure in the Elmer district. Some retired government officials loved to chat with her as she treated their conditions. The place might look plain and simple on the surface, but there was more than met the eye. The person who talked about his hand was Jasper Garland, a former national chess champion. Aria didn't delve into the identities of the other residents. She chose to live in this neighborhood because it was a nice place. Chapter 2 More Than Meets the Eye "I'll offer treatment for everyone at the community square tomorrow." Then, Aria reminded them, "Remember to take the medicine. Don't stay up late to watch soap operas. They won't end so soon." "The Tiara" was all the rage in the Elmer district at that time. All the older men and women were hooked on it. A lot of them looked guilty after Aria said that. "Weβ¦We will sleep at 10:00 pm from now on." In the past, no one could have imagined that this group of people would be so obedient to one person. A lot of them had made great contributions to the country. Even their identities were kept a secret. Elmer district's community manager, Joel Hayes, had been hoping that Aria would come back sooner. He could finally breathe a sigh of relief. "Dr. Carver, I have been keeping an eye on your house. I've not allowed anyone to approach your property." "Thanks for the hard work." Aria bowed slightly and handed him an apple. Joel accepted the apple with a smile. "It's no trouble at all. I trust you won't be leaving anytime soon?" A community manager like him could never keep the neighborhood's residents under control. "Yeah. I won't be leaving," Aria said as she took the key. Joel replied joyfully, "That's wonderful! I'll leave you be so you can unpack your stuff. Let me know if you need anything." Aria nodded. She inserted the key and opened the door after Joel left. The lock was very old. It didn't seem like there was anything special about it. But after she undid the first lock, an LCD lock appeared before her. "Confirmation to proceed with iris scan." Aria said casually, "Do it." "Proceeding with iris scan. Please wait." "Iris scan completed. Welcome home, master." It was a very classy computerized voice that hadn't been activated for some time. The metal door opened automatically with a "clack". The house was instantly illuminated. There was a bookshelf that was about six feet tall which was filled with medical books and containers with herbs in them. There was a lot of greenery at the door. Most of them were herbs. All of them were labeled. In the middle of the living room sat a very cool-looking black and red motorcycle. Aria walked over to the kitchen and took a bottle of water from the fridge. She wanted to drink some water and watch some TV. Suddenly, the phone that was charging on her desk rang. It was a custom ringtone. "Richie Carver, wakey wakey, It's time for work! Richie Carver, wakey wakey, It's time for work! Richieβ" Aria took the call when it was about to ring for the third time. "Speak." "Boss, there's a huge job in Southbury. Should we take it?" Aria took a sip of the water. "What's it about?" "The richest man in Janovin is looking for his long-lost granddaughter. They say she's in Southbury. It shouldn't be hard to find her. This job pays a lot." Aria yawned. "Not interested." "Hold on! Please wait, boss! There's another one. The type you like! It's also a huge job!" The person on the other end of the call was very servile. Aria placed her chin on the palm lazily. "Tell me about it." "The York family of Janovin is looking for you. They're offering 10 million for you to treat a patient. "They also said that people who can find you or provide information about you will be rewarded as well. They're so stacked!" "Why are they so generous?" Aria went into work mode immediately. She tapped the phone and said, "Send me the details of the job." "Sure thing!" The next moment, the floor-to-ceiling windows became a screen, and the job information was projected on it. The York family had been around for ages. They had protected the country for generations. If Aria's memory served correctly, they even lived in the Guardian Mansion once. The York family had sent out invitations to quite a few renowned doctors. The invitation was in effect for a week. The location for the consultation was set at the Caesar Hotel in Southbury. They wanted to get a doctor who would be able to treat the illness of Landon York, who was in charge of the York family operations. There wasn't much description of Landon's condition. They only mentioned that he had been frail for a long time and that his condition couldn't be revealed to the public. It seemed like there was more than met the eye. Aria stretched her legs. "I'll take this job." Chapter 3 Saving Someone on the Streets "You have a good eye, boss! I'll prepare an account to receive payment from the Yorks!" Aria said calmly, "No need to rush. Let me sleep first. Do it tomorrow." Other than making money, Aria's biggest interest was treating all sorts of rare diseases. This job from the York family was a nice one for her. Honestly, she was probably the only person who wasn't fazed by the York's visit to Southbury. All of the prominent families in the city were scrambling into action. A family like the Kents had to reach out to everyone they knew and utilize all of their connections in an attempt to get an invitation from the Yorks. Even regular people were talking about how the city was especially lively that month. First, the richest man in Janovin came to look for his granddaughter. Then, the York family came to receive treatment. Some said that the Yorks came to Southbury because the legendary Whiz Doctor was in town. There were a lot of rumors about the Whiz Doctor, but some of them were quite outlandish. This time, the Whiz Doctor might actually appear due to the York family's invitation. β¦ The following morning, Aria woke up late. Like any other working adult, she didn't feel like leaving her cool and comfortable room or her cozy bed to get out into the morning sun. But she had to work. So, she got up and washed her face. Without putting any makeup on, she grabbed her bag and left. In order to avoid the morning rush, she scanned a shared bicycle. "Are you heading out to work, Aria?" "Yeah." She was greeting everyone along the way and also had a piece of toast in her mouth given to her by Kenneth Kane. She rode the bicycle steadily without rushing and merged into traffic after a while. β¦ After 30 minutes, Aria arrived at Southbury's renowned Caesar Hotel. Everyone at the entrance and the lobby looked very busy. In the past few days, almost all of the luxury cars in the city gathered at the hotel. In comparison, Aria stood out a lot as the only person who came on a shared bicycle. As soon as she came to a stop, Jose Garcia, a security guard, came over to chase her away. "Get lost, you broke college student. The hotel is not open to the public today." She planted one foot on the ground and met his gaze. Then, she said coolly, "I'm here to save someone's life." "You? Save someone's life?" Jose burst into laughter. "Young lady, you're still so young, but you're quite the braggart." Aria paused for a moment. Then, she showed him proof of her accepting the job on her phone. "Please tell the people inside that Dr. Whiz has arrived." "Dr. Whiz? You can call me Dr. Genius!" Jose gave her an impatient look. "I've seen many invitations. You're the first one to show it on the phoneβ¦" Jose noticed a luxury car rolling up as he spoke. So, he waved at Aria. "Go. Get out of the way." Then, he rushed over to the car and opened the door. "Welcome, Dr. Gunther and Ms. Kent. I'll inform the staff to prepare some tea for you." The people in the car just nodded at him. They didn't even reply. But Jose had a big smile on his face like he had won the lottery. The car drove past Aria. Lily looked out the window and recognized Aria. Her gaze wavered slightly. The old woman next to her, Salome Gunther, asked, "What's wrong, Lily?" She smiled softly. "Nothing." Aria's gaze remained calm. She walked away resolutely. There was even an amused expression on her face. She used to be someone who held people's lives in her hands, yet she had become the target of another person's shunning. Oh, how the mighty had fallen. Aria pursed her lips. She offered treatment to patients based on her mood and would never help those who were greedy or selfish. She had decided to give up on offering treatment to the York family's patient. So, she took out her phone and was about to reject the job. Suddenly, someone on the sidewalk screamed. "Oh, no! Someone has fainted!" People started flocking toward the voice. "Oh, God! It's a child!" "His face is so paleβ¦" Hearing the commotion, Aria didn't hesitate at all. She parked her bicycle and rushed toward the crowd. The little boy on the ground was only three or four years old. His forehead was drenched. It seemed like he had been sweating profusely. A woman named Francine Gibson grabbed a man in a white lab coat. "Young man, you're a doctor, right? Please save the boy." "No can do, lady. The kid's family isn't here. I can't make any decisions without consulting them." The man in the lab coat, Jimmy Cornell, added with disdain, "Besides, I don't provide treatment to just anyone." Aria heard the exchange between the two of them. She pushed through the crowd and said in a professional manner, "Please give the boy some space. Let the air flow through. The patient needs fresh air." Her tone sounded so authoritative that no one doubted her. Then, she crouched down and placed her fingers on the boy's neck. Francine said anxiously, "Young lady, how old are you? Can you really make him better?" Chapter 4 Doubt "That's right, young lady. We should probably call an ambulance. This boy appears to be lost. I called out for some time just now, but no one came over," an old man said. He was concerned that Aria might be blamed if anything happened to the boy. Aria quickly unbuttoned the boy's coat and brought him to some shade. "Don't worry. I'm a licensed doctor." Then, she opened her bag and took out a medical kit. It was equipped with needles and scalpels of all sizes, all arranged neatly in rows. Aria felt the boy's pulse again. "Stop it! How can you simply touch the patient?" Jimmy yelled. He couldn't allow Aria to do as she pleased. She ignored him and continued to monitor the boy's pulse and heart rate. Jimmy sneered. "I'm Jimmy Cornell, currently studying at Janovin Medical University. My mentor is Dr. Salome Gunther. I'm not just a random bystander. You say you're a licensed doctor? How old are you?" Aria continued to ignore him. Her focus was on the boy. She took out a needle and began to sterilize it. "I'm talking to you! Even that old man knows we should wait for an ambulance. Why can't you get it through your head?" This was the first time Jimmy had been completely ignored by someone. Aria had one knee to the ground. Her demeanor was cool and emotionless. "Do nothing and wait for the ambulance? Wait as the optimal treatment period passes by? Is that what your mentor taught you?" "Who said we should do nothing while we wait for the ambulance? You're the one delaying treatment with those needles. Please don't show off your pseudo-science methods, and let me perform CPR on the patient." Aria shot him a cold glare after she heard what he said. Who would've thought that such a pretty young lady could have such a vicious gaze? "He has a heat stroke. Do you think CPR would help? What a worthless doctor," Aria said as she applied pressure to the boy's fingers. Her tone was glacial. Jimmy lost his cool immediately. "Who are you calling worthless? Do you even know who my mentor is?" He had just received an award overseas for his medical skills. He was incredulous at the woman's audacity to doubt his abilities. "I'm not interested in your mentor. Move." Jimmy's eyes turned bloodshot. "I'll let it slide this time since you're just a lowly traditional medicine practitioner. His lips are turning blue. It's a heart issue." "Hypoxia and ischemia might impact the respiratory system and cause the lips to turn blue." Aria looked at Jimmy with a cold stare, then added, "But a heat stroke can cause that symptom, too. The difference is that his pulse is steady. Moreover, his lips are parched. "It's clear that he had been exposed to high temperatures for a prolonged period. You don't even look at these symptoms, yet you claim to be a medical student?" "That's true. You have to look at the symptoms first. I was taught that too," someone in the crowd agreed with Aria. Then, people in the crowd started chattering. "It seems like the Janovin Medical University isn't anything special at all." "That young lady is way more reliable. I noticed she was quite professional when taking the boy's pulse." Jimmy couldn't take the humiliation anymore. "Alright. So, he has a heat stroke. Will your acupuncture cure him of it? If so, why are we even learning modern medicine?" "You can't represent everyone else who practices modern medicine." Aria glared at him icily. "I'll say it one more time. Move." There were two types of people she hated the mostβthose who looked down on traditional medicine and lousy doctors getting in the way of her treatment. "Sure, I'll move. I'd like to see how skilled you are." Jimmy crossed his arms. "If you can heal him with these needles, I'll get on my knees and apologize to you." "I'm looking forward to that." Aria located the acupuncture points and raised her hand. Chapter 5 Acupuncture Works Aria stuck the first needle into the boy without any hesitation. The boy immediately frowned. It was like he was regaining his consciousness. It looked like he was struggling as his brows furrowed even deeper. Someone in the crowd yelled, "He's waking up!" Jimmy was stunned. His face grew pale. "This can't beβ¦" How did she pull that off? Just one needle? Could a person really regain consciousness from that? Aria raised her hand again. Her gaze was focused, and she looked very composed. She stuck the second needle into the boy's fingertips to draw some blood. Right after she did that, the boy opened his eyes. His pupils were dark and round, while his eyelashes were extraordinarily long. He glanced at Aria quietly, but his face was still quite pale. Everyone in the crowd was stunned. Francine spoke up, "Young lady, you healed with a few pokes of the needle?" Aria applied some light pressure on the needle. She saw that the bloodletting was done, so she removed the needle and pressed a cotton ball on the wound to stop the bleeding. "Madam, it's not that simple. Applying acupuncture to the fingertips can help with dissipating the heat. He was inflicted with heat stroke, which was caused by the high temperature. I just helped him cool down with acupuncture." "Spare me the theatrics. That kid hasn't spoken a word since he regained consciousness. You probably left him with some side effects with your treatment!" Jimmy snorted. Francine was a little annoyed. "The boy has already regained consciousness. Why are you talking about side effects? Are you just trying to get out of apologizing to the young lady?" "That's none of your business!" Jimmy looked at Francine and suddenly sneered. "I understand now. You're all in on this. You pulled me here, and she's trying to scam me. "This is an organized scam, isn't it? I knew traditional medicine practitioners were all fake." Aria's expression grew cold when she heard that. She was about to raise her hand. Then, the boy spoke up in a weak but icy tone, "Traditional medicine has always been an essential part of Celestria's culture. You're a lousy doctor, sir. You should put more effort into studying." "Youβ¦" Jimmy was at a loss for words. The boy spoke up right after he said he wasn't healed. The boy even spoke out against him. It was clear that the boy wasn't on his side. Francine burst out into laughter. "Hey, kid. He's talking about you. You should put more effort into studying." "I won't waste my breath with you bottom feeders anymore. You're just a group of peasants," Jimmy said in disdain. Aria flicked a needle in his direction. It brushed past his face and got stuck in a tree nearby. Such a violent display caused Jimmy to freeze up. Even his legs felt like they were about to give out. Aria smiled as she said casually, "Don't you think you've forgotten about something?" She was just a young woman, but she had a very vicious and commanding presence, which caused Jimmy to feel fear. He tried to keep his cool. "What did I forget?" "An apology," Aria said as she tapped on her phone. She looked devilishly charming. Jimmy didn't want to do that. So, he said arrogantly, "Everyone makes mistakes. I don't have any more time to waste with a traditional medicine practitioner like you." Francine couldn't stand his attitude anymore. "Is this how a student of Dr. Salome Gunther would act? You lost a bet to that young woman, and yet you refuse to apologize? Such ethicsβ¦" "What's wrong with my ethics? Who here can prove I lost a bet to her? None of you will ever have enough money to pay for Dr. Gunther's treatment. "Me being here and providing free medical services is an honor for all of you. How dare you peasants keep babbling about such nonsense? Don't you dare cause trouble here! Do you even know where you are right now?" Francine's hands trembled in anger. "Youβ¦ You!" Jimmy snorted. He looked at all of them with utter disdain. They were in a modern society. He didn't believe that Aria would dare to do anything to him. Chapter 6 Teaching Him a Lesson Jimmy had always thought that the common folk were beneath him. He didn't notice that Aria's gaze changed as she looked up. Viciousness and contempt filled her eyes. She casually toyed with a piece of candy in her palm. Then, she flicked toward Jimmy. He felt his knee give out as he fell to the ground. "Ah!" The pain caused him to frown. He tried to get up but realized that he couldn't move his body at all. He couldn't talk, and his hands wouldn't budge. It felt like his movements had been sealed with the attack. Aria walked up to him and said calmly, "As a medical student, you failed miserably at determining the patient's symptoms, and you even declared a verdict without a second thought. "Being a doctor doesn't mean you're better than anyone else. It's a job for you to help people in need. You're unskilled and unethical. Now that you're on your knees, I'll accept your apology. Consider this a lesson I'm teaching you in your mentor's stead." "You!" Jimmy's eyes were filled with hatred. Aria leaned in and whispered in his ear. "Since you're such a shameless person, it'll probably be okay if you remain on your knees here for a couple of hours." "What did you do to me? I want to call the cops! I have been assaulted!" Jimmy yelled. Aria smiled. "And who can prove anything? Mr. Cornell, you got on your knees yourself. I didn't even touch you." "I know right? He deserves that!" The people in the crowd felt great satisfaction seeing Jimmy in that state. "The young lady didn't do anything. Stop lying!" That was the truth. He was the one who refused to help the boy. He was also the one who was running his mouth after Aria provided treatment for the boy. He was also the one who had been cursing at everyone in the crowd and was shameless enough to refuse to apologize. He was a true disgrace to the medical profession. Did he really think he could just say all those things without repercussions? He even tried to blame Aria for his condition. The women in the crowd started to yell, "Everyone, come and take a look! There's an unskilled medical student here. He's on his knees to apologize right now!" "You! All of you!" Jimmy's face was flushed, and his breath was labored. That was why people didn't mess with the ordinary citizens who were brave, kind, and despised delinquency. Jimmy was a fool for being so domineering in front of them. The more people looked at him, the lower Jimmy's head hung. He wished the ground would open up and swallow him up. He was afraid that someone would recognize him. The malice in his eyes grew as he looked at Aria. They were both in the medical industry. So, they were bound to meet again someday. He swore he would get back at her the next time they met. Aria didn't spare him another glance. Besides, if they crossed paths again, she didn't mind breaking his legs. Quite a lot of the older people in the crowd asked for Aria's contact information. They had seen how she performed acupuncture on the boy. It was clear that she was an extremely skilled doctor. They were determined to secure her contact information. Aria didn't turn any of them down, so she added them to her contacts. Francine asked enthusiastically, "Young lady, you were so skilled with the needles. Is there a traditional medicine practitioner in your family?" Aria thought about Georgina Harris, the woman who used to be her grandmother while she was living with the Kents. Georgina was the only one who showed her any kindness. She came up with a solid reason. "Yes. My grandmother practices traditional medicine. She runs a care center." "No wonder. I'll introduce some clients to her soon!" "Sure." Aria thanked Francine politely. Aria didn't have the airs of a renowned doctor at all. She was a legend hiding in plain sight. The boy hadn't spoken at all since he talked to Jimmy. He just sat there quietly as he observed everything. His eyes were very bright, and he looked really adorable. After she finished talking to everyone else, Aria looked at him. "Are you still lightheaded?" He shook his head. Then, he looked up at Aria. "Miss, I'm Miles. Thanks for saving me. If it weren't for you, I would've been dead." Miles York's voice was very sweet. His eyes were round, and his face was very smooth and cute. He did a cute little bow when he thanked Aria. "Your name is Miles? Where is your family?" Aria asked with a raised eyebrow. "They're all inside!" Miles said as he pointed behind him at the Caesar Hotel. Not just anyone could get in there at the moment. Chapter 7 Saved Someone Important People in the crowd exclaimed in surprise and started talking. "Everyone in Caesar Hotel today is quite important. I heard that there are a lot of prominent medical families in there." "Then this boyβ¦" Aria wasn't surprised at all. After all, Miles was very well-dressed. The watch he was wearing on his wrist was quite expensive as well. "Remember to bring bodyguards when you come out next time," Aria said as she packed her medical kit up. When Miles realized that she was leaving, he clung to her leg. Aria couldn't get on the bicycle, so she looked down at him. Miles didn't speak. He just held on to her sleeve. He took a step whenever she did. They were going nowhere like that. She stopped in her tracks. "I'll take you back to your parents." "Okay!" Miles got what he wanted. He nodded and said, "I'll have my parents thank you properly, miss." Aria adjusted his collar for him. "No need for that. I don't take payment for helping kids." "Andβ¦" Miles shifted his gaze. "Do you have a boyfriend, miss?" Aria stood up straight. "No." "Then, I'll ask my brother, Landon, to be your boyfriend as thanks." Miles smiled as he started describing Landon. "Landon doesn't like to talk, but he's very handsome. He makes a lot of money, too. It'll be good for your ego if you go out with him. A lot of pretty ladies want to marry him, you know." Aria smiled when she heard that. "I have no plans of getting married right now." "Okay," Miles replied with disappointment as he drooped his head. He continued walking with Aria dejectedly. When they arrived at the hotel entrance, he looked at Aria enthusiastically and said, "Miss, why don't you meet with Landon first? You should make your decision after you see him." He was sure that Aria would fall for Landon when she saw him. He was a very handsome man, after all. Aria smiled. "You're trying so hard to promote your brother to me. Does he know about this?" "He's always sick. Everyone in the family has been telling him to get married. You're such a skilled doctor, and you're pretty, too. I'm sure a lot of people want to be your boyfriend. So, I'm just trying to get you to give Landon a chance." Aria looked at his parched lips. Then, she went to buy him a bottle of water and some crackers. "Stop talking so much. You're still recovering." Miles was very obedient. He ate whatever Aria gave him. He couldn't open the bottle himself, so he raised it up to Aria and said weakly, "Please help me open it." Landon's assistant, Troy Jepson, came to meet Miles and was shocked to see what was happening. He was sure that the woman with Miles was that imposter that the Kents kicked out. Why was Miles with her? He even asked her to help him open his bottle. Did he change his entire personality? Something flashed in Troy's eyes, but he quickly suppressed his emotions. He knew who Aria was, but she didn't know him. Troy took care not to expose his identity as he walked up to them in a hurry. "Mr. Miles! I've finally found you. I'm so glad you're okay." "This pretty lady saved me," Miles said as he held Aria's hand. He had a defiant look on his face. It was like he was finally himself again. Troy politely said, "Thanks, Ms. Carver." Aria looked at him calmly. "He already thanked me." Her attitude made it hard for Troy to grasp the situation. So, he said to Miles, "Mr. Miles, Mr. Landon called in some favors to track you down. He's in the car right now. He didn't even take his afternoon meds yet." Miles looked up in surprise. He didn't expect Landon to come out here personally. | Indulge in story | 598 | https://facebook.com/61552702618591 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717830000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879553 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410693 | 1723321838 | 995 | 832484831570092 | 5 | 4.2934108319284E+14 | 1717311600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 265015680033634 | 0 | Massive story | 120212069533530002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πRead the next chaptersπ | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1716980906 | 2.6501568003363E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/445242698_995588455545077_2405839290899264462_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Evzu0flh0CsQ7kNvgEQZTu6&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBSuV5CWBzSildTbW5wOpL2MROcqjgQo3Fv9DR64pSjPg&oe=6672B54A | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/445241029_971822111193761_3123167495825798227_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=HQsnXIS28ecQ7kNvgFM20wA&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAYJQS1mMkF1iSk4_dpGImxggKEkUi21PceB0vu0x83Fw&oe=6672B242 | 0 | 3 | I had never seen Felix like this - fury was written all over his face, and his lanky figure was trembling slightly. I've known Felix since we were born. Our mothers were best friends and they were trying to pair us up again just now. I had a crush on him, and he always treated me kindly. But now, he glared at me and spat, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around! That's why they misunderstood! Stay away from me!" I hadn't expected him to say something like that. I stared at him dumbfounded. Both my parents and Felix's parents ceased their conversation about our wedding and future. Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? I'm my own man. I'll never marry her, so you all can just stop trying to pair us up!" Felix shouted as he glared at everyone in the house. His eyes were filled with hate. It made me want to curl up into a ball out of embarrassment. The house remained completely silent. Everyone's gaze was on me, and I could feel my heart throbbing in pain. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. He had trampled all over my dignity and self-worth in front of his whole family and mineβ¦ My father, usually calm, flushed crimson at Felix's harsh words, his fists clenched. Mom, too, looked angry and embarrassed, jaw agape, her expression one of disbelief. Uncle Austin, Felix's father, slapped Felix, scolding, "You rebellious boy! Who taught you to behave like that?" The impact of slap sent Felix reeling, and he hit his head on the corner of the wall. Felix slumped to the floor in pain, leaving an unmistakable streak of red on the white walls. Aunt Mel rushed forward with concern, "Felix, my son! Are you alright?" Felix shot me a scathing glare as if I had committed an unspeakable crime. "Are you happy now, Luna?" he spat. I stared back at him with wide eyes, tears streaming down my face and onto the floor. Even though I liked him, that didn't mean he could throw wild accusations and embarrass me as he pleased! I liked him, but I, too, had my sense of dignity! If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I would gladly change! "I'm sorry, Felix. I never thought that my actions would have bugged you so much," I forced the humiliation down as I continued, "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix." I bit my lip hard, and the sharp tang of blood exploded across my tongue. I, Luna Lawson, also swear to myself - I won't endure the same humiliation AGAIN! | Massive story | 0 | https://facebook.com/61557833926946 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717052400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879557 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410694 | 1723321838 | 995 | 832484831570092 | 5 | 4.2934108319284E+14 | 1717311600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 265015680033634 | 0 | Massive story | 120212069533530002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πRead the next chaptersπ | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1716980906 | 2.6501568003363E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/445242698_995588455545077_2405839290899264462_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Evzu0flh0CsQ7kNvgEQZTu6&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBSuV5CWBzSildTbW5wOpL2MROcqjgQo3Fv9DR64pSjPg&oe=6672B54A | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/445241029_971822111193761_3123167495825798227_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=HQsnXIS28ecQ7kNvgFM20wA&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAYJQS1mMkF1iSk4_dpGImxggKEkUi21PceB0vu0x83Fw&oe=6672B242 | 0 | 3 | I had never seen Felix like this - fury was written all over his face, and his lanky figure was trembling slightly. I've known Felix since we were born. Our mothers were best friends and they were trying to pair us up again just now. I had a crush on him, and he always treated me kindly. But now, he glared at me and spat, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around! That's why they misunderstood! Stay away from me!" I hadn't expected him to say something like that. I stared at him dumbfounded. Both my parents and Felix's parents ceased their conversation about our wedding and future. Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? I'm my own man. I'll never marry her, so you all can just stop trying to pair us up!" Felix shouted as he glared at everyone in the house. His eyes were filled with hate. It made me want to curl up into a ball out of embarrassment. The house remained completely silent. Everyone's gaze was on me, and I could feel my heart throbbing in pain. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. He had trampled all over my dignity and self-worth in front of his whole family and mineβ¦ My father, usually calm, flushed crimson at Felix's harsh words, his fists clenched. Mom, too, looked angry and embarrassed, jaw agape, her expression one of disbelief. Uncle Austin, Felix's father, slapped Felix, scolding, "You rebellious boy! Who taught you to behave like that?" The impact of slap sent Felix reeling, and he hit his head on the corner of the wall. Felix slumped to the floor in pain, leaving an unmistakable streak of red on the white walls. Aunt Mel rushed forward with concern, "Felix, my son! Are you alright?" Felix shot me a scathing glare as if I had committed an unspeakable crime. "Are you happy now, Luna?" he spat. I stared back at him with wide eyes, tears streaming down my face and onto the floor. Even though I liked him, that didn't mean he could throw wild accusations and embarrass me as he pleased! I liked him, but I, too, had my sense of dignity! If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I would gladly change! "I'm sorry, Felix. I never thought that my actions would have bugged you so much," I forced the humiliation down as I continued, "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix." I bit my lip hard, and the sharp tang of blood exploded across my tongue. I, Luna Lawson, also swear to myself - I won't endure the same humiliation AGAIN! | Massive story | 0 | https://facebook.com/61557833926946 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717052400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879561 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410694 | 1723321838 | 995 | 976133923970880 | 1 | 1.1303900481905E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 273913162469522 | 0 | New world publications | 120212928768730170 | wwwedb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πAttention! Do not read in publicοΌπ | https://wwwedb.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11782&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717757425 | 2.7391316246952E+14 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959759_1311554859802432_4227718076479884991_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GwKF1hWO7f4Q7kNvgGcgnOa&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAaDJ90YtTRVgl1h4Qq29YmZWIZCVWKY5MqqmnLhItL8w&oe=6672A69D | person_profile | 0 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959270_7187349571370885_4976612476689122460_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=NNss872fdPgQ7kNvgE-PVII&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAp0ikcilFTLm0se1WcAfumGS3USCJAFn0NgxepicFnPw&oe=6672B455 | 0 | 3 | The clearing of a throat makes me jump. I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of alcohol. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that donβt quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door. Shrinking down to the ground. βIs this the way you greet all Alphaβs?β His deep voice rumbles through the room, an edge of amusement to his tone. βIβm sorry.β I whisper, getting to my feet. βIβ¦I thought I was alone.β I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. βCome forward.β He orders. Alpha Trey was going to kill me. I do as Iβm told. Allowing him to see me properly and I am met with narrowed crimson eyes. I close my own eyes, expecting the worst. βYou smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?β My head moved up and down, though I couldnβt tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they discovered the truth about me. βI would prefer it if you spoke to me.β He growls, βIβm not in the mood to play games.β βYes.β I whisper. βI amβ¦I am a Wolf.β I couldnβt help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? I wasnβt sure how much more my body could take. βHow is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.β βIβ¦..β I hated the question. βI havenβt got all day!β He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldnβt scent him. I knew why I hadnβt been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever liked to do. They never hear my side of the story. All they do is accept Alpha Trey's word as the truth. βYou should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?β His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them. There was no way I was making direct eye contact. βMy Wolf abilities were bound.β βWhy?β If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. βIt was a punishment.β βFor what?β βFor killing my parents.β | New world publications | 9 | https://facebook.com/61557831245498 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718089200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879563 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410694 | 1723321838 | 995 | 976133923970880 | 1 | 1.1303900481905E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 273913162469522 | 0 | New world publications | 120212928768730170 | wwwedb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πAttention! Do not read in publicοΌπ | https://wwwedb.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11782&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717757425 | 2.7391316246952E+14 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959759_1311554859802432_4227718076479884991_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GwKF1hWO7f4Q7kNvgGcgnOa&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAaDJ90YtTRVgl1h4Qq29YmZWIZCVWKY5MqqmnLhItL8w&oe=6672A69D | person_profile | 0 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959270_7187349571370885_4976612476689122460_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=NNss872fdPgQ7kNvgE-PVII&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAp0ikcilFTLm0se1WcAfumGS3USCJAFn0NgxepicFnPw&oe=6672B455 | 0 | 3 | The clearing of a throat makes me jump. I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of alcohol. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that donβt quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door. Shrinking down to the ground. βIs this the way you greet all Alphaβs?β His deep voice rumbles through the room, an edge of amusement to his tone. βIβm sorry.β I whisper, getting to my feet. βIβ¦I thought I was alone.β I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. βCome forward.β He orders. Alpha Trey was going to kill me. I do as Iβm told. Allowing him to see me properly and I am met with narrowed crimson eyes. I close my own eyes, expecting the worst. βYou smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?β My head moved up and down, though I couldnβt tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they discovered the truth about me. βI would prefer it if you spoke to me.β He growls, βIβm not in the mood to play games.β βYes.β I whisper. βI amβ¦I am a Wolf.β I couldnβt help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? I wasnβt sure how much more my body could take. βHow is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.β βIβ¦..β I hated the question. βI havenβt got all day!β He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldnβt scent him. I knew why I hadnβt been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever liked to do. They never hear my side of the story. All they do is accept Alpha Trey's word as the truth. βYou should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?β His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them. There was no way I was making direct eye contact. βMy Wolf abilities were bound.β βWhy?β If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. βIt was a punishment.β βFor what?β βFor killing my parents.β | New world publications | 9 | https://facebook.com/61557831245498 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718089200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879565 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410694 | 1723321838 | 995 | 976133923970880 | 1 | 1.1303900481905E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 273913162469522 | 0 | New world publications | 120212928768730170 | wwwedb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πAttention! Do not read in publicοΌπ | https://wwwedb.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11782&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717757425 | 2.7391316246952E+14 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959759_1311554859802432_4227718076479884991_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GwKF1hWO7f4Q7kNvgGcgnOa&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAaDJ90YtTRVgl1h4Qq29YmZWIZCVWKY5MqqmnLhItL8w&oe=6672A69D | person_profile | 0 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959270_7187349571370885_4976612476689122460_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=NNss872fdPgQ7kNvgE-PVII&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAp0ikcilFTLm0se1WcAfumGS3USCJAFn0NgxepicFnPw&oe=6672B455 | 0 | 3 | The clearing of a throat makes me jump. I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of alcohol. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that donβt quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door. Shrinking down to the ground. βIs this the way you greet all Alphaβs?β His deep voice rumbles through the room, an edge of amusement to his tone. βIβm sorry.β I whisper, getting to my feet. βIβ¦I thought I was alone.β I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. βCome forward.β He orders. Alpha Trey was going to kill me. I do as Iβm told. Allowing him to see me properly and I am met with narrowed crimson eyes. I close my own eyes, expecting the worst. βYou smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?β My head moved up and down, though I couldnβt tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they discovered the truth about me. βI would prefer it if you spoke to me.β He growls, βIβm not in the mood to play games.β βYes.β I whisper. βI amβ¦I am a Wolf.β I couldnβt help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? I wasnβt sure how much more my body could take. βHow is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.β βIβ¦..β I hated the question. βI havenβt got all day!β He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldnβt scent him. I knew why I hadnβt been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever liked to do. They never hear my side of the story. All they do is accept Alpha Trey's word as the truth. βYou should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?β His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them. There was no way I was making direct eye contact. βMy Wolf abilities were bound.β βWhy?β If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. βIt was a punishment.β βFor what?β βFor killing my parents.β | New world publications | 9 | https://facebook.com/61557831245498 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718089200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879567 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410694 | 1723321839 | 995 | 976133923970880 | 1 | 1.1303900481905E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 273913162469522 | 0 | New world publications | 120212928768730170 | wwwedb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πAttention! Do not read in publicοΌπ | https://wwwedb.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11782&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717757425 | 2.7391316246952E+14 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959759_1311554859802432_4227718076479884991_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GwKF1hWO7f4Q7kNvgGcgnOa&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAaDJ90YtTRVgl1h4Qq29YmZWIZCVWKY5MqqmnLhItL8w&oe=6672A69D | person_profile | 0 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959270_7187349571370885_4976612476689122460_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=NNss872fdPgQ7kNvgE-PVII&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAp0ikcilFTLm0se1WcAfumGS3USCJAFn0NgxepicFnPw&oe=6672B455 | 0 | 3 | The clearing of a throat makes me jump. I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of alcohol. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that donβt quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door. Shrinking down to the ground. βIs this the way you greet all Alphaβs?β His deep voice rumbles through the room, an edge of amusement to his tone. βIβm sorry.β I whisper, getting to my feet. βIβ¦I thought I was alone.β I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. βCome forward.β He orders. Alpha Trey was going to kill me. I do as Iβm told. Allowing him to see me properly and I am met with narrowed crimson eyes. I close my own eyes, expecting the worst. βYou smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?β My head moved up and down, though I couldnβt tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they discovered the truth about me. βI would prefer it if you spoke to me.β He growls, βIβm not in the mood to play games.β βYes.β I whisper. βI amβ¦I am a Wolf.β I couldnβt help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? I wasnβt sure how much more my body could take. βHow is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.β βIβ¦..β I hated the question. βI havenβt got all day!β He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldnβt scent him. I knew why I hadnβt been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever liked to do. They never hear my side of the story. All they do is accept Alpha Trey's word as the truth. βYou should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?β His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them. There was no way I was making direct eye contact. βMy Wolf abilities were bound.β βWhy?β If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. βIt was a punishment.β βFor what?β βFor killing my parents.β | New world publications | 9 | https://facebook.com/61557831245498 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718089200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879569 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410694 | 1723321839 | 995 | 976133923970880 | 1 | 1.1303900481905E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 273913162469522 | 0 | New world publications | 120212928768730170 | wwwedb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πAttention! Do not read in publicοΌπ | https://wwwedb.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11782&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717757425 | 2.7391316246952E+14 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959759_1311554859802432_4227718076479884991_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GwKF1hWO7f4Q7kNvgGcgnOa&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAaDJ90YtTRVgl1h4Qq29YmZWIZCVWKY5MqqmnLhItL8w&oe=6672A69D | person_profile | 0 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959270_7187349571370885_4976612476689122460_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=NNss872fdPgQ7kNvgE-PVII&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAp0ikcilFTLm0se1WcAfumGS3USCJAFn0NgxepicFnPw&oe=6672B455 | 0 | 3 | The clearing of a throat makes me jump. I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of alcohol. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that donβt quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door. Shrinking down to the ground. βIs this the way you greet all Alphaβs?β His deep voice rumbles through the room, an edge of amusement to his tone. βIβm sorry.β I whisper, getting to my feet. βIβ¦I thought I was alone.β I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. βCome forward.β He orders. Alpha Trey was going to kill me. I do as Iβm told. Allowing him to see me properly and I am met with narrowed crimson eyes. I close my own eyes, expecting the worst. βYou smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?β My head moved up and down, though I couldnβt tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they discovered the truth about me. βI would prefer it if you spoke to me.β He growls, βIβm not in the mood to play games.β βYes.β I whisper. βI amβ¦I am a Wolf.β I couldnβt help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? I wasnβt sure how much more my body could take. βHow is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.β βIβ¦..β I hated the question. βI havenβt got all day!β He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldnβt scent him. I knew why I hadnβt been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever liked to do. They never hear my side of the story. All they do is accept Alpha Trey's word as the truth. βYou should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?β His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them. There was no way I was making direct eye contact. βMy Wolf abilities were bound.β βWhy?β If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. βIt was a punishment.β βFor what?β βFor killing my parents.β | New world publications | 9 | https://facebook.com/61557831245498 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718089200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879575 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410695 | 1723321839 | 995 | 1123587355422972 | 1 | 7.6990506525411E+14 | 1718089200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 273913162469522 | 0 | New world publications | 120212928768730170 | wwwedb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πAttention! Do not read in publicοΌπ | https://wwwedb.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11782&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717757425 | 2.7391316246952E+14 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959759_1311554859802432_4227718076479884991_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GwKF1hWO7f4Q7kNvgGcgnOa&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAaDJ90YtTRVgl1h4Qq29YmZWIZCVWKY5MqqmnLhItL8w&oe=6672A69D | person_profile | 0 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959270_7187349571370885_4976612476689122460_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=NNss872fdPgQ7kNvgE-PVII&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAp0ikcilFTLm0se1WcAfumGS3USCJAFn0NgxepicFnPw&oe=6672B455 | 0 | 3 | The clearing of a throat makes me jump. I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of alcohol. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that donβt quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door. Shrinking down to the ground. βIs this the way you greet all Alphaβs?β His deep voice rumbles through the room, an edge of amusement to his tone. βIβm sorry.β I whisper, getting to my feet. βIβ¦I thought I was alone.β I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. βCome forward.β He orders. Alpha Trey was going to kill me. I do as Iβm told. Allowing him to see me properly and I am met with narrowed crimson eyes. I close my own eyes, expecting the worst. βYou smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?β My head moved up and down, though I couldnβt tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they discovered the truth about me. βI would prefer it if you spoke to me.β He growls, βIβm not in the mood to play games.β βYes.β I whisper. βI amβ¦I am a Wolf.β I couldnβt help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? I wasnβt sure how much more my body could take. βHow is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.β βIβ¦..β I hated the question. βI havenβt got all day!β He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldnβt scent him. I knew why I hadnβt been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever liked to do. They never hear my side of the story. All they do is accept Alpha Trey's word as the truth. βYou should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?β His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them. There was no way I was making direct eye contact. βMy Wolf abilities were bound.β βWhy?β If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. βIt was a punishment.β βFor what?β βFor killing my parents.β | New world publications | 9 | https://facebook.com/61557831245498 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717743600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879579 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410695 | 1723321839 | 995 | 1123587355422972 | 1 | 7.6990506525411E+14 | 1718089200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 273913162469522 | 0 | New world publications | 120212928768730170 | wwwedb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πAttention! Do not read in publicοΌπ | https://wwwedb.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11782&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717757425 | 2.7391316246952E+14 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959759_1311554859802432_4227718076479884991_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GwKF1hWO7f4Q7kNvgGcgnOa&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAaDJ90YtTRVgl1h4Qq29YmZWIZCVWKY5MqqmnLhItL8w&oe=6672A69D | person_profile | 0 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959270_7187349571370885_4976612476689122460_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=NNss872fdPgQ7kNvgE-PVII&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAp0ikcilFTLm0se1WcAfumGS3USCJAFn0NgxepicFnPw&oe=6672B455 | 0 | 3 | The clearing of a throat makes me jump. I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of alcohol. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that donβt quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door. Shrinking down to the ground. βIs this the way you greet all Alphaβs?β His deep voice rumbles through the room, an edge of amusement to his tone. βIβm sorry.β I whisper, getting to my feet. βIβ¦I thought I was alone.β I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. βCome forward.β He orders. Alpha Trey was going to kill me. I do as Iβm told. Allowing him to see me properly and I am met with narrowed crimson eyes. I close my own eyes, expecting the worst. βYou smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?β My head moved up and down, though I couldnβt tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they discovered the truth about me. βI would prefer it if you spoke to me.β He growls, βIβm not in the mood to play games.β βYes.β I whisper. βI amβ¦I am a Wolf.β I couldnβt help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? I wasnβt sure how much more my body could take. βHow is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.β βIβ¦..β I hated the question. βI havenβt got all day!β He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldnβt scent him. I knew why I hadnβt been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever liked to do. They never hear my side of the story. All they do is accept Alpha Trey's word as the truth. βYou should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?β His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them. There was no way I was making direct eye contact. βMy Wolf abilities were bound.β βWhy?β If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. βIt was a punishment.β βFor what?β βFor killing my parents.β | New world publications | 9 | https://facebook.com/61557831245498 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717743600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879581 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410695 | 1723321839 | 995 | 1123587355422972 | 1 | 7.6990506525411E+14 | 1718089200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 273913162469522 | 0 | New world publications | 120212928768730170 | wwwedb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πAttention! Do not read in publicοΌπ | https://wwwedb.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11782&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717757425 | 2.7391316246952E+14 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959759_1311554859802432_4227718076479884991_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GwKF1hWO7f4Q7kNvgGcgnOa&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAaDJ90YtTRVgl1h4Qq29YmZWIZCVWKY5MqqmnLhItL8w&oe=6672A69D | person_profile | 0 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959270_7187349571370885_4976612476689122460_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=NNss872fdPgQ7kNvgE-PVII&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAp0ikcilFTLm0se1WcAfumGS3USCJAFn0NgxepicFnPw&oe=6672B455 | 0 | 3 | The clearing of a throat makes me jump. I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of alcohol. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that donβt quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door. Shrinking down to the ground. βIs this the way you greet all Alphaβs?β His deep voice rumbles through the room, an edge of amusement to his tone. βIβm sorry.β I whisper, getting to my feet. βIβ¦I thought I was alone.β I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. βCome forward.β He orders. Alpha Trey was going to kill me. I do as Iβm told. Allowing him to see me properly and I am met with narrowed crimson eyes. I close my own eyes, expecting the worst. βYou smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?β My head moved up and down, though I couldnβt tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they discovered the truth about me. βI would prefer it if you spoke to me.β He growls, βIβm not in the mood to play games.β βYes.β I whisper. βI amβ¦I am a Wolf.β I couldnβt help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? I wasnβt sure how much more my body could take. βHow is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.β βIβ¦..β I hated the question. βI havenβt got all day!β He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldnβt scent him. I knew why I hadnβt been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever liked to do. They never hear my side of the story. All they do is accept Alpha Trey's word as the truth. βYou should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?β His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them. There was no way I was making direct eye contact. βMy Wolf abilities were bound.β βWhy?β If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. βIt was a punishment.β βFor what?β βFor killing my parents.β | New world publications | 9 | https://facebook.com/61557831245498 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717743600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879583 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410695 | 1723321839 | 995 | 1126652285269237 | 1 | 9.8335474649662E+14 | 1718089200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 273913162469522 | 0 | New world publications | 120212928768730170 | wwwedb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πAttention! Do not read in publicοΌπ | https://wwwedb.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11782&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717757425 | 2.7391316246952E+14 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959759_1311554859802432_4227718076479884991_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GwKF1hWO7f4Q7kNvgGcgnOa&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAaDJ90YtTRVgl1h4Qq29YmZWIZCVWKY5MqqmnLhItL8w&oe=6672A69D | person_profile | 0 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959270_7187349571370885_4976612476689122460_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=NNss872fdPgQ7kNvgE-PVII&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAp0ikcilFTLm0se1WcAfumGS3USCJAFn0NgxepicFnPw&oe=6672B455 | 0 | 3 | The clearing of a throat makes me jump. I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of alcohol. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that donβt quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door. Shrinking down to the ground. βIs this the way you greet all Alphaβs?β His deep voice rumbles through the room, an edge of amusement to his tone. βIβm sorry.β I whisper, getting to my feet. βIβ¦I thought I was alone.β I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. βCome forward.β He orders. Alpha Trey was going to kill me. I do as Iβm told. Allowing him to see me properly and I am met with narrowed crimson eyes. I close my own eyes, expecting the worst. βYou smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?β My head moved up and down, though I couldnβt tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they discovered the truth about me. βI would prefer it if you spoke to me.β He growls, βIβm not in the mood to play games.β βYes.β I whisper. βI amβ¦I am a Wolf.β I couldnβt help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? I wasnβt sure how much more my body could take. βHow is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.β βIβ¦..β I hated the question. βI havenβt got all day!β He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldnβt scent him. I knew why I hadnβt been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever liked to do. They never hear my side of the story. All they do is accept Alpha Trey's word as the truth. βYou should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?β His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them. There was no way I was making direct eye contact. βMy Wolf abilities were bound.β βWhy?β If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. βIt was a punishment.β βFor what?β βFor killing my parents.β | New world publications | 9 | https://facebook.com/61557831245498 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717830000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879585 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410695 | 1723321839 | 995 | 1126652285269237 | 1 | 9.8335474649662E+14 | 1718089200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 273913162469522 | 0 | New world publications | 120212928768730170 | wwwedb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πAttention! Do not read in publicοΌπ | https://wwwedb.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11782&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717757425 | 2.7391316246952E+14 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959759_1311554859802432_4227718076479884991_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GwKF1hWO7f4Q7kNvgGcgnOa&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAaDJ90YtTRVgl1h4Qq29YmZWIZCVWKY5MqqmnLhItL8w&oe=6672A69D | person_profile | 0 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959270_7187349571370885_4976612476689122460_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=NNss872fdPgQ7kNvgE-PVII&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAp0ikcilFTLm0se1WcAfumGS3USCJAFn0NgxepicFnPw&oe=6672B455 | 0 | 3 | The clearing of a throat makes me jump. I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of alcohol. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that donβt quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door. Shrinking down to the ground. βIs this the way you greet all Alphaβs?β His deep voice rumbles through the room, an edge of amusement to his tone. βIβm sorry.β I whisper, getting to my feet. βIβ¦I thought I was alone.β I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. βCome forward.β He orders. Alpha Trey was going to kill me. I do as Iβm told. Allowing him to see me properly and I am met with narrowed crimson eyes. I close my own eyes, expecting the worst. βYou smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?β My head moved up and down, though I couldnβt tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they discovered the truth about me. βI would prefer it if you spoke to me.β He growls, βIβm not in the mood to play games.β βYes.β I whisper. βI amβ¦I am a Wolf.β I couldnβt help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? I wasnβt sure how much more my body could take. βHow is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.β βIβ¦..β I hated the question. βI havenβt got all day!β He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldnβt scent him. I knew why I hadnβt been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever liked to do. They never hear my side of the story. All they do is accept Alpha Trey's word as the truth. βYou should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?β His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them. There was no way I was making direct eye contact. βMy Wolf abilities were bound.β βWhy?β If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. βIt was a punishment.β βFor what?β βFor killing my parents.β | New world publications | 9 | https://facebook.com/61557831245498 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717830000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879588 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410695 | 1723321839 | 995 | 1126652285269237 | 1 | 9.8335474649662E+14 | 1718089200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 273913162469522 | 0 | New world publications | 120212928768730170 | wwwedb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πAttention! Do not read in publicοΌπ | https://wwwedb.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11782&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717757425 | 2.7391316246952E+14 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959759_1311554859802432_4227718076479884991_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GwKF1hWO7f4Q7kNvgGcgnOa&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAaDJ90YtTRVgl1h4Qq29YmZWIZCVWKY5MqqmnLhItL8w&oe=6672A69D | person_profile | 0 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959270_7187349571370885_4976612476689122460_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=NNss872fdPgQ7kNvgE-PVII&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAp0ikcilFTLm0se1WcAfumGS3USCJAFn0NgxepicFnPw&oe=6672B455 | 0 | 3 | The clearing of a throat makes me jump. I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of alcohol. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that donβt quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door. Shrinking down to the ground. βIs this the way you greet all Alphaβs?β His deep voice rumbles through the room, an edge of amusement to his tone. βIβm sorry.β I whisper, getting to my feet. βIβ¦I thought I was alone.β I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. βCome forward.β He orders. Alpha Trey was going to kill me. I do as Iβm told. Allowing him to see me properly and I am met with narrowed crimson eyes. I close my own eyes, expecting the worst. βYou smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?β My head moved up and down, though I couldnβt tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they discovered the truth about me. βI would prefer it if you spoke to me.β He growls, βIβm not in the mood to play games.β βYes.β I whisper. βI amβ¦I am a Wolf.β I couldnβt help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? I wasnβt sure how much more my body could take. βHow is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.β βIβ¦..β I hated the question. βI havenβt got all day!β He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldnβt scent him. I knew why I hadnβt been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever liked to do. They never hear my side of the story. All they do is accept Alpha Trey's word as the truth. βYou should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?β His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them. There was no way I was making direct eye contact. βMy Wolf abilities were bound.β βWhy?β If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. βIt was a punishment.β βFor what?β βFor killing my parents.β | New world publications | 9 | https://facebook.com/61557831245498 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717830000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879589 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410695 | 1723321839 | 995 | 1126652285269237 | 1 | 9.8335474649662E+14 | 1718089200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 273913162469522 | 0 | New world publications | 120212928768730170 | wwwedb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πAttention! Do not read in publicοΌπ | https://wwwedb.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11782&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717757425 | 2.7391316246952E+14 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959759_1311554859802432_4227718076479884991_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GwKF1hWO7f4Q7kNvgGcgnOa&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAaDJ90YtTRVgl1h4Qq29YmZWIZCVWKY5MqqmnLhItL8w&oe=6672A69D | person_profile | 0 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959270_7187349571370885_4976612476689122460_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=NNss872fdPgQ7kNvgE-PVII&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAp0ikcilFTLm0se1WcAfumGS3USCJAFn0NgxepicFnPw&oe=6672B455 | 0 | 3 | The clearing of a throat makes me jump. I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of alcohol. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that donβt quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door. Shrinking down to the ground. βIs this the way you greet all Alphaβs?β His deep voice rumbles through the room, an edge of amusement to his tone. βIβm sorry.β I whisper, getting to my feet. βIβ¦I thought I was alone.β I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. βCome forward.β He orders. Alpha Trey was going to kill me. I do as Iβm told. Allowing him to see me properly and I am met with narrowed crimson eyes. I close my own eyes, expecting the worst. βYou smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?β My head moved up and down, though I couldnβt tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they discovered the truth about me. βI would prefer it if you spoke to me.β He growls, βIβm not in the mood to play games.β βYes.β I whisper. βI amβ¦I am a Wolf.β I couldnβt help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? I wasnβt sure how much more my body could take. βHow is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.β βIβ¦..β I hated the question. βI havenβt got all day!β He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldnβt scent him. I knew why I hadnβt been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever liked to do. They never hear my side of the story. All they do is accept Alpha Trey's word as the truth. βYou should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?β His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them. There was no way I was making direct eye contact. βMy Wolf abilities were bound.β βWhy?β If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. βIt was a punishment.β βFor what?β βFor killing my parents.β | New world publications | 9 | https://facebook.com/61557831245498 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717830000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879590 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410695 | 1723321839 | 995 | 1126652285269237 | 1 | 9.8335474649662E+14 | 1718089200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 273913162469522 | 0 | New world publications | 120212928768730170 | wwwedb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πAttention! Do not read in publicοΌπ | https://wwwedb.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11782&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717757425 | 2.7391316246952E+14 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959759_1311554859802432_4227718076479884991_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GwKF1hWO7f4Q7kNvgGcgnOa&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAaDJ90YtTRVgl1h4Qq29YmZWIZCVWKY5MqqmnLhItL8w&oe=6672A69D | person_profile | 0 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959270_7187349571370885_4976612476689122460_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=NNss872fdPgQ7kNvgE-PVII&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAp0ikcilFTLm0se1WcAfumGS3USCJAFn0NgxepicFnPw&oe=6672B455 | 0 | 3 | The clearing of a throat makes me jump. I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of alcohol. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that donβt quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door. Shrinking down to the ground. βIs this the way you greet all Alphaβs?β His deep voice rumbles through the room, an edge of amusement to his tone. βIβm sorry.β I whisper, getting to my feet. βIβ¦I thought I was alone.β I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. βCome forward.β He orders. Alpha Trey was going to kill me. I do as Iβm told. Allowing him to see me properly and I am met with narrowed crimson eyes. I close my own eyes, expecting the worst. βYou smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?β My head moved up and down, though I couldnβt tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they discovered the truth about me. βI would prefer it if you spoke to me.β He growls, βIβm not in the mood to play games.β βYes.β I whisper. βI amβ¦I am a Wolf.β I couldnβt help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? I wasnβt sure how much more my body could take. βHow is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.β βIβ¦..β I hated the question. βI havenβt got all day!β He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldnβt scent him. I knew why I hadnβt been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever liked to do. They never hear my side of the story. All they do is accept Alpha Trey's word as the truth. βYou should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?β His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them. There was no way I was making direct eye contact. βMy Wolf abilities were bound.β βWhy?β If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. βIt was a punishment.β βFor what?β βFor killing my parents.β | New world publications | 9 | https://facebook.com/61557831245498 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717830000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879592 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410695 | 1723321839 | 995 | 1147578309846881 | 1 | 9.3716217476051E+14 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 273913162469522 | 0 | New world publications | 120212928768730170 | wwwedb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πAttention! Do not read in publicοΌπ | https://wwwedb.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11782&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717757425 | 2.7391316246952E+14 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959759_1311554859802432_4227718076479884991_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GwKF1hWO7f4Q7kNvgGcgnOa&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAaDJ90YtTRVgl1h4Qq29YmZWIZCVWKY5MqqmnLhItL8w&oe=6672A69D | person_profile | 0 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959270_7187349571370885_4976612476689122460_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=NNss872fdPgQ7kNvgE-PVII&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAp0ikcilFTLm0se1WcAfumGS3USCJAFn0NgxepicFnPw&oe=6672B455 | 0 | 3 | The clearing of a throat makes me jump. I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of alcohol. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that donβt quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door. Shrinking down to the ground. βIs this the way you greet all Alphaβs?β His deep voice rumbles through the room, an edge of amusement to his tone. βIβm sorry.β I whisper, getting to my feet. βIβ¦I thought I was alone.β I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. βCome forward.β He orders. Alpha Trey was going to kill me. I do as Iβm told. Allowing him to see me properly and I am met with narrowed crimson eyes. I close my own eyes, expecting the worst. βYou smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?β My head moved up and down, though I couldnβt tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they discovered the truth about me. βI would prefer it if you spoke to me.β He growls, βIβm not in the mood to play games.β βYes.β I whisper. βI amβ¦I am a Wolf.β I couldnβt help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? I wasnβt sure how much more my body could take. βHow is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.β βIβ¦..β I hated the question. βI havenβt got all day!β He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldnβt scent him. I knew why I hadnβt been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever liked to do. They never hear my side of the story. All they do is accept Alpha Trey's word as the truth. βYou should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?β His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them. There was no way I was making direct eye contact. βMy Wolf abilities were bound.β βWhy?β If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. βIt was a punishment.β βFor what?β βFor killing my parents.β | New world publications | 9 | https://facebook.com/61557831245498 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718089200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879593 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410695 | 1723321840 | 995 | 1147578309846881 | 1 | 9.3716217476051E+14 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 273913162469522 | 0 | New world publications | 120212928768730170 | wwwedb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πAttention! Do not read in publicοΌπ | https://wwwedb.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11782&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717757425 | 2.7391316246952E+14 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959759_1311554859802432_4227718076479884991_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GwKF1hWO7f4Q7kNvgGcgnOa&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAaDJ90YtTRVgl1h4Qq29YmZWIZCVWKY5MqqmnLhItL8w&oe=6672A69D | person_profile | 0 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959270_7187349571370885_4976612476689122460_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=NNss872fdPgQ7kNvgE-PVII&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAp0ikcilFTLm0se1WcAfumGS3USCJAFn0NgxepicFnPw&oe=6672B455 | 0 | 3 | The clearing of a throat makes me jump. I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of alcohol. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that donβt quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door. Shrinking down to the ground. βIs this the way you greet all Alphaβs?β His deep voice rumbles through the room, an edge of amusement to his tone. βIβm sorry.β I whisper, getting to my feet. βIβ¦I thought I was alone.β I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. βCome forward.β He orders. Alpha Trey was going to kill me. I do as Iβm told. Allowing him to see me properly and I am met with narrowed crimson eyes. I close my own eyes, expecting the worst. βYou smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?β My head moved up and down, though I couldnβt tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they discovered the truth about me. βI would prefer it if you spoke to me.β He growls, βIβm not in the mood to play games.β βYes.β I whisper. βI amβ¦I am a Wolf.β I couldnβt help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? I wasnβt sure how much more my body could take. βHow is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.β βIβ¦..β I hated the question. βI havenβt got all day!β He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldnβt scent him. I knew why I hadnβt been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever liked to do. They never hear my side of the story. All they do is accept Alpha Trey's word as the truth. βYou should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?β His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them. There was no way I was making direct eye contact. βMy Wolf abilities were bound.β βWhy?β If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. βIt was a punishment.β βFor what?β βFor killing my parents.β | New world publications | 9 | https://facebook.com/61557831245498 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718089200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879594 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410696 | 1723321840 | 995 | 1147578309846881 | 1 | 9.3716217476051E+14 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 273913162469522 | 0 | New world publications | 120212928768730170 | wwwedb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πAttention! Do not read in publicοΌπ | https://wwwedb.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11782&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717757425 | 2.7391316246952E+14 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959759_1311554859802432_4227718076479884991_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GwKF1hWO7f4Q7kNvgGcgnOa&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAaDJ90YtTRVgl1h4Qq29YmZWIZCVWKY5MqqmnLhItL8w&oe=6672A69D | person_profile | 0 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959270_7187349571370885_4976612476689122460_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=NNss872fdPgQ7kNvgE-PVII&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAp0ikcilFTLm0se1WcAfumGS3USCJAFn0NgxepicFnPw&oe=6672B455 | 0 | 3 | The clearing of a throat makes me jump. I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of alcohol. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that donβt quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door. Shrinking down to the ground. βIs this the way you greet all Alphaβs?β His deep voice rumbles through the room, an edge of amusement to his tone. βIβm sorry.β I whisper, getting to my feet. βIβ¦I thought I was alone.β I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. βCome forward.β He orders. Alpha Trey was going to kill me. I do as Iβm told. Allowing him to see me properly and I am met with narrowed crimson eyes. I close my own eyes, expecting the worst. βYou smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?β My head moved up and down, though I couldnβt tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they discovered the truth about me. βI would prefer it if you spoke to me.β He growls, βIβm not in the mood to play games.β βYes.β I whisper. βI amβ¦I am a Wolf.β I couldnβt help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? I wasnβt sure how much more my body could take. βHow is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.β βIβ¦..β I hated the question. βI havenβt got all day!β He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldnβt scent him. I knew why I hadnβt been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever liked to do. They never hear my side of the story. All they do is accept Alpha Trey's word as the truth. βYou should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?β His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them. There was no way I was making direct eye contact. βMy Wolf abilities were bound.β βWhy?β If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. βIt was a punishment.β βFor what?β βFor killing my parents.β | New world publications | 9 | https://facebook.com/61557831245498 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718089200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879596 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410696 | 1723321840 | 995 | 1147578309846881 | 1 | 9.3716217476051E+14 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 273913162469522 | 0 | New world publications | 120212928768730170 | wwwedb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πAttention! Do not read in publicοΌπ | https://wwwedb.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11782&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717757425 | 2.7391316246952E+14 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959759_1311554859802432_4227718076479884991_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GwKF1hWO7f4Q7kNvgGcgnOa&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAaDJ90YtTRVgl1h4Qq29YmZWIZCVWKY5MqqmnLhItL8w&oe=6672A69D | person_profile | 0 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959270_7187349571370885_4976612476689122460_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=NNss872fdPgQ7kNvgE-PVII&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAp0ikcilFTLm0se1WcAfumGS3USCJAFn0NgxepicFnPw&oe=6672B455 | 0 | 3 | The clearing of a throat makes me jump. I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of alcohol. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that donβt quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door. Shrinking down to the ground. βIs this the way you greet all Alphaβs?β His deep voice rumbles through the room, an edge of amusement to his tone. βIβm sorry.β I whisper, getting to my feet. βIβ¦I thought I was alone.β I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. βCome forward.β He orders. Alpha Trey was going to kill me. I do as Iβm told. Allowing him to see me properly and I am met with narrowed crimson eyes. I close my own eyes, expecting the worst. βYou smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?β My head moved up and down, though I couldnβt tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they discovered the truth about me. βI would prefer it if you spoke to me.β He growls, βIβm not in the mood to play games.β βYes.β I whisper. βI amβ¦I am a Wolf.β I couldnβt help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? I wasnβt sure how much more my body could take. βHow is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.β βIβ¦..β I hated the question. βI havenβt got all day!β He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldnβt scent him. I knew why I hadnβt been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever liked to do. They never hear my side of the story. All they do is accept Alpha Trey's word as the truth. βYou should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?β His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them. There was no way I was making direct eye contact. βMy Wolf abilities were bound.β βWhy?β If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. βIt was a punishment.β βFor what?β βFor killing my parents.β | New world publications | 9 | https://facebook.com/61557831245498 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718089200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879597 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410696 | 1723321840 | 995 | 1147578309846881 | 1 | 9.3716217476051E+14 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 273913162469522 | 0 | New world publications | 120212928768730170 | wwwedb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πAttention! Do not read in publicοΌπ | https://wwwedb.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11782&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717757425 | 2.7391316246952E+14 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959759_1311554859802432_4227718076479884991_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GwKF1hWO7f4Q7kNvgGcgnOa&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAaDJ90YtTRVgl1h4Qq29YmZWIZCVWKY5MqqmnLhItL8w&oe=6672A69D | person_profile | 0 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959270_7187349571370885_4976612476689122460_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=NNss872fdPgQ7kNvgE-PVII&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAp0ikcilFTLm0se1WcAfumGS3USCJAFn0NgxepicFnPw&oe=6672B455 | 0 | 3 | The clearing of a throat makes me jump. I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of alcohol. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that donβt quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door. Shrinking down to the ground. βIs this the way you greet all Alphaβs?β His deep voice rumbles through the room, an edge of amusement to his tone. βIβm sorry.β I whisper, getting to my feet. βIβ¦I thought I was alone.β I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. βCome forward.β He orders. Alpha Trey was going to kill me. I do as Iβm told. Allowing him to see me properly and I am met with narrowed crimson eyes. I close my own eyes, expecting the worst. βYou smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?β My head moved up and down, though I couldnβt tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they discovered the truth about me. βI would prefer it if you spoke to me.β He growls, βIβm not in the mood to play games.β βYes.β I whisper. βI amβ¦I am a Wolf.β I couldnβt help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? I wasnβt sure how much more my body could take. βHow is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.β βIβ¦..β I hated the question. βI havenβt got all day!β He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldnβt scent him. I knew why I hadnβt been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever liked to do. They never hear my side of the story. All they do is accept Alpha Trey's word as the truth. βYou should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?β His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them. There was no way I was making direct eye contact. βMy Wolf abilities were bound.β βWhy?β If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. βIt was a punishment.β βFor what?β βFor killing my parents.β | New world publications | 9 | https://facebook.com/61557831245498 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718089200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879598 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410696 | 1723321840 | 995 | 1147578309846881 | 1 | 9.3716217476051E+14 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 273913162469522 | 0 | New world publications | 120212928768730170 | wwwedb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πAttention! Do not read in publicοΌπ | https://wwwedb.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11782&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717757425 | 2.7391316246952E+14 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959759_1311554859802432_4227718076479884991_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GwKF1hWO7f4Q7kNvgGcgnOa&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAaDJ90YtTRVgl1h4Qq29YmZWIZCVWKY5MqqmnLhItL8w&oe=6672A69D | person_profile | 0 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959270_7187349571370885_4976612476689122460_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=NNss872fdPgQ7kNvgE-PVII&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAp0ikcilFTLm0se1WcAfumGS3USCJAFn0NgxepicFnPw&oe=6672B455 | 0 | 3 | The clearing of a throat makes me jump. I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of alcohol. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that donβt quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door. Shrinking down to the ground. βIs this the way you greet all Alphaβs?β His deep voice rumbles through the room, an edge of amusement to his tone. βIβm sorry.β I whisper, getting to my feet. βIβ¦I thought I was alone.β I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. βCome forward.β He orders. Alpha Trey was going to kill me. I do as Iβm told. Allowing him to see me properly and I am met with narrowed crimson eyes. I close my own eyes, expecting the worst. βYou smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?β My head moved up and down, though I couldnβt tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they discovered the truth about me. βI would prefer it if you spoke to me.β He growls, βIβm not in the mood to play games.β βYes.β I whisper. βI amβ¦I am a Wolf.β I couldnβt help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? I wasnβt sure how much more my body could take. βHow is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.β βIβ¦..β I hated the question. βI havenβt got all day!β He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldnβt scent him. I knew why I hadnβt been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever liked to do. They never hear my side of the story. All they do is accept Alpha Trey's word as the truth. βYou should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?β His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them. There was no way I was making direct eye contact. βMy Wolf abilities were bound.β βWhy?β If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. βIt was a punishment.β βFor what?β βFor killing my parents.β | New world publications | 9 | https://facebook.com/61557831245498 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718089200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879599 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410696 | 1723321840 | 995 | 1147578309846881 | 1 | 9.3716217476051E+14 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 273913162469522 | 0 | New world publications | 120212928768730170 | wwwedb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πAttention! Do not read in publicοΌπ | https://wwwedb.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11782&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717757425 | 2.7391316246952E+14 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959759_1311554859802432_4227718076479884991_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GwKF1hWO7f4Q7kNvgGcgnOa&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAaDJ90YtTRVgl1h4Qq29YmZWIZCVWKY5MqqmnLhItL8w&oe=6672A69D | person_profile | 0 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959270_7187349571370885_4976612476689122460_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=NNss872fdPgQ7kNvgE-PVII&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAp0ikcilFTLm0se1WcAfumGS3USCJAFn0NgxepicFnPw&oe=6672B455 | 0 | 3 | The clearing of a throat makes me jump. I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of alcohol. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that donβt quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door. Shrinking down to the ground. βIs this the way you greet all Alphaβs?β His deep voice rumbles through the room, an edge of amusement to his tone. βIβm sorry.β I whisper, getting to my feet. βIβ¦I thought I was alone.β I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. βCome forward.β He orders. Alpha Trey was going to kill me. I do as Iβm told. Allowing him to see me properly and I am met with narrowed crimson eyes. I close my own eyes, expecting the worst. βYou smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?β My head moved up and down, though I couldnβt tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they discovered the truth about me. βI would prefer it if you spoke to me.β He growls, βIβm not in the mood to play games.β βYes.β I whisper. βI amβ¦I am a Wolf.β I couldnβt help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? I wasnβt sure how much more my body could take. βHow is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.β βIβ¦..β I hated the question. βI havenβt got all day!β He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldnβt scent him. I knew why I hadnβt been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever liked to do. They never hear my side of the story. All they do is accept Alpha Trey's word as the truth. βYou should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?β His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them. There was no way I was making direct eye contact. βMy Wolf abilities were bound.β βWhy?β If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. βIt was a punishment.β βFor what?β βFor killing my parents.β | New world publications | 9 | https://facebook.com/61557831245498 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718089200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879600 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410696 | 1723321840 | 995 | 1147578309846881 | 1 | 9.3716217476051E+14 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 273913162469522 | 0 | New world publications | 120212928768730170 | wwwedb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πAttention! Do not read in publicοΌπ | https://wwwedb.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11782&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717757425 | 2.7391316246952E+14 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959759_1311554859802432_4227718076479884991_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GwKF1hWO7f4Q7kNvgGcgnOa&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAaDJ90YtTRVgl1h4Qq29YmZWIZCVWKY5MqqmnLhItL8w&oe=6672A69D | person_profile | 0 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959270_7187349571370885_4976612476689122460_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=NNss872fdPgQ7kNvgE-PVII&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAp0ikcilFTLm0se1WcAfumGS3USCJAFn0NgxepicFnPw&oe=6672B455 | 0 | 3 | The clearing of a throat makes me jump. I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of alcohol. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that donβt quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door. Shrinking down to the ground. βIs this the way you greet all Alphaβs?β His deep voice rumbles through the room, an edge of amusement to his tone. βIβm sorry.β I whisper, getting to my feet. βIβ¦I thought I was alone.β I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. βCome forward.β He orders. Alpha Trey was going to kill me. I do as Iβm told. Allowing him to see me properly and I am met with narrowed crimson eyes. I close my own eyes, expecting the worst. βYou smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?β My head moved up and down, though I couldnβt tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they discovered the truth about me. βI would prefer it if you spoke to me.β He growls, βIβm not in the mood to play games.β βYes.β I whisper. βI amβ¦I am a Wolf.β I couldnβt help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? I wasnβt sure how much more my body could take. βHow is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.β βIβ¦..β I hated the question. βI havenβt got all day!β He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldnβt scent him. I knew why I hadnβt been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever liked to do. They never hear my side of the story. All they do is accept Alpha Trey's word as the truth. βYou should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?β His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them. There was no way I was making direct eye contact. βMy Wolf abilities were bound.β βWhy?β If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. βIt was a punishment.β βFor what?β βFor killing my parents.β | New world publications | 9 | https://facebook.com/61557831245498 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718089200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879601 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410696 | 1723321840 | 995 | 1147578309846881 | 1 | 9.3716217476051E+14 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 273913162469522 | 0 | New world publications | 120212928768730170 | wwwedb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πAttention! Do not read in publicοΌπ | https://wwwedb.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11782&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717757425 | 2.7391316246952E+14 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959759_1311554859802432_4227718076479884991_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GwKF1hWO7f4Q7kNvgGcgnOa&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAaDJ90YtTRVgl1h4Qq29YmZWIZCVWKY5MqqmnLhItL8w&oe=6672A69D | person_profile | 0 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959270_7187349571370885_4976612476689122460_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=NNss872fdPgQ7kNvgE-PVII&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAp0ikcilFTLm0se1WcAfumGS3USCJAFn0NgxepicFnPw&oe=6672B455 | 0 | 3 | The clearing of a throat makes me jump. I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of alcohol. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that donβt quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door. Shrinking down to the ground. βIs this the way you greet all Alphaβs?β His deep voice rumbles through the room, an edge of amusement to his tone. βIβm sorry.β I whisper, getting to my feet. βIβ¦I thought I was alone.β I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. βCome forward.β He orders. Alpha Trey was going to kill me. I do as Iβm told. Allowing him to see me properly and I am met with narrowed crimson eyes. I close my own eyes, expecting the worst. βYou smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?β My head moved up and down, though I couldnβt tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they discovered the truth about me. βI would prefer it if you spoke to me.β He growls, βIβm not in the mood to play games.β βYes.β I whisper. βI amβ¦I am a Wolf.β I couldnβt help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? I wasnβt sure how much more my body could take. βHow is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.β βIβ¦..β I hated the question. βI havenβt got all day!β He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldnβt scent him. I knew why I hadnβt been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever liked to do. They never hear my side of the story. All they do is accept Alpha Trey's word as the truth. βYou should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?β His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them. There was no way I was making direct eye contact. βMy Wolf abilities were bound.β βWhy?β If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. βIt was a punishment.β βFor what?β βFor killing my parents.β | New world publications | 9 | https://facebook.com/61557831245498 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718089200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879603 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410696 | 1723321840 | 995 | 1446131629599107 | 1 | 9.3528040839923E+14 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 273913162469522 | 0 | New world publications | 120212928768730170 | wwwedb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πAttention! Do not read in publicοΌπ | https://wwwedb.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11782&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717757425 | 2.7391316246952E+14 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959759_1311554859802432_4227718076479884991_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GwKF1hWO7f4Q7kNvgGcgnOa&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAaDJ90YtTRVgl1h4Qq29YmZWIZCVWKY5MqqmnLhItL8w&oe=6672A69D | person_profile | 0 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959270_7187349571370885_4976612476689122460_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=NNss872fdPgQ7kNvgE-PVII&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAp0ikcilFTLm0se1WcAfumGS3USCJAFn0NgxepicFnPw&oe=6672B455 | 0 | 3 | The clearing of a throat makes me jump. I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of alcohol. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that donβt quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door. Shrinking down to the ground. βIs this the way you greet all Alphaβs?β His deep voice rumbles through the room, an edge of amusement to his tone. βIβm sorry.β I whisper, getting to my feet. βIβ¦I thought I was alone.β I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. βCome forward.β He orders. Alpha Trey was going to kill me. I do as Iβm told. Allowing him to see me properly and I am met with narrowed crimson eyes. I close my own eyes, expecting the worst. βYou smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?β My head moved up and down, though I couldnβt tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they discovered the truth about me. βI would prefer it if you spoke to me.β He growls, βIβm not in the mood to play games.β βYes.β I whisper. βI amβ¦I am a Wolf.β I couldnβt help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? I wasnβt sure how much more my body could take. βHow is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.β βIβ¦..β I hated the question. βI havenβt got all day!β He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldnβt scent him. I knew why I hadnβt been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever liked to do. They never hear my side of the story. All they do is accept Alpha Trey's word as the truth. βYou should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?β His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them. There was no way I was making direct eye contact. βMy Wolf abilities were bound.β βWhy?β If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. βIt was a punishment.β βFor what?β βFor killing my parents.β | New world publications | 9 | https://facebook.com/61557831245498 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717830000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879604 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410696 | 1723321840 | 995 | 1446131629599107 | 1 | 9.3528040839923E+14 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 273913162469522 | 0 | New world publications | 120212928768730170 | wwwedb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πAttention! Do not read in publicοΌπ | https://wwwedb.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11782&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717757425 | 2.7391316246952E+14 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959759_1311554859802432_4227718076479884991_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GwKF1hWO7f4Q7kNvgGcgnOa&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAaDJ90YtTRVgl1h4Qq29YmZWIZCVWKY5MqqmnLhItL8w&oe=6672A69D | person_profile | 0 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959270_7187349571370885_4976612476689122460_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=NNss872fdPgQ7kNvgE-PVII&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAp0ikcilFTLm0se1WcAfumGS3USCJAFn0NgxepicFnPw&oe=6672B455 | 0 | 3 | The clearing of a throat makes me jump. I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of alcohol. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that donβt quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door. Shrinking down to the ground. βIs this the way you greet all Alphaβs?β His deep voice rumbles through the room, an edge of amusement to his tone. βIβm sorry.β I whisper, getting to my feet. βIβ¦I thought I was alone.β I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. βCome forward.β He orders. Alpha Trey was going to kill me. I do as Iβm told. Allowing him to see me properly and I am met with narrowed crimson eyes. I close my own eyes, expecting the worst. βYou smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?β My head moved up and down, though I couldnβt tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they discovered the truth about me. βI would prefer it if you spoke to me.β He growls, βIβm not in the mood to play games.β βYes.β I whisper. βI amβ¦I am a Wolf.β I couldnβt help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? I wasnβt sure how much more my body could take. βHow is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.β βIβ¦..β I hated the question. βI havenβt got all day!β He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldnβt scent him. I knew why I hadnβt been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever liked to do. They never hear my side of the story. All they do is accept Alpha Trey's word as the truth. βYou should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?β His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them. There was no way I was making direct eye contact. βMy Wolf abilities were bound.β βWhy?β If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. βIt was a punishment.β βFor what?β βFor killing my parents.β | New world publications | 9 | https://facebook.com/61557831245498 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717830000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879605 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410696 | 1723321841 | 995 | 1446131629599107 | 1 | 9.3528040839923E+14 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 273913162469522 | 0 | New world publications | 120212928768730170 | wwwedb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πAttention! Do not read in publicοΌπ | https://wwwedb.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11782&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717757425 | 2.7391316246952E+14 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959759_1311554859802432_4227718076479884991_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GwKF1hWO7f4Q7kNvgGcgnOa&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAaDJ90YtTRVgl1h4Qq29YmZWIZCVWKY5MqqmnLhItL8w&oe=6672A69D | person_profile | 0 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959270_7187349571370885_4976612476689122460_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=NNss872fdPgQ7kNvgE-PVII&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAp0ikcilFTLm0se1WcAfumGS3USCJAFn0NgxepicFnPw&oe=6672B455 | 0 | 3 | The clearing of a throat makes me jump. I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of alcohol. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that donβt quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door. Shrinking down to the ground. βIs this the way you greet all Alphaβs?β His deep voice rumbles through the room, an edge of amusement to his tone. βIβm sorry.β I whisper, getting to my feet. βIβ¦I thought I was alone.β I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. βCome forward.β He orders. Alpha Trey was going to kill me. I do as Iβm told. Allowing him to see me properly and I am met with narrowed crimson eyes. I close my own eyes, expecting the worst. βYou smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?β My head moved up and down, though I couldnβt tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they discovered the truth about me. βI would prefer it if you spoke to me.β He growls, βIβm not in the mood to play games.β βYes.β I whisper. βI amβ¦I am a Wolf.β I couldnβt help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? I wasnβt sure how much more my body could take. βHow is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.β βIβ¦..β I hated the question. βI havenβt got all day!β He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldnβt scent him. I knew why I hadnβt been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever liked to do. They never hear my side of the story. All they do is accept Alpha Trey's word as the truth. βYou should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?β His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them. There was no way I was making direct eye contact. βMy Wolf abilities were bound.β βWhy?β If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. βIt was a punishment.β βFor what?β βFor killing my parents.β | New world publications | 9 | https://facebook.com/61557831245498 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717830000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879606 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410696 | 1723321841 | 995 | 1446131629599107 | 1 | 9.3528040839923E+14 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 273913162469522 | 0 | New world publications | 120212928768730170 | wwwedb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πAttention! Do not read in publicοΌπ | https://wwwedb.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11782&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717757425 | 2.7391316246952E+14 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959759_1311554859802432_4227718076479884991_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GwKF1hWO7f4Q7kNvgGcgnOa&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAaDJ90YtTRVgl1h4Qq29YmZWIZCVWKY5MqqmnLhItL8w&oe=6672A69D | person_profile | 0 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959270_7187349571370885_4976612476689122460_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=NNss872fdPgQ7kNvgE-PVII&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAp0ikcilFTLm0se1WcAfumGS3USCJAFn0NgxepicFnPw&oe=6672B455 | 0 | 3 | The clearing of a throat makes me jump. I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of alcohol. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that donβt quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door. Shrinking down to the ground. βIs this the way you greet all Alphaβs?β His deep voice rumbles through the room, an edge of amusement to his tone. βIβm sorry.β I whisper, getting to my feet. βIβ¦I thought I was alone.β I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. βCome forward.β He orders. Alpha Trey was going to kill me. I do as Iβm told. Allowing him to see me properly and I am met with narrowed crimson eyes. I close my own eyes, expecting the worst. βYou smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?β My head moved up and down, though I couldnβt tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they discovered the truth about me. βI would prefer it if you spoke to me.β He growls, βIβm not in the mood to play games.β βYes.β I whisper. βI amβ¦I am a Wolf.β I couldnβt help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? I wasnβt sure how much more my body could take. βHow is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.β βIβ¦..β I hated the question. βI havenβt got all day!β He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldnβt scent him. I knew why I hadnβt been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever liked to do. They never hear my side of the story. All they do is accept Alpha Trey's word as the truth. βYou should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?β His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them. There was no way I was making direct eye contact. βMy Wolf abilities were bound.β βWhy?β If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. βIt was a punishment.β βFor what?β βFor killing my parents.β | New world publications | 9 | https://facebook.com/61557831245498 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717830000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879607 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410696 | 1723321841 | 995 | 1446131629599107 | 1 | 9.3528040839923E+14 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 273913162469522 | 0 | New world publications | 120212928768730170 | wwwedb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πAttention! Do not read in publicοΌπ | https://wwwedb.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11782&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717757425 | 2.7391316246952E+14 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959759_1311554859802432_4227718076479884991_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GwKF1hWO7f4Q7kNvgGcgnOa&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAaDJ90YtTRVgl1h4Qq29YmZWIZCVWKY5MqqmnLhItL8w&oe=6672A69D | person_profile | 0 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959270_7187349571370885_4976612476689122460_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=NNss872fdPgQ7kNvgE-PVII&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAp0ikcilFTLm0se1WcAfumGS3USCJAFn0NgxepicFnPw&oe=6672B455 | 0 | 3 | The clearing of a throat makes me jump. I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of alcohol. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that donβt quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door. Shrinking down to the ground. βIs this the way you greet all Alphaβs?β His deep voice rumbles through the room, an edge of amusement to his tone. βIβm sorry.β I whisper, getting to my feet. βIβ¦I thought I was alone.β I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. βCome forward.β He orders. Alpha Trey was going to kill me. I do as Iβm told. Allowing him to see me properly and I am met with narrowed crimson eyes. I close my own eyes, expecting the worst. βYou smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?β My head moved up and down, though I couldnβt tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they discovered the truth about me. βI would prefer it if you spoke to me.β He growls, βIβm not in the mood to play games.β βYes.β I whisper. βI amβ¦I am a Wolf.β I couldnβt help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? I wasnβt sure how much more my body could take. βHow is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.β βIβ¦..β I hated the question. βI havenβt got all day!β He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldnβt scent him. I knew why I hadnβt been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever liked to do. They never hear my side of the story. All they do is accept Alpha Trey's word as the truth. βYou should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?β His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them. There was no way I was making direct eye contact. βMy Wolf abilities were bound.β βWhy?β If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. βIt was a punishment.β βFor what?β βFor killing my parents.β | New world publications | 9 | https://facebook.com/61557831245498 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717830000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879608 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410696 | 1723321841 | 995 | 1446131629599107 | 1 | 9.3528040839923E+14 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 273913162469522 | 0 | New world publications | 120212928768730170 | wwwedb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πAttention! Do not read in publicοΌπ | https://wwwedb.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11782&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717757425 | 2.7391316246952E+14 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959759_1311554859802432_4227718076479884991_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GwKF1hWO7f4Q7kNvgGcgnOa&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAaDJ90YtTRVgl1h4Qq29YmZWIZCVWKY5MqqmnLhItL8w&oe=6672A69D | person_profile | 0 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959270_7187349571370885_4976612476689122460_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=NNss872fdPgQ7kNvgE-PVII&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAp0ikcilFTLm0se1WcAfumGS3USCJAFn0NgxepicFnPw&oe=6672B455 | 0 | 3 | The clearing of a throat makes me jump. I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of alcohol. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that donβt quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door. Shrinking down to the ground. βIs this the way you greet all Alphaβs?β His deep voice rumbles through the room, an edge of amusement to his tone. βIβm sorry.β I whisper, getting to my feet. βIβ¦I thought I was alone.β I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. βCome forward.β He orders. Alpha Trey was going to kill me. I do as Iβm told. Allowing him to see me properly and I am met with narrowed crimson eyes. I close my own eyes, expecting the worst. βYou smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?β My head moved up and down, though I couldnβt tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they discovered the truth about me. βI would prefer it if you spoke to me.β He growls, βIβm not in the mood to play games.β βYes.β I whisper. βI amβ¦I am a Wolf.β I couldnβt help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? I wasnβt sure how much more my body could take. βHow is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.β βIβ¦..β I hated the question. βI havenβt got all day!β He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldnβt scent him. I knew why I hadnβt been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever liked to do. They never hear my side of the story. All they do is accept Alpha Trey's word as the truth. βYou should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?β His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them. There was no way I was making direct eye contact. βMy Wolf abilities were bound.β βWhy?β If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. βIt was a punishment.β βFor what?β βFor killing my parents.β | New world publications | 9 | https://facebook.com/61557831245498 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717830000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879610 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410696 | 1723321841 | 995 | 1446131629599107 | 1 | 9.3528040839923E+14 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 273913162469522 | 0 | New world publications | 120212928768730170 | wwwedb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πAttention! Do not read in publicοΌπ | https://wwwedb.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11782&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717757425 | 2.7391316246952E+14 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959759_1311554859802432_4227718076479884991_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GwKF1hWO7f4Q7kNvgGcgnOa&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAaDJ90YtTRVgl1h4Qq29YmZWIZCVWKY5MqqmnLhItL8w&oe=6672A69D | person_profile | 0 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959270_7187349571370885_4976612476689122460_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=NNss872fdPgQ7kNvgE-PVII&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAp0ikcilFTLm0se1WcAfumGS3USCJAFn0NgxepicFnPw&oe=6672B455 | 0 | 3 | The clearing of a throat makes me jump. I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of alcohol. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that donβt quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door. Shrinking down to the ground. βIs this the way you greet all Alphaβs?β His deep voice rumbles through the room, an edge of amusement to his tone. βIβm sorry.β I whisper, getting to my feet. βIβ¦I thought I was alone.β I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. βCome forward.β He orders. Alpha Trey was going to kill me. I do as Iβm told. Allowing him to see me properly and I am met with narrowed crimson eyes. I close my own eyes, expecting the worst. βYou smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?β My head moved up and down, though I couldnβt tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they discovered the truth about me. βI would prefer it if you spoke to me.β He growls, βIβm not in the mood to play games.β βYes.β I whisper. βI amβ¦I am a Wolf.β I couldnβt help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? I wasnβt sure how much more my body could take. βHow is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.β βIβ¦..β I hated the question. βI havenβt got all day!β He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldnβt scent him. I knew why I hadnβt been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever liked to do. They never hear my side of the story. All they do is accept Alpha Trey's word as the truth. βYou should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?β His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them. There was no way I was making direct eye contact. βMy Wolf abilities were bound.β βWhy?β If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. βIt was a punishment.β βFor what?β βFor killing my parents.β | New world publications | 9 | https://facebook.com/61557831245498 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717830000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879611 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410696 | 1723321841 | 995 | 1446131629599107 | 1 | 9.3528040839923E+14 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 273913162469522 | 0 | New world publications | 120212928768730170 | wwwedb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πAttention! Do not read in publicοΌπ | https://wwwedb.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11782&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717757425 | 2.7391316246952E+14 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959759_1311554859802432_4227718076479884991_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GwKF1hWO7f4Q7kNvgGcgnOa&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAaDJ90YtTRVgl1h4Qq29YmZWIZCVWKY5MqqmnLhItL8w&oe=6672A69D | person_profile | 0 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959270_7187349571370885_4976612476689122460_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=NNss872fdPgQ7kNvgE-PVII&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAp0ikcilFTLm0se1WcAfumGS3USCJAFn0NgxepicFnPw&oe=6672B455 | 0 | 3 | The clearing of a throat makes me jump. I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of alcohol. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that donβt quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door. Shrinking down to the ground. βIs this the way you greet all Alphaβs?β His deep voice rumbles through the room, an edge of amusement to his tone. βIβm sorry.β I whisper, getting to my feet. βIβ¦I thought I was alone.β I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. βCome forward.β He orders. Alpha Trey was going to kill me. I do as Iβm told. Allowing him to see me properly and I am met with narrowed crimson eyes. I close my own eyes, expecting the worst. βYou smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?β My head moved up and down, though I couldnβt tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they discovered the truth about me. βI would prefer it if you spoke to me.β He growls, βIβm not in the mood to play games.β βYes.β I whisper. βI amβ¦I am a Wolf.β I couldnβt help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? I wasnβt sure how much more my body could take. βHow is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.β βIβ¦..β I hated the question. βI havenβt got all day!β He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldnβt scent him. I knew why I hadnβt been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever liked to do. They never hear my side of the story. All they do is accept Alpha Trey's word as the truth. βYou should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?β His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them. There was no way I was making direct eye contact. βMy Wolf abilities were bound.β βWhy?β If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. βIt was a punishment.β βFor what?β βFor killing my parents.β | New world publications | 9 | https://facebook.com/61557831245498 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717830000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879612 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410696 | 1723321841 | 995 | 1828612057649255 | 1 | 9.7304891769959E+14 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 273913162469522 | 0 | New world publications | 120212928768730170 | wwwedb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πAttention! Do not read in publicοΌπ | https://wwwedb.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11782&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717757425 | 2.7391316246952E+14 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959759_1311554859802432_4227718076479884991_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GwKF1hWO7f4Q7kNvgGcgnOa&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAaDJ90YtTRVgl1h4Qq29YmZWIZCVWKY5MqqmnLhItL8w&oe=6672A69D | person_profile | 0 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959270_7187349571370885_4976612476689122460_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=NNss872fdPgQ7kNvgE-PVII&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAp0ikcilFTLm0se1WcAfumGS3USCJAFn0NgxepicFnPw&oe=6672B455 | 0 | 3 | The clearing of a throat makes me jump. I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of alcohol. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that donβt quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door. Shrinking down to the ground. βIs this the way you greet all Alphaβs?β His deep voice rumbles through the room, an edge of amusement to his tone. βIβm sorry.β I whisper, getting to my feet. βIβ¦I thought I was alone.β I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. βCome forward.β He orders. Alpha Trey was going to kill me. I do as Iβm told. Allowing him to see me properly and I am met with narrowed crimson eyes. I close my own eyes, expecting the worst. βYou smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?β My head moved up and down, though I couldnβt tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they discovered the truth about me. βI would prefer it if you spoke to me.β He growls, βIβm not in the mood to play games.β βYes.β I whisper. βI amβ¦I am a Wolf.β I couldnβt help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? I wasnβt sure how much more my body could take. βHow is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.β βIβ¦..β I hated the question. βI havenβt got all day!β He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldnβt scent him. I knew why I hadnβt been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever liked to do. They never hear my side of the story. All they do is accept Alpha Trey's word as the truth. βYou should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?β His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them. There was no way I was making direct eye contact. βMy Wolf abilities were bound.β βWhy?β If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. βIt was a punishment.β βFor what?β βFor killing my parents.β | New world publications | 9 | https://facebook.com/61557831245498 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718175600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879614 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410697 | 1723321841 | 995 | 1828612057649255 | 1 | 9.7304891769959E+14 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 273913162469522 | 0 | New world publications | 120212928768730170 | wwwedb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πAttention! Do not read in publicοΌπ | https://wwwedb.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11782&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717757425 | 2.7391316246952E+14 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959759_1311554859802432_4227718076479884991_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GwKF1hWO7f4Q7kNvgGcgnOa&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAaDJ90YtTRVgl1h4Qq29YmZWIZCVWKY5MqqmnLhItL8w&oe=6672A69D | person_profile | 0 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959270_7187349571370885_4976612476689122460_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=NNss872fdPgQ7kNvgE-PVII&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAp0ikcilFTLm0se1WcAfumGS3USCJAFn0NgxepicFnPw&oe=6672B455 | 0 | 3 | The clearing of a throat makes me jump. I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of alcohol. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that donβt quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door. Shrinking down to the ground. βIs this the way you greet all Alphaβs?β His deep voice rumbles through the room, an edge of amusement to his tone. βIβm sorry.β I whisper, getting to my feet. βIβ¦I thought I was alone.β I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. βCome forward.β He orders. Alpha Trey was going to kill me. I do as Iβm told. Allowing him to see me properly and I am met with narrowed crimson eyes. I close my own eyes, expecting the worst. βYou smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?β My head moved up and down, though I couldnβt tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they discovered the truth about me. βI would prefer it if you spoke to me.β He growls, βIβm not in the mood to play games.β βYes.β I whisper. βI amβ¦I am a Wolf.β I couldnβt help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? I wasnβt sure how much more my body could take. βHow is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.β βIβ¦..β I hated the question. βI havenβt got all day!β He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldnβt scent him. I knew why I hadnβt been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever liked to do. They never hear my side of the story. All they do is accept Alpha Trey's word as the truth. βYou should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?β His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them. There was no way I was making direct eye contact. βMy Wolf abilities were bound.β βWhy?β If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. βIt was a punishment.β βFor what?β βFor killing my parents.β | New world publications | 9 | https://facebook.com/61557831245498 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718175600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879615 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410697 | 1723321841 | 995 | 1828612057649255 | 1 | 9.7304891769959E+14 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 273913162469522 | 0 | New world publications | 120212928768730170 | wwwedb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πAttention! Do not read in publicοΌπ | https://wwwedb.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11782&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717757425 | 2.7391316246952E+14 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959759_1311554859802432_4227718076479884991_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GwKF1hWO7f4Q7kNvgGcgnOa&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAaDJ90YtTRVgl1h4Qq29YmZWIZCVWKY5MqqmnLhItL8w&oe=6672A69D | person_profile | 0 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959270_7187349571370885_4976612476689122460_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=NNss872fdPgQ7kNvgE-PVII&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAp0ikcilFTLm0se1WcAfumGS3USCJAFn0NgxepicFnPw&oe=6672B455 | 0 | 3 | The clearing of a throat makes me jump. I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of alcohol. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that donβt quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door. Shrinking down to the ground. βIs this the way you greet all Alphaβs?β His deep voice rumbles through the room, an edge of amusement to his tone. βIβm sorry.β I whisper, getting to my feet. βIβ¦I thought I was alone.β I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. βCome forward.β He orders. Alpha Trey was going to kill me. I do as Iβm told. Allowing him to see me properly and I am met with narrowed crimson eyes. I close my own eyes, expecting the worst. βYou smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?β My head moved up and down, though I couldnβt tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they discovered the truth about me. βI would prefer it if you spoke to me.β He growls, βIβm not in the mood to play games.β βYes.β I whisper. βI amβ¦I am a Wolf.β I couldnβt help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? I wasnβt sure how much more my body could take. βHow is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.β βIβ¦..β I hated the question. βI havenβt got all day!β He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldnβt scent him. I knew why I hadnβt been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever liked to do. They never hear my side of the story. All they do is accept Alpha Trey's word as the truth. βYou should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?β His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them. There was no way I was making direct eye contact. βMy Wolf abilities were bound.β βWhy?β If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. βIt was a punishment.β βFor what?β βFor killing my parents.β | New world publications | 9 | https://facebook.com/61557831245498 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718175600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879616 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410697 | 1723321841 | 995 | 1828612057649255 | 1 | 9.7304891769959E+14 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 273913162469522 | 0 | New world publications | 120212928768730170 | wwwedb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πAttention! Do not read in publicοΌπ | https://wwwedb.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11782&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717757425 | 2.7391316246952E+14 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959759_1311554859802432_4227718076479884991_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GwKF1hWO7f4Q7kNvgGcgnOa&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAaDJ90YtTRVgl1h4Qq29YmZWIZCVWKY5MqqmnLhItL8w&oe=6672A69D | person_profile | 0 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959270_7187349571370885_4976612476689122460_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=NNss872fdPgQ7kNvgE-PVII&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAp0ikcilFTLm0se1WcAfumGS3USCJAFn0NgxepicFnPw&oe=6672B455 | 0 | 3 | The clearing of a throat makes me jump. I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of alcohol. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that donβt quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door. Shrinking down to the ground. βIs this the way you greet all Alphaβs?β His deep voice rumbles through the room, an edge of amusement to his tone. βIβm sorry.β I whisper, getting to my feet. βIβ¦I thought I was alone.β I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. βCome forward.β He orders. Alpha Trey was going to kill me. I do as Iβm told. Allowing him to see me properly and I am met with narrowed crimson eyes. I close my own eyes, expecting the worst. βYou smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?β My head moved up and down, though I couldnβt tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they discovered the truth about me. βI would prefer it if you spoke to me.β He growls, βIβm not in the mood to play games.β βYes.β I whisper. βI amβ¦I am a Wolf.β I couldnβt help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? I wasnβt sure how much more my body could take. βHow is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.β βIβ¦..β I hated the question. βI havenβt got all day!β He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldnβt scent him. I knew why I hadnβt been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever liked to do. They never hear my side of the story. All they do is accept Alpha Trey's word as the truth. βYou should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?β His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them. There was no way I was making direct eye contact. βMy Wolf abilities were bound.β βWhy?β If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. βIt was a punishment.β βFor what?β βFor killing my parents.β | New world publications | 9 | https://facebook.com/61557831245498 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718175600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879617 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410697 | 1723321842 | 995 | 1828612057649255 | 1 | 9.7304891769959E+14 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 273913162469522 | 0 | New world publications | 120212928768730170 | wwwedb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πAttention! Do not read in publicοΌπ | https://wwwedb.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11782&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717757425 | 2.7391316246952E+14 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959759_1311554859802432_4227718076479884991_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GwKF1hWO7f4Q7kNvgGcgnOa&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAaDJ90YtTRVgl1h4Qq29YmZWIZCVWKY5MqqmnLhItL8w&oe=6672A69D | person_profile | 0 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959270_7187349571370885_4976612476689122460_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=NNss872fdPgQ7kNvgE-PVII&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAp0ikcilFTLm0se1WcAfumGS3USCJAFn0NgxepicFnPw&oe=6672B455 | 0 | 3 | The clearing of a throat makes me jump. I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of alcohol. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that donβt quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door. Shrinking down to the ground. βIs this the way you greet all Alphaβs?β His deep voice rumbles through the room, an edge of amusement to his tone. βIβm sorry.β I whisper, getting to my feet. βIβ¦I thought I was alone.β I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. βCome forward.β He orders. Alpha Trey was going to kill me. I do as Iβm told. Allowing him to see me properly and I am met with narrowed crimson eyes. I close my own eyes, expecting the worst. βYou smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?β My head moved up and down, though I couldnβt tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they discovered the truth about me. βI would prefer it if you spoke to me.β He growls, βIβm not in the mood to play games.β βYes.β I whisper. βI amβ¦I am a Wolf.β I couldnβt help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? I wasnβt sure how much more my body could take. βHow is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.β βIβ¦..β I hated the question. βI havenβt got all day!β He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldnβt scent him. I knew why I hadnβt been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever liked to do. They never hear my side of the story. All they do is accept Alpha Trey's word as the truth. βYou should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?β His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them. There was no way I was making direct eye contact. βMy Wolf abilities were bound.β βWhy?β If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. βIt was a punishment.β βFor what?β βFor killing my parents.β | New world publications | 9 | https://facebook.com/61557831245498 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718175600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879618 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410697 | 1723321842 | 995 | 1828612057649255 | 1 | 9.7304891769959E+14 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 273913162469522 | 0 | New world publications | 120212928768730170 | wwwedb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πAttention! Do not read in publicοΌπ | https://wwwedb.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11782&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717757425 | 2.7391316246952E+14 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959759_1311554859802432_4227718076479884991_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GwKF1hWO7f4Q7kNvgGcgnOa&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAaDJ90YtTRVgl1h4Qq29YmZWIZCVWKY5MqqmnLhItL8w&oe=6672A69D | person_profile | 0 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959270_7187349571370885_4976612476689122460_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=NNss872fdPgQ7kNvgE-PVII&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAp0ikcilFTLm0se1WcAfumGS3USCJAFn0NgxepicFnPw&oe=6672B455 | 0 | 3 | The clearing of a throat makes me jump. I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of alcohol. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that donβt quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door. Shrinking down to the ground. βIs this the way you greet all Alphaβs?β His deep voice rumbles through the room, an edge of amusement to his tone. βIβm sorry.β I whisper, getting to my feet. βIβ¦I thought I was alone.β I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. βCome forward.β He orders. Alpha Trey was going to kill me. I do as Iβm told. Allowing him to see me properly and I am met with narrowed crimson eyes. I close my own eyes, expecting the worst. βYou smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?β My head moved up and down, though I couldnβt tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they discovered the truth about me. βI would prefer it if you spoke to me.β He growls, βIβm not in the mood to play games.β βYes.β I whisper. βI amβ¦I am a Wolf.β I couldnβt help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? I wasnβt sure how much more my body could take. βHow is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.β βIβ¦..β I hated the question. βI havenβt got all day!β He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldnβt scent him. I knew why I hadnβt been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever liked to do. They never hear my side of the story. All they do is accept Alpha Trey's word as the truth. βYou should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?β His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them. There was no way I was making direct eye contact. βMy Wolf abilities were bound.β βWhy?β If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. βIt was a punishment.β βFor what?β βFor killing my parents.β | New world publications | 9 | https://facebook.com/61557831245498 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718175600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879619 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410697 | 1723321842 | 995 | 1828612057649255 | 1 | 9.7304891769959E+14 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 273913162469522 | 0 | New world publications | 120212928768730170 | wwwedb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πAttention! Do not read in publicοΌπ | https://wwwedb.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11782&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717757425 | 2.7391316246952E+14 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959759_1311554859802432_4227718076479884991_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GwKF1hWO7f4Q7kNvgGcgnOa&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAaDJ90YtTRVgl1h4Qq29YmZWIZCVWKY5MqqmnLhItL8w&oe=6672A69D | person_profile | 0 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959270_7187349571370885_4976612476689122460_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=NNss872fdPgQ7kNvgE-PVII&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAp0ikcilFTLm0se1WcAfumGS3USCJAFn0NgxepicFnPw&oe=6672B455 | 0 | 3 | The clearing of a throat makes me jump. I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of alcohol. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that donβt quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door. Shrinking down to the ground. βIs this the way you greet all Alphaβs?β His deep voice rumbles through the room, an edge of amusement to his tone. βIβm sorry.β I whisper, getting to my feet. βIβ¦I thought I was alone.β I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. βCome forward.β He orders. Alpha Trey was going to kill me. I do as Iβm told. Allowing him to see me properly and I am met with narrowed crimson eyes. I close my own eyes, expecting the worst. βYou smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?β My head moved up and down, though I couldnβt tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they discovered the truth about me. βI would prefer it if you spoke to me.β He growls, βIβm not in the mood to play games.β βYes.β I whisper. βI amβ¦I am a Wolf.β I couldnβt help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? I wasnβt sure how much more my body could take. βHow is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.β βIβ¦..β I hated the question. βI havenβt got all day!β He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldnβt scent him. I knew why I hadnβt been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever liked to do. They never hear my side of the story. All they do is accept Alpha Trey's word as the truth. βYou should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?β His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them. There was no way I was making direct eye contact. βMy Wolf abilities were bound.β βWhy?β If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. βIt was a punishment.β βFor what?β βFor killing my parents.β | New world publications | 9 | https://facebook.com/61557831245498 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718175600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879620 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410697 | 1723321842 | 995 | 1828612057649255 | 1 | 9.7304891769959E+14 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 273913162469522 | 0 | New world publications | 120212928768730170 | wwwedb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πAttention! Do not read in publicοΌπ | https://wwwedb.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11782&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717757425 | 2.7391316246952E+14 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959759_1311554859802432_4227718076479884991_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GwKF1hWO7f4Q7kNvgGcgnOa&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAaDJ90YtTRVgl1h4Qq29YmZWIZCVWKY5MqqmnLhItL8w&oe=6672A69D | person_profile | 0 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959270_7187349571370885_4976612476689122460_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=NNss872fdPgQ7kNvgE-PVII&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAp0ikcilFTLm0se1WcAfumGS3USCJAFn0NgxepicFnPw&oe=6672B455 | 0 | 3 | The clearing of a throat makes me jump. I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of alcohol. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that donβt quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door. Shrinking down to the ground. βIs this the way you greet all Alphaβs?β His deep voice rumbles through the room, an edge of amusement to his tone. βIβm sorry.β I whisper, getting to my feet. βIβ¦I thought I was alone.β I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. βCome forward.β He orders. Alpha Trey was going to kill me. I do as Iβm told. Allowing him to see me properly and I am met with narrowed crimson eyes. I close my own eyes, expecting the worst. βYou smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?β My head moved up and down, though I couldnβt tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they discovered the truth about me. βI would prefer it if you spoke to me.β He growls, βIβm not in the mood to play games.β βYes.β I whisper. βI amβ¦I am a Wolf.β I couldnβt help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? I wasnβt sure how much more my body could take. βHow is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.β βIβ¦..β I hated the question. βI havenβt got all day!β He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldnβt scent him. I knew why I hadnβt been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever liked to do. They never hear my side of the story. All they do is accept Alpha Trey's word as the truth. βYou should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?β His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them. There was no way I was making direct eye contact. βMy Wolf abilities were bound.β βWhy?β If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. βIt was a punishment.β βFor what?β βFor killing my parents.β | New world publications | 9 | https://facebook.com/61557831245498 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718175600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879621 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410697 | 1723321842 | 995 | 1828612057649255 | 1 | 9.7304891769959E+14 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 273913162469522 | 0 | New world publications | 120212928768730170 | wwwedb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πAttention! Do not read in publicοΌπ | https://wwwedb.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11782&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717757425 | 2.7391316246952E+14 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959759_1311554859802432_4227718076479884991_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GwKF1hWO7f4Q7kNvgGcgnOa&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAaDJ90YtTRVgl1h4Qq29YmZWIZCVWKY5MqqmnLhItL8w&oe=6672A69D | person_profile | 0 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959270_7187349571370885_4976612476689122460_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=NNss872fdPgQ7kNvgE-PVII&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAp0ikcilFTLm0se1WcAfumGS3USCJAFn0NgxepicFnPw&oe=6672B455 | 0 | 3 | The clearing of a throat makes me jump. I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of alcohol. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that donβt quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door. Shrinking down to the ground. βIs this the way you greet all Alphaβs?β His deep voice rumbles through the room, an edge of amusement to his tone. βIβm sorry.β I whisper, getting to my feet. βIβ¦I thought I was alone.β I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. βCome forward.β He orders. Alpha Trey was going to kill me. I do as Iβm told. Allowing him to see me properly and I am met with narrowed crimson eyes. I close my own eyes, expecting the worst. βYou smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?β My head moved up and down, though I couldnβt tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they discovered the truth about me. βI would prefer it if you spoke to me.β He growls, βIβm not in the mood to play games.β βYes.β I whisper. βI amβ¦I am a Wolf.β I couldnβt help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? I wasnβt sure how much more my body could take. βHow is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.β βIβ¦..β I hated the question. βI havenβt got all day!β He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldnβt scent him. I knew why I hadnβt been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever liked to do. They never hear my side of the story. All they do is accept Alpha Trey's word as the truth. βYou should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?β His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them. There was no way I was making direct eye contact. βMy Wolf abilities were bound.β βWhy?β If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. βIt was a punishment.β βFor what?β βFor killing my parents.β | New world publications | 9 | https://facebook.com/61557831245498 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718175600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879622 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410697 | 1723321842 | 995 | 2192424827787443 | 1 | 8.1032718449827E+14 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 273913162469522 | 0 | New world publications | 120212928768730170 | wwwedb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πAttention! Do not read in publicοΌπ | https://wwwedb.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11782&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717757425 | 2.7391316246952E+14 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959759_1311554859802432_4227718076479884991_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GwKF1hWO7f4Q7kNvgGcgnOa&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAaDJ90YtTRVgl1h4Qq29YmZWIZCVWKY5MqqmnLhItL8w&oe=6672A69D | person_profile | 0 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959270_7187349571370885_4976612476689122460_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=NNss872fdPgQ7kNvgE-PVII&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAp0ikcilFTLm0se1WcAfumGS3USCJAFn0NgxepicFnPw&oe=6672B455 | 0 | 3 | The clearing of a throat makes me jump. I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of alcohol. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that donβt quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door. Shrinking down to the ground. βIs this the way you greet all Alphaβs?β His deep voice rumbles through the room, an edge of amusement to his tone. βIβm sorry.β I whisper, getting to my feet. βIβ¦I thought I was alone.β I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. βCome forward.β He orders. Alpha Trey was going to kill me. I do as Iβm told. Allowing him to see me properly and I am met with narrowed crimson eyes. I close my own eyes, expecting the worst. βYou smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?β My head moved up and down, though I couldnβt tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they discovered the truth about me. βI would prefer it if you spoke to me.β He growls, βIβm not in the mood to play games.β βYes.β I whisper. βI amβ¦I am a Wolf.β I couldnβt help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? I wasnβt sure how much more my body could take. βHow is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.β βIβ¦..β I hated the question. βI havenβt got all day!β He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldnβt scent him. I knew why I hadnβt been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever liked to do. They never hear my side of the story. All they do is accept Alpha Trey's word as the truth. βYou should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?β His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them. There was no way I was making direct eye contact. βMy Wolf abilities were bound.β βWhy?β If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. βIt was a punishment.β βFor what?β βFor killing my parents.β | New world publications | 9 | https://facebook.com/61557831245498 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718262000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879623 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410697 | 1723321842 | 995 | 2192424827787443 | 1 | 8.1032718449827E+14 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 273913162469522 | 0 | New world publications | 120212928768730170 | wwwedb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πAttention! Do not read in publicοΌπ | https://wwwedb.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11782&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717757425 | 2.7391316246952E+14 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959759_1311554859802432_4227718076479884991_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GwKF1hWO7f4Q7kNvgGcgnOa&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAaDJ90YtTRVgl1h4Qq29YmZWIZCVWKY5MqqmnLhItL8w&oe=6672A69D | person_profile | 0 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959270_7187349571370885_4976612476689122460_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=NNss872fdPgQ7kNvgE-PVII&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAp0ikcilFTLm0se1WcAfumGS3USCJAFn0NgxepicFnPw&oe=6672B455 | 0 | 3 | The clearing of a throat makes me jump. I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of alcohol. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that donβt quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door. Shrinking down to the ground. βIs this the way you greet all Alphaβs?β His deep voice rumbles through the room, an edge of amusement to his tone. βIβm sorry.β I whisper, getting to my feet. βIβ¦I thought I was alone.β I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. βCome forward.β He orders. Alpha Trey was going to kill me. I do as Iβm told. Allowing him to see me properly and I am met with narrowed crimson eyes. I close my own eyes, expecting the worst. βYou smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?β My head moved up and down, though I couldnβt tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they discovered the truth about me. βI would prefer it if you spoke to me.β He growls, βIβm not in the mood to play games.β βYes.β I whisper. βI amβ¦I am a Wolf.β I couldnβt help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? I wasnβt sure how much more my body could take. βHow is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.β βIβ¦..β I hated the question. βI havenβt got all day!β He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldnβt scent him. I knew why I hadnβt been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever liked to do. They never hear my side of the story. All they do is accept Alpha Trey's word as the truth. βYou should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?β His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them. There was no way I was making direct eye contact. βMy Wolf abilities were bound.β βWhy?β If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. βIt was a punishment.β βFor what?β βFor killing my parents.β | New world publications | 9 | https://facebook.com/61557831245498 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718262000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879624 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410697 | 1723321842 | 995 | 2192424827787443 | 1 | 8.1032718449827E+14 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 273913162469522 | 0 | New world publications | 120212928768730170 | wwwedb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πAttention! Do not read in publicοΌπ | https://wwwedb.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11782&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717757425 | 2.7391316246952E+14 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959759_1311554859802432_4227718076479884991_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GwKF1hWO7f4Q7kNvgGcgnOa&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAaDJ90YtTRVgl1h4Qq29YmZWIZCVWKY5MqqmnLhItL8w&oe=6672A69D | person_profile | 0 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959270_7187349571370885_4976612476689122460_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=NNss872fdPgQ7kNvgE-PVII&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAp0ikcilFTLm0se1WcAfumGS3USCJAFn0NgxepicFnPw&oe=6672B455 | 0 | 3 | The clearing of a throat makes me jump. I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of alcohol. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that donβt quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door. Shrinking down to the ground. βIs this the way you greet all Alphaβs?β His deep voice rumbles through the room, an edge of amusement to his tone. βIβm sorry.β I whisper, getting to my feet. βIβ¦I thought I was alone.β I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. βCome forward.β He orders. Alpha Trey was going to kill me. I do as Iβm told. Allowing him to see me properly and I am met with narrowed crimson eyes. I close my own eyes, expecting the worst. βYou smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?β My head moved up and down, though I couldnβt tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they discovered the truth about me. βI would prefer it if you spoke to me.β He growls, βIβm not in the mood to play games.β βYes.β I whisper. βI amβ¦I am a Wolf.β I couldnβt help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? I wasnβt sure how much more my body could take. βHow is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.β βIβ¦..β I hated the question. βI havenβt got all day!β He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldnβt scent him. I knew why I hadnβt been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever liked to do. They never hear my side of the story. All they do is accept Alpha Trey's word as the truth. βYou should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?β His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them. There was no way I was making direct eye contact. βMy Wolf abilities were bound.β βWhy?β If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. βIt was a punishment.β βFor what?β βFor killing my parents.β | New world publications | 9 | https://facebook.com/61557831245498 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718262000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879625 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410697 | 1723321842 | 995 | 2192424827787443 | 1 | 8.1032718449827E+14 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 273913162469522 | 0 | New world publications | 120212928768730170 | wwwedb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πAttention! Do not read in publicοΌπ | https://wwwedb.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11782&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717757425 | 2.7391316246952E+14 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959759_1311554859802432_4227718076479884991_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GwKF1hWO7f4Q7kNvgGcgnOa&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAaDJ90YtTRVgl1h4Qq29YmZWIZCVWKY5MqqmnLhItL8w&oe=6672A69D | person_profile | 0 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959270_7187349571370885_4976612476689122460_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=NNss872fdPgQ7kNvgE-PVII&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAp0ikcilFTLm0se1WcAfumGS3USCJAFn0NgxepicFnPw&oe=6672B455 | 0 | 3 | The clearing of a throat makes me jump. I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of alcohol. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that donβt quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door. Shrinking down to the ground. βIs this the way you greet all Alphaβs?β His deep voice rumbles through the room, an edge of amusement to his tone. βIβm sorry.β I whisper, getting to my feet. βIβ¦I thought I was alone.β I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. βCome forward.β He orders. Alpha Trey was going to kill me. I do as Iβm told. Allowing him to see me properly and I am met with narrowed crimson eyes. I close my own eyes, expecting the worst. βYou smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?β My head moved up and down, though I couldnβt tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they discovered the truth about me. βI would prefer it if you spoke to me.β He growls, βIβm not in the mood to play games.β βYes.β I whisper. βI amβ¦I am a Wolf.β I couldnβt help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? I wasnβt sure how much more my body could take. βHow is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.β βIβ¦..β I hated the question. βI havenβt got all day!β He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldnβt scent him. I knew why I hadnβt been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever liked to do. They never hear my side of the story. All they do is accept Alpha Trey's word as the truth. βYou should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?β His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them. There was no way I was making direct eye contact. βMy Wolf abilities were bound.β βWhy?β If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. βIt was a punishment.β βFor what?β βFor killing my parents.β | New world publications | 9 | https://facebook.com/61557831245498 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718262000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879626 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410697 | 1723321842 | 995 | 2192424827787443 | 1 | 8.1032718449827E+14 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 273913162469522 | 0 | New world publications | 120212928768730170 | wwwedb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πAttention! Do not read in publicοΌπ | https://wwwedb.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11782&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717757425 | 2.7391316246952E+14 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959759_1311554859802432_4227718076479884991_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GwKF1hWO7f4Q7kNvgGcgnOa&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAaDJ90YtTRVgl1h4Qq29YmZWIZCVWKY5MqqmnLhItL8w&oe=6672A69D | person_profile | 0 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959270_7187349571370885_4976612476689122460_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=NNss872fdPgQ7kNvgE-PVII&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAp0ikcilFTLm0se1WcAfumGS3USCJAFn0NgxepicFnPw&oe=6672B455 | 0 | 3 | The clearing of a throat makes me jump. I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of alcohol. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that donβt quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door. Shrinking down to the ground. βIs this the way you greet all Alphaβs?β His deep voice rumbles through the room, an edge of amusement to his tone. βIβm sorry.β I whisper, getting to my feet. βIβ¦I thought I was alone.β I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. βCome forward.β He orders. Alpha Trey was going to kill me. I do as Iβm told. Allowing him to see me properly and I am met with narrowed crimson eyes. I close my own eyes, expecting the worst. βYou smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?β My head moved up and down, though I couldnβt tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they discovered the truth about me. βI would prefer it if you spoke to me.β He growls, βIβm not in the mood to play games.β βYes.β I whisper. βI amβ¦I am a Wolf.β I couldnβt help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? I wasnβt sure how much more my body could take. βHow is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.β βIβ¦..β I hated the question. βI havenβt got all day!β He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldnβt scent him. I knew why I hadnβt been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever liked to do. They never hear my side of the story. All they do is accept Alpha Trey's word as the truth. βYou should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?β His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them. There was no way I was making direct eye contact. βMy Wolf abilities were bound.β βWhy?β If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. βIt was a punishment.β βFor what?β βFor killing my parents.β | New world publications | 9 | https://facebook.com/61557831245498 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718262000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879627 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410697 | 1723321842 | 995 | 2192424827787443 | 1 | 8.1032718449827E+14 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 273913162469522 | 0 | New world publications | 120212928768730170 | wwwedb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πAttention! Do not read in publicοΌπ | https://wwwedb.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11782&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717757425 | 2.7391316246952E+14 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959759_1311554859802432_4227718076479884991_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GwKF1hWO7f4Q7kNvgGcgnOa&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAaDJ90YtTRVgl1h4Qq29YmZWIZCVWKY5MqqmnLhItL8w&oe=6672A69D | person_profile | 0 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959270_7187349571370885_4976612476689122460_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=NNss872fdPgQ7kNvgE-PVII&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAp0ikcilFTLm0se1WcAfumGS3USCJAFn0NgxepicFnPw&oe=6672B455 | 0 | 3 | The clearing of a throat makes me jump. I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of alcohol. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that donβt quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door. Shrinking down to the ground. βIs this the way you greet all Alphaβs?β His deep voice rumbles through the room, an edge of amusement to his tone. βIβm sorry.β I whisper, getting to my feet. βIβ¦I thought I was alone.β I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. βCome forward.β He orders. Alpha Trey was going to kill me. I do as Iβm told. Allowing him to see me properly and I am met with narrowed crimson eyes. I close my own eyes, expecting the worst. βYou smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?β My head moved up and down, though I couldnβt tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they discovered the truth about me. βI would prefer it if you spoke to me.β He growls, βIβm not in the mood to play games.β βYes.β I whisper. βI amβ¦I am a Wolf.β I couldnβt help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? I wasnβt sure how much more my body could take. βHow is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.β βIβ¦..β I hated the question. βI havenβt got all day!β He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldnβt scent him. I knew why I hadnβt been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever liked to do. They never hear my side of the story. All they do is accept Alpha Trey's word as the truth. βYou should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?β His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them. There was no way I was making direct eye contact. βMy Wolf abilities were bound.β βWhy?β If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. βIt was a punishment.β βFor what?β βFor killing my parents.β | New world publications | 9 | https://facebook.com/61557831245498 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718262000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879628 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410697 | 1723321843 | 995 | 2192424827787443 | 1 | 8.1032718449827E+14 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 273913162469522 | 0 | New world publications | 120212928768730170 | wwwedb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πAttention! Do not read in publicοΌπ | https://wwwedb.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11782&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717757425 | 2.7391316246952E+14 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959759_1311554859802432_4227718076479884991_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GwKF1hWO7f4Q7kNvgGcgnOa&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAaDJ90YtTRVgl1h4Qq29YmZWIZCVWKY5MqqmnLhItL8w&oe=6672A69D | person_profile | 0 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959270_7187349571370885_4976612476689122460_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=NNss872fdPgQ7kNvgE-PVII&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAp0ikcilFTLm0se1WcAfumGS3USCJAFn0NgxepicFnPw&oe=6672B455 | 0 | 3 | The clearing of a throat makes me jump. I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of alcohol. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that donβt quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door. Shrinking down to the ground. βIs this the way you greet all Alphaβs?β His deep voice rumbles through the room, an edge of amusement to his tone. βIβm sorry.β I whisper, getting to my feet. βIβ¦I thought I was alone.β I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. βCome forward.β He orders. Alpha Trey was going to kill me. I do as Iβm told. Allowing him to see me properly and I am met with narrowed crimson eyes. I close my own eyes, expecting the worst. βYou smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?β My head moved up and down, though I couldnβt tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they discovered the truth about me. βI would prefer it if you spoke to me.β He growls, βIβm not in the mood to play games.β βYes.β I whisper. βI amβ¦I am a Wolf.β I couldnβt help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? I wasnβt sure how much more my body could take. βHow is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.β βIβ¦..β I hated the question. βI havenβt got all day!β He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldnβt scent him. I knew why I hadnβt been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever liked to do. They never hear my side of the story. All they do is accept Alpha Trey's word as the truth. βYou should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?β His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them. There was no way I was making direct eye contact. βMy Wolf abilities were bound.β βWhy?β If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. βIt was a punishment.β βFor what?β βFor killing my parents.β | New world publications | 9 | https://facebook.com/61557831245498 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718262000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879629 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410697 | 1723321843 | 995 | 2192424827787443 | 1 | 8.1032718449827E+14 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 273913162469522 | 0 | New world publications | 120212928768730170 | wwwedb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πAttention! Do not read in publicοΌπ | https://wwwedb.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11782&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717757425 | 2.7391316246952E+14 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959759_1311554859802432_4227718076479884991_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GwKF1hWO7f4Q7kNvgGcgnOa&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAaDJ90YtTRVgl1h4Qq29YmZWIZCVWKY5MqqmnLhItL8w&oe=6672A69D | person_profile | 0 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959270_7187349571370885_4976612476689122460_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=NNss872fdPgQ7kNvgE-PVII&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAp0ikcilFTLm0se1WcAfumGS3USCJAFn0NgxepicFnPw&oe=6672B455 | 0 | 3 | The clearing of a throat makes me jump. I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of alcohol. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that donβt quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door. Shrinking down to the ground. βIs this the way you greet all Alphaβs?β His deep voice rumbles through the room, an edge of amusement to his tone. βIβm sorry.β I whisper, getting to my feet. βIβ¦I thought I was alone.β I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. βCome forward.β He orders. Alpha Trey was going to kill me. I do as Iβm told. Allowing him to see me properly and I am met with narrowed crimson eyes. I close my own eyes, expecting the worst. βYou smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?β My head moved up and down, though I couldnβt tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they discovered the truth about me. βI would prefer it if you spoke to me.β He growls, βIβm not in the mood to play games.β βYes.β I whisper. βI amβ¦I am a Wolf.β I couldnβt help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? I wasnβt sure how much more my body could take. βHow is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.β βIβ¦..β I hated the question. βI havenβt got all day!β He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldnβt scent him. I knew why I hadnβt been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever liked to do. They never hear my side of the story. All they do is accept Alpha Trey's word as the truth. βYou should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?β His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them. There was no way I was making direct eye contact. βMy Wolf abilities were bound.β βWhy?β If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. βIt was a punishment.β βFor what?β βFor killing my parents.β | New world publications | 9 | https://facebook.com/61557831245498 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718262000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879630 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410697 | 1723321843 | 995 | 2192424827787443 | 1 | 8.1032718449827E+14 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 273913162469522 | 0 | New world publications | 120212928768730170 | wwwedb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πAttention! Do not read in publicοΌπ | https://wwwedb.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11782&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717757425 | 2.7391316246952E+14 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959759_1311554859802432_4227718076479884991_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GwKF1hWO7f4Q7kNvgGcgnOa&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAaDJ90YtTRVgl1h4Qq29YmZWIZCVWKY5MqqmnLhItL8w&oe=6672A69D | person_profile | 0 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959270_7187349571370885_4976612476689122460_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=NNss872fdPgQ7kNvgE-PVII&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAp0ikcilFTLm0se1WcAfumGS3USCJAFn0NgxepicFnPw&oe=6672B455 | 0 | 3 | The clearing of a throat makes me jump. I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of alcohol. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that donβt quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door. Shrinking down to the ground. βIs this the way you greet all Alphaβs?β His deep voice rumbles through the room, an edge of amusement to his tone. βIβm sorry.β I whisper, getting to my feet. βIβ¦I thought I was alone.β I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. βCome forward.β He orders. Alpha Trey was going to kill me. I do as Iβm told. Allowing him to see me properly and I am met with narrowed crimson eyes. I close my own eyes, expecting the worst. βYou smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?β My head moved up and down, though I couldnβt tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they discovered the truth about me. βI would prefer it if you spoke to me.β He growls, βIβm not in the mood to play games.β βYes.β I whisper. βI amβ¦I am a Wolf.β I couldnβt help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? I wasnβt sure how much more my body could take. βHow is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.β βIβ¦..β I hated the question. βI havenβt got all day!β He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldnβt scent him. I knew why I hadnβt been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever liked to do. They never hear my side of the story. All they do is accept Alpha Trey's word as the truth. βYou should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?β His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them. There was no way I was making direct eye contact. βMy Wolf abilities were bound.β βWhy?β If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. βIt was a punishment.β βFor what?β βFor killing my parents.β | New world publications | 9 | https://facebook.com/61557831245498 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718262000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879631 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410697 | 1723321843 | 995 | 2192424827787443 | 1 | 8.1032718449827E+14 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 273913162469522 | 0 | New world publications | 120212928768730170 | wwwedb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πAttention! Do not read in publicοΌπ | https://wwwedb.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11782&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717757425 | 2.7391316246952E+14 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959759_1311554859802432_4227718076479884991_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GwKF1hWO7f4Q7kNvgGcgnOa&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAaDJ90YtTRVgl1h4Qq29YmZWIZCVWKY5MqqmnLhItL8w&oe=6672A69D | person_profile | 0 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959270_7187349571370885_4976612476689122460_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=NNss872fdPgQ7kNvgE-PVII&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAp0ikcilFTLm0se1WcAfumGS3USCJAFn0NgxepicFnPw&oe=6672B455 | 0 | 3 | The clearing of a throat makes me jump. I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of alcohol. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that donβt quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door. Shrinking down to the ground. βIs this the way you greet all Alphaβs?β His deep voice rumbles through the room, an edge of amusement to his tone. βIβm sorry.β I whisper, getting to my feet. βIβ¦I thought I was alone.β I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. βCome forward.β He orders. Alpha Trey was going to kill me. I do as Iβm told. Allowing him to see me properly and I am met with narrowed crimson eyes. I close my own eyes, expecting the worst. βYou smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?β My head moved up and down, though I couldnβt tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they discovered the truth about me. βI would prefer it if you spoke to me.β He growls, βIβm not in the mood to play games.β βYes.β I whisper. βI amβ¦I am a Wolf.β I couldnβt help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? I wasnβt sure how much more my body could take. βHow is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.β βIβ¦..β I hated the question. βI havenβt got all day!β He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldnβt scent him. I knew why I hadnβt been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever liked to do. They never hear my side of the story. All they do is accept Alpha Trey's word as the truth. βYou should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?β His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them. There was no way I was making direct eye contact. βMy Wolf abilities were bound.β βWhy?β If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. βIt was a punishment.β βFor what?β βFor killing my parents.β | New world publications | 9 | https://facebook.com/61557831245498 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718262000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879632 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410698 | 1723321843 | 995 | 7599646173405331 | 4 | 8.1189217383301E+14 | 1716793200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120211846693390779 | qweasdzxconline.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πRead the next chaptersπ | https://qweasdzxconline.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11090&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715085862 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438129100_1146045226739178_2601865360875538189_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pgaM6op9EH4Q7kNvgFvStUz&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAnzNXAdVZ3R4dAiEpauXywjYljw4eXW7quZ6rvyHSXBw&oe=6672A490 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440747644_315502774915635_6353252339687881796_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YicSkuGzOiMQ7kNvgEoi2bQ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAN9i2X9Y9MK7cgBix3paDsplYdUdBGGi_LOwLoSJKKaQ&oe=6672CB97 | 0 | 3 | π"Ned Fletcher, with how you're treating Angie right now, aren't you worried that you're going to regret it when you finally regain your memories one day? You loved her so much before and you two got married for love! Despite you forgetting your feelings about her, how could you post so many indecent photos of her on social media?" Ned spoke nonchalantly, saying, "Why are you still holding me hostage with morals and principles? She was the one who framed me by lowly methods. I was just warning her. If Ingrid hadn't asked me to stop, I'd have gone even further! By the way, show your respect to Ingrid. Sheβs not a new girl but my only one forever and never!" Angeline Emmerson heard the talk standing outside the door. She used to be treated ever so lovingly by Ned in the past. Angeline felt her eyes reddening and filling with tears. The Ned she knew had died in the car accident that happened four years ago. The one inside was merely a stranger! Angeline inhaled deeply. Then, she pushed the door open. Ned looked up and saw her entering. "Who brought you here?" Angeline stared at Ned and said, "I've already made a police report regarding your spiked drink at the event and your spreading of my photos for revenge." Hearing this, everyone's reactions differed from one another. Angeline continued, "Ned Fletcher, it's true that I wanted to try rekindling our relationship, but I would never have stooped so low as to do those disgusting things to you. I didn't want to let go of this relationship because I was worried that the Ned I knew would return someday and blame me for giving up on him so easily," Angeline placed the divorce agreement she'd been hugging onto the table. "I tried my best, but I'm tired now. Ned Fletcher, I'm giving up on you. I don't want you anymore." Ned's eyes traveled from the divorce agreement to Angeline's face. There was a hint of surprise in his cold eyes. "Let's finalize the divorce after the police have cleared my name and you have publicly apologized to me." | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716274800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879633 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410698 | 1723321843 | 995 | 7599646173405331 | 4 | 8.1189217383301E+14 | 1716793200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120211846693390779 | qweasdzxconline.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πRead the next chaptersπ | https://qweasdzxconline.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11090&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715085862 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438129100_1146045226739178_2601865360875538189_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pgaM6op9EH4Q7kNvgFvStUz&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAnzNXAdVZ3R4dAiEpauXywjYljw4eXW7quZ6rvyHSXBw&oe=6672A490 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440747644_315502774915635_6353252339687881796_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YicSkuGzOiMQ7kNvgEoi2bQ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAN9i2X9Y9MK7cgBix3paDsplYdUdBGGi_LOwLoSJKKaQ&oe=6672CB97 | 0 | 3 | π"Ned Fletcher, with how you're treating Angie right now, aren't you worried that you're going to regret it when you finally regain your memories one day? You loved her so much before and you two got married for love! Despite you forgetting your feelings about her, how could you post so many indecent photos of her on social media?" Ned spoke nonchalantly, saying, "Why are you still holding me hostage with morals and principles? She was the one who framed me by lowly methods. I was just warning her. If Ingrid hadn't asked me to stop, I'd have gone even further! By the way, show your respect to Ingrid. Sheβs not a new girl but my only one forever and never!" Angeline Emmerson heard the talk standing outside the door. She used to be treated ever so lovingly by Ned in the past. Angeline felt her eyes reddening and filling with tears. The Ned she knew had died in the car accident that happened four years ago. The one inside was merely a stranger! Angeline inhaled deeply. Then, she pushed the door open. Ned looked up and saw her entering. "Who brought you here?" Angeline stared at Ned and said, "I've already made a police report regarding your spiked drink at the event and your spreading of my photos for revenge." Hearing this, everyone's reactions differed from one another. Angeline continued, "Ned Fletcher, it's true that I wanted to try rekindling our relationship, but I would never have stooped so low as to do those disgusting things to you. I didn't want to let go of this relationship because I was worried that the Ned I knew would return someday and blame me for giving up on him so easily," Angeline placed the divorce agreement she'd been hugging onto the table. "I tried my best, but I'm tired now. Ned Fletcher, I'm giving up on you. I don't want you anymore." Ned's eyes traveled from the divorce agreement to Angeline's face. There was a hint of surprise in his cold eyes. "Let's finalize the divorce after the police have cleared my name and you have publicly apologized to me." | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716274800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879634 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410698 | 1723321843 | 995 | 7599646173405331 | 4 | 8.1189217383301E+14 | 1716793200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120211846693390779 | qweasdzxconline.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πRead the next chaptersπ | https://qweasdzxconline.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11090&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715085862 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438129100_1146045226739178_2601865360875538189_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pgaM6op9EH4Q7kNvgFvStUz&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAnzNXAdVZ3R4dAiEpauXywjYljw4eXW7quZ6rvyHSXBw&oe=6672A490 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440747644_315502774915635_6353252339687881796_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YicSkuGzOiMQ7kNvgEoi2bQ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAN9i2X9Y9MK7cgBix3paDsplYdUdBGGi_LOwLoSJKKaQ&oe=6672CB97 | 0 | 3 | π"Ned Fletcher, with how you're treating Angie right now, aren't you worried that you're going to regret it when you finally regain your memories one day? You loved her so much before and you two got married for love! Despite you forgetting your feelings about her, how could you post so many indecent photos of her on social media?" Ned spoke nonchalantly, saying, "Why are you still holding me hostage with morals and principles? She was the one who framed me by lowly methods. I was just warning her. If Ingrid hadn't asked me to stop, I'd have gone even further! By the way, show your respect to Ingrid. Sheβs not a new girl but my only one forever and never!" Angeline Emmerson heard the talk standing outside the door. She used to be treated ever so lovingly by Ned in the past. Angeline felt her eyes reddening and filling with tears. The Ned she knew had died in the car accident that happened four years ago. The one inside was merely a stranger! Angeline inhaled deeply. Then, she pushed the door open. Ned looked up and saw her entering. "Who brought you here?" Angeline stared at Ned and said, "I've already made a police report regarding your spiked drink at the event and your spreading of my photos for revenge." Hearing this, everyone's reactions differed from one another. Angeline continued, "Ned Fletcher, it's true that I wanted to try rekindling our relationship, but I would never have stooped so low as to do those disgusting things to you. I didn't want to let go of this relationship because I was worried that the Ned I knew would return someday and blame me for giving up on him so easily," Angeline placed the divorce agreement she'd been hugging onto the table. "I tried my best, but I'm tired now. Ned Fletcher, I'm giving up on you. I don't want you anymore." Ned's eyes traveled from the divorce agreement to Angeline's face. There was a hint of surprise in his cold eyes. "Let's finalize the divorce after the police have cleared my name and you have publicly apologized to me." | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716274800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879635 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410698 | 1723321843 | 995 | 7599646173405331 | 4 | 8.1189217383301E+14 | 1716793200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120211846693390779 | qweasdzxconline.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πRead the next chaptersπ | https://qweasdzxconline.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11090&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715085862 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438129100_1146045226739178_2601865360875538189_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pgaM6op9EH4Q7kNvgFvStUz&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAnzNXAdVZ3R4dAiEpauXywjYljw4eXW7quZ6rvyHSXBw&oe=6672A490 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440747644_315502774915635_6353252339687881796_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YicSkuGzOiMQ7kNvgEoi2bQ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAN9i2X9Y9MK7cgBix3paDsplYdUdBGGi_LOwLoSJKKaQ&oe=6672CB97 | 0 | 3 | π"Ned Fletcher, with how you're treating Angie right now, aren't you worried that you're going to regret it when you finally regain your memories one day? You loved her so much before and you two got married for love! Despite you forgetting your feelings about her, how could you post so many indecent photos of her on social media?" Ned spoke nonchalantly, saying, "Why are you still holding me hostage with morals and principles? She was the one who framed me by lowly methods. I was just warning her. If Ingrid hadn't asked me to stop, I'd have gone even further! By the way, show your respect to Ingrid. Sheβs not a new girl but my only one forever and never!" Angeline Emmerson heard the talk standing outside the door. She used to be treated ever so lovingly by Ned in the past. Angeline felt her eyes reddening and filling with tears. The Ned she knew had died in the car accident that happened four years ago. The one inside was merely a stranger! Angeline inhaled deeply. Then, she pushed the door open. Ned looked up and saw her entering. "Who brought you here?" Angeline stared at Ned and said, "I've already made a police report regarding your spiked drink at the event and your spreading of my photos for revenge." Hearing this, everyone's reactions differed from one another. Angeline continued, "Ned Fletcher, it's true that I wanted to try rekindling our relationship, but I would never have stooped so low as to do those disgusting things to you. I didn't want to let go of this relationship because I was worried that the Ned I knew would return someday and blame me for giving up on him so easily," Angeline placed the divorce agreement she'd been hugging onto the table. "I tried my best, but I'm tired now. Ned Fletcher, I'm giving up on you. I don't want you anymore." Ned's eyes traveled from the divorce agreement to Angeline's face. There was a hint of surprise in his cold eyes. "Let's finalize the divorce after the police have cleared my name and you have publicly apologized to me." | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716274800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879636 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410699 | 1723321843 | 995 | 7599646173405331 | 4 | 8.1189217383301E+14 | 1716793200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120211846693390779 | qweasdzxconline.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πRead the next chaptersπ | https://qweasdzxconline.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11090&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715085862 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438129100_1146045226739178_2601865360875538189_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pgaM6op9EH4Q7kNvgFvStUz&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAnzNXAdVZ3R4dAiEpauXywjYljw4eXW7quZ6rvyHSXBw&oe=6672A490 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440747644_315502774915635_6353252339687881796_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YicSkuGzOiMQ7kNvgEoi2bQ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAN9i2X9Y9MK7cgBix3paDsplYdUdBGGi_LOwLoSJKKaQ&oe=6672CB97 | 0 | 3 | π"Ned Fletcher, with how you're treating Angie right now, aren't you worried that you're going to regret it when you finally regain your memories one day? You loved her so much before and you two got married for love! Despite you forgetting your feelings about her, how could you post so many indecent photos of her on social media?" Ned spoke nonchalantly, saying, "Why are you still holding me hostage with morals and principles? She was the one who framed me by lowly methods. I was just warning her. If Ingrid hadn't asked me to stop, I'd have gone even further! By the way, show your respect to Ingrid. Sheβs not a new girl but my only one forever and never!" Angeline Emmerson heard the talk standing outside the door. She used to be treated ever so lovingly by Ned in the past. Angeline felt her eyes reddening and filling with tears. The Ned she knew had died in the car accident that happened four years ago. The one inside was merely a stranger! Angeline inhaled deeply. Then, she pushed the door open. Ned looked up and saw her entering. "Who brought you here?" Angeline stared at Ned and said, "I've already made a police report regarding your spiked drink at the event and your spreading of my photos for revenge." Hearing this, everyone's reactions differed from one another. Angeline continued, "Ned Fletcher, it's true that I wanted to try rekindling our relationship, but I would never have stooped so low as to do those disgusting things to you. I didn't want to let go of this relationship because I was worried that the Ned I knew would return someday and blame me for giving up on him so easily," Angeline placed the divorce agreement she'd been hugging onto the table. "I tried my best, but I'm tired now. Ned Fletcher, I'm giving up on you. I don't want you anymore." Ned's eyes traveled from the divorce agreement to Angeline's face. There was a hint of surprise in his cold eyes. "Let's finalize the divorce after the police have cleared my name and you have publicly apologized to me." | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716274800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879637 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410699 | 1723321843 | 995 | 7599646173405331 | 4 | 8.1189217383301E+14 | 1716793200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120211846693390779 | qweasdzxconline.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πRead the next chaptersπ | https://qweasdzxconline.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11090&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715085862 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438129100_1146045226739178_2601865360875538189_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pgaM6op9EH4Q7kNvgFvStUz&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAnzNXAdVZ3R4dAiEpauXywjYljw4eXW7quZ6rvyHSXBw&oe=6672A490 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440747644_315502774915635_6353252339687881796_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YicSkuGzOiMQ7kNvgEoi2bQ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAN9i2X9Y9MK7cgBix3paDsplYdUdBGGi_LOwLoSJKKaQ&oe=6672CB97 | 0 | 3 | π"Ned Fletcher, with how you're treating Angie right now, aren't you worried that you're going to regret it when you finally regain your memories one day? You loved her so much before and you two got married for love! Despite you forgetting your feelings about her, how could you post so many indecent photos of her on social media?" Ned spoke nonchalantly, saying, "Why are you still holding me hostage with morals and principles? She was the one who framed me by lowly methods. I was just warning her. If Ingrid hadn't asked me to stop, I'd have gone even further! By the way, show your respect to Ingrid. Sheβs not a new girl but my only one forever and never!" Angeline Emmerson heard the talk standing outside the door. She used to be treated ever so lovingly by Ned in the past. Angeline felt her eyes reddening and filling with tears. The Ned she knew had died in the car accident that happened four years ago. The one inside was merely a stranger! Angeline inhaled deeply. Then, she pushed the door open. Ned looked up and saw her entering. "Who brought you here?" Angeline stared at Ned and said, "I've already made a police report regarding your spiked drink at the event and your spreading of my photos for revenge." Hearing this, everyone's reactions differed from one another. Angeline continued, "Ned Fletcher, it's true that I wanted to try rekindling our relationship, but I would never have stooped so low as to do those disgusting things to you. I didn't want to let go of this relationship because I was worried that the Ned I knew would return someday and blame me for giving up on him so easily," Angeline placed the divorce agreement she'd been hugging onto the table. "I tried my best, but I'm tired now. Ned Fletcher, I'm giving up on you. I don't want you anymore." Ned's eyes traveled from the divorce agreement to Angeline's face. There was a hint of surprise in his cold eyes. "Let's finalize the divorce after the police have cleared my name and you have publicly apologized to me." | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716274800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879638 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410699 | 1723321844 | 995 | 7599646173405331 | 4 | 8.1189217383301E+14 | 1716793200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120211846693390779 | qweasdzxconline.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πRead the next chaptersπ | https://qweasdzxconline.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11090&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715085862 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438129100_1146045226739178_2601865360875538189_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pgaM6op9EH4Q7kNvgFvStUz&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAnzNXAdVZ3R4dAiEpauXywjYljw4eXW7quZ6rvyHSXBw&oe=6672A490 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440747644_315502774915635_6353252339687881796_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YicSkuGzOiMQ7kNvgEoi2bQ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAN9i2X9Y9MK7cgBix3paDsplYdUdBGGi_LOwLoSJKKaQ&oe=6672CB97 | 0 | 3 | π"Ned Fletcher, with how you're treating Angie right now, aren't you worried that you're going to regret it when you finally regain your memories one day? You loved her so much before and you two got married for love! Despite you forgetting your feelings about her, how could you post so many indecent photos of her on social media?" Ned spoke nonchalantly, saying, "Why are you still holding me hostage with morals and principles? She was the one who framed me by lowly methods. I was just warning her. If Ingrid hadn't asked me to stop, I'd have gone even further! By the way, show your respect to Ingrid. Sheβs not a new girl but my only one forever and never!" Angeline Emmerson heard the talk standing outside the door. She used to be treated ever so lovingly by Ned in the past. Angeline felt her eyes reddening and filling with tears. The Ned she knew had died in the car accident that happened four years ago. The one inside was merely a stranger! Angeline inhaled deeply. Then, she pushed the door open. Ned looked up and saw her entering. "Who brought you here?" Angeline stared at Ned and said, "I've already made a police report regarding your spiked drink at the event and your spreading of my photos for revenge." Hearing this, everyone's reactions differed from one another. Angeline continued, "Ned Fletcher, it's true that I wanted to try rekindling our relationship, but I would never have stooped so low as to do those disgusting things to you. I didn't want to let go of this relationship because I was worried that the Ned I knew would return someday and blame me for giving up on him so easily," Angeline placed the divorce agreement she'd been hugging onto the table. "I tried my best, but I'm tired now. Ned Fletcher, I'm giving up on you. I don't want you anymore." Ned's eyes traveled from the divorce agreement to Angeline's face. There was a hint of surprise in his cold eyes. "Let's finalize the divorce after the police have cleared my name and you have publicly apologized to me." | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716274800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879640 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410700 | 1723321844 | 995 | 7599646173405331 | 4 | 8.1189217383301E+14 | 1716793200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120211846693390779 | qweasdzxconline.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πRead the next chaptersπ | https://qweasdzxconline.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11090&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715085862 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438129100_1146045226739178_2601865360875538189_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pgaM6op9EH4Q7kNvgFvStUz&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAnzNXAdVZ3R4dAiEpauXywjYljw4eXW7quZ6rvyHSXBw&oe=6672A490 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440747644_315502774915635_6353252339687881796_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YicSkuGzOiMQ7kNvgEoi2bQ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAN9i2X9Y9MK7cgBix3paDsplYdUdBGGi_LOwLoSJKKaQ&oe=6672CB97 | 0 | 3 | π"Ned Fletcher, with how you're treating Angie right now, aren't you worried that you're going to regret it when you finally regain your memories one day? You loved her so much before and you two got married for love! Despite you forgetting your feelings about her, how could you post so many indecent photos of her on social media?" Ned spoke nonchalantly, saying, "Why are you still holding me hostage with morals and principles? She was the one who framed me by lowly methods. I was just warning her. If Ingrid hadn't asked me to stop, I'd have gone even further! By the way, show your respect to Ingrid. Sheβs not a new girl but my only one forever and never!" Angeline Emmerson heard the talk standing outside the door. She used to be treated ever so lovingly by Ned in the past. Angeline felt her eyes reddening and filling with tears. The Ned she knew had died in the car accident that happened four years ago. The one inside was merely a stranger! Angeline inhaled deeply. Then, she pushed the door open. Ned looked up and saw her entering. "Who brought you here?" Angeline stared at Ned and said, "I've already made a police report regarding your spiked drink at the event and your spreading of my photos for revenge." Hearing this, everyone's reactions differed from one another. Angeline continued, "Ned Fletcher, it's true that I wanted to try rekindling our relationship, but I would never have stooped so low as to do those disgusting things to you. I didn't want to let go of this relationship because I was worried that the Ned I knew would return someday and blame me for giving up on him so easily," Angeline placed the divorce agreement she'd been hugging onto the table. "I tried my best, but I'm tired now. Ned Fletcher, I'm giving up on you. I don't want you anymore." Ned's eyes traveled from the divorce agreement to Angeline's face. There was a hint of surprise in his cold eyes. "Let's finalize the divorce after the police have cleared my name and you have publicly apologized to me." | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716274800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879641 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410700 | 1723321844 | 995 | 7599646173405331 | 4 | 8.1189217383301E+14 | 1716793200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120211846693390779 | qweasdzxconline.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πRead the next chaptersπ | https://qweasdzxconline.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11090&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715085862 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438129100_1146045226739178_2601865360875538189_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pgaM6op9EH4Q7kNvgFvStUz&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAnzNXAdVZ3R4dAiEpauXywjYljw4eXW7quZ6rvyHSXBw&oe=6672A490 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440747644_315502774915635_6353252339687881796_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YicSkuGzOiMQ7kNvgEoi2bQ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAN9i2X9Y9MK7cgBix3paDsplYdUdBGGi_LOwLoSJKKaQ&oe=6672CB97 | 0 | 3 | π"Ned Fletcher, with how you're treating Angie right now, aren't you worried that you're going to regret it when you finally regain your memories one day? You loved her so much before and you two got married for love! Despite you forgetting your feelings about her, how could you post so many indecent photos of her on social media?" Ned spoke nonchalantly, saying, "Why are you still holding me hostage with morals and principles? She was the one who framed me by lowly methods. I was just warning her. If Ingrid hadn't asked me to stop, I'd have gone even further! By the way, show your respect to Ingrid. Sheβs not a new girl but my only one forever and never!" Angeline Emmerson heard the talk standing outside the door. She used to be treated ever so lovingly by Ned in the past. Angeline felt her eyes reddening and filling with tears. The Ned she knew had died in the car accident that happened four years ago. The one inside was merely a stranger! Angeline inhaled deeply. Then, she pushed the door open. Ned looked up and saw her entering. "Who brought you here?" Angeline stared at Ned and said, "I've already made a police report regarding your spiked drink at the event and your spreading of my photos for revenge." Hearing this, everyone's reactions differed from one another. Angeline continued, "Ned Fletcher, it's true that I wanted to try rekindling our relationship, but I would never have stooped so low as to do those disgusting things to you. I didn't want to let go of this relationship because I was worried that the Ned I knew would return someday and blame me for giving up on him so easily," Angeline placed the divorce agreement she'd been hugging onto the table. "I tried my best, but I'm tired now. Ned Fletcher, I'm giving up on you. I don't want you anymore." Ned's eyes traveled from the divorce agreement to Angeline's face. There was a hint of surprise in his cold eyes. "Let's finalize the divorce after the police have cleared my name and you have publicly apologized to me." | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716274800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879642 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410700 | 1723321844 | 995 | 423787033626246 | 1 | 9.5404700312256E+14 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 105559638886710 | 0 | Lewy's Sod, Landscaping & Dirt Work | 120210400600470334 | lewyslandscaping.com | Contact Us | NONE | carousel | Efficient Commercial Trucking Solutions | Let's optimize your logistics! | https://www.lewyslandscaping.com/services | 1713888358 | 1.0555963888671E+14 | Lewy's Sod, Landscaping & Dirt Work | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439631490_446546801091820_3798544709504058628_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=uJbpfTkXL1QQ7kNvgE3_qZg&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBftzZU_GfM6XDy3iSKZwInM4QXPpCsAE-uD3Vj4jp0qw&oe=6672B87F | person_profile | 0 | Lewy's | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439921882_355177520344511_1972065197139668211_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=eFGSTk20JDAQ7kNvgFhFP2S&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYApMg33NthpckszEvPRG3DvMtH-q54iZoIJVYu9jV-_2g&oe=6672B876 | 0 | 3 | Let's optimize your logistics! | Lewy's Sod, Landscaping & Dirt Work | 535 | https://facebook.com/lewysparistn | 0 | CONTACT_US | 1713942000 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879643 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410700 | 1723321844 | 995 | 423787033626246 | 1 | 9.5404700312256E+14 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 105559638886710 | 0 | Lewy's Sod, Landscaping & Dirt Work | 120210400600470334 | lewyslandscaping.com | Contact Us | NONE | carousel | Efficient Commercial Trucking Solutions | Let's optimize your logistics! | https://www.lewyslandscaping.com/services | 1713888358 | 1.0555963888671E+14 | Lewy's Sod, Landscaping & Dirt Work | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439631490_446546801091820_3798544709504058628_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=uJbpfTkXL1QQ7kNvgE3_qZg&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBftzZU_GfM6XDy3iSKZwInM4QXPpCsAE-uD3Vj4jp0qw&oe=6672B87F | person_profile | 0 | Lewy's | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439921882_355177520344511_1972065197139668211_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=eFGSTk20JDAQ7kNvgFhFP2S&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYApMg33NthpckszEvPRG3DvMtH-q54iZoIJVYu9jV-_2g&oe=6672B876 | 0 | 3 | Let's optimize your logistics! | Lewy's Sod, Landscaping & Dirt Work | 535 | https://facebook.com/lewysparistn | 0 | CONTACT_US | 1713942000 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879644 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410700 | 1723321844 | 995 | 423787033626246 | 1 | 9.5404700312256E+14 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 105559638886710 | 0 | Lewy's Sod, Landscaping & Dirt Work | 120210400600470334 | lewyslandscaping.com | Contact Us | NONE | carousel | Efficient Commercial Trucking Solutions | Let's optimize your logistics! | https://www.lewyslandscaping.com/services | 1713888358 | 1.0555963888671E+14 | Lewy's Sod, Landscaping & Dirt Work | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439631490_446546801091820_3798544709504058628_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=uJbpfTkXL1QQ7kNvgE3_qZg&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBftzZU_GfM6XDy3iSKZwInM4QXPpCsAE-uD3Vj4jp0qw&oe=6672B87F | person_profile | 0 | Lewy's | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439921882_355177520344511_1972065197139668211_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=eFGSTk20JDAQ7kNvgFhFP2S&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYApMg33NthpckszEvPRG3DvMtH-q54iZoIJVYu9jV-_2g&oe=6672B876 | 0 | 3 | Let's optimize your logistics! | Lewy's Sod, Landscaping & Dirt Work | 535 | https://facebook.com/lewysparistn | 0 | CONTACT_US | 1713942000 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879645 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410700 | 1723321844 | 995 | 423787033626246 | 1 | 9.5404700312256E+14 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 105559638886710 | 0 | Lewy's Sod, Landscaping & Dirt Work | 120210400600470334 | lewyslandscaping.com | Contact Us | NONE | carousel | Efficient Commercial Trucking Solutions | Let's optimize your logistics! | https://www.lewyslandscaping.com/services | 1713888358 | 1.0555963888671E+14 | Lewy's Sod, Landscaping & Dirt Work | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439631490_446546801091820_3798544709504058628_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=uJbpfTkXL1QQ7kNvgE3_qZg&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBftzZU_GfM6XDy3iSKZwInM4QXPpCsAE-uD3Vj4jp0qw&oe=6672B87F | person_profile | 0 | Lewy's | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439921882_355177520344511_1972065197139668211_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=eFGSTk20JDAQ7kNvgFhFP2S&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYApMg33NthpckszEvPRG3DvMtH-q54iZoIJVYu9jV-_2g&oe=6672B876 | 0 | 3 | Let's optimize your logistics! | Lewy's Sod, Landscaping & Dirt Work | 535 | https://facebook.com/lewysparistn | 0 | CONTACT_US | 1713942000 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879646 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410700 | 1723321844 | 995 | 423787033626246 | 1 | 9.5404700312256E+14 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 105559638886710 | 0 | Lewy's Sod, Landscaping & Dirt Work | 120210400600470334 | lewyslandscaping.com | Contact Us | NONE | carousel | Efficient Commercial Trucking Solutions | Let's optimize your logistics! | https://www.lewyslandscaping.com/services | 1713888358 | 1.0555963888671E+14 | Lewy's Sod, Landscaping & Dirt Work | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439631490_446546801091820_3798544709504058628_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=uJbpfTkXL1QQ7kNvgE3_qZg&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBftzZU_GfM6XDy3iSKZwInM4QXPpCsAE-uD3Vj4jp0qw&oe=6672B87F | person_profile | 0 | Lewy's | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439921882_355177520344511_1972065197139668211_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=eFGSTk20JDAQ7kNvgFhFP2S&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYApMg33NthpckszEvPRG3DvMtH-q54iZoIJVYu9jV-_2g&oe=6672B876 | 0 | 3 | Let's optimize your logistics! | Lewy's Sod, Landscaping & Dirt Work | 535 | https://facebook.com/lewysparistn | 0 | CONTACT_US | 1713942000 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879650 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410700 | 1723321844 | 995 | 1191279425651029 | 1 | 1.1841458962763E+15 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 299026206627385 | 0 | Reading matter | 120209775879570390 | findokn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | β€οΈπWhat happens nextπClick Here to read onπ | https://findokn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11632&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717754696 | 2.9902620662738E+14 | Reading matter | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959833_690035193239071_8338086885496487765_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=QUFcGNRC398Q7kNvgFxAmgt&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCWbUkdH9z0_PV1OvwqycTOxeLawo5lW9bV27bjjkvCVg&oe=6672ACB9 | person_profile | 0 | Reading matter | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959769_1190715732374544_2758543800221804444_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=HMc1ybrp76sQ7kNvgGxl7Rn&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDTbtuCE2oc7epCLXYFTWIHnrtsOeIyXj12-3O0DMTsrQ&oe=6672C9A3 | 0 | 3 | "James, between me and Haley, who do you love more?" "Of course, it's you, my dear. Haven't my actions proven it enough? Hmm?" "But, I want to hear you say it yourself." "Darling, you are the woman I love the most. Relax, you're too tense..." The man's suppressed heavy breathing, mixed with the woman's seductive sounds, soon filled the hotel suite. Haley Carter stood outside the slightly ajar door, her blood almost freezing, unable to stop trembling from the piercing cold. An hour ago, someone sent her a video clip. In the video, her fiancΓ©, James Ford, was hot kissing her half-sister Xena Carter in the corridor of this hotel. She initially thought it was a prank, but she never expected that these two had long been involved with each other. She took a deep breath, trying to restrain the anger surging in her chest. Quietly, she took out her phone from her pocket and pushed the door open. The two on the bed were still immersed in their intense pleasure when suddenly they heard a cold voice, "What a splendid drama. Shall I applaud for you?" Both froze, turning their gaze towards the direction of the door. "Ah!" Xena screamed, panicked, and shrank into James's embrace. "Haley? What are you doing here?" James covered himself with a blanket, displeased. "Who let you come in?" Haley crossed her arms, looking at him mockingly. "If I didn't come, wouldn't I miss such a splendid scene?" "Haley, James and I truly love each other. Please, let us be together!" Xena's eyes reddened, tears glistening, portraying an innocent and pitiful look. James felt heartbroken, tightly holding her in his arms, and said in a deep voice, "Haley, if you have any issues, take them up with me. Xena is innocent!" Haley sneered, "Innocent? How dare you utter those words?" "That's enough! The one I love, from beginning to end, has only been Xena. If you had an ounce of self-awareness, you would go to Grandma and cancel our engagement!" What he liked was someone like Xena, gentle and submissive, yet uninhibited and open-minded in bed. But Haley was awkward and conservative, not even allowing a touch of hands, utterly boring! Being with Haley, he couldn't feel an ounce of joy! Haley's eyes narrowed, a dangerous and icy light flickering at the depths. "Cheating is cheating. Don't give yourselves excuses. If I were to release the video of you two in bed, would anyone still think you're innocent?" James and Xena's faces turned pale, roaring, "Haley, delete the video now!" "And if I say no?" Haley stepped back two paces, provocatively lifting her chin towards them. "James, if you don't like me, you could have straightforwardly called off the engagement. I'm not someone who can't live without you. Your current behavior disgusts me." If James had openly called off the engagement, maybe she would have respected him a bit more. But alas... "Haley, stop right there!" Watching Haley walk away, James burned with anger, instinctively wanting to chase after her. However, Xena held onto his waist tightly, crying with grievance. "James, what should we do? Haley must be mad at me. Perhaps from the beginning, I shouldn't have liked you, then I wouldn't have hurt her..." Hearing this, James's heart filled with guilt and pity, leaving him with no inclination to chase after Haley. He kissed Xena's forehead and whispered softly, "Xena, you're just too kind. If it weren't for her interference, maybe we would have been together long ago!" "James, you're so good to me..." Xena's lips curved slightly, her eyes fixed on the direction Haley disappeared, a trace of a triumphant smile flashing. Thinking of competing with her? Haley was still too naive! She believed it wouldn't be long before she snatched away the position of Mrs. Ford! β¦ As Haley left the hotel, it started to pour outside. Endless night enveloped her, with only occasional flashes of lightning and dim streetlights visible through the pouring rain. Standing in the rain, Haley was drenched from head to toe. The scenes of James and Xena's affair played over and over in her mind, making her feel nauseous. On top of not eating all day, her stomach was cramping painfully. She forced herself to walk to the roadside, but finally couldn't bear it anymore and slowly crouched down. The icy rain hit her snow-white skin, sending shivers down her spine. Her vision blurred, making it hard for her to distinguish reality from dreams. After who knows how long, the rain hitting her seemed to gradually stop. Haley slowly opened her eyes and noticed a shadow before her. She had a sense of it and slowly lifted her gaze. The first thing she saw was a pair of well-tailored trousers, wrapping around a pair of long, straight legs. Moving upwards, she saw a handsome face with a cold demeanor. The man's slightly furrowed brows, high nose bridge, and tightly pursed lips were striking. His deep eyes were lowered, shrouded in darkness, seemingly blending with the night. Haley stared at him in surprise, a hint of bewilderment in her eyes. "Mr. Ford? Why are you here?" The man before her was Shane Ford, the most influential member of the Ford family, the top-tier business family in Jasper City. He was also her former fiancΓ©'s uncle, James's uncle. He was the late child of Mr. Ford Sr. and inherited exceptional business acumen. Taking over the Ford Corporation in just a few years, its market value multiplied several times over. What was most feared about him was his ruthless methods and decisive personality. However, he always remained low-key and mysterious, seldom interacting with the younger generation like them. Haley had only crossed paths with him a few times at the Ford family gatherings and hardly ever exchanged words. This man exuded an aura of danger, and Haley usually avoided him whenever possible. Never did she expect to encounter him today, especially in her current disheveled state. "What could possibly make you disregard your own well-being like this?" The man's brow furrowed slightly, his deep, velvety voice sensual and captivating, as if it sent an electric current tingling through her ears, simultaneously soothing and arousing. There was also a subtle hint of concern mixed in. Haley suddenly snapped out of her daze, hastily trying to stand up. However, due to crouching on the ground for too long, her legs had gone numb. Her body swayed suddenly, uncontrollably tilting backward. Just when she thought she was about to fall awkwardly, a pair of warm and powerful hands suddenly wrapped around her waist. The next moment, she fell into a warm and broad chest. Anxiously, she grabbed onto the front of his shirt, afraid of falling. At this moment, the man's rich and husky voice sounded in her ear, tinged with a hint of mockery: "Are you taking advantage of me?" Chapter 2 As she realized the ambiguous position they were in, Haley's cheeks flushed red, and she quickly pulled away from the man's embrace. Feeling embarrassed, she murmured softly, "No, my legs are numb." "Hmm," Shane responded with a pleasant chuckle, though it wasn't clear if he believed her or not. His gentle and deep voice seemed to have a calming effect, causing Haley's heart to flutter slightly, feeling both tingly and itchy. She rubbed her ears curiously and asked, "Mr. Ford, what are you doing here?" Shane replied nonchalantly, "I just happened to pass by." And he happened to see a poor little creature standing in the rain by the roadside, helpless and pitiful like an abandoned cat. Haley nodded knowingly but didn't know what to say. She had just experienced betrayal and felt physically and emotionally drained, only wanting to find a quiet place to rest. Shane glanced at her and asked, "Do you want revenge?" "What?" Haley stared at him in confusion, not understanding his meaning. Shane seemed to understand her confusion and asked patiently, "James betrayed you. Are you planning to let him off the hook?" Haley's expression changed abruptly, becoming wary. "How do you know about this?" If Shane knew, did that mean other members of the Ford family knew too? If that were the case, then all the tough talk she had given in front of James and Xena would turn into a joke. Shane replied, "You came out of the hotel looking like this, isn't that already saying everything?" Haley was stunned for a moment, then suddenly realized. Realizing she had misunderstood him, she apologized, "Thank you, Mr. Ford, but I'll handle it myself." No gain without pain. Besides, Shane was also a member of the Ford family. How could he genuinely help her? Regardless, she didn't want to have any further involvement with James and his family. Shane chuckled lightly and answered calmly, "I'll help you, but it's conditional. You might want to hear the terms first." "What terms?" Haley asked. "I'm in need of a wife," he stated succinctly. Haley almost thought she was hearing things. It took her a while to find her voice again. "Mr. Ford, are you kidding me?" Was Shane really looking for a wife? If he wanted to, there would be a line of women eager to say yes. Could he be playing a prank on her? Shane responded, "Do I seem like I'm joking?" Haley shook her head. She had heard many rumors about Shane before. He was known for being decisive, keeping his distance from strangers, and avoiding romantic entanglements. Given his status and position, there was no need for him to waste time joking with her here. "Why then?" Haley asked. "The old lady at home is pressuring me to get married. I need someone to serve as a shield for me. If you agree, I can help you dissolve your engagement with James." Haley froze, looking at him in disbelief. Shane was holding the umbrella, shielding her from the rain that fell upon her. The dim light from the roadside lamp illuminated half of his face, while the other half remained hidden in the darkness, adding a mysterious air to him. This exceptional man was simply incomparable to James, that scoundrel! Yet, her rationality remained. She questioned in puzzlement, "Why me?" With Shane's power and his devastatingly handsome face, attracting any woman should have been a piece of cake for him. So why choose her? She never believed that good fortune would fall into her lap. Even if it did, it would never hit her. Shane explained, "Because I need someone who knows the ins and outs and can also achieve mutual interests with me. You fit my criteria." "But..." Just as Haley hesitated, Shane suddenly leaned down. His deep and enticing voice sounded in her ear. "Don't you want James to call you 'aunt'? Moreover, if you marry me, Xena will never set foot into the Ford family." Haley's eyes lit up instantly, unable to contain her excitement. If she married Shane, James would have to address her as his aunt. Just thinking about it felt satisfying! She stole a glance at Shane, a hint of pity flashing in her eyes. Rumor had it that Shane was already thirty years old and didn't even have a woman by his side. Either he liked men, or he had some hidden illness. Now it seemed that those rumors were probably true. No wonder he wanted to enter into a marriage agreement with her. After pondering for a moment, Haley asked in distress, "Mr. Ford, won't Mrs. Ford Sr. object to this?" After all, until the engagement with James was officially dissolved, Haley was still his fiancΓ©e. If she turned around and married Shane, who knows what kind of rumors might spread outside? Despite Haley's concerns, Shane remained calm and didn't even furrow his brows. "Don't worry, I'll handle it." With his assurance, Haley completely dispelled any lingering doubts and decisively agreed, "Okay, I agree!" "Then let's go." Shane's lips curled slightly as he lowered his gaze, concealing the subtle emotions within his eyes, before opening the backseat car door. He leaned his hand against the car roof, considerately protecting Haley's head. His actions were gentlemanly and caring, as if he were treating an intimate lover. Haley was startled by her own thoughts, her cheeks flushing slightly as she hurriedly got into the car. Although the heater was on inside the car, she couldn't help but shiver. She hugged her arms and leaned back in the seat, wishing she could curl up into a ball. Suddenly, a hand with distinct knuckles passed her a towel. Shane's voice remained steady, without any fluctuation. "Wipe yourself dry. Don't catch a cold." Haley thanked him quickly and took the towel, wiping her damp hair. The car fell into an eerie silence, with only the sound of her drying her hair breaking the quiet. The atmosphere was strangely unsettling. Feeling uneasy all over, Haley cleared her throat and pretended to be calm as she asked, "Are we going to the county clerk's office now?" Shane glanced at her, his expression profound. "We can, but are you sure you want to go like this?" Following his gaze, Haley lowered her eyes, only then realizing that she was completely soaked and looked disheveled. Her cheeks flushed with embarrassment, wishing she could find a hole to hide in. She had almost forgotten that because of the rain, she was drenched all over. Her white shirt was clinging tightly to her skin, and even the color of her bra was clearly visible. This appearance was indeed not suitable for getting married. And did she sound too eager just now, as if she were in a rush to marry him? Would he misunderstand? Haley cautiously glanced at him out of the corner of her eye, seeing his calm expression, finally breathed a silent sigh of relief. Shaneβs assistant, Dean, who was driving, couldn't help but sigh as he looked at the rearview mirror. His boss was too unusual, completely overturning his previous understanding. In fact, they had been waiting outside the hotel the whole afternoon. Originally, he had come with Shane for a business meeting, but before they even got out of the car, they saw James and Haley's step-sister, Xena, entering the hotel together. Shane immediately instructed him to anonymously message Haley to catch them in the act at the hotel. At first, he didn't quite understand why his boss wanted to scheme against his own nephew. But now, he finally understood. How could a nephew be more important than a wife! No wonder his boss always looked at Haley with a peculiar gaze before. Now, thinking back, everything made sense! His boss had long harbored feelings for Haley. No, it's more like deep affection for her! Chapter 3 While Dean was lost in thought, he suddenly felt a chill at the back of his neck. He turned his head and met Shane's cold, beast-like gaze. Shivering fiercely, he dared not wander in his thoughts anymore, focusing solely on driving. Fortunately, Shane only gave him a cold glance, warning him to drive properly, and quickly withdrew his gaze. After getting out of the car, Shane took Haley into his residence. He fetched a clean set of clothes from the closet and handed them to her. "Go take a hot shower first. There aren't any women's clothes here, so you can wear mine for now." "Okay," Haley's cheeks flushed slightly as she hurriedly took the clothes and entered the bathroom. She almost fled, too afraid to meet Shane's gaze and thus missed the fleeting smile in his eyes. Haley spent a long time in the bathroom, leaning against the wall, letting the shower water wash over her. Being betrayed by James and Xena was something she had never expected, and marrying Shane was even beyond her wildest imagination. She felt that something was amiss, but her mind was a jumble, unable to sort out her thoughts. Soon, steam filled the bathroom, reddening her fair, snow-like face. When she emerged from the bathroom, Shane was no longer in the bedroom. Descending the stairs, she found a tall figure bustling about in the kitchen. The man was tall, clad in a white shirt and neatly tailored trousers, exuding extraordinary charisma. His shirt sleeves were rolled up, revealing well-defined arms. He wore a dark blue apron that softened his cold and aloof demeanor, adding a touch of warmth. Haley's eyes flashed with surprise. Could it be that Shane, a business tycoon, also cooked for himself? What a gentle and domesticated man! He perfectly matched her criteria for a partner from head to toe! Suddenly, something crossed her mind, and Haley's admiring gaze turned into pity. She sighed silently in her heart. How could such an outstanding man have hidden ailments? What a pity! Hearing footsteps, Shane paused and slowly turned around. His gaze fell upon Haley, and his eyes darkened slightly. Her petite figure was enveloped by his white shirt, the hem barely covering her upper legs, revealing a glimpse of slender and fair legs, straight and well-proportioned. In the light, they seemed dazzling. Shane's eyes lingered on those pretty, slender legs for a moment, suddenly feeling a heat rise within him. He averted his gaze, his voice tightening slightly. "Go put on some pants." Haley lowered her eyes and realized that dressing like this in front of an adult man was indeed a bit ambiguous. Her cheeks flushed in response. She whispered, "Your pants are too big for me, I can't wear them." Shane's expression turned cold as he went upstairs without looking back. If Haley had observed carefully, she would have noticed that his steps were somewhat disordered. But her cheeks were already as red as ripe shrimp, and she had no mind to observe Shane. Not long after, Shane came downstairs with a black pair of trousers and a belt in hand. "Put these on," he instructed. Perhaps sensing his tone was a bit harsh, he added, "Be careful not to catch a cold." Haley took the pants and went to the bathroom to change. With the constraint of the belt, she managed to put on the pants, though they were long and baggy, appearing quite bulky. She had to roll up the cuffs. When she came out of the bathroom, she found Shane had already set a bowl of freshly made chicken noodle soup on the table. It was a comforting and savory bowl of soup, with tender noodles and garnished with freshly chopped parsley. Haley was so shocked that she couldn't speak. She never expected Shane to actually cook. Though it was just a simple bowl of noodles, coming from Shane, it felt somehow out of place. Seeing Shane heading to the kitchen to fetch utensils, she followed him voluntarily. "Mr. Ford, do you need any help?" Upon hearing the term "Mr. Ford," Shane's body stiffened, and a hint of coldness almost overflowed from his eyes. He lowered his gaze, forcing himself to restrain his emotions, and hoarsely replied, "No need, just sit down and wait. I'll handle it myself." Haley didn't insist further and obediently sat down at the table, waiting for the meal to begin. After experiencing so much this afternoon, she was indeed feeling a bit hungry. Shane handed her the fork and spoon, then sat down opposite her. 'Dig in, just be careful, it's hot.'" Haley immediately started eating, the fragrance of the noodles filling her taste buds. A warmth spread through her empty stomach. Perhaps even she hadn't noticed, but her wariness and guard against Shane were slowly diminishing. As she ate, she raised her thumb towards Shane. "It's delicious, Mr. Ford. I didn't expect you to be such a great cook!" The warm-toned light in the dining room shone on her, illuminating her delicate and fair cheeks, soft and beautiful. She lowered her gaze, her cheeks puffing up with each chew, her eyes squinting with happiness and contentment. She looked so obedient that it made him want to ruffle her hair. But he couldn't do that, or he might scare her away. A skilled hunter should possess patience above all else, and that was one thing he definitely had. His palm curled slightly, then he casually retracted it. Shane silently told himself that there was plenty of time ahead. Haley was immersed in her food, completely unaware that she had become the lamb to be eaten, enjoying her meal with extra satisfaction. Halfway through, she noticed there was a poached egg at the bottom of the bowl. She looked up at the man across from her, but saw him eating his noodles gracefully, his expression showing no sign of anything unusual. Haley silently watched him eat until he finished his bowl of noodles, but there was no sign of the poached egg. So, was it specially made for her? Haley's emotions suddenly became somewhat complicated. Previously, she always felt that Shane's gaze was too intense, so she always tried to avoid it whenever possible. Coupled with the rumors surrounding him in the outside world, she became even more afraid of him. But now, it seemed like he wasn't that scary after all, and he was even very attentive and meticulous. After finishing the meal, Shane got up to clean up the dishes. He glanced at a girl sitting in the chair, gently stroking her belly, her face filled with contentment, and a smile formed at the corner of his lips. Haley quickly stood up from her chair, feeling somewhat embarrassed. "Mr. Ford, let me do it, I know how to wash dishes." "No need, just leave it to me," Shane dodged her hand and walked straight to the kitchen. Watching him skillfully turn on the faucet and start washing the dishes, Haley touched her nose, feeling like she would just be a hindrance if she went, so she sat back down. Shane finished washing the dishes and came out of the kitchen, handing Haley a printed document. Curiously, Haley took it and saw several large words written on it, "Marriage Agreement, Party A: Shane, Party B: Haley..." She widened her eyes in surprise. "Mr. Ford, when did you write this?" Meeting Haley's clear and bright eyes, Shane cleared his throat lightly. "On the way back." Actually, when Haley went into the hotel to "catch the affair," his car was parked nearby, and that's when he started writing this marriage agreement. But these were things he absolutely couldn't say out loud. Chapter 4 Haley skimmed through the marriage agreement, falling into a moment of silence. Seeing her hesitation, Shane's heart inexplicably tightened, prompting him to ask, "Is there a problem?" Haley shook her head, incredulous. "Mr. Ford, are you sure you want to sign this agreement with me?" The agreement posed no issues; in fact, each clause within it was almost entirely in her favor. Marrying Shane not only granted her the status and position of Mrs. Ford but also secured a 3% stake in the Ford Corporation, along with real estate under Shane's name. In the event of a divorce, she would even be entitled to half of Shane's personal assets. The Ford Corporation was the largest multinational conglomerate in Jasper City, with investments in finance, real estate, hospitality, and various other industries, and its stock value was continuously rising. Compared to her third-rate wealthy family, whose combined assets couldn't even afford 1% of the Ford Corporation's shares, Haley would overnight become immensely wealthy through this marriage. Shane's expression remained calm and composed as he casually poured a dose of cold medicine from a bottle. "Hmm, go ahead and sign." He was certain he wouldn't divorce. As for money, it was merely a bunch of numbers to him. The purpose of making money was simply to accumulate assets for his wife. According to what he'd heard from his subordinates, after marriage, the husband was expected to hand over his salary and assets to his spouse. As for divorce... Well, that was out of the question for this lifetime. Having finally lured his little wife back home, there was no chance she would escape again. Haley gritted her teeth and swiftly signed her name on the agreement. Regardless of how long this marriage lasted, she was guaranteed to benefit! Watching as Haley signed her name in the bottom right corner, Shane smirked in satisfaction. He took the marriage agreement and handed over the cold medicine he had prepared. "Drink this medicine. You got caught in the rain, be careful not to catch a cold." "Thank you, Mr. Ford," Haley said, flashing a sweet smile as she took the cup. The bitter taste of the cold medicine hit her senses as she took a sip. Pinching her nose, she gulped down the medicine in one breath. Shane lowered his gaze, suppressing the curve of his lips from turning upwards, and spoke slowly, "It's getting late. You should rest early." Haley suddenly froze. Tonight... was she going to sleep with Shane? The thought sent her heart racing. "Mr. Ford, could you maybe spare a separate room for me?" Shane raised an eyebrow. "Hmm? Are you worried I might do something to you?" "Of course not!" Haley denied without thinking. She just wasn't accustomed to sleeping with strangers. To her, Shane had always been her elder, her fiancΓ©'s uncle. Shane's dark eyes bore into her, emitting a chilling aura. "There's no clause in our agreement about separate rooms." Haley was at a loss for words. Indeed, there wasn't such a clause in the agreement. She suddenly regretted signing the marriage agreement. Shane was too mysterious, too dangerous. Collaborating with him was like dancing with a tiger. Seeing Haley's hesitation, Shane sighed softly. "If you're uncomfortable sleeping together, I can give you time to adjust. But as a married couple, we are supposed to spend our lives together." The words "spend our lives together" were spoken with particular seriousness. Haley blushed and lowered her head, too embarrassed to meet Shane's gaze. After a long silence, she gritted her teeth and said, "It's fine. I can adapt!" Since she had signed the contract, she had to honor it. It was just sharing a bed, and it wasn't like she was losing out! Haley was led into Shane's bedroom in a daze. When she came in to take a shower before dinner, she rushed into the bathroom in a panic. Now, with a quiet mind, she began to size up the bedroom. Was this really a place where people lived? It felt too deserted. The large bedroom was decorated mainly in black and white, simple yet understated. There was barely any furniture in the room. Despite being the master bedroom, it felt excessively vacant, devoid of any warmth or homely atmosphere. Instead of feeling like a home, it resembled more of a temporary lodging. Haley cast a complicated glance at Shane, unable to imagine how he could live in such a cold environment. Shane cleared his throat uneasily. "Just make do for tonight. If there's anything you need, we can buy it tomorrow." "Okay." "I still have work to do. You go ahead and sleep." "Okay!" Her tone was noticeably more eager than before, almost as if she couldn't wait for him to leave. Shane gave her a deep look. "You're really eager for me to leave, aren't you?" Meeting his probing gaze, Haley chuckled awkwardly and waved at him. "Goodnight, Mr. Ford." "Hmm." Shane turned and left the bedroom. As the door closed behind him, the slight tension in his lips, which had been held back, relaxed ever so slightly, forming a faint curve. His gaze lingered on the closed door, and he lowered his voice. "Goodnight." In the room, Haley lay on the soft bed, her tense nerves slowly relaxing, sighing in comfort. The bedding seemed to carry the scent of pine from Shane, refreshing and pleasant. She had thought she would have trouble sleeping in a strange bed, but she fell asleep as soon as her head hit the pillow. After finishing his video conference, Shane realized it was already past two in the morning. He closed his laptop and headed towards the bedroom. In the dark night, the bedroom door opened silently, and the tall figure of a man slowly approached the bed, gazing at the person already fast asleep. The moonlight streamed through the window, casting a gentle glow on the girl's delicate and fair face. Before lying down beside her, Shane reached out his hand, his rough fingertips gently stroking her cheek. Haley didn't sleep well that night, instinctively sensing the approach of danger in her dreams. It was as if she was being stalked by a wild beast in the jungle, sending shivers down her spine. When she woke up, she found her back and forehead drenched in sweat. Looking around the unfamiliar room, it took her a few seconds to remember what had happened the day before. At that moment, there was a knock on the door, followed by a respectful and steady male voice from outside. "Madam, are you awake? I'm Bob Moore, the butler of Violet Grove." "Yes, give me a moment." Haley quickly got out of bed to answer the door. Despite looking a bit disheveled from just waking up, it didn't diminish her beauty in the slightest. Her fair cheeks were smooth and radiant, while her eyes, clear and bright, held a hint of sleepiness, adding a touch of innocence. A glint of admiration flashed in the butler's eyes, nodding with satisfaction. Finally, Mr. Ford's wish had been fulfilled. Mr. Ford always achieved what he wanted, without fail. Although the methods were somewhat less than honorable and might tarnish the Ford family's reputation if exposed, those were minor issues. Mr. Ford's reputation outside wasn't great to begin with, so a little more damage wouldn't matter. He smiled and said, "Madam, breakfast is ready. Would you like to have some?" As he assessed Haley, she was also studying him. He appeared to be in his forties, dressed sharply in a suit, meticulously groomed, with a perfectly poised smile on his lips, courteous yet distant. "Okay." Haley smiled and quickly freshened up before heading downstairs. As she sat down at the dining table, she noticed that Shane wasn't there, which piqued her curiosity. The butler noticed her puzzlement and explained, "Mr. Ford had a meeting this morning. He left for the office about an hour ago." "Ah, I see," Haley nodded, indicating that she understood. She ate her breakfast quietly, feeling relieved inside. Even though they were married by agreement, she still felt strangely nervous at the thought of Shane. Perhaps it was because of his overpowering presence that made people hesitate to approach him easily. Chapter 5 The household staff huddled together, gossiping quietly. And the subject of their gossip was none other than Haley. Early in the morning, the butler informed them that there would be a new lady of the house from now on, and instructed them to take care accordingly. Everyone was shocked, unable to believe that the usually aloof Shane had actually brought a woman home. Before Haley descended the stairs, everyone speculated about her identity. They all wanted to know what kind of woman could match Shane, this high and mighty figure. When they finally laid eyes on Haley's face, they were all thoroughly amazed. Haley's features were delicate, her skin as fair as snow, her almond-shaped eyes bright and clear, yet exuding an inexplicable allure. She was even more beautiful than the actresses on TV! What surprised them the most was that Haley was wearing Shane's shirt. Shane was known throughout the entire villa for his slight obsession with cleanliness. Nobody was allowed to touch his belongings. Being able to wear Shane's shirt indicated a relationship that was definitely out of the ordinary. "This is the first time Mr. Ford has brought a woman home. It's really unheard of!" "She's so beautiful, no wonder Mr. Ford made an exception for her." "Mr. Ford isn't getting any younger. It's time for him to have a wife." ... Just as everyone was discussing, someone suddenly spoke up: "Wife? Do you even know who this woman is? She's James's fiancΓ©e!" Everyone turned to look at the person who spoke. Her name was Lily Frank and everyone called her Lily. She had been working at the family estate before Shane moved in and took several household staff with him. Lily was one of them. "What? James's fiancΓ©e?" Lily glanced disdainfully in the direction of the dining room and said, "Sheβs just a seductive vixen. If James isn't into her, she goes after Mr. Ford!" She had seen Haley at the family estate before and naturally knew about the engagement between James and Haley. Flirting around without calling off the engagement, what else could she be but a seductress? She couldn't stand such women, with their pretty faces, seducing others everywhere. Who knew what spell she cast on Mr. Ford to bring her home? If this were to get out, the Ford family's reputation would surely be tarnished, wouldn't it? Lily's words piqued everyone's curiosity, and they gathered around to ask what she knew. Just then, a furious roar came from behind, "What are you all gathering here for? Are all the chores done?" Seeing the butler approaching with a stern face, the household staff couldn't help but cower and quickly dispersed. They had a natural fear of the butler. Although he was always polite and maintained a courteous smile, he still gave off an oppressive aura. Every interaction with him left them breathless. As the butler approached, his gaze swept over all the household staff, and he warned, "Let me reiterate, Madam is the lady of the house here. If I hear any gossip from your mouths again, pack your bags and leave. Do you understand?" "Yes, understood!" The household staff nodded hastily. Satisfied, the butler withdrew his gaze and looked at Lily. "Repeat what you just said in front of me." Lily was startled and immediately lowered her head further. "I didn't say anything! Bob, please forgive me. I just spoke without thinking." The butler sneered, "Come see me later and settle this month's wages." Lily panicked, "Bob, you can't treat me like this! I was personally chosen by Mrs. Ford Sr.!" The butler glanced at her indifferently. "I will personally report this to Mrs. Ford Sr. and I believe she will decide who is more important, the daughter-in-law or the household staff." With that, he left without looking back. Lily's legs went weak, and she fell to the ground, her face turning pale with fright. It's over, it's all over now! The other household staff were also stunned. Lily had followed from the family estate and had been working here for several years, yet she was dismissed so easily. Wouldn't their fate be even worse? After this incident, almost all the household staff remembered one thing: never disrespect Haley. In the dining room, Haley was completely unaware of this, enjoying her breakfast. The chefs hired by the Ford family were top-notch, and the breakfast they made was delicious. Haley ate contentedly, her mood becoming very pleasant. Just then, her phone on the side suddenly rang. Haley's brows furrowed slightly as she glanced at the caller ID. It was her father, Joe Carter, calling. Without much thought, she knew it must be her dear younger sister tattling on her again. As she answered, she was greeted with a burst of anger, "Haley, you've grown some guts, actually daring to stay out all night and making your sister cry. Get back here right now!" Coldness flashed in Haley's eyes as she retorted without hesitation, "Isn't this what I learned from you? My staying out all night is all thanks to your exemplary teachings." When her mother was still alive, Joe often used the excuse of being too busy with work to come home. In the past, she naively believed it, striving to be an obedient and sensible child, afraid of causing trouble for Joe. But what was the result? Less than a month after her mother's death, he shamelessly brought his mistress and illegitimate daughter into the house. It wasn't until then that she realized, the so-called work was just an excuse. In reality, he had long been with another family. Joe gave all the paternal love she yearned for to another daughter. As for her and her mother, they meant nothing to him. It was truly remarkable how he managed to navigate between two families for over a decade without being caught. Not acknowledging him as a time management master was really unfair considering all his years of hard work. Chapter 6 "Haley, you dare say that again! Have I raised you all these years just so you could argue with me? How did I end up with such a troublemaker like you?" Joe was about to explode with anger, barely believing these words were coming from Haley's mouth. Haley took her phone away without expression, rubbed her ears, and said, "If you're so eager to hear it, why don't you just record it? Play it every night before bed." She behaved obediently in front of Shane out of instinctive fear. As for others, even her biological father, she could argue with them without hesitation. In the past, she used to feel hurt and upset because of Joe's scolding, but after her mother's death, she came to terms with it. She realized that one should never have expected what didn't belong to them, or you would only end up hurting yourself. So when she found out about James's betrayal, she didn't feel too sad. Instead, she felt relieved. At least they weren't married yet, and there was still a chance to salvage everything. Joe's angry scolding kept coming through the earpiece, and she impatiently said, "Got it," before hanging up the phone. She did need to go back; she hadn't settled the score with Xena yet, and this matter wasn't over. She elegantly wiped the corners of her mouth, got up, and met the bewildered gaze of the butler. Haley coughed lightly, smiled at the butler, nodded, and quickly went upstairs. She wasn't afraid of being misunderstood; she just felt a little awkward. Although she and Shane had an agreement to get married, having lived in the aristocratic circle for more than twenty years, she knew that the wealthier the family, the more they valued their reputation. Since she intended to use Shane to get back at James and Xena, she had to play the role of Mrs. Ford well. The butler watched her departing figure with mixed feelings. He never expected that this seemingly obedient and gentle girl would have such a tough side. However, thinking about the rumors surrounding the Carter family, the butler couldn't help but feel sorry for Haley. Joe was originally a poor boy with nothing. Later on, he married Yvonne Ramsey, Haley's mother, and with her help, they started a company. Yvonne was a woman with a keen business acumen, and within a few years, she had managed the company exceptionally well. The brand 'JY' even penetrated the international market, expanding from a clothing brand to various sectors including finance, real estate, and more. At its peak, the Carter family even entered the upper-class circles. However, later on, Yvonne got cancer and faced Joe's betrayal, gradually becoming weaker and having no time or energy to manage the company anymore. Joe took the opportunity to intervene in the company, and even inserted many of his own people, intending to take over the company. What's more, less than a month after Yvonne's death, Joe actually brought his mistress and illegitimate daughter home. Haley's position in the Carter family became awkward. Later, rumors in the circle often circulated about Haley's fiancΓ©, James, having ambiguous relationships with Xena, his illegitimate daughter. Everyone was waiting for Haley to be dumped, eager to witness her downfall. She was indeed a pitiable child. Fortunately, with her husband's protection in the future, everything would only get better. ** Haley changed into the clothes she washed and dried the night before, greeted the butler and prepared to go out. The butler kindly asked, "Madam, would you like the driver to take you? It's not very convenient to get a taxi around here." This area was surrounded by a large villa district, where there were usually dedicated drivers, and it was rare to take a taxi. Moreover, the security system here was very high-level, and if one couldn't prove their identity, the security guards wouldn't let them in. Haley thought for a moment and nodded. "Okay." The butler immediately selected a low-key yet luxurious car from the garage and instructed the driver to safely escort Haley. Upon arriving at the Carter family, Haley got out of the car and took a deep breath. If it weren't for something she had to take with her from home, she wouldn't set foot here again. This place was never her home, and Joe had never considered her his daughter. She could even foresee how much scolding and rebuking she would endure once she entered. Sure enough, as soon as she stepped into the Carter family's living room, something was suddenly thrown out from inside. Her pupils contracted, instinctively she dodged to the side. A delicate and pretty glass flew past her and landed not far behind her with a loud shattering sound, almost piercing Haley's eardrums. If Haley had been a little slower to dodge, she would probably have been hit severely. Joe was still furious, putting all his strength into it. If the glass landed on Haley, it would definitely leave a severe injury. Haley stood stunned for several seconds before coming to her senses, and as she turned her head, she met Joe's angry gaze. "You have the nerve to come back? How did I raise such a wicked daughter? You even have the audacity to bully your own sister!" He seemed still enraged, his entire face as dark as coal, and his voice carried an uncontrollable anger. Accompanying his roar was a sob filled with grievances. Haley looked over and saw her stepmother, Zoe Lewis, and stepsister, Xena, sitting on the sofa, huddled together in tears. Their appearance seemed to suggest they had suffered a great injustice. Chapter 7 Zoe wiped her tears as she lamented, "Haley, I know you've never liked me as your stepmother, but Xena is innocent. How could you be so heartless?" "Did she tell you I bullied her?" Haley suddenly chuckled, though the smile didn't reach her eyes; instead, they were icy cold. Meeting Haley's gaze, Xena suddenly shivered, her eyes flickering with guilt. But when she remembered James's assurance from last night, promising to break off the engagement with Haley, her sense of guilt completely vanished. James loved her. It was Haley's own fault for not being able to win a man's affection. Haley couldnβt blame her! Seeing her brazen demeanor, Joe grew angry. "Who else but you? Xena is gentle and kind, unlike you, who is jealous and malicious." Haley seemed to find the situation ludicrous and actually laughed. She looked at Xena coldly. "Gentle and kind? Indeed, very kind, to take care of my fiancΓ© in her bed." She didn't bother arguing further with them, instead pulling out her phone and playing a recording. The sultry sounds of a woman mingled with the heavy breaths of a man emanated from the speaker. Joe stood dumbfounded, his whole being frozen in shock. The voices in the video were all too familiar to him. One was his beloved daughter, Xena, and the other was Haley's fiancΓ©, James. He had always believed the rumors were false because he firmly believed that the gentle and kind Xena would never try to steal her sister's man. However, he couldn't deny the truth. He looked at Xena, hoping for her to deny it, but all he saw was her guilty expression as she lowered her head. Now, what was there left for him to misunderstand? He trembled with anger, clutching at his slightly stinging chest, and sternly questioned Xena, "Is this true? Did you really do such a thing?" Xena's face turned pale, she shook her head frantically, and grabbed Joe's sleeve, acting coquettishly, "Dad, listen to me explain. Things aren't like that." Joe's face turned livid, displeased as he said, "But he's your sister's fiancΓ©. Why would you do something like this?" Why? Of course, it was to completely ruin Haley! As long as that old woman from the Ford family was still alive, James wouldn't successfully break off the engagement. Xena absolutely wouldn't allow Haley to marry into the top-tier Ford family and become the esteemed Mrs. Ford while she was forever burdened with the title of the illegitimate daughter! So, she didn't hesitate to seduce James at any cost, behaving lovingly towards him while in the presence of Haley, all to make her realize the reality and voluntarily break off the engagement. Although she was now caught red-handed by Haley, she didn't regret it at all. As long as she could trample Haley underfoot, she was willing to pay any price. From childhood to adulthood, Haley overshadowed her in every aspect. Whether it was in terms of background, appearance, academics, or social connections, wherever Haley was, her radiance would always be completely overshadowed. She refused to accept it! Xena's eyes were full of resentment, like a venomous snake hiding in the grass, spitting poison at its prey. Sinister and dangerous. She stood up and rushed over to snatch Haley's phone. "Haley, turn off the recording for me! James and I are truly in love. If you're sensible, you should take the initiative to step back. It's better for everyone!" Haley quickly stepped back two steps, avoiding her hand. Hearing her words, she couldn't help but sneer. "If you're a third wheel, you're a third wheel. Why bother with all the excuses?" Regardless of whom James truly loved, nominally, she was the only fiancΓ©e. James knew very well that she despised betrayal because of her mother, yet he still got involved with Xena, which was even more nauseating. Upon hearing this, Zoe exploded, as if her deepest pain had been pricked. "Who are you calling a third wheel?" She gritted her teeth and raised her arm to slap Haley. But her hand fell in midair, firmly grasped by a fair and delicate hand. Then, with a crisp sound, the clear slap echoed, and Zoe's cheek stung with a fiery pain. She was stunned by Haley's action, covering her face in disbelief. "You hit me? How dare you hit me?" Haley's lips curled slightly as she pulled out a tissue from her shoulder bag and wiped her hands leisurely. After finishing, she said lightly, "Zoe, I just made a passing remark. Why feel so guilty? Besides, you were the one who struck first. You can't blame me for your slow reaction." "You!" Zoe gritted her teeth, her eyes almost bursting with suppressed anger. | Reading matter | 8 | https://facebook.com/61559156515503 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718002800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879651 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410700 | 1723321845 | 995 | 1191279425651029 | 1 | 1.1841458962763E+15 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 299026206627385 | 0 | Reading matter | 120209775879570390 | findokn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | β€οΈπWhat happens nextπClick Here to read onπ | https://findokn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11632&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717754696 | 2.9902620662738E+14 | Reading matter | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959833_690035193239071_8338086885496487765_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=QUFcGNRC398Q7kNvgFxAmgt&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCWbUkdH9z0_PV1OvwqycTOxeLawo5lW9bV27bjjkvCVg&oe=6672ACB9 | person_profile | 0 | Reading matter | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959769_1190715732374544_2758543800221804444_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=HMc1ybrp76sQ7kNvgGxl7Rn&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDTbtuCE2oc7epCLXYFTWIHnrtsOeIyXj12-3O0DMTsrQ&oe=6672C9A3 | 0 | 3 | "James, between me and Haley, who do you love more?" "Of course, it's you, my dear. Haven't my actions proven it enough? Hmm?" "But, I want to hear you say it yourself." "Darling, you are the woman I love the most. Relax, you're too tense..." The man's suppressed heavy breathing, mixed with the woman's seductive sounds, soon filled the hotel suite. Haley Carter stood outside the slightly ajar door, her blood almost freezing, unable to stop trembling from the piercing cold. An hour ago, someone sent her a video clip. In the video, her fiancΓ©, James Ford, was hot kissing her half-sister Xena Carter in the corridor of this hotel. She initially thought it was a prank, but she never expected that these two had long been involved with each other. She took a deep breath, trying to restrain the anger surging in her chest. Quietly, she took out her phone from her pocket and pushed the door open. The two on the bed were still immersed in their intense pleasure when suddenly they heard a cold voice, "What a splendid drama. Shall I applaud for you?" Both froze, turning their gaze towards the direction of the door. "Ah!" Xena screamed, panicked, and shrank into James's embrace. "Haley? What are you doing here?" James covered himself with a blanket, displeased. "Who let you come in?" Haley crossed her arms, looking at him mockingly. "If I didn't come, wouldn't I miss such a splendid scene?" "Haley, James and I truly love each other. Please, let us be together!" Xena's eyes reddened, tears glistening, portraying an innocent and pitiful look. James felt heartbroken, tightly holding her in his arms, and said in a deep voice, "Haley, if you have any issues, take them up with me. Xena is innocent!" Haley sneered, "Innocent? How dare you utter those words?" "That's enough! The one I love, from beginning to end, has only been Xena. If you had an ounce of self-awareness, you would go to Grandma and cancel our engagement!" What he liked was someone like Xena, gentle and submissive, yet uninhibited and open-minded in bed. But Haley was awkward and conservative, not even allowing a touch of hands, utterly boring! Being with Haley, he couldn't feel an ounce of joy! Haley's eyes narrowed, a dangerous and icy light flickering at the depths. "Cheating is cheating. Don't give yourselves excuses. If I were to release the video of you two in bed, would anyone still think you're innocent?" James and Xena's faces turned pale, roaring, "Haley, delete the video now!" "And if I say no?" Haley stepped back two paces, provocatively lifting her chin towards them. "James, if you don't like me, you could have straightforwardly called off the engagement. I'm not someone who can't live without you. Your current behavior disgusts me." If James had openly called off the engagement, maybe she would have respected him a bit more. But alas... "Haley, stop right there!" Watching Haley walk away, James burned with anger, instinctively wanting to chase after her. However, Xena held onto his waist tightly, crying with grievance. "James, what should we do? Haley must be mad at me. Perhaps from the beginning, I shouldn't have liked you, then I wouldn't have hurt her..." Hearing this, James's heart filled with guilt and pity, leaving him with no inclination to chase after Haley. He kissed Xena's forehead and whispered softly, "Xena, you're just too kind. If it weren't for her interference, maybe we would have been together long ago!" "James, you're so good to me..." Xena's lips curved slightly, her eyes fixed on the direction Haley disappeared, a trace of a triumphant smile flashing. Thinking of competing with her? Haley was still too naive! She believed it wouldn't be long before she snatched away the position of Mrs. Ford! β¦ As Haley left the hotel, it started to pour outside. Endless night enveloped her, with only occasional flashes of lightning and dim streetlights visible through the pouring rain. Standing in the rain, Haley was drenched from head to toe. The scenes of James and Xena's affair played over and over in her mind, making her feel nauseous. On top of not eating all day, her stomach was cramping painfully. She forced herself to walk to the roadside, but finally couldn't bear it anymore and slowly crouched down. The icy rain hit her snow-white skin, sending shivers down her spine. Her vision blurred, making it hard for her to distinguish reality from dreams. After who knows how long, the rain hitting her seemed to gradually stop. Haley slowly opened her eyes and noticed a shadow before her. She had a sense of it and slowly lifted her gaze. The first thing she saw was a pair of well-tailored trousers, wrapping around a pair of long, straight legs. Moving upwards, she saw a handsome face with a cold demeanor. The man's slightly furrowed brows, high nose bridge, and tightly pursed lips were striking. His deep eyes were lowered, shrouded in darkness, seemingly blending with the night. Haley stared at him in surprise, a hint of bewilderment in her eyes. "Mr. Ford? Why are you here?" The man before her was Shane Ford, the most influential member of the Ford family, the top-tier business family in Jasper City. He was also her former fiancΓ©'s uncle, James's uncle. He was the late child of Mr. Ford Sr. and inherited exceptional business acumen. Taking over the Ford Corporation in just a few years, its market value multiplied several times over. What was most feared about him was his ruthless methods and decisive personality. However, he always remained low-key and mysterious, seldom interacting with the younger generation like them. Haley had only crossed paths with him a few times at the Ford family gatherings and hardly ever exchanged words. This man exuded an aura of danger, and Haley usually avoided him whenever possible. Never did she expect to encounter him today, especially in her current disheveled state. "What could possibly make you disregard your own well-being like this?" The man's brow furrowed slightly, his deep, velvety voice sensual and captivating, as if it sent an electric current tingling through her ears, simultaneously soothing and arousing. There was also a subtle hint of concern mixed in. Haley suddenly snapped out of her daze, hastily trying to stand up. However, due to crouching on the ground for too long, her legs had gone numb. Her body swayed suddenly, uncontrollably tilting backward. Just when she thought she was about to fall awkwardly, a pair of warm and powerful hands suddenly wrapped around her waist. The next moment, she fell into a warm and broad chest. Anxiously, she grabbed onto the front of his shirt, afraid of falling. At this moment, the man's rich and husky voice sounded in her ear, tinged with a hint of mockery: "Are you taking advantage of me?" Chapter 2 As she realized the ambiguous position they were in, Haley's cheeks flushed red, and she quickly pulled away from the man's embrace. Feeling embarrassed, she murmured softly, "No, my legs are numb." "Hmm," Shane responded with a pleasant chuckle, though it wasn't clear if he believed her or not. His gentle and deep voice seemed to have a calming effect, causing Haley's heart to flutter slightly, feeling both tingly and itchy. She rubbed her ears curiously and asked, "Mr. Ford, what are you doing here?" Shane replied nonchalantly, "I just happened to pass by." And he happened to see a poor little creature standing in the rain by the roadside, helpless and pitiful like an abandoned cat. Haley nodded knowingly but didn't know what to say. She had just experienced betrayal and felt physically and emotionally drained, only wanting to find a quiet place to rest. Shane glanced at her and asked, "Do you want revenge?" "What?" Haley stared at him in confusion, not understanding his meaning. Shane seemed to understand her confusion and asked patiently, "James betrayed you. Are you planning to let him off the hook?" Haley's expression changed abruptly, becoming wary. "How do you know about this?" If Shane knew, did that mean other members of the Ford family knew too? If that were the case, then all the tough talk she had given in front of James and Xena would turn into a joke. Shane replied, "You came out of the hotel looking like this, isn't that already saying everything?" Haley was stunned for a moment, then suddenly realized. Realizing she had misunderstood him, she apologized, "Thank you, Mr. Ford, but I'll handle it myself." No gain without pain. Besides, Shane was also a member of the Ford family. How could he genuinely help her? Regardless, she didn't want to have any further involvement with James and his family. Shane chuckled lightly and answered calmly, "I'll help you, but it's conditional. You might want to hear the terms first." "What terms?" Haley asked. "I'm in need of a wife," he stated succinctly. Haley almost thought she was hearing things. It took her a while to find her voice again. "Mr. Ford, are you kidding me?" Was Shane really looking for a wife? If he wanted to, there would be a line of women eager to say yes. Could he be playing a prank on her? Shane responded, "Do I seem like I'm joking?" Haley shook her head. She had heard many rumors about Shane before. He was known for being decisive, keeping his distance from strangers, and avoiding romantic entanglements. Given his status and position, there was no need for him to waste time joking with her here. "Why then?" Haley asked. "The old lady at home is pressuring me to get married. I need someone to serve as a shield for me. If you agree, I can help you dissolve your engagement with James." Haley froze, looking at him in disbelief. Shane was holding the umbrella, shielding her from the rain that fell upon her. The dim light from the roadside lamp illuminated half of his face, while the other half remained hidden in the darkness, adding a mysterious air to him. This exceptional man was simply incomparable to James, that scoundrel! Yet, her rationality remained. She questioned in puzzlement, "Why me?" With Shane's power and his devastatingly handsome face, attracting any woman should have been a piece of cake for him. So why choose her? She never believed that good fortune would fall into her lap. Even if it did, it would never hit her. Shane explained, "Because I need someone who knows the ins and outs and can also achieve mutual interests with me. You fit my criteria." "But..." Just as Haley hesitated, Shane suddenly leaned down. His deep and enticing voice sounded in her ear. "Don't you want James to call you 'aunt'? Moreover, if you marry me, Xena will never set foot into the Ford family." Haley's eyes lit up instantly, unable to contain her excitement. If she married Shane, James would have to address her as his aunt. Just thinking about it felt satisfying! She stole a glance at Shane, a hint of pity flashing in her eyes. Rumor had it that Shane was already thirty years old and didn't even have a woman by his side. Either he liked men, or he had some hidden illness. Now it seemed that those rumors were probably true. No wonder he wanted to enter into a marriage agreement with her. After pondering for a moment, Haley asked in distress, "Mr. Ford, won't Mrs. Ford Sr. object to this?" After all, until the engagement with James was officially dissolved, Haley was still his fiancΓ©e. If she turned around and married Shane, who knows what kind of rumors might spread outside? Despite Haley's concerns, Shane remained calm and didn't even furrow his brows. "Don't worry, I'll handle it." With his assurance, Haley completely dispelled any lingering doubts and decisively agreed, "Okay, I agree!" "Then let's go." Shane's lips curled slightly as he lowered his gaze, concealing the subtle emotions within his eyes, before opening the backseat car door. He leaned his hand against the car roof, considerately protecting Haley's head. His actions were gentlemanly and caring, as if he were treating an intimate lover. Haley was startled by her own thoughts, her cheeks flushing slightly as she hurriedly got into the car. Although the heater was on inside the car, she couldn't help but shiver. She hugged her arms and leaned back in the seat, wishing she could curl up into a ball. Suddenly, a hand with distinct knuckles passed her a towel. Shane's voice remained steady, without any fluctuation. "Wipe yourself dry. Don't catch a cold." Haley thanked him quickly and took the towel, wiping her damp hair. The car fell into an eerie silence, with only the sound of her drying her hair breaking the quiet. The atmosphere was strangely unsettling. Feeling uneasy all over, Haley cleared her throat and pretended to be calm as she asked, "Are we going to the county clerk's office now?" Shane glanced at her, his expression profound. "We can, but are you sure you want to go like this?" Following his gaze, Haley lowered her eyes, only then realizing that she was completely soaked and looked disheveled. Her cheeks flushed with embarrassment, wishing she could find a hole to hide in. She had almost forgotten that because of the rain, she was drenched all over. Her white shirt was clinging tightly to her skin, and even the color of her bra was clearly visible. This appearance was indeed not suitable for getting married. And did she sound too eager just now, as if she were in a rush to marry him? Would he misunderstand? Haley cautiously glanced at him out of the corner of her eye, seeing his calm expression, finally breathed a silent sigh of relief. Shaneβs assistant, Dean, who was driving, couldn't help but sigh as he looked at the rearview mirror. His boss was too unusual, completely overturning his previous understanding. In fact, they had been waiting outside the hotel the whole afternoon. Originally, he had come with Shane for a business meeting, but before they even got out of the car, they saw James and Haley's step-sister, Xena, entering the hotel together. Shane immediately instructed him to anonymously message Haley to catch them in the act at the hotel. At first, he didn't quite understand why his boss wanted to scheme against his own nephew. But now, he finally understood. How could a nephew be more important than a wife! No wonder his boss always looked at Haley with a peculiar gaze before. Now, thinking back, everything made sense! His boss had long harbored feelings for Haley. No, it's more like deep affection for her! Chapter 3 While Dean was lost in thought, he suddenly felt a chill at the back of his neck. He turned his head and met Shane's cold, beast-like gaze. Shivering fiercely, he dared not wander in his thoughts anymore, focusing solely on driving. Fortunately, Shane only gave him a cold glance, warning him to drive properly, and quickly withdrew his gaze. After getting out of the car, Shane took Haley into his residence. He fetched a clean set of clothes from the closet and handed them to her. "Go take a hot shower first. There aren't any women's clothes here, so you can wear mine for now." "Okay," Haley's cheeks flushed slightly as she hurriedly took the clothes and entered the bathroom. She almost fled, too afraid to meet Shane's gaze and thus missed the fleeting smile in his eyes. Haley spent a long time in the bathroom, leaning against the wall, letting the shower water wash over her. Being betrayed by James and Xena was something she had never expected, and marrying Shane was even beyond her wildest imagination. She felt that something was amiss, but her mind was a jumble, unable to sort out her thoughts. Soon, steam filled the bathroom, reddening her fair, snow-like face. When she emerged from the bathroom, Shane was no longer in the bedroom. Descending the stairs, she found a tall figure bustling about in the kitchen. The man was tall, clad in a white shirt and neatly tailored trousers, exuding extraordinary charisma. His shirt sleeves were rolled up, revealing well-defined arms. He wore a dark blue apron that softened his cold and aloof demeanor, adding a touch of warmth. Haley's eyes flashed with surprise. Could it be that Shane, a business tycoon, also cooked for himself? What a gentle and domesticated man! He perfectly matched her criteria for a partner from head to toe! Suddenly, something crossed her mind, and Haley's admiring gaze turned into pity. She sighed silently in her heart. How could such an outstanding man have hidden ailments? What a pity! Hearing footsteps, Shane paused and slowly turned around. His gaze fell upon Haley, and his eyes darkened slightly. Her petite figure was enveloped by his white shirt, the hem barely covering her upper legs, revealing a glimpse of slender and fair legs, straight and well-proportioned. In the light, they seemed dazzling. Shane's eyes lingered on those pretty, slender legs for a moment, suddenly feeling a heat rise within him. He averted his gaze, his voice tightening slightly. "Go put on some pants." Haley lowered her eyes and realized that dressing like this in front of an adult man was indeed a bit ambiguous. Her cheeks flushed in response. She whispered, "Your pants are too big for me, I can't wear them." Shane's expression turned cold as he went upstairs without looking back. If Haley had observed carefully, she would have noticed that his steps were somewhat disordered. But her cheeks were already as red as ripe shrimp, and she had no mind to observe Shane. Not long after, Shane came downstairs with a black pair of trousers and a belt in hand. "Put these on," he instructed. Perhaps sensing his tone was a bit harsh, he added, "Be careful not to catch a cold." Haley took the pants and went to the bathroom to change. With the constraint of the belt, she managed to put on the pants, though they were long and baggy, appearing quite bulky. She had to roll up the cuffs. When she came out of the bathroom, she found Shane had already set a bowl of freshly made chicken noodle soup on the table. It was a comforting and savory bowl of soup, with tender noodles and garnished with freshly chopped parsley. Haley was so shocked that she couldn't speak. She never expected Shane to actually cook. Though it was just a simple bowl of noodles, coming from Shane, it felt somehow out of place. Seeing Shane heading to the kitchen to fetch utensils, she followed him voluntarily. "Mr. Ford, do you need any help?" Upon hearing the term "Mr. Ford," Shane's body stiffened, and a hint of coldness almost overflowed from his eyes. He lowered his gaze, forcing himself to restrain his emotions, and hoarsely replied, "No need, just sit down and wait. I'll handle it myself." Haley didn't insist further and obediently sat down at the table, waiting for the meal to begin. After experiencing so much this afternoon, she was indeed feeling a bit hungry. Shane handed her the fork and spoon, then sat down opposite her. 'Dig in, just be careful, it's hot.'" Haley immediately started eating, the fragrance of the noodles filling her taste buds. A warmth spread through her empty stomach. Perhaps even she hadn't noticed, but her wariness and guard against Shane were slowly diminishing. As she ate, she raised her thumb towards Shane. "It's delicious, Mr. Ford. I didn't expect you to be such a great cook!" The warm-toned light in the dining room shone on her, illuminating her delicate and fair cheeks, soft and beautiful. She lowered her gaze, her cheeks puffing up with each chew, her eyes squinting with happiness and contentment. She looked so obedient that it made him want to ruffle her hair. But he couldn't do that, or he might scare her away. A skilled hunter should possess patience above all else, and that was one thing he definitely had. His palm curled slightly, then he casually retracted it. Shane silently told himself that there was plenty of time ahead. Haley was immersed in her food, completely unaware that she had become the lamb to be eaten, enjoying her meal with extra satisfaction. Halfway through, she noticed there was a poached egg at the bottom of the bowl. She looked up at the man across from her, but saw him eating his noodles gracefully, his expression showing no sign of anything unusual. Haley silently watched him eat until he finished his bowl of noodles, but there was no sign of the poached egg. So, was it specially made for her? Haley's emotions suddenly became somewhat complicated. Previously, she always felt that Shane's gaze was too intense, so she always tried to avoid it whenever possible. Coupled with the rumors surrounding him in the outside world, she became even more afraid of him. But now, it seemed like he wasn't that scary after all, and he was even very attentive and meticulous. After finishing the meal, Shane got up to clean up the dishes. He glanced at a girl sitting in the chair, gently stroking her belly, her face filled with contentment, and a smile formed at the corner of his lips. Haley quickly stood up from her chair, feeling somewhat embarrassed. "Mr. Ford, let me do it, I know how to wash dishes." "No need, just leave it to me," Shane dodged her hand and walked straight to the kitchen. Watching him skillfully turn on the faucet and start washing the dishes, Haley touched her nose, feeling like she would just be a hindrance if she went, so she sat back down. Shane finished washing the dishes and came out of the kitchen, handing Haley a printed document. Curiously, Haley took it and saw several large words written on it, "Marriage Agreement, Party A: Shane, Party B: Haley..." She widened her eyes in surprise. "Mr. Ford, when did you write this?" Meeting Haley's clear and bright eyes, Shane cleared his throat lightly. "On the way back." Actually, when Haley went into the hotel to "catch the affair," his car was parked nearby, and that's when he started writing this marriage agreement. But these were things he absolutely couldn't say out loud. Chapter 4 Haley skimmed through the marriage agreement, falling into a moment of silence. Seeing her hesitation, Shane's heart inexplicably tightened, prompting him to ask, "Is there a problem?" Haley shook her head, incredulous. "Mr. Ford, are you sure you want to sign this agreement with me?" The agreement posed no issues; in fact, each clause within it was almost entirely in her favor. Marrying Shane not only granted her the status and position of Mrs. Ford but also secured a 3% stake in the Ford Corporation, along with real estate under Shane's name. In the event of a divorce, she would even be entitled to half of Shane's personal assets. The Ford Corporation was the largest multinational conglomerate in Jasper City, with investments in finance, real estate, hospitality, and various other industries, and its stock value was continuously rising. Compared to her third-rate wealthy family, whose combined assets couldn't even afford 1% of the Ford Corporation's shares, Haley would overnight become immensely wealthy through this marriage. Shane's expression remained calm and composed as he casually poured a dose of cold medicine from a bottle. "Hmm, go ahead and sign." He was certain he wouldn't divorce. As for money, it was merely a bunch of numbers to him. The purpose of making money was simply to accumulate assets for his wife. According to what he'd heard from his subordinates, after marriage, the husband was expected to hand over his salary and assets to his spouse. As for divorce... Well, that was out of the question for this lifetime. Having finally lured his little wife back home, there was no chance she would escape again. Haley gritted her teeth and swiftly signed her name on the agreement. Regardless of how long this marriage lasted, she was guaranteed to benefit! Watching as Haley signed her name in the bottom right corner, Shane smirked in satisfaction. He took the marriage agreement and handed over the cold medicine he had prepared. "Drink this medicine. You got caught in the rain, be careful not to catch a cold." "Thank you, Mr. Ford," Haley said, flashing a sweet smile as she took the cup. The bitter taste of the cold medicine hit her senses as she took a sip. Pinching her nose, she gulped down the medicine in one breath. Shane lowered his gaze, suppressing the curve of his lips from turning upwards, and spoke slowly, "It's getting late. You should rest early." Haley suddenly froze. Tonight... was she going to sleep with Shane? The thought sent her heart racing. "Mr. Ford, could you maybe spare a separate room for me?" Shane raised an eyebrow. "Hmm? Are you worried I might do something to you?" "Of course not!" Haley denied without thinking. She just wasn't accustomed to sleeping with strangers. To her, Shane had always been her elder, her fiancΓ©'s uncle. Shane's dark eyes bore into her, emitting a chilling aura. "There's no clause in our agreement about separate rooms." Haley was at a loss for words. Indeed, there wasn't such a clause in the agreement. She suddenly regretted signing the marriage agreement. Shane was too mysterious, too dangerous. Collaborating with him was like dancing with a tiger. Seeing Haley's hesitation, Shane sighed softly. "If you're uncomfortable sleeping together, I can give you time to adjust. But as a married couple, we are supposed to spend our lives together." The words "spend our lives together" were spoken with particular seriousness. Haley blushed and lowered her head, too embarrassed to meet Shane's gaze. After a long silence, she gritted her teeth and said, "It's fine. I can adapt!" Since she had signed the contract, she had to honor it. It was just sharing a bed, and it wasn't like she was losing out! Haley was led into Shane's bedroom in a daze. When she came in to take a shower before dinner, she rushed into the bathroom in a panic. Now, with a quiet mind, she began to size up the bedroom. Was this really a place where people lived? It felt too deserted. The large bedroom was decorated mainly in black and white, simple yet understated. There was barely any furniture in the room. Despite being the master bedroom, it felt excessively vacant, devoid of any warmth or homely atmosphere. Instead of feeling like a home, it resembled more of a temporary lodging. Haley cast a complicated glance at Shane, unable to imagine how he could live in such a cold environment. Shane cleared his throat uneasily. "Just make do for tonight. If there's anything you need, we can buy it tomorrow." "Okay." "I still have work to do. You go ahead and sleep." "Okay!" Her tone was noticeably more eager than before, almost as if she couldn't wait for him to leave. Shane gave her a deep look. "You're really eager for me to leave, aren't you?" Meeting his probing gaze, Haley chuckled awkwardly and waved at him. "Goodnight, Mr. Ford." "Hmm." Shane turned and left the bedroom. As the door closed behind him, the slight tension in his lips, which had been held back, relaxed ever so slightly, forming a faint curve. His gaze lingered on the closed door, and he lowered his voice. "Goodnight." In the room, Haley lay on the soft bed, her tense nerves slowly relaxing, sighing in comfort. The bedding seemed to carry the scent of pine from Shane, refreshing and pleasant. She had thought she would have trouble sleeping in a strange bed, but she fell asleep as soon as her head hit the pillow. After finishing his video conference, Shane realized it was already past two in the morning. He closed his laptop and headed towards the bedroom. In the dark night, the bedroom door opened silently, and the tall figure of a man slowly approached the bed, gazing at the person already fast asleep. The moonlight streamed through the window, casting a gentle glow on the girl's delicate and fair face. Before lying down beside her, Shane reached out his hand, his rough fingertips gently stroking her cheek. Haley didn't sleep well that night, instinctively sensing the approach of danger in her dreams. It was as if she was being stalked by a wild beast in the jungle, sending shivers down her spine. When she woke up, she found her back and forehead drenched in sweat. Looking around the unfamiliar room, it took her a few seconds to remember what had happened the day before. At that moment, there was a knock on the door, followed by a respectful and steady male voice from outside. "Madam, are you awake? I'm Bob Moore, the butler of Violet Grove." "Yes, give me a moment." Haley quickly got out of bed to answer the door. Despite looking a bit disheveled from just waking up, it didn't diminish her beauty in the slightest. Her fair cheeks were smooth and radiant, while her eyes, clear and bright, held a hint of sleepiness, adding a touch of innocence. A glint of admiration flashed in the butler's eyes, nodding with satisfaction. Finally, Mr. Ford's wish had been fulfilled. Mr. Ford always achieved what he wanted, without fail. Although the methods were somewhat less than honorable and might tarnish the Ford family's reputation if exposed, those were minor issues. Mr. Ford's reputation outside wasn't great to begin with, so a little more damage wouldn't matter. He smiled and said, "Madam, breakfast is ready. Would you like to have some?" As he assessed Haley, she was also studying him. He appeared to be in his forties, dressed sharply in a suit, meticulously groomed, with a perfectly poised smile on his lips, courteous yet distant. "Okay." Haley smiled and quickly freshened up before heading downstairs. As she sat down at the dining table, she noticed that Shane wasn't there, which piqued her curiosity. The butler noticed her puzzlement and explained, "Mr. Ford had a meeting this morning. He left for the office about an hour ago." "Ah, I see," Haley nodded, indicating that she understood. She ate her breakfast quietly, feeling relieved inside. Even though they were married by agreement, she still felt strangely nervous at the thought of Shane. Perhaps it was because of his overpowering presence that made people hesitate to approach him easily. Chapter 5 The household staff huddled together, gossiping quietly. And the subject of their gossip was none other than Haley. Early in the morning, the butler informed them that there would be a new lady of the house from now on, and instructed them to take care accordingly. Everyone was shocked, unable to believe that the usually aloof Shane had actually brought a woman home. Before Haley descended the stairs, everyone speculated about her identity. They all wanted to know what kind of woman could match Shane, this high and mighty figure. When they finally laid eyes on Haley's face, they were all thoroughly amazed. Haley's features were delicate, her skin as fair as snow, her almond-shaped eyes bright and clear, yet exuding an inexplicable allure. She was even more beautiful than the actresses on TV! What surprised them the most was that Haley was wearing Shane's shirt. Shane was known throughout the entire villa for his slight obsession with cleanliness. Nobody was allowed to touch his belongings. Being able to wear Shane's shirt indicated a relationship that was definitely out of the ordinary. "This is the first time Mr. Ford has brought a woman home. It's really unheard of!" "She's so beautiful, no wonder Mr. Ford made an exception for her." "Mr. Ford isn't getting any younger. It's time for him to have a wife." ... Just as everyone was discussing, someone suddenly spoke up: "Wife? Do you even know who this woman is? She's James's fiancΓ©e!" Everyone turned to look at the person who spoke. Her name was Lily Frank and everyone called her Lily. She had been working at the family estate before Shane moved in and took several household staff with him. Lily was one of them. "What? James's fiancΓ©e?" Lily glanced disdainfully in the direction of the dining room and said, "Sheβs just a seductive vixen. If James isn't into her, she goes after Mr. Ford!" She had seen Haley at the family estate before and naturally knew about the engagement between James and Haley. Flirting around without calling off the engagement, what else could she be but a seductress? She couldn't stand such women, with their pretty faces, seducing others everywhere. Who knew what spell she cast on Mr. Ford to bring her home? If this were to get out, the Ford family's reputation would surely be tarnished, wouldn't it? Lily's words piqued everyone's curiosity, and they gathered around to ask what she knew. Just then, a furious roar came from behind, "What are you all gathering here for? Are all the chores done?" Seeing the butler approaching with a stern face, the household staff couldn't help but cower and quickly dispersed. They had a natural fear of the butler. Although he was always polite and maintained a courteous smile, he still gave off an oppressive aura. Every interaction with him left them breathless. As the butler approached, his gaze swept over all the household staff, and he warned, "Let me reiterate, Madam is the lady of the house here. If I hear any gossip from your mouths again, pack your bags and leave. Do you understand?" "Yes, understood!" The household staff nodded hastily. Satisfied, the butler withdrew his gaze and looked at Lily. "Repeat what you just said in front of me." Lily was startled and immediately lowered her head further. "I didn't say anything! Bob, please forgive me. I just spoke without thinking." The butler sneered, "Come see me later and settle this month's wages." Lily panicked, "Bob, you can't treat me like this! I was personally chosen by Mrs. Ford Sr.!" The butler glanced at her indifferently. "I will personally report this to Mrs. Ford Sr. and I believe she will decide who is more important, the daughter-in-law or the household staff." With that, he left without looking back. Lily's legs went weak, and she fell to the ground, her face turning pale with fright. It's over, it's all over now! The other household staff were also stunned. Lily had followed from the family estate and had been working here for several years, yet she was dismissed so easily. Wouldn't their fate be even worse? After this incident, almost all the household staff remembered one thing: never disrespect Haley. In the dining room, Haley was completely unaware of this, enjoying her breakfast. The chefs hired by the Ford family were top-notch, and the breakfast they made was delicious. Haley ate contentedly, her mood becoming very pleasant. Just then, her phone on the side suddenly rang. Haley's brows furrowed slightly as she glanced at the caller ID. It was her father, Joe Carter, calling. Without much thought, she knew it must be her dear younger sister tattling on her again. As she answered, she was greeted with a burst of anger, "Haley, you've grown some guts, actually daring to stay out all night and making your sister cry. Get back here right now!" Coldness flashed in Haley's eyes as she retorted without hesitation, "Isn't this what I learned from you? My staying out all night is all thanks to your exemplary teachings." When her mother was still alive, Joe often used the excuse of being too busy with work to come home. In the past, she naively believed it, striving to be an obedient and sensible child, afraid of causing trouble for Joe. But what was the result? Less than a month after her mother's death, he shamelessly brought his mistress and illegitimate daughter into the house. It wasn't until then that she realized, the so-called work was just an excuse. In reality, he had long been with another family. Joe gave all the paternal love she yearned for to another daughter. As for her and her mother, they meant nothing to him. It was truly remarkable how he managed to navigate between two families for over a decade without being caught. Not acknowledging him as a time management master was really unfair considering all his years of hard work. Chapter 6 "Haley, you dare say that again! Have I raised you all these years just so you could argue with me? How did I end up with such a troublemaker like you?" Joe was about to explode with anger, barely believing these words were coming from Haley's mouth. Haley took her phone away without expression, rubbed her ears, and said, "If you're so eager to hear it, why don't you just record it? Play it every night before bed." She behaved obediently in front of Shane out of instinctive fear. As for others, even her biological father, she could argue with them without hesitation. In the past, she used to feel hurt and upset because of Joe's scolding, but after her mother's death, she came to terms with it. She realized that one should never have expected what didn't belong to them, or you would only end up hurting yourself. So when she found out about James's betrayal, she didn't feel too sad. Instead, she felt relieved. At least they weren't married yet, and there was still a chance to salvage everything. Joe's angry scolding kept coming through the earpiece, and she impatiently said, "Got it," before hanging up the phone. She did need to go back; she hadn't settled the score with Xena yet, and this matter wasn't over. She elegantly wiped the corners of her mouth, got up, and met the bewildered gaze of the butler. Haley coughed lightly, smiled at the butler, nodded, and quickly went upstairs. She wasn't afraid of being misunderstood; she just felt a little awkward. Although she and Shane had an agreement to get married, having lived in the aristocratic circle for more than twenty years, she knew that the wealthier the family, the more they valued their reputation. Since she intended to use Shane to get back at James and Xena, she had to play the role of Mrs. Ford well. The butler watched her departing figure with mixed feelings. He never expected that this seemingly obedient and gentle girl would have such a tough side. However, thinking about the rumors surrounding the Carter family, the butler couldn't help but feel sorry for Haley. Joe was originally a poor boy with nothing. Later on, he married Yvonne Ramsey, Haley's mother, and with her help, they started a company. Yvonne was a woman with a keen business acumen, and within a few years, she had managed the company exceptionally well. The brand 'JY' even penetrated the international market, expanding from a clothing brand to various sectors including finance, real estate, and more. At its peak, the Carter family even entered the upper-class circles. However, later on, Yvonne got cancer and faced Joe's betrayal, gradually becoming weaker and having no time or energy to manage the company anymore. Joe took the opportunity to intervene in the company, and even inserted many of his own people, intending to take over the company. What's more, less than a month after Yvonne's death, Joe actually brought his mistress and illegitimate daughter home. Haley's position in the Carter family became awkward. Later, rumors in the circle often circulated about Haley's fiancΓ©, James, having ambiguous relationships with Xena, his illegitimate daughter. Everyone was waiting for Haley to be dumped, eager to witness her downfall. She was indeed a pitiable child. Fortunately, with her husband's protection in the future, everything would only get better. ** Haley changed into the clothes she washed and dried the night before, greeted the butler and prepared to go out. The butler kindly asked, "Madam, would you like the driver to take you? It's not very convenient to get a taxi around here." This area was surrounded by a large villa district, where there were usually dedicated drivers, and it was rare to take a taxi. Moreover, the security system here was very high-level, and if one couldn't prove their identity, the security guards wouldn't let them in. Haley thought for a moment and nodded. "Okay." The butler immediately selected a low-key yet luxurious car from the garage and instructed the driver to safely escort Haley. Upon arriving at the Carter family, Haley got out of the car and took a deep breath. If it weren't for something she had to take with her from home, she wouldn't set foot here again. This place was never her home, and Joe had never considered her his daughter. She could even foresee how much scolding and rebuking she would endure once she entered. Sure enough, as soon as she stepped into the Carter family's living room, something was suddenly thrown out from inside. Her pupils contracted, instinctively she dodged to the side. A delicate and pretty glass flew past her and landed not far behind her with a loud shattering sound, almost piercing Haley's eardrums. If Haley had been a little slower to dodge, she would probably have been hit severely. Joe was still furious, putting all his strength into it. If the glass landed on Haley, it would definitely leave a severe injury. Haley stood stunned for several seconds before coming to her senses, and as she turned her head, she met Joe's angry gaze. "You have the nerve to come back? How did I raise such a wicked daughter? You even have the audacity to bully your own sister!" He seemed still enraged, his entire face as dark as coal, and his voice carried an uncontrollable anger. Accompanying his roar was a sob filled with grievances. Haley looked over and saw her stepmother, Zoe Lewis, and stepsister, Xena, sitting on the sofa, huddled together in tears. Their appearance seemed to suggest they had suffered a great injustice. Chapter 7 Zoe wiped her tears as she lamented, "Haley, I know you've never liked me as your stepmother, but Xena is innocent. How could you be so heartless?" "Did she tell you I bullied her?" Haley suddenly chuckled, though the smile didn't reach her eyes; instead, they were icy cold. Meeting Haley's gaze, Xena suddenly shivered, her eyes flickering with guilt. But when she remembered James's assurance from last night, promising to break off the engagement with Haley, her sense of guilt completely vanished. James loved her. It was Haley's own fault for not being able to win a man's affection. Haley couldnβt blame her! Seeing her brazen demeanor, Joe grew angry. "Who else but you? Xena is gentle and kind, unlike you, who is jealous and malicious." Haley seemed to find the situation ludicrous and actually laughed. She looked at Xena coldly. "Gentle and kind? Indeed, very kind, to take care of my fiancΓ© in her bed." She didn't bother arguing further with them, instead pulling out her phone and playing a recording. The sultry sounds of a woman mingled with the heavy breaths of a man emanated from the speaker. Joe stood dumbfounded, his whole being frozen in shock. The voices in the video were all too familiar to him. One was his beloved daughter, Xena, and the other was Haley's fiancΓ©, James. He had always believed the rumors were false because he firmly believed that the gentle and kind Xena would never try to steal her sister's man. However, he couldn't deny the truth. He looked at Xena, hoping for her to deny it, but all he saw was her guilty expression as she lowered her head. Now, what was there left for him to misunderstand? He trembled with anger, clutching at his slightly stinging chest, and sternly questioned Xena, "Is this true? Did you really do such a thing?" Xena's face turned pale, she shook her head frantically, and grabbed Joe's sleeve, acting coquettishly, "Dad, listen to me explain. Things aren't like that." Joe's face turned livid, displeased as he said, "But he's your sister's fiancΓ©. Why would you do something like this?" Why? Of course, it was to completely ruin Haley! As long as that old woman from the Ford family was still alive, James wouldn't successfully break off the engagement. Xena absolutely wouldn't allow Haley to marry into the top-tier Ford family and become the esteemed Mrs. Ford while she was forever burdened with the title of the illegitimate daughter! So, she didn't hesitate to seduce James at any cost, behaving lovingly towards him while in the presence of Haley, all to make her realize the reality and voluntarily break off the engagement. Although she was now caught red-handed by Haley, she didn't regret it at all. As long as she could trample Haley underfoot, she was willing to pay any price. From childhood to adulthood, Haley overshadowed her in every aspect. Whether it was in terms of background, appearance, academics, or social connections, wherever Haley was, her radiance would always be completely overshadowed. She refused to accept it! Xena's eyes were full of resentment, like a venomous snake hiding in the grass, spitting poison at its prey. Sinister and dangerous. She stood up and rushed over to snatch Haley's phone. "Haley, turn off the recording for me! James and I are truly in love. If you're sensible, you should take the initiative to step back. It's better for everyone!" Haley quickly stepped back two steps, avoiding her hand. Hearing her words, she couldn't help but sneer. "If you're a third wheel, you're a third wheel. Why bother with all the excuses?" Regardless of whom James truly loved, nominally, she was the only fiancΓ©e. James knew very well that she despised betrayal because of her mother, yet he still got involved with Xena, which was even more nauseating. Upon hearing this, Zoe exploded, as if her deepest pain had been pricked. "Who are you calling a third wheel?" She gritted her teeth and raised her arm to slap Haley. But her hand fell in midair, firmly grasped by a fair and delicate hand. Then, with a crisp sound, the clear slap echoed, and Zoe's cheek stung with a fiery pain. She was stunned by Haley's action, covering her face in disbelief. "You hit me? How dare you hit me?" Haley's lips curled slightly as she pulled out a tissue from her shoulder bag and wiped her hands leisurely. After finishing, she said lightly, "Zoe, I just made a passing remark. Why feel so guilty? Besides, you were the one who struck first. You can't blame me for your slow reaction." "You!" Zoe gritted her teeth, her eyes almost bursting with suppressed anger. | Reading matter | 8 | https://facebook.com/61559156515503 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718002800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879652 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410700 | 1723321845 | 995 | 1191279425651029 | 1 | 1.1841458962763E+15 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 299026206627385 | 0 | Reading matter | 120209775879570390 | findokn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | β€οΈπWhat happens nextπClick Here to read onπ | https://findokn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11632&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717754696 | 2.9902620662738E+14 | Reading matter | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959833_690035193239071_8338086885496487765_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=QUFcGNRC398Q7kNvgFxAmgt&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCWbUkdH9z0_PV1OvwqycTOxeLawo5lW9bV27bjjkvCVg&oe=6672ACB9 | person_profile | 0 | Reading matter | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959769_1190715732374544_2758543800221804444_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=HMc1ybrp76sQ7kNvgGxl7Rn&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDTbtuCE2oc7epCLXYFTWIHnrtsOeIyXj12-3O0DMTsrQ&oe=6672C9A3 | 0 | 3 | "James, between me and Haley, who do you love more?" "Of course, it's you, my dear. Haven't my actions proven it enough? Hmm?" "But, I want to hear you say it yourself." "Darling, you are the woman I love the most. Relax, you're too tense..." The man's suppressed heavy breathing, mixed with the woman's seductive sounds, soon filled the hotel suite. Haley Carter stood outside the slightly ajar door, her blood almost freezing, unable to stop trembling from the piercing cold. An hour ago, someone sent her a video clip. In the video, her fiancΓ©, James Ford, was hot kissing her half-sister Xena Carter in the corridor of this hotel. She initially thought it was a prank, but she never expected that these two had long been involved with each other. She took a deep breath, trying to restrain the anger surging in her chest. Quietly, she took out her phone from her pocket and pushed the door open. The two on the bed were still immersed in their intense pleasure when suddenly they heard a cold voice, "What a splendid drama. Shall I applaud for you?" Both froze, turning their gaze towards the direction of the door. "Ah!" Xena screamed, panicked, and shrank into James's embrace. "Haley? What are you doing here?" James covered himself with a blanket, displeased. "Who let you come in?" Haley crossed her arms, looking at him mockingly. "If I didn't come, wouldn't I miss such a splendid scene?" "Haley, James and I truly love each other. Please, let us be together!" Xena's eyes reddened, tears glistening, portraying an innocent and pitiful look. James felt heartbroken, tightly holding her in his arms, and said in a deep voice, "Haley, if you have any issues, take them up with me. Xena is innocent!" Haley sneered, "Innocent? How dare you utter those words?" "That's enough! The one I love, from beginning to end, has only been Xena. If you had an ounce of self-awareness, you would go to Grandma and cancel our engagement!" What he liked was someone like Xena, gentle and submissive, yet uninhibited and open-minded in bed. But Haley was awkward and conservative, not even allowing a touch of hands, utterly boring! Being with Haley, he couldn't feel an ounce of joy! Haley's eyes narrowed, a dangerous and icy light flickering at the depths. "Cheating is cheating. Don't give yourselves excuses. If I were to release the video of you two in bed, would anyone still think you're innocent?" James and Xena's faces turned pale, roaring, "Haley, delete the video now!" "And if I say no?" Haley stepped back two paces, provocatively lifting her chin towards them. "James, if you don't like me, you could have straightforwardly called off the engagement. I'm not someone who can't live without you. Your current behavior disgusts me." If James had openly called off the engagement, maybe she would have respected him a bit more. But alas... "Haley, stop right there!" Watching Haley walk away, James burned with anger, instinctively wanting to chase after her. However, Xena held onto his waist tightly, crying with grievance. "James, what should we do? Haley must be mad at me. Perhaps from the beginning, I shouldn't have liked you, then I wouldn't have hurt her..." Hearing this, James's heart filled with guilt and pity, leaving him with no inclination to chase after Haley. He kissed Xena's forehead and whispered softly, "Xena, you're just too kind. If it weren't for her interference, maybe we would have been together long ago!" "James, you're so good to me..." Xena's lips curved slightly, her eyes fixed on the direction Haley disappeared, a trace of a triumphant smile flashing. Thinking of competing with her? Haley was still too naive! She believed it wouldn't be long before she snatched away the position of Mrs. Ford! β¦ As Haley left the hotel, it started to pour outside. Endless night enveloped her, with only occasional flashes of lightning and dim streetlights visible through the pouring rain. Standing in the rain, Haley was drenched from head to toe. The scenes of James and Xena's affair played over and over in her mind, making her feel nauseous. On top of not eating all day, her stomach was cramping painfully. She forced herself to walk to the roadside, but finally couldn't bear it anymore and slowly crouched down. The icy rain hit her snow-white skin, sending shivers down her spine. Her vision blurred, making it hard for her to distinguish reality from dreams. After who knows how long, the rain hitting her seemed to gradually stop. Haley slowly opened her eyes and noticed a shadow before her. She had a sense of it and slowly lifted her gaze. The first thing she saw was a pair of well-tailored trousers, wrapping around a pair of long, straight legs. Moving upwards, she saw a handsome face with a cold demeanor. The man's slightly furrowed brows, high nose bridge, and tightly pursed lips were striking. His deep eyes were lowered, shrouded in darkness, seemingly blending with the night. Haley stared at him in surprise, a hint of bewilderment in her eyes. "Mr. Ford? Why are you here?" The man before her was Shane Ford, the most influential member of the Ford family, the top-tier business family in Jasper City. He was also her former fiancΓ©'s uncle, James's uncle. He was the late child of Mr. Ford Sr. and inherited exceptional business acumen. Taking over the Ford Corporation in just a few years, its market value multiplied several times over. What was most feared about him was his ruthless methods and decisive personality. However, he always remained low-key and mysterious, seldom interacting with the younger generation like them. Haley had only crossed paths with him a few times at the Ford family gatherings and hardly ever exchanged words. This man exuded an aura of danger, and Haley usually avoided him whenever possible. Never did she expect to encounter him today, especially in her current disheveled state. "What could possibly make you disregard your own well-being like this?" The man's brow furrowed slightly, his deep, velvety voice sensual and captivating, as if it sent an electric current tingling through her ears, simultaneously soothing and arousing. There was also a subtle hint of concern mixed in. Haley suddenly snapped out of her daze, hastily trying to stand up. However, due to crouching on the ground for too long, her legs had gone numb. Her body swayed suddenly, uncontrollably tilting backward. Just when she thought she was about to fall awkwardly, a pair of warm and powerful hands suddenly wrapped around her waist. The next moment, she fell into a warm and broad chest. Anxiously, she grabbed onto the front of his shirt, afraid of falling. At this moment, the man's rich and husky voice sounded in her ear, tinged with a hint of mockery: "Are you taking advantage of me?" Chapter 2 As she realized the ambiguous position they were in, Haley's cheeks flushed red, and she quickly pulled away from the man's embrace. Feeling embarrassed, she murmured softly, "No, my legs are numb." "Hmm," Shane responded with a pleasant chuckle, though it wasn't clear if he believed her or not. His gentle and deep voice seemed to have a calming effect, causing Haley's heart to flutter slightly, feeling both tingly and itchy. She rubbed her ears curiously and asked, "Mr. Ford, what are you doing here?" Shane replied nonchalantly, "I just happened to pass by." And he happened to see a poor little creature standing in the rain by the roadside, helpless and pitiful like an abandoned cat. Haley nodded knowingly but didn't know what to say. She had just experienced betrayal and felt physically and emotionally drained, only wanting to find a quiet place to rest. Shane glanced at her and asked, "Do you want revenge?" "What?" Haley stared at him in confusion, not understanding his meaning. Shane seemed to understand her confusion and asked patiently, "James betrayed you. Are you planning to let him off the hook?" Haley's expression changed abruptly, becoming wary. "How do you know about this?" If Shane knew, did that mean other members of the Ford family knew too? If that were the case, then all the tough talk she had given in front of James and Xena would turn into a joke. Shane replied, "You came out of the hotel looking like this, isn't that already saying everything?" Haley was stunned for a moment, then suddenly realized. Realizing she had misunderstood him, she apologized, "Thank you, Mr. Ford, but I'll handle it myself." No gain without pain. Besides, Shane was also a member of the Ford family. How could he genuinely help her? Regardless, she didn't want to have any further involvement with James and his family. Shane chuckled lightly and answered calmly, "I'll help you, but it's conditional. You might want to hear the terms first." "What terms?" Haley asked. "I'm in need of a wife," he stated succinctly. Haley almost thought she was hearing things. It took her a while to find her voice again. "Mr. Ford, are you kidding me?" Was Shane really looking for a wife? If he wanted to, there would be a line of women eager to say yes. Could he be playing a prank on her? Shane responded, "Do I seem like I'm joking?" Haley shook her head. She had heard many rumors about Shane before. He was known for being decisive, keeping his distance from strangers, and avoiding romantic entanglements. Given his status and position, there was no need for him to waste time joking with her here. "Why then?" Haley asked. "The old lady at home is pressuring me to get married. I need someone to serve as a shield for me. If you agree, I can help you dissolve your engagement with James." Haley froze, looking at him in disbelief. Shane was holding the umbrella, shielding her from the rain that fell upon her. The dim light from the roadside lamp illuminated half of his face, while the other half remained hidden in the darkness, adding a mysterious air to him. This exceptional man was simply incomparable to James, that scoundrel! Yet, her rationality remained. She questioned in puzzlement, "Why me?" With Shane's power and his devastatingly handsome face, attracting any woman should have been a piece of cake for him. So why choose her? She never believed that good fortune would fall into her lap. Even if it did, it would never hit her. Shane explained, "Because I need someone who knows the ins and outs and can also achieve mutual interests with me. You fit my criteria." "But..." Just as Haley hesitated, Shane suddenly leaned down. His deep and enticing voice sounded in her ear. "Don't you want James to call you 'aunt'? Moreover, if you marry me, Xena will never set foot into the Ford family." Haley's eyes lit up instantly, unable to contain her excitement. If she married Shane, James would have to address her as his aunt. Just thinking about it felt satisfying! She stole a glance at Shane, a hint of pity flashing in her eyes. Rumor had it that Shane was already thirty years old and didn't even have a woman by his side. Either he liked men, or he had some hidden illness. Now it seemed that those rumors were probably true. No wonder he wanted to enter into a marriage agreement with her. After pondering for a moment, Haley asked in distress, "Mr. Ford, won't Mrs. Ford Sr. object to this?" After all, until the engagement with James was officially dissolved, Haley was still his fiancΓ©e. If she turned around and married Shane, who knows what kind of rumors might spread outside? Despite Haley's concerns, Shane remained calm and didn't even furrow his brows. "Don't worry, I'll handle it." With his assurance, Haley completely dispelled any lingering doubts and decisively agreed, "Okay, I agree!" "Then let's go." Shane's lips curled slightly as he lowered his gaze, concealing the subtle emotions within his eyes, before opening the backseat car door. He leaned his hand against the car roof, considerately protecting Haley's head. His actions were gentlemanly and caring, as if he were treating an intimate lover. Haley was startled by her own thoughts, her cheeks flushing slightly as she hurriedly got into the car. Although the heater was on inside the car, she couldn't help but shiver. She hugged her arms and leaned back in the seat, wishing she could curl up into a ball. Suddenly, a hand with distinct knuckles passed her a towel. Shane's voice remained steady, without any fluctuation. "Wipe yourself dry. Don't catch a cold." Haley thanked him quickly and took the towel, wiping her damp hair. The car fell into an eerie silence, with only the sound of her drying her hair breaking the quiet. The atmosphere was strangely unsettling. Feeling uneasy all over, Haley cleared her throat and pretended to be calm as she asked, "Are we going to the county clerk's office now?" Shane glanced at her, his expression profound. "We can, but are you sure you want to go like this?" Following his gaze, Haley lowered her eyes, only then realizing that she was completely soaked and looked disheveled. Her cheeks flushed with embarrassment, wishing she could find a hole to hide in. She had almost forgotten that because of the rain, she was drenched all over. Her white shirt was clinging tightly to her skin, and even the color of her bra was clearly visible. This appearance was indeed not suitable for getting married. And did she sound too eager just now, as if she were in a rush to marry him? Would he misunderstand? Haley cautiously glanced at him out of the corner of her eye, seeing his calm expression, finally breathed a silent sigh of relief. Shaneβs assistant, Dean, who was driving, couldn't help but sigh as he looked at the rearview mirror. His boss was too unusual, completely overturning his previous understanding. In fact, they had been waiting outside the hotel the whole afternoon. Originally, he had come with Shane for a business meeting, but before they even got out of the car, they saw James and Haley's step-sister, Xena, entering the hotel together. Shane immediately instructed him to anonymously message Haley to catch them in the act at the hotel. At first, he didn't quite understand why his boss wanted to scheme against his own nephew. But now, he finally understood. How could a nephew be more important than a wife! No wonder his boss always looked at Haley with a peculiar gaze before. Now, thinking back, everything made sense! His boss had long harbored feelings for Haley. No, it's more like deep affection for her! Chapter 3 While Dean was lost in thought, he suddenly felt a chill at the back of his neck. He turned his head and met Shane's cold, beast-like gaze. Shivering fiercely, he dared not wander in his thoughts anymore, focusing solely on driving. Fortunately, Shane only gave him a cold glance, warning him to drive properly, and quickly withdrew his gaze. After getting out of the car, Shane took Haley into his residence. He fetched a clean set of clothes from the closet and handed them to her. "Go take a hot shower first. There aren't any women's clothes here, so you can wear mine for now." "Okay," Haley's cheeks flushed slightly as she hurriedly took the clothes and entered the bathroom. She almost fled, too afraid to meet Shane's gaze and thus missed the fleeting smile in his eyes. Haley spent a long time in the bathroom, leaning against the wall, letting the shower water wash over her. Being betrayed by James and Xena was something she had never expected, and marrying Shane was even beyond her wildest imagination. She felt that something was amiss, but her mind was a jumble, unable to sort out her thoughts. Soon, steam filled the bathroom, reddening her fair, snow-like face. When she emerged from the bathroom, Shane was no longer in the bedroom. Descending the stairs, she found a tall figure bustling about in the kitchen. The man was tall, clad in a white shirt and neatly tailored trousers, exuding extraordinary charisma. His shirt sleeves were rolled up, revealing well-defined arms. He wore a dark blue apron that softened his cold and aloof demeanor, adding a touch of warmth. Haley's eyes flashed with surprise. Could it be that Shane, a business tycoon, also cooked for himself? What a gentle and domesticated man! He perfectly matched her criteria for a partner from head to toe! Suddenly, something crossed her mind, and Haley's admiring gaze turned into pity. She sighed silently in her heart. How could such an outstanding man have hidden ailments? What a pity! Hearing footsteps, Shane paused and slowly turned around. His gaze fell upon Haley, and his eyes darkened slightly. Her petite figure was enveloped by his white shirt, the hem barely covering her upper legs, revealing a glimpse of slender and fair legs, straight and well-proportioned. In the light, they seemed dazzling. Shane's eyes lingered on those pretty, slender legs for a moment, suddenly feeling a heat rise within him. He averted his gaze, his voice tightening slightly. "Go put on some pants." Haley lowered her eyes and realized that dressing like this in front of an adult man was indeed a bit ambiguous. Her cheeks flushed in response. She whispered, "Your pants are too big for me, I can't wear them." Shane's expression turned cold as he went upstairs without looking back. If Haley had observed carefully, she would have noticed that his steps were somewhat disordered. But her cheeks were already as red as ripe shrimp, and she had no mind to observe Shane. Not long after, Shane came downstairs with a black pair of trousers and a belt in hand. "Put these on," he instructed. Perhaps sensing his tone was a bit harsh, he added, "Be careful not to catch a cold." Haley took the pants and went to the bathroom to change. With the constraint of the belt, she managed to put on the pants, though they were long and baggy, appearing quite bulky. She had to roll up the cuffs. When she came out of the bathroom, she found Shane had already set a bowl of freshly made chicken noodle soup on the table. It was a comforting and savory bowl of soup, with tender noodles and garnished with freshly chopped parsley. Haley was so shocked that she couldn't speak. She never expected Shane to actually cook. Though it was just a simple bowl of noodles, coming from Shane, it felt somehow out of place. Seeing Shane heading to the kitchen to fetch utensils, she followed him voluntarily. "Mr. Ford, do you need any help?" Upon hearing the term "Mr. Ford," Shane's body stiffened, and a hint of coldness almost overflowed from his eyes. He lowered his gaze, forcing himself to restrain his emotions, and hoarsely replied, "No need, just sit down and wait. I'll handle it myself." Haley didn't insist further and obediently sat down at the table, waiting for the meal to begin. After experiencing so much this afternoon, she was indeed feeling a bit hungry. Shane handed her the fork and spoon, then sat down opposite her. 'Dig in, just be careful, it's hot.'" Haley immediately started eating, the fragrance of the noodles filling her taste buds. A warmth spread through her empty stomach. Perhaps even she hadn't noticed, but her wariness and guard against Shane were slowly diminishing. As she ate, she raised her thumb towards Shane. "It's delicious, Mr. Ford. I didn't expect you to be such a great cook!" The warm-toned light in the dining room shone on her, illuminating her delicate and fair cheeks, soft and beautiful. She lowered her gaze, her cheeks puffing up with each chew, her eyes squinting with happiness and contentment. She looked so obedient that it made him want to ruffle her hair. But he couldn't do that, or he might scare her away. A skilled hunter should possess patience above all else, and that was one thing he definitely had. His palm curled slightly, then he casually retracted it. Shane silently told himself that there was plenty of time ahead. Haley was immersed in her food, completely unaware that she had become the lamb to be eaten, enjoying her meal with extra satisfaction. Halfway through, she noticed there was a poached egg at the bottom of the bowl. She looked up at the man across from her, but saw him eating his noodles gracefully, his expression showing no sign of anything unusual. Haley silently watched him eat until he finished his bowl of noodles, but there was no sign of the poached egg. So, was it specially made for her? Haley's emotions suddenly became somewhat complicated. Previously, she always felt that Shane's gaze was too intense, so she always tried to avoid it whenever possible. Coupled with the rumors surrounding him in the outside world, she became even more afraid of him. But now, it seemed like he wasn't that scary after all, and he was even very attentive and meticulous. After finishing the meal, Shane got up to clean up the dishes. He glanced at a girl sitting in the chair, gently stroking her belly, her face filled with contentment, and a smile formed at the corner of his lips. Haley quickly stood up from her chair, feeling somewhat embarrassed. "Mr. Ford, let me do it, I know how to wash dishes." "No need, just leave it to me," Shane dodged her hand and walked straight to the kitchen. Watching him skillfully turn on the faucet and start washing the dishes, Haley touched her nose, feeling like she would just be a hindrance if she went, so she sat back down. Shane finished washing the dishes and came out of the kitchen, handing Haley a printed document. Curiously, Haley took it and saw several large words written on it, "Marriage Agreement, Party A: Shane, Party B: Haley..." She widened her eyes in surprise. "Mr. Ford, when did you write this?" Meeting Haley's clear and bright eyes, Shane cleared his throat lightly. "On the way back." Actually, when Haley went into the hotel to "catch the affair," his car was parked nearby, and that's when he started writing this marriage agreement. But these were things he absolutely couldn't say out loud. Chapter 4 Haley skimmed through the marriage agreement, falling into a moment of silence. Seeing her hesitation, Shane's heart inexplicably tightened, prompting him to ask, "Is there a problem?" Haley shook her head, incredulous. "Mr. Ford, are you sure you want to sign this agreement with me?" The agreement posed no issues; in fact, each clause within it was almost entirely in her favor. Marrying Shane not only granted her the status and position of Mrs. Ford but also secured a 3% stake in the Ford Corporation, along with real estate under Shane's name. In the event of a divorce, she would even be entitled to half of Shane's personal assets. The Ford Corporation was the largest multinational conglomerate in Jasper City, with investments in finance, real estate, hospitality, and various other industries, and its stock value was continuously rising. Compared to her third-rate wealthy family, whose combined assets couldn't even afford 1% of the Ford Corporation's shares, Haley would overnight become immensely wealthy through this marriage. Shane's expression remained calm and composed as he casually poured a dose of cold medicine from a bottle. "Hmm, go ahead and sign." He was certain he wouldn't divorce. As for money, it was merely a bunch of numbers to him. The purpose of making money was simply to accumulate assets for his wife. According to what he'd heard from his subordinates, after marriage, the husband was expected to hand over his salary and assets to his spouse. As for divorce... Well, that was out of the question for this lifetime. Having finally lured his little wife back home, there was no chance she would escape again. Haley gritted her teeth and swiftly signed her name on the agreement. Regardless of how long this marriage lasted, she was guaranteed to benefit! Watching as Haley signed her name in the bottom right corner, Shane smirked in satisfaction. He took the marriage agreement and handed over the cold medicine he had prepared. "Drink this medicine. You got caught in the rain, be careful not to catch a cold." "Thank you, Mr. Ford," Haley said, flashing a sweet smile as she took the cup. The bitter taste of the cold medicine hit her senses as she took a sip. Pinching her nose, she gulped down the medicine in one breath. Shane lowered his gaze, suppressing the curve of his lips from turning upwards, and spoke slowly, "It's getting late. You should rest early." Haley suddenly froze. Tonight... was she going to sleep with Shane? The thought sent her heart racing. "Mr. Ford, could you maybe spare a separate room for me?" Shane raised an eyebrow. "Hmm? Are you worried I might do something to you?" "Of course not!" Haley denied without thinking. She just wasn't accustomed to sleeping with strangers. To her, Shane had always been her elder, her fiancΓ©'s uncle. Shane's dark eyes bore into her, emitting a chilling aura. "There's no clause in our agreement about separate rooms." Haley was at a loss for words. Indeed, there wasn't such a clause in the agreement. She suddenly regretted signing the marriage agreement. Shane was too mysterious, too dangerous. Collaborating with him was like dancing with a tiger. Seeing Haley's hesitation, Shane sighed softly. "If you're uncomfortable sleeping together, I can give you time to adjust. But as a married couple, we are supposed to spend our lives together." The words "spend our lives together" were spoken with particular seriousness. Haley blushed and lowered her head, too embarrassed to meet Shane's gaze. After a long silence, she gritted her teeth and said, "It's fine. I can adapt!" Since she had signed the contract, she had to honor it. It was just sharing a bed, and it wasn't like she was losing out! Haley was led into Shane's bedroom in a daze. When she came in to take a shower before dinner, she rushed into the bathroom in a panic. Now, with a quiet mind, she began to size up the bedroom. Was this really a place where people lived? It felt too deserted. The large bedroom was decorated mainly in black and white, simple yet understated. There was barely any furniture in the room. Despite being the master bedroom, it felt excessively vacant, devoid of any warmth or homely atmosphere. Instead of feeling like a home, it resembled more of a temporary lodging. Haley cast a complicated glance at Shane, unable to imagine how he could live in such a cold environment. Shane cleared his throat uneasily. "Just make do for tonight. If there's anything you need, we can buy it tomorrow." "Okay." "I still have work to do. You go ahead and sleep." "Okay!" Her tone was noticeably more eager than before, almost as if she couldn't wait for him to leave. Shane gave her a deep look. "You're really eager for me to leave, aren't you?" Meeting his probing gaze, Haley chuckled awkwardly and waved at him. "Goodnight, Mr. Ford." "Hmm." Shane turned and left the bedroom. As the door closed behind him, the slight tension in his lips, which had been held back, relaxed ever so slightly, forming a faint curve. His gaze lingered on the closed door, and he lowered his voice. "Goodnight." In the room, Haley lay on the soft bed, her tense nerves slowly relaxing, sighing in comfort. The bedding seemed to carry the scent of pine from Shane, refreshing and pleasant. She had thought she would have trouble sleeping in a strange bed, but she fell asleep as soon as her head hit the pillow. After finishing his video conference, Shane realized it was already past two in the morning. He closed his laptop and headed towards the bedroom. In the dark night, the bedroom door opened silently, and the tall figure of a man slowly approached the bed, gazing at the person already fast asleep. The moonlight streamed through the window, casting a gentle glow on the girl's delicate and fair face. Before lying down beside her, Shane reached out his hand, his rough fingertips gently stroking her cheek. Haley didn't sleep well that night, instinctively sensing the approach of danger in her dreams. It was as if she was being stalked by a wild beast in the jungle, sending shivers down her spine. When she woke up, she found her back and forehead drenched in sweat. Looking around the unfamiliar room, it took her a few seconds to remember what had happened the day before. At that moment, there was a knock on the door, followed by a respectful and steady male voice from outside. "Madam, are you awake? I'm Bob Moore, the butler of Violet Grove." "Yes, give me a moment." Haley quickly got out of bed to answer the door. Despite looking a bit disheveled from just waking up, it didn't diminish her beauty in the slightest. Her fair cheeks were smooth and radiant, while her eyes, clear and bright, held a hint of sleepiness, adding a touch of innocence. A glint of admiration flashed in the butler's eyes, nodding with satisfaction. Finally, Mr. Ford's wish had been fulfilled. Mr. Ford always achieved what he wanted, without fail. Although the methods were somewhat less than honorable and might tarnish the Ford family's reputation if exposed, those were minor issues. Mr. Ford's reputation outside wasn't great to begin with, so a little more damage wouldn't matter. He smiled and said, "Madam, breakfast is ready. Would you like to have some?" As he assessed Haley, she was also studying him. He appeared to be in his forties, dressed sharply in a suit, meticulously groomed, with a perfectly poised smile on his lips, courteous yet distant. "Okay." Haley smiled and quickly freshened up before heading downstairs. As she sat down at the dining table, she noticed that Shane wasn't there, which piqued her curiosity. The butler noticed her puzzlement and explained, "Mr. Ford had a meeting this morning. He left for the office about an hour ago." "Ah, I see," Haley nodded, indicating that she understood. She ate her breakfast quietly, feeling relieved inside. Even though they were married by agreement, she still felt strangely nervous at the thought of Shane. Perhaps it was because of his overpowering presence that made people hesitate to approach him easily. Chapter 5 The household staff huddled together, gossiping quietly. And the subject of their gossip was none other than Haley. Early in the morning, the butler informed them that there would be a new lady of the house from now on, and instructed them to take care accordingly. Everyone was shocked, unable to believe that the usually aloof Shane had actually brought a woman home. Before Haley descended the stairs, everyone speculated about her identity. They all wanted to know what kind of woman could match Shane, this high and mighty figure. When they finally laid eyes on Haley's face, they were all thoroughly amazed. Haley's features were delicate, her skin as fair as snow, her almond-shaped eyes bright and clear, yet exuding an inexplicable allure. She was even more beautiful than the actresses on TV! What surprised them the most was that Haley was wearing Shane's shirt. Shane was known throughout the entire villa for his slight obsession with cleanliness. Nobody was allowed to touch his belongings. Being able to wear Shane's shirt indicated a relationship that was definitely out of the ordinary. "This is the first time Mr. Ford has brought a woman home. It's really unheard of!" "She's so beautiful, no wonder Mr. Ford made an exception for her." "Mr. Ford isn't getting any younger. It's time for him to have a wife." ... Just as everyone was discussing, someone suddenly spoke up: "Wife? Do you even know who this woman is? She's James's fiancΓ©e!" Everyone turned to look at the person who spoke. Her name was Lily Frank and everyone called her Lily. She had been working at the family estate before Shane moved in and took several household staff with him. Lily was one of them. "What? James's fiancΓ©e?" Lily glanced disdainfully in the direction of the dining room and said, "Sheβs just a seductive vixen. If James isn't into her, she goes after Mr. Ford!" She had seen Haley at the family estate before and naturally knew about the engagement between James and Haley. Flirting around without calling off the engagement, what else could she be but a seductress? She couldn't stand such women, with their pretty faces, seducing others everywhere. Who knew what spell she cast on Mr. Ford to bring her home? If this were to get out, the Ford family's reputation would surely be tarnished, wouldn't it? Lily's words piqued everyone's curiosity, and they gathered around to ask what she knew. Just then, a furious roar came from behind, "What are you all gathering here for? Are all the chores done?" Seeing the butler approaching with a stern face, the household staff couldn't help but cower and quickly dispersed. They had a natural fear of the butler. Although he was always polite and maintained a courteous smile, he still gave off an oppressive aura. Every interaction with him left them breathless. As the butler approached, his gaze swept over all the household staff, and he warned, "Let me reiterate, Madam is the lady of the house here. If I hear any gossip from your mouths again, pack your bags and leave. Do you understand?" "Yes, understood!" The household staff nodded hastily. Satisfied, the butler withdrew his gaze and looked at Lily. "Repeat what you just said in front of me." Lily was startled and immediately lowered her head further. "I didn't say anything! Bob, please forgive me. I just spoke without thinking." The butler sneered, "Come see me later and settle this month's wages." Lily panicked, "Bob, you can't treat me like this! I was personally chosen by Mrs. Ford Sr.!" The butler glanced at her indifferently. "I will personally report this to Mrs. Ford Sr. and I believe she will decide who is more important, the daughter-in-law or the household staff." With that, he left without looking back. Lily's legs went weak, and she fell to the ground, her face turning pale with fright. It's over, it's all over now! The other household staff were also stunned. Lily had followed from the family estate and had been working here for several years, yet she was dismissed so easily. Wouldn't their fate be even worse? After this incident, almost all the household staff remembered one thing: never disrespect Haley. In the dining room, Haley was completely unaware of this, enjoying her breakfast. The chefs hired by the Ford family were top-notch, and the breakfast they made was delicious. Haley ate contentedly, her mood becoming very pleasant. Just then, her phone on the side suddenly rang. Haley's brows furrowed slightly as she glanced at the caller ID. It was her father, Joe Carter, calling. Without much thought, she knew it must be her dear younger sister tattling on her again. As she answered, she was greeted with a burst of anger, "Haley, you've grown some guts, actually daring to stay out all night and making your sister cry. Get back here right now!" Coldness flashed in Haley's eyes as she retorted without hesitation, "Isn't this what I learned from you? My staying out all night is all thanks to your exemplary teachings." When her mother was still alive, Joe often used the excuse of being too busy with work to come home. In the past, she naively believed it, striving to be an obedient and sensible child, afraid of causing trouble for Joe. But what was the result? Less than a month after her mother's death, he shamelessly brought his mistress and illegitimate daughter into the house. It wasn't until then that she realized, the so-called work was just an excuse. In reality, he had long been with another family. Joe gave all the paternal love she yearned for to another daughter. As for her and her mother, they meant nothing to him. It was truly remarkable how he managed to navigate between two families for over a decade without being caught. Not acknowledging him as a time management master was really unfair considering all his years of hard work. Chapter 6 "Haley, you dare say that again! Have I raised you all these years just so you could argue with me? How did I end up with such a troublemaker like you?" Joe was about to explode with anger, barely believing these words were coming from Haley's mouth. Haley took her phone away without expression, rubbed her ears, and said, "If you're so eager to hear it, why don't you just record it? Play it every night before bed." She behaved obediently in front of Shane out of instinctive fear. As for others, even her biological father, she could argue with them without hesitation. In the past, she used to feel hurt and upset because of Joe's scolding, but after her mother's death, she came to terms with it. She realized that one should never have expected what didn't belong to them, or you would only end up hurting yourself. So when she found out about James's betrayal, she didn't feel too sad. Instead, she felt relieved. At least they weren't married yet, and there was still a chance to salvage everything. Joe's angry scolding kept coming through the earpiece, and she impatiently said, "Got it," before hanging up the phone. She did need to go back; she hadn't settled the score with Xena yet, and this matter wasn't over. She elegantly wiped the corners of her mouth, got up, and met the bewildered gaze of the butler. Haley coughed lightly, smiled at the butler, nodded, and quickly went upstairs. She wasn't afraid of being misunderstood; she just felt a little awkward. Although she and Shane had an agreement to get married, having lived in the aristocratic circle for more than twenty years, she knew that the wealthier the family, the more they valued their reputation. Since she intended to use Shane to get back at James and Xena, she had to play the role of Mrs. Ford well. The butler watched her departing figure with mixed feelings. He never expected that this seemingly obedient and gentle girl would have such a tough side. However, thinking about the rumors surrounding the Carter family, the butler couldn't help but feel sorry for Haley. Joe was originally a poor boy with nothing. Later on, he married Yvonne Ramsey, Haley's mother, and with her help, they started a company. Yvonne was a woman with a keen business acumen, and within a few years, she had managed the company exceptionally well. The brand 'JY' even penetrated the international market, expanding from a clothing brand to various sectors including finance, real estate, and more. At its peak, the Carter family even entered the upper-class circles. However, later on, Yvonne got cancer and faced Joe's betrayal, gradually becoming weaker and having no time or energy to manage the company anymore. Joe took the opportunity to intervene in the company, and even inserted many of his own people, intending to take over the company. What's more, less than a month after Yvonne's death, Joe actually brought his mistress and illegitimate daughter home. Haley's position in the Carter family became awkward. Later, rumors in the circle often circulated about Haley's fiancΓ©, James, having ambiguous relationships with Xena, his illegitimate daughter. Everyone was waiting for Haley to be dumped, eager to witness her downfall. She was indeed a pitiable child. Fortunately, with her husband's protection in the future, everything would only get better. ** Haley changed into the clothes she washed and dried the night before, greeted the butler and prepared to go out. The butler kindly asked, "Madam, would you like the driver to take you? It's not very convenient to get a taxi around here." This area was surrounded by a large villa district, where there were usually dedicated drivers, and it was rare to take a taxi. Moreover, the security system here was very high-level, and if one couldn't prove their identity, the security guards wouldn't let them in. Haley thought for a moment and nodded. "Okay." The butler immediately selected a low-key yet luxurious car from the garage and instructed the driver to safely escort Haley. Upon arriving at the Carter family, Haley got out of the car and took a deep breath. If it weren't for something she had to take with her from home, she wouldn't set foot here again. This place was never her home, and Joe had never considered her his daughter. She could even foresee how much scolding and rebuking she would endure once she entered. Sure enough, as soon as she stepped into the Carter family's living room, something was suddenly thrown out from inside. Her pupils contracted, instinctively she dodged to the side. A delicate and pretty glass flew past her and landed not far behind her with a loud shattering sound, almost piercing Haley's eardrums. If Haley had been a little slower to dodge, she would probably have been hit severely. Joe was still furious, putting all his strength into it. If the glass landed on Haley, it would definitely leave a severe injury. Haley stood stunned for several seconds before coming to her senses, and as she turned her head, she met Joe's angry gaze. "You have the nerve to come back? How did I raise such a wicked daughter? You even have the audacity to bully your own sister!" He seemed still enraged, his entire face as dark as coal, and his voice carried an uncontrollable anger. Accompanying his roar was a sob filled with grievances. Haley looked over and saw her stepmother, Zoe Lewis, and stepsister, Xena, sitting on the sofa, huddled together in tears. Their appearance seemed to suggest they had suffered a great injustice. Chapter 7 Zoe wiped her tears as she lamented, "Haley, I know you've never liked me as your stepmother, but Xena is innocent. How could you be so heartless?" "Did she tell you I bullied her?" Haley suddenly chuckled, though the smile didn't reach her eyes; instead, they were icy cold. Meeting Haley's gaze, Xena suddenly shivered, her eyes flickering with guilt. But when she remembered James's assurance from last night, promising to break off the engagement with Haley, her sense of guilt completely vanished. James loved her. It was Haley's own fault for not being able to win a man's affection. Haley couldnβt blame her! Seeing her brazen demeanor, Joe grew angry. "Who else but you? Xena is gentle and kind, unlike you, who is jealous and malicious." Haley seemed to find the situation ludicrous and actually laughed. She looked at Xena coldly. "Gentle and kind? Indeed, very kind, to take care of my fiancΓ© in her bed." She didn't bother arguing further with them, instead pulling out her phone and playing a recording. The sultry sounds of a woman mingled with the heavy breaths of a man emanated from the speaker. Joe stood dumbfounded, his whole being frozen in shock. The voices in the video were all too familiar to him. One was his beloved daughter, Xena, and the other was Haley's fiancΓ©, James. He had always believed the rumors were false because he firmly believed that the gentle and kind Xena would never try to steal her sister's man. However, he couldn't deny the truth. He looked at Xena, hoping for her to deny it, but all he saw was her guilty expression as she lowered her head. Now, what was there left for him to misunderstand? He trembled with anger, clutching at his slightly stinging chest, and sternly questioned Xena, "Is this true? Did you really do such a thing?" Xena's face turned pale, she shook her head frantically, and grabbed Joe's sleeve, acting coquettishly, "Dad, listen to me explain. Things aren't like that." Joe's face turned livid, displeased as he said, "But he's your sister's fiancΓ©. Why would you do something like this?" Why? Of course, it was to completely ruin Haley! As long as that old woman from the Ford family was still alive, James wouldn't successfully break off the engagement. Xena absolutely wouldn't allow Haley to marry into the top-tier Ford family and become the esteemed Mrs. Ford while she was forever burdened with the title of the illegitimate daughter! So, she didn't hesitate to seduce James at any cost, behaving lovingly towards him while in the presence of Haley, all to make her realize the reality and voluntarily break off the engagement. Although she was now caught red-handed by Haley, she didn't regret it at all. As long as she could trample Haley underfoot, she was willing to pay any price. From childhood to adulthood, Haley overshadowed her in every aspect. Whether it was in terms of background, appearance, academics, or social connections, wherever Haley was, her radiance would always be completely overshadowed. She refused to accept it! Xena's eyes were full of resentment, like a venomous snake hiding in the grass, spitting poison at its prey. Sinister and dangerous. She stood up and rushed over to snatch Haley's phone. "Haley, turn off the recording for me! James and I are truly in love. If you're sensible, you should take the initiative to step back. It's better for everyone!" Haley quickly stepped back two steps, avoiding her hand. Hearing her words, she couldn't help but sneer. "If you're a third wheel, you're a third wheel. Why bother with all the excuses?" Regardless of whom James truly loved, nominally, she was the only fiancΓ©e. James knew very well that she despised betrayal because of her mother, yet he still got involved with Xena, which was even more nauseating. Upon hearing this, Zoe exploded, as if her deepest pain had been pricked. "Who are you calling a third wheel?" She gritted her teeth and raised her arm to slap Haley. But her hand fell in midair, firmly grasped by a fair and delicate hand. Then, with a crisp sound, the clear slap echoed, and Zoe's cheek stung with a fiery pain. She was stunned by Haley's action, covering her face in disbelief. "You hit me? How dare you hit me?" Haley's lips curled slightly as she pulled out a tissue from her shoulder bag and wiped her hands leisurely. After finishing, she said lightly, "Zoe, I just made a passing remark. Why feel so guilty? Besides, you were the one who struck first. You can't blame me for your slow reaction." "You!" Zoe gritted her teeth, her eyes almost bursting with suppressed anger. | Reading matter | 8 | https://facebook.com/61559156515503 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718002800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879653 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410701 | 1723321845 | 995 | 1191279425651029 | 1 | 1.1841458962763E+15 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 299026206627385 | 0 | Reading matter | 120209775879570390 | findokn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | β€οΈπWhat happens nextπClick Here to read onπ | https://findokn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11632&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717754696 | 2.9902620662738E+14 | Reading matter | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959833_690035193239071_8338086885496487765_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=QUFcGNRC398Q7kNvgFxAmgt&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCWbUkdH9z0_PV1OvwqycTOxeLawo5lW9bV27bjjkvCVg&oe=6672ACB9 | person_profile | 0 | Reading matter | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959769_1190715732374544_2758543800221804444_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=HMc1ybrp76sQ7kNvgGxl7Rn&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDTbtuCE2oc7epCLXYFTWIHnrtsOeIyXj12-3O0DMTsrQ&oe=6672C9A3 | 0 | 3 | "James, between me and Haley, who do you love more?" "Of course, it's you, my dear. Haven't my actions proven it enough? Hmm?" "But, I want to hear you say it yourself." "Darling, you are the woman I love the most. Relax, you're too tense..." The man's suppressed heavy breathing, mixed with the woman's seductive sounds, soon filled the hotel suite. Haley Carter stood outside the slightly ajar door, her blood almost freezing, unable to stop trembling from the piercing cold. An hour ago, someone sent her a video clip. In the video, her fiancΓ©, James Ford, was hot kissing her half-sister Xena Carter in the corridor of this hotel. She initially thought it was a prank, but she never expected that these two had long been involved with each other. She took a deep breath, trying to restrain the anger surging in her chest. Quietly, she took out her phone from her pocket and pushed the door open. The two on the bed were still immersed in their intense pleasure when suddenly they heard a cold voice, "What a splendid drama. Shall I applaud for you?" Both froze, turning their gaze towards the direction of the door. "Ah!" Xena screamed, panicked, and shrank into James's embrace. "Haley? What are you doing here?" James covered himself with a blanket, displeased. "Who let you come in?" Haley crossed her arms, looking at him mockingly. "If I didn't come, wouldn't I miss such a splendid scene?" "Haley, James and I truly love each other. Please, let us be together!" Xena's eyes reddened, tears glistening, portraying an innocent and pitiful look. James felt heartbroken, tightly holding her in his arms, and said in a deep voice, "Haley, if you have any issues, take them up with me. Xena is innocent!" Haley sneered, "Innocent? How dare you utter those words?" "That's enough! The one I love, from beginning to end, has only been Xena. If you had an ounce of self-awareness, you would go to Grandma and cancel our engagement!" What he liked was someone like Xena, gentle and submissive, yet uninhibited and open-minded in bed. But Haley was awkward and conservative, not even allowing a touch of hands, utterly boring! Being with Haley, he couldn't feel an ounce of joy! Haley's eyes narrowed, a dangerous and icy light flickering at the depths. "Cheating is cheating. Don't give yourselves excuses. If I were to release the video of you two in bed, would anyone still think you're innocent?" James and Xena's faces turned pale, roaring, "Haley, delete the video now!" "And if I say no?" Haley stepped back two paces, provocatively lifting her chin towards them. "James, if you don't like me, you could have straightforwardly called off the engagement. I'm not someone who can't live without you. Your current behavior disgusts me." If James had openly called off the engagement, maybe she would have respected him a bit more. But alas... "Haley, stop right there!" Watching Haley walk away, James burned with anger, instinctively wanting to chase after her. However, Xena held onto his waist tightly, crying with grievance. "James, what should we do? Haley must be mad at me. Perhaps from the beginning, I shouldn't have liked you, then I wouldn't have hurt her..." Hearing this, James's heart filled with guilt and pity, leaving him with no inclination to chase after Haley. He kissed Xena's forehead and whispered softly, "Xena, you're just too kind. If it weren't for her interference, maybe we would have been together long ago!" "James, you're so good to me..." Xena's lips curved slightly, her eyes fixed on the direction Haley disappeared, a trace of a triumphant smile flashing. Thinking of competing with her? Haley was still too naive! She believed it wouldn't be long before she snatched away the position of Mrs. Ford! β¦ As Haley left the hotel, it started to pour outside. Endless night enveloped her, with only occasional flashes of lightning and dim streetlights visible through the pouring rain. Standing in the rain, Haley was drenched from head to toe. The scenes of James and Xena's affair played over and over in her mind, making her feel nauseous. On top of not eating all day, her stomach was cramping painfully. She forced herself to walk to the roadside, but finally couldn't bear it anymore and slowly crouched down. The icy rain hit her snow-white skin, sending shivers down her spine. Her vision blurred, making it hard for her to distinguish reality from dreams. After who knows how long, the rain hitting her seemed to gradually stop. Haley slowly opened her eyes and noticed a shadow before her. She had a sense of it and slowly lifted her gaze. The first thing she saw was a pair of well-tailored trousers, wrapping around a pair of long, straight legs. Moving upwards, she saw a handsome face with a cold demeanor. The man's slightly furrowed brows, high nose bridge, and tightly pursed lips were striking. His deep eyes were lowered, shrouded in darkness, seemingly blending with the night. Haley stared at him in surprise, a hint of bewilderment in her eyes. "Mr. Ford? Why are you here?" The man before her was Shane Ford, the most influential member of the Ford family, the top-tier business family in Jasper City. He was also her former fiancΓ©'s uncle, James's uncle. He was the late child of Mr. Ford Sr. and inherited exceptional business acumen. Taking over the Ford Corporation in just a few years, its market value multiplied several times over. What was most feared about him was his ruthless methods and decisive personality. However, he always remained low-key and mysterious, seldom interacting with the younger generation like them. Haley had only crossed paths with him a few times at the Ford family gatherings and hardly ever exchanged words. This man exuded an aura of danger, and Haley usually avoided him whenever possible. Never did she expect to encounter him today, especially in her current disheveled state. "What could possibly make you disregard your own well-being like this?" The man's brow furrowed slightly, his deep, velvety voice sensual and captivating, as if it sent an electric current tingling through her ears, simultaneously soothing and arousing. There was also a subtle hint of concern mixed in. Haley suddenly snapped out of her daze, hastily trying to stand up. However, due to crouching on the ground for too long, her legs had gone numb. Her body swayed suddenly, uncontrollably tilting backward. Just when she thought she was about to fall awkwardly, a pair of warm and powerful hands suddenly wrapped around her waist. The next moment, she fell into a warm and broad chest. Anxiously, she grabbed onto the front of his shirt, afraid of falling. At this moment, the man's rich and husky voice sounded in her ear, tinged with a hint of mockery: "Are you taking advantage of me?" Chapter 2 As she realized the ambiguous position they were in, Haley's cheeks flushed red, and she quickly pulled away from the man's embrace. Feeling embarrassed, she murmured softly, "No, my legs are numb." "Hmm," Shane responded with a pleasant chuckle, though it wasn't clear if he believed her or not. His gentle and deep voice seemed to have a calming effect, causing Haley's heart to flutter slightly, feeling both tingly and itchy. She rubbed her ears curiously and asked, "Mr. Ford, what are you doing here?" Shane replied nonchalantly, "I just happened to pass by." And he happened to see a poor little creature standing in the rain by the roadside, helpless and pitiful like an abandoned cat. Haley nodded knowingly but didn't know what to say. She had just experienced betrayal and felt physically and emotionally drained, only wanting to find a quiet place to rest. Shane glanced at her and asked, "Do you want revenge?" "What?" Haley stared at him in confusion, not understanding his meaning. Shane seemed to understand her confusion and asked patiently, "James betrayed you. Are you planning to let him off the hook?" Haley's expression changed abruptly, becoming wary. "How do you know about this?" If Shane knew, did that mean other members of the Ford family knew too? If that were the case, then all the tough talk she had given in front of James and Xena would turn into a joke. Shane replied, "You came out of the hotel looking like this, isn't that already saying everything?" Haley was stunned for a moment, then suddenly realized. Realizing she had misunderstood him, she apologized, "Thank you, Mr. Ford, but I'll handle it myself." No gain without pain. Besides, Shane was also a member of the Ford family. How could he genuinely help her? Regardless, she didn't want to have any further involvement with James and his family. Shane chuckled lightly and answered calmly, "I'll help you, but it's conditional. You might want to hear the terms first." "What terms?" Haley asked. "I'm in need of a wife," he stated succinctly. Haley almost thought she was hearing things. It took her a while to find her voice again. "Mr. Ford, are you kidding me?" Was Shane really looking for a wife? If he wanted to, there would be a line of women eager to say yes. Could he be playing a prank on her? Shane responded, "Do I seem like I'm joking?" Haley shook her head. She had heard many rumors about Shane before. He was known for being decisive, keeping his distance from strangers, and avoiding romantic entanglements. Given his status and position, there was no need for him to waste time joking with her here. "Why then?" Haley asked. "The old lady at home is pressuring me to get married. I need someone to serve as a shield for me. If you agree, I can help you dissolve your engagement with James." Haley froze, looking at him in disbelief. Shane was holding the umbrella, shielding her from the rain that fell upon her. The dim light from the roadside lamp illuminated half of his face, while the other half remained hidden in the darkness, adding a mysterious air to him. This exceptional man was simply incomparable to James, that scoundrel! Yet, her rationality remained. She questioned in puzzlement, "Why me?" With Shane's power and his devastatingly handsome face, attracting any woman should have been a piece of cake for him. So why choose her? She never believed that good fortune would fall into her lap. Even if it did, it would never hit her. Shane explained, "Because I need someone who knows the ins and outs and can also achieve mutual interests with me. You fit my criteria." "But..." Just as Haley hesitated, Shane suddenly leaned down. His deep and enticing voice sounded in her ear. "Don't you want James to call you 'aunt'? Moreover, if you marry me, Xena will never set foot into the Ford family." Haley's eyes lit up instantly, unable to contain her excitement. If she married Shane, James would have to address her as his aunt. Just thinking about it felt satisfying! She stole a glance at Shane, a hint of pity flashing in her eyes. Rumor had it that Shane was already thirty years old and didn't even have a woman by his side. Either he liked men, or he had some hidden illness. Now it seemed that those rumors were probably true. No wonder he wanted to enter into a marriage agreement with her. After pondering for a moment, Haley asked in distress, "Mr. Ford, won't Mrs. Ford Sr. object to this?" After all, until the engagement with James was officially dissolved, Haley was still his fiancΓ©e. If she turned around and married Shane, who knows what kind of rumors might spread outside? Despite Haley's concerns, Shane remained calm and didn't even furrow his brows. "Don't worry, I'll handle it." With his assurance, Haley completely dispelled any lingering doubts and decisively agreed, "Okay, I agree!" "Then let's go." Shane's lips curled slightly as he lowered his gaze, concealing the subtle emotions within his eyes, before opening the backseat car door. He leaned his hand against the car roof, considerately protecting Haley's head. His actions were gentlemanly and caring, as if he were treating an intimate lover. Haley was startled by her own thoughts, her cheeks flushing slightly as she hurriedly got into the car. Although the heater was on inside the car, she couldn't help but shiver. She hugged her arms and leaned back in the seat, wishing she could curl up into a ball. Suddenly, a hand with distinct knuckles passed her a towel. Shane's voice remained steady, without any fluctuation. "Wipe yourself dry. Don't catch a cold." Haley thanked him quickly and took the towel, wiping her damp hair. The car fell into an eerie silence, with only the sound of her drying her hair breaking the quiet. The atmosphere was strangely unsettling. Feeling uneasy all over, Haley cleared her throat and pretended to be calm as she asked, "Are we going to the county clerk's office now?" Shane glanced at her, his expression profound. "We can, but are you sure you want to go like this?" Following his gaze, Haley lowered her eyes, only then realizing that she was completely soaked and looked disheveled. Her cheeks flushed with embarrassment, wishing she could find a hole to hide in. She had almost forgotten that because of the rain, she was drenched all over. Her white shirt was clinging tightly to her skin, and even the color of her bra was clearly visible. This appearance was indeed not suitable for getting married. And did she sound too eager just now, as if she were in a rush to marry him? Would he misunderstand? Haley cautiously glanced at him out of the corner of her eye, seeing his calm expression, finally breathed a silent sigh of relief. Shaneβs assistant, Dean, who was driving, couldn't help but sigh as he looked at the rearview mirror. His boss was too unusual, completely overturning his previous understanding. In fact, they had been waiting outside the hotel the whole afternoon. Originally, he had come with Shane for a business meeting, but before they even got out of the car, they saw James and Haley's step-sister, Xena, entering the hotel together. Shane immediately instructed him to anonymously message Haley to catch them in the act at the hotel. At first, he didn't quite understand why his boss wanted to scheme against his own nephew. But now, he finally understood. How could a nephew be more important than a wife! No wonder his boss always looked at Haley with a peculiar gaze before. Now, thinking back, everything made sense! His boss had long harbored feelings for Haley. No, it's more like deep affection for her! Chapter 3 While Dean was lost in thought, he suddenly felt a chill at the back of his neck. He turned his head and met Shane's cold, beast-like gaze. Shivering fiercely, he dared not wander in his thoughts anymore, focusing solely on driving. Fortunately, Shane only gave him a cold glance, warning him to drive properly, and quickly withdrew his gaze. After getting out of the car, Shane took Haley into his residence. He fetched a clean set of clothes from the closet and handed them to her. "Go take a hot shower first. There aren't any women's clothes here, so you can wear mine for now." "Okay," Haley's cheeks flushed slightly as she hurriedly took the clothes and entered the bathroom. She almost fled, too afraid to meet Shane's gaze and thus missed the fleeting smile in his eyes. Haley spent a long time in the bathroom, leaning against the wall, letting the shower water wash over her. Being betrayed by James and Xena was something she had never expected, and marrying Shane was even beyond her wildest imagination. She felt that something was amiss, but her mind was a jumble, unable to sort out her thoughts. Soon, steam filled the bathroom, reddening her fair, snow-like face. When she emerged from the bathroom, Shane was no longer in the bedroom. Descending the stairs, she found a tall figure bustling about in the kitchen. The man was tall, clad in a white shirt and neatly tailored trousers, exuding extraordinary charisma. His shirt sleeves were rolled up, revealing well-defined arms. He wore a dark blue apron that softened his cold and aloof demeanor, adding a touch of warmth. Haley's eyes flashed with surprise. Could it be that Shane, a business tycoon, also cooked for himself? What a gentle and domesticated man! He perfectly matched her criteria for a partner from head to toe! Suddenly, something crossed her mind, and Haley's admiring gaze turned into pity. She sighed silently in her heart. How could such an outstanding man have hidden ailments? What a pity! Hearing footsteps, Shane paused and slowly turned around. His gaze fell upon Haley, and his eyes darkened slightly. Her petite figure was enveloped by his white shirt, the hem barely covering her upper legs, revealing a glimpse of slender and fair legs, straight and well-proportioned. In the light, they seemed dazzling. Shane's eyes lingered on those pretty, slender legs for a moment, suddenly feeling a heat rise within him. He averted his gaze, his voice tightening slightly. "Go put on some pants." Haley lowered her eyes and realized that dressing like this in front of an adult man was indeed a bit ambiguous. Her cheeks flushed in response. She whispered, "Your pants are too big for me, I can't wear them." Shane's expression turned cold as he went upstairs without looking back. If Haley had observed carefully, she would have noticed that his steps were somewhat disordered. But her cheeks were already as red as ripe shrimp, and she had no mind to observe Shane. Not long after, Shane came downstairs with a black pair of trousers and a belt in hand. "Put these on," he instructed. Perhaps sensing his tone was a bit harsh, he added, "Be careful not to catch a cold." Haley took the pants and went to the bathroom to change. With the constraint of the belt, she managed to put on the pants, though they were long and baggy, appearing quite bulky. She had to roll up the cuffs. When she came out of the bathroom, she found Shane had already set a bowl of freshly made chicken noodle soup on the table. It was a comforting and savory bowl of soup, with tender noodles and garnished with freshly chopped parsley. Haley was so shocked that she couldn't speak. She never expected Shane to actually cook. Though it was just a simple bowl of noodles, coming from Shane, it felt somehow out of place. Seeing Shane heading to the kitchen to fetch utensils, she followed him voluntarily. "Mr. Ford, do you need any help?" Upon hearing the term "Mr. Ford," Shane's body stiffened, and a hint of coldness almost overflowed from his eyes. He lowered his gaze, forcing himself to restrain his emotions, and hoarsely replied, "No need, just sit down and wait. I'll handle it myself." Haley didn't insist further and obediently sat down at the table, waiting for the meal to begin. After experiencing so much this afternoon, she was indeed feeling a bit hungry. Shane handed her the fork and spoon, then sat down opposite her. 'Dig in, just be careful, it's hot.'" Haley immediately started eating, the fragrance of the noodles filling her taste buds. A warmth spread through her empty stomach. Perhaps even she hadn't noticed, but her wariness and guard against Shane were slowly diminishing. As she ate, she raised her thumb towards Shane. "It's delicious, Mr. Ford. I didn't expect you to be such a great cook!" The warm-toned light in the dining room shone on her, illuminating her delicate and fair cheeks, soft and beautiful. She lowered her gaze, her cheeks puffing up with each chew, her eyes squinting with happiness and contentment. She looked so obedient that it made him want to ruffle her hair. But he couldn't do that, or he might scare her away. A skilled hunter should possess patience above all else, and that was one thing he definitely had. His palm curled slightly, then he casually retracted it. Shane silently told himself that there was plenty of time ahead. Haley was immersed in her food, completely unaware that she had become the lamb to be eaten, enjoying her meal with extra satisfaction. Halfway through, she noticed there was a poached egg at the bottom of the bowl. She looked up at the man across from her, but saw him eating his noodles gracefully, his expression showing no sign of anything unusual. Haley silently watched him eat until he finished his bowl of noodles, but there was no sign of the poached egg. So, was it specially made for her? Haley's emotions suddenly became somewhat complicated. Previously, she always felt that Shane's gaze was too intense, so she always tried to avoid it whenever possible. Coupled with the rumors surrounding him in the outside world, she became even more afraid of him. But now, it seemed like he wasn't that scary after all, and he was even very attentive and meticulous. After finishing the meal, Shane got up to clean up the dishes. He glanced at a girl sitting in the chair, gently stroking her belly, her face filled with contentment, and a smile formed at the corner of his lips. Haley quickly stood up from her chair, feeling somewhat embarrassed. "Mr. Ford, let me do it, I know how to wash dishes." "No need, just leave it to me," Shane dodged her hand and walked straight to the kitchen. Watching him skillfully turn on the faucet and start washing the dishes, Haley touched her nose, feeling like she would just be a hindrance if she went, so she sat back down. Shane finished washing the dishes and came out of the kitchen, handing Haley a printed document. Curiously, Haley took it and saw several large words written on it, "Marriage Agreement, Party A: Shane, Party B: Haley..." She widened her eyes in surprise. "Mr. Ford, when did you write this?" Meeting Haley's clear and bright eyes, Shane cleared his throat lightly. "On the way back." Actually, when Haley went into the hotel to "catch the affair," his car was parked nearby, and that's when he started writing this marriage agreement. But these were things he absolutely couldn't say out loud. Chapter 4 Haley skimmed through the marriage agreement, falling into a moment of silence. Seeing her hesitation, Shane's heart inexplicably tightened, prompting him to ask, "Is there a problem?" Haley shook her head, incredulous. "Mr. Ford, are you sure you want to sign this agreement with me?" The agreement posed no issues; in fact, each clause within it was almost entirely in her favor. Marrying Shane not only granted her the status and position of Mrs. Ford but also secured a 3% stake in the Ford Corporation, along with real estate under Shane's name. In the event of a divorce, she would even be entitled to half of Shane's personal assets. The Ford Corporation was the largest multinational conglomerate in Jasper City, with investments in finance, real estate, hospitality, and various other industries, and its stock value was continuously rising. Compared to her third-rate wealthy family, whose combined assets couldn't even afford 1% of the Ford Corporation's shares, Haley would overnight become immensely wealthy through this marriage. Shane's expression remained calm and composed as he casually poured a dose of cold medicine from a bottle. "Hmm, go ahead and sign." He was certain he wouldn't divorce. As for money, it was merely a bunch of numbers to him. The purpose of making money was simply to accumulate assets for his wife. According to what he'd heard from his subordinates, after marriage, the husband was expected to hand over his salary and assets to his spouse. As for divorce... Well, that was out of the question for this lifetime. Having finally lured his little wife back home, there was no chance she would escape again. Haley gritted her teeth and swiftly signed her name on the agreement. Regardless of how long this marriage lasted, she was guaranteed to benefit! Watching as Haley signed her name in the bottom right corner, Shane smirked in satisfaction. He took the marriage agreement and handed over the cold medicine he had prepared. "Drink this medicine. You got caught in the rain, be careful not to catch a cold." "Thank you, Mr. Ford," Haley said, flashing a sweet smile as she took the cup. The bitter taste of the cold medicine hit her senses as she took a sip. Pinching her nose, she gulped down the medicine in one breath. Shane lowered his gaze, suppressing the curve of his lips from turning upwards, and spoke slowly, "It's getting late. You should rest early." Haley suddenly froze. Tonight... was she going to sleep with Shane? The thought sent her heart racing. "Mr. Ford, could you maybe spare a separate room for me?" Shane raised an eyebrow. "Hmm? Are you worried I might do something to you?" "Of course not!" Haley denied without thinking. She just wasn't accustomed to sleeping with strangers. To her, Shane had always been her elder, her fiancΓ©'s uncle. Shane's dark eyes bore into her, emitting a chilling aura. "There's no clause in our agreement about separate rooms." Haley was at a loss for words. Indeed, there wasn't such a clause in the agreement. She suddenly regretted signing the marriage agreement. Shane was too mysterious, too dangerous. Collaborating with him was like dancing with a tiger. Seeing Haley's hesitation, Shane sighed softly. "If you're uncomfortable sleeping together, I can give you time to adjust. But as a married couple, we are supposed to spend our lives together." The words "spend our lives together" were spoken with particular seriousness. Haley blushed and lowered her head, too embarrassed to meet Shane's gaze. After a long silence, she gritted her teeth and said, "It's fine. I can adapt!" Since she had signed the contract, she had to honor it. It was just sharing a bed, and it wasn't like she was losing out! Haley was led into Shane's bedroom in a daze. When she came in to take a shower before dinner, she rushed into the bathroom in a panic. Now, with a quiet mind, she began to size up the bedroom. Was this really a place where people lived? It felt too deserted. The large bedroom was decorated mainly in black and white, simple yet understated. There was barely any furniture in the room. Despite being the master bedroom, it felt excessively vacant, devoid of any warmth or homely atmosphere. Instead of feeling like a home, it resembled more of a temporary lodging. Haley cast a complicated glance at Shane, unable to imagine how he could live in such a cold environment. Shane cleared his throat uneasily. "Just make do for tonight. If there's anything you need, we can buy it tomorrow." "Okay." "I still have work to do. You go ahead and sleep." "Okay!" Her tone was noticeably more eager than before, almost as if she couldn't wait for him to leave. Shane gave her a deep look. "You're really eager for me to leave, aren't you?" Meeting his probing gaze, Haley chuckled awkwardly and waved at him. "Goodnight, Mr. Ford." "Hmm." Shane turned and left the bedroom. As the door closed behind him, the slight tension in his lips, which had been held back, relaxed ever so slightly, forming a faint curve. His gaze lingered on the closed door, and he lowered his voice. "Goodnight." In the room, Haley lay on the soft bed, her tense nerves slowly relaxing, sighing in comfort. The bedding seemed to carry the scent of pine from Shane, refreshing and pleasant. She had thought she would have trouble sleeping in a strange bed, but she fell asleep as soon as her head hit the pillow. After finishing his video conference, Shane realized it was already past two in the morning. He closed his laptop and headed towards the bedroom. In the dark night, the bedroom door opened silently, and the tall figure of a man slowly approached the bed, gazing at the person already fast asleep. The moonlight streamed through the window, casting a gentle glow on the girl's delicate and fair face. Before lying down beside her, Shane reached out his hand, his rough fingertips gently stroking her cheek. Haley didn't sleep well that night, instinctively sensing the approach of danger in her dreams. It was as if she was being stalked by a wild beast in the jungle, sending shivers down her spine. When she woke up, she found her back and forehead drenched in sweat. Looking around the unfamiliar room, it took her a few seconds to remember what had happened the day before. At that moment, there was a knock on the door, followed by a respectful and steady male voice from outside. "Madam, are you awake? I'm Bob Moore, the butler of Violet Grove." "Yes, give me a moment." Haley quickly got out of bed to answer the door. Despite looking a bit disheveled from just waking up, it didn't diminish her beauty in the slightest. Her fair cheeks were smooth and radiant, while her eyes, clear and bright, held a hint of sleepiness, adding a touch of innocence. A glint of admiration flashed in the butler's eyes, nodding with satisfaction. Finally, Mr. Ford's wish had been fulfilled. Mr. Ford always achieved what he wanted, without fail. Although the methods were somewhat less than honorable and might tarnish the Ford family's reputation if exposed, those were minor issues. Mr. Ford's reputation outside wasn't great to begin with, so a little more damage wouldn't matter. He smiled and said, "Madam, breakfast is ready. Would you like to have some?" As he assessed Haley, she was also studying him. He appeared to be in his forties, dressed sharply in a suit, meticulously groomed, with a perfectly poised smile on his lips, courteous yet distant. "Okay." Haley smiled and quickly freshened up before heading downstairs. As she sat down at the dining table, she noticed that Shane wasn't there, which piqued her curiosity. The butler noticed her puzzlement and explained, "Mr. Ford had a meeting this morning. He left for the office about an hour ago." "Ah, I see," Haley nodded, indicating that she understood. She ate her breakfast quietly, feeling relieved inside. Even though they were married by agreement, she still felt strangely nervous at the thought of Shane. Perhaps it was because of his overpowering presence that made people hesitate to approach him easily. Chapter 5 The household staff huddled together, gossiping quietly. And the subject of their gossip was none other than Haley. Early in the morning, the butler informed them that there would be a new lady of the house from now on, and instructed them to take care accordingly. Everyone was shocked, unable to believe that the usually aloof Shane had actually brought a woman home. Before Haley descended the stairs, everyone speculated about her identity. They all wanted to know what kind of woman could match Shane, this high and mighty figure. When they finally laid eyes on Haley's face, they were all thoroughly amazed. Haley's features were delicate, her skin as fair as snow, her almond-shaped eyes bright and clear, yet exuding an inexplicable allure. She was even more beautiful than the actresses on TV! What surprised them the most was that Haley was wearing Shane's shirt. Shane was known throughout the entire villa for his slight obsession with cleanliness. Nobody was allowed to touch his belongings. Being able to wear Shane's shirt indicated a relationship that was definitely out of the ordinary. "This is the first time Mr. Ford has brought a woman home. It's really unheard of!" "She's so beautiful, no wonder Mr. Ford made an exception for her." "Mr. Ford isn't getting any younger. It's time for him to have a wife." ... Just as everyone was discussing, someone suddenly spoke up: "Wife? Do you even know who this woman is? She's James's fiancΓ©e!" Everyone turned to look at the person who spoke. Her name was Lily Frank and everyone called her Lily. She had been working at the family estate before Shane moved in and took several household staff with him. Lily was one of them. "What? James's fiancΓ©e?" Lily glanced disdainfully in the direction of the dining room and said, "Sheβs just a seductive vixen. If James isn't into her, she goes after Mr. Ford!" She had seen Haley at the family estate before and naturally knew about the engagement between James and Haley. Flirting around without calling off the engagement, what else could she be but a seductress? She couldn't stand such women, with their pretty faces, seducing others everywhere. Who knew what spell she cast on Mr. Ford to bring her home? If this were to get out, the Ford family's reputation would surely be tarnished, wouldn't it? Lily's words piqued everyone's curiosity, and they gathered around to ask what she knew. Just then, a furious roar came from behind, "What are you all gathering here for? Are all the chores done?" Seeing the butler approaching with a stern face, the household staff couldn't help but cower and quickly dispersed. They had a natural fear of the butler. Although he was always polite and maintained a courteous smile, he still gave off an oppressive aura. Every interaction with him left them breathless. As the butler approached, his gaze swept over all the household staff, and he warned, "Let me reiterate, Madam is the lady of the house here. If I hear any gossip from your mouths again, pack your bags and leave. Do you understand?" "Yes, understood!" The household staff nodded hastily. Satisfied, the butler withdrew his gaze and looked at Lily. "Repeat what you just said in front of me." Lily was startled and immediately lowered her head further. "I didn't say anything! Bob, please forgive me. I just spoke without thinking." The butler sneered, "Come see me later and settle this month's wages." Lily panicked, "Bob, you can't treat me like this! I was personally chosen by Mrs. Ford Sr.!" The butler glanced at her indifferently. "I will personally report this to Mrs. Ford Sr. and I believe she will decide who is more important, the daughter-in-law or the household staff." With that, he left without looking back. Lily's legs went weak, and she fell to the ground, her face turning pale with fright. It's over, it's all over now! The other household staff were also stunned. Lily had followed from the family estate and had been working here for several years, yet she was dismissed so easily. Wouldn't their fate be even worse? After this incident, almost all the household staff remembered one thing: never disrespect Haley. In the dining room, Haley was completely unaware of this, enjoying her breakfast. The chefs hired by the Ford family were top-notch, and the breakfast they made was delicious. Haley ate contentedly, her mood becoming very pleasant. Just then, her phone on the side suddenly rang. Haley's brows furrowed slightly as she glanced at the caller ID. It was her father, Joe Carter, calling. Without much thought, she knew it must be her dear younger sister tattling on her again. As she answered, she was greeted with a burst of anger, "Haley, you've grown some guts, actually daring to stay out all night and making your sister cry. Get back here right now!" Coldness flashed in Haley's eyes as she retorted without hesitation, "Isn't this what I learned from you? My staying out all night is all thanks to your exemplary teachings." When her mother was still alive, Joe often used the excuse of being too busy with work to come home. In the past, she naively believed it, striving to be an obedient and sensible child, afraid of causing trouble for Joe. But what was the result? Less than a month after her mother's death, he shamelessly brought his mistress and illegitimate daughter into the house. It wasn't until then that she realized, the so-called work was just an excuse. In reality, he had long been with another family. Joe gave all the paternal love she yearned for to another daughter. As for her and her mother, they meant nothing to him. It was truly remarkable how he managed to navigate between two families for over a decade without being caught. Not acknowledging him as a time management master was really unfair considering all his years of hard work. Chapter 6 "Haley, you dare say that again! Have I raised you all these years just so you could argue with me? How did I end up with such a troublemaker like you?" Joe was about to explode with anger, barely believing these words were coming from Haley's mouth. Haley took her phone away without expression, rubbed her ears, and said, "If you're so eager to hear it, why don't you just record it? Play it every night before bed." She behaved obediently in front of Shane out of instinctive fear. As for others, even her biological father, she could argue with them without hesitation. In the past, she used to feel hurt and upset because of Joe's scolding, but after her mother's death, she came to terms with it. She realized that one should never have expected what didn't belong to them, or you would only end up hurting yourself. So when she found out about James's betrayal, she didn't feel too sad. Instead, she felt relieved. At least they weren't married yet, and there was still a chance to salvage everything. Joe's angry scolding kept coming through the earpiece, and she impatiently said, "Got it," before hanging up the phone. She did need to go back; she hadn't settled the score with Xena yet, and this matter wasn't over. She elegantly wiped the corners of her mouth, got up, and met the bewildered gaze of the butler. Haley coughed lightly, smiled at the butler, nodded, and quickly went upstairs. She wasn't afraid of being misunderstood; she just felt a little awkward. Although she and Shane had an agreement to get married, having lived in the aristocratic circle for more than twenty years, she knew that the wealthier the family, the more they valued their reputation. Since she intended to use Shane to get back at James and Xena, she had to play the role of Mrs. Ford well. The butler watched her departing figure with mixed feelings. He never expected that this seemingly obedient and gentle girl would have such a tough side. However, thinking about the rumors surrounding the Carter family, the butler couldn't help but feel sorry for Haley. Joe was originally a poor boy with nothing. Later on, he married Yvonne Ramsey, Haley's mother, and with her help, they started a company. Yvonne was a woman with a keen business acumen, and within a few years, she had managed the company exceptionally well. The brand 'JY' even penetrated the international market, expanding from a clothing brand to various sectors including finance, real estate, and more. At its peak, the Carter family even entered the upper-class circles. However, later on, Yvonne got cancer and faced Joe's betrayal, gradually becoming weaker and having no time or energy to manage the company anymore. Joe took the opportunity to intervene in the company, and even inserted many of his own people, intending to take over the company. What's more, less than a month after Yvonne's death, Joe actually brought his mistress and illegitimate daughter home. Haley's position in the Carter family became awkward. Later, rumors in the circle often circulated about Haley's fiancΓ©, James, having ambiguous relationships with Xena, his illegitimate daughter. Everyone was waiting for Haley to be dumped, eager to witness her downfall. She was indeed a pitiable child. Fortunately, with her husband's protection in the future, everything would only get better. ** Haley changed into the clothes she washed and dried the night before, greeted the butler and prepared to go out. The butler kindly asked, "Madam, would you like the driver to take you? It's not very convenient to get a taxi around here." This area was surrounded by a large villa district, where there were usually dedicated drivers, and it was rare to take a taxi. Moreover, the security system here was very high-level, and if one couldn't prove their identity, the security guards wouldn't let them in. Haley thought for a moment and nodded. "Okay." The butler immediately selected a low-key yet luxurious car from the garage and instructed the driver to safely escort Haley. Upon arriving at the Carter family, Haley got out of the car and took a deep breath. If it weren't for something she had to take with her from home, she wouldn't set foot here again. This place was never her home, and Joe had never considered her his daughter. She could even foresee how much scolding and rebuking she would endure once she entered. Sure enough, as soon as she stepped into the Carter family's living room, something was suddenly thrown out from inside. Her pupils contracted, instinctively she dodged to the side. A delicate and pretty glass flew past her and landed not far behind her with a loud shattering sound, almost piercing Haley's eardrums. If Haley had been a little slower to dodge, she would probably have been hit severely. Joe was still furious, putting all his strength into it. If the glass landed on Haley, it would definitely leave a severe injury. Haley stood stunned for several seconds before coming to her senses, and as she turned her head, she met Joe's angry gaze. "You have the nerve to come back? How did I raise such a wicked daughter? You even have the audacity to bully your own sister!" He seemed still enraged, his entire face as dark as coal, and his voice carried an uncontrollable anger. Accompanying his roar was a sob filled with grievances. Haley looked over and saw her stepmother, Zoe Lewis, and stepsister, Xena, sitting on the sofa, huddled together in tears. Their appearance seemed to suggest they had suffered a great injustice. Chapter 7 Zoe wiped her tears as she lamented, "Haley, I know you've never liked me as your stepmother, but Xena is innocent. How could you be so heartless?" "Did she tell you I bullied her?" Haley suddenly chuckled, though the smile didn't reach her eyes; instead, they were icy cold. Meeting Haley's gaze, Xena suddenly shivered, her eyes flickering with guilt. But when she remembered James's assurance from last night, promising to break off the engagement with Haley, her sense of guilt completely vanished. James loved her. It was Haley's own fault for not being able to win a man's affection. Haley couldnβt blame her! Seeing her brazen demeanor, Joe grew angry. "Who else but you? Xena is gentle and kind, unlike you, who is jealous and malicious." Haley seemed to find the situation ludicrous and actually laughed. She looked at Xena coldly. "Gentle and kind? Indeed, very kind, to take care of my fiancΓ© in her bed." She didn't bother arguing further with them, instead pulling out her phone and playing a recording. The sultry sounds of a woman mingled with the heavy breaths of a man emanated from the speaker. Joe stood dumbfounded, his whole being frozen in shock. The voices in the video were all too familiar to him. One was his beloved daughter, Xena, and the other was Haley's fiancΓ©, James. He had always believed the rumors were false because he firmly believed that the gentle and kind Xena would never try to steal her sister's man. However, he couldn't deny the truth. He looked at Xena, hoping for her to deny it, but all he saw was her guilty expression as she lowered her head. Now, what was there left for him to misunderstand? He trembled with anger, clutching at his slightly stinging chest, and sternly questioned Xena, "Is this true? Did you really do such a thing?" Xena's face turned pale, she shook her head frantically, and grabbed Joe's sleeve, acting coquettishly, "Dad, listen to me explain. Things aren't like that." Joe's face turned livid, displeased as he said, "But he's your sister's fiancΓ©. Why would you do something like this?" Why? Of course, it was to completely ruin Haley! As long as that old woman from the Ford family was still alive, James wouldn't successfully break off the engagement. Xena absolutely wouldn't allow Haley to marry into the top-tier Ford family and become the esteemed Mrs. Ford while she was forever burdened with the title of the illegitimate daughter! So, she didn't hesitate to seduce James at any cost, behaving lovingly towards him while in the presence of Haley, all to make her realize the reality and voluntarily break off the engagement. Although she was now caught red-handed by Haley, she didn't regret it at all. As long as she could trample Haley underfoot, she was willing to pay any price. From childhood to adulthood, Haley overshadowed her in every aspect. Whether it was in terms of background, appearance, academics, or social connections, wherever Haley was, her radiance would always be completely overshadowed. She refused to accept it! Xena's eyes were full of resentment, like a venomous snake hiding in the grass, spitting poison at its prey. Sinister and dangerous. She stood up and rushed over to snatch Haley's phone. "Haley, turn off the recording for me! James and I are truly in love. If you're sensible, you should take the initiative to step back. It's better for everyone!" Haley quickly stepped back two steps, avoiding her hand. Hearing her words, she couldn't help but sneer. "If you're a third wheel, you're a third wheel. Why bother with all the excuses?" Regardless of whom James truly loved, nominally, she was the only fiancΓ©e. James knew very well that she despised betrayal because of her mother, yet he still got involved with Xena, which was even more nauseating. Upon hearing this, Zoe exploded, as if her deepest pain had been pricked. "Who are you calling a third wheel?" She gritted her teeth and raised her arm to slap Haley. But her hand fell in midair, firmly grasped by a fair and delicate hand. Then, with a crisp sound, the clear slap echoed, and Zoe's cheek stung with a fiery pain. She was stunned by Haley's action, covering her face in disbelief. "You hit me? How dare you hit me?" Haley's lips curled slightly as she pulled out a tissue from her shoulder bag and wiped her hands leisurely. After finishing, she said lightly, "Zoe, I just made a passing remark. Why feel so guilty? Besides, you were the one who struck first. You can't blame me for your slow reaction." "You!" Zoe gritted her teeth, her eyes almost bursting with suppressed anger. | Reading matter | 8 | https://facebook.com/61559156515503 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718002800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879654 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410701 | 1723321845 | 995 | 1191279425651029 | 1 | 1.1841458962763E+15 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 299026206627385 | 0 | Reading matter | 120209775879570390 | findokn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | β€οΈπWhat happens nextπClick Here to read onπ | https://findokn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11632&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717754696 | 2.9902620662738E+14 | Reading matter | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959833_690035193239071_8338086885496487765_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=QUFcGNRC398Q7kNvgFxAmgt&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCWbUkdH9z0_PV1OvwqycTOxeLawo5lW9bV27bjjkvCVg&oe=6672ACB9 | person_profile | 0 | Reading matter | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959769_1190715732374544_2758543800221804444_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=HMc1ybrp76sQ7kNvgGxl7Rn&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDTbtuCE2oc7epCLXYFTWIHnrtsOeIyXj12-3O0DMTsrQ&oe=6672C9A3 | 0 | 3 | "James, between me and Haley, who do you love more?" "Of course, it's you, my dear. Haven't my actions proven it enough? Hmm?" "But, I want to hear you say it yourself." "Darling, you are the woman I love the most. Relax, you're too tense..." The man's suppressed heavy breathing, mixed with the woman's seductive sounds, soon filled the hotel suite. Haley Carter stood outside the slightly ajar door, her blood almost freezing, unable to stop trembling from the piercing cold. An hour ago, someone sent her a video clip. In the video, her fiancΓ©, James Ford, was hot kissing her half-sister Xena Carter in the corridor of this hotel. She initially thought it was a prank, but she never expected that these two had long been involved with each other. She took a deep breath, trying to restrain the anger surging in her chest. Quietly, she took out her phone from her pocket and pushed the door open. The two on the bed were still immersed in their intense pleasure when suddenly they heard a cold voice, "What a splendid drama. Shall I applaud for you?" Both froze, turning their gaze towards the direction of the door. "Ah!" Xena screamed, panicked, and shrank into James's embrace. "Haley? What are you doing here?" James covered himself with a blanket, displeased. "Who let you come in?" Haley crossed her arms, looking at him mockingly. "If I didn't come, wouldn't I miss such a splendid scene?" "Haley, James and I truly love each other. Please, let us be together!" Xena's eyes reddened, tears glistening, portraying an innocent and pitiful look. James felt heartbroken, tightly holding her in his arms, and said in a deep voice, "Haley, if you have any issues, take them up with me. Xena is innocent!" Haley sneered, "Innocent? How dare you utter those words?" "That's enough! The one I love, from beginning to end, has only been Xena. If you had an ounce of self-awareness, you would go to Grandma and cancel our engagement!" What he liked was someone like Xena, gentle and submissive, yet uninhibited and open-minded in bed. But Haley was awkward and conservative, not even allowing a touch of hands, utterly boring! Being with Haley, he couldn't feel an ounce of joy! Haley's eyes narrowed, a dangerous and icy light flickering at the depths. "Cheating is cheating. Don't give yourselves excuses. If I were to release the video of you two in bed, would anyone still think you're innocent?" James and Xena's faces turned pale, roaring, "Haley, delete the video now!" "And if I say no?" Haley stepped back two paces, provocatively lifting her chin towards them. "James, if you don't like me, you could have straightforwardly called off the engagement. I'm not someone who can't live without you. Your current behavior disgusts me." If James had openly called off the engagement, maybe she would have respected him a bit more. But alas... "Haley, stop right there!" Watching Haley walk away, James burned with anger, instinctively wanting to chase after her. However, Xena held onto his waist tightly, crying with grievance. "James, what should we do? Haley must be mad at me. Perhaps from the beginning, I shouldn't have liked you, then I wouldn't have hurt her..." Hearing this, James's heart filled with guilt and pity, leaving him with no inclination to chase after Haley. He kissed Xena's forehead and whispered softly, "Xena, you're just too kind. If it weren't for her interference, maybe we would have been together long ago!" "James, you're so good to me..." Xena's lips curved slightly, her eyes fixed on the direction Haley disappeared, a trace of a triumphant smile flashing. Thinking of competing with her? Haley was still too naive! She believed it wouldn't be long before she snatched away the position of Mrs. Ford! β¦ As Haley left the hotel, it started to pour outside. Endless night enveloped her, with only occasional flashes of lightning and dim streetlights visible through the pouring rain. Standing in the rain, Haley was drenched from head to toe. The scenes of James and Xena's affair played over and over in her mind, making her feel nauseous. On top of not eating all day, her stomach was cramping painfully. She forced herself to walk to the roadside, but finally couldn't bear it anymore and slowly crouched down. The icy rain hit her snow-white skin, sending shivers down her spine. Her vision blurred, making it hard for her to distinguish reality from dreams. After who knows how long, the rain hitting her seemed to gradually stop. Haley slowly opened her eyes and noticed a shadow before her. She had a sense of it and slowly lifted her gaze. The first thing she saw was a pair of well-tailored trousers, wrapping around a pair of long, straight legs. Moving upwards, she saw a handsome face with a cold demeanor. The man's slightly furrowed brows, high nose bridge, and tightly pursed lips were striking. His deep eyes were lowered, shrouded in darkness, seemingly blending with the night. Haley stared at him in surprise, a hint of bewilderment in her eyes. "Mr. Ford? Why are you here?" The man before her was Shane Ford, the most influential member of the Ford family, the top-tier business family in Jasper City. He was also her former fiancΓ©'s uncle, James's uncle. He was the late child of Mr. Ford Sr. and inherited exceptional business acumen. Taking over the Ford Corporation in just a few years, its market value multiplied several times over. What was most feared about him was his ruthless methods and decisive personality. However, he always remained low-key and mysterious, seldom interacting with the younger generation like them. Haley had only crossed paths with him a few times at the Ford family gatherings and hardly ever exchanged words. This man exuded an aura of danger, and Haley usually avoided him whenever possible. Never did she expect to encounter him today, especially in her current disheveled state. "What could possibly make you disregard your own well-being like this?" The man's brow furrowed slightly, his deep, velvety voice sensual and captivating, as if it sent an electric current tingling through her ears, simultaneously soothing and arousing. There was also a subtle hint of concern mixed in. Haley suddenly snapped out of her daze, hastily trying to stand up. However, due to crouching on the ground for too long, her legs had gone numb. Her body swayed suddenly, uncontrollably tilting backward. Just when she thought she was about to fall awkwardly, a pair of warm and powerful hands suddenly wrapped around her waist. The next moment, she fell into a warm and broad chest. Anxiously, she grabbed onto the front of his shirt, afraid of falling. At this moment, the man's rich and husky voice sounded in her ear, tinged with a hint of mockery: "Are you taking advantage of me?" Chapter 2 As she realized the ambiguous position they were in, Haley's cheeks flushed red, and she quickly pulled away from the man's embrace. Feeling embarrassed, she murmured softly, "No, my legs are numb." "Hmm," Shane responded with a pleasant chuckle, though it wasn't clear if he believed her or not. His gentle and deep voice seemed to have a calming effect, causing Haley's heart to flutter slightly, feeling both tingly and itchy. She rubbed her ears curiously and asked, "Mr. Ford, what are you doing here?" Shane replied nonchalantly, "I just happened to pass by." And he happened to see a poor little creature standing in the rain by the roadside, helpless and pitiful like an abandoned cat. Haley nodded knowingly but didn't know what to say. She had just experienced betrayal and felt physically and emotionally drained, only wanting to find a quiet place to rest. Shane glanced at her and asked, "Do you want revenge?" "What?" Haley stared at him in confusion, not understanding his meaning. Shane seemed to understand her confusion and asked patiently, "James betrayed you. Are you planning to let him off the hook?" Haley's expression changed abruptly, becoming wary. "How do you know about this?" If Shane knew, did that mean other members of the Ford family knew too? If that were the case, then all the tough talk she had given in front of James and Xena would turn into a joke. Shane replied, "You came out of the hotel looking like this, isn't that already saying everything?" Haley was stunned for a moment, then suddenly realized. Realizing she had misunderstood him, she apologized, "Thank you, Mr. Ford, but I'll handle it myself." No gain without pain. Besides, Shane was also a member of the Ford family. How could he genuinely help her? Regardless, she didn't want to have any further involvement with James and his family. Shane chuckled lightly and answered calmly, "I'll help you, but it's conditional. You might want to hear the terms first." "What terms?" Haley asked. "I'm in need of a wife," he stated succinctly. Haley almost thought she was hearing things. It took her a while to find her voice again. "Mr. Ford, are you kidding me?" Was Shane really looking for a wife? If he wanted to, there would be a line of women eager to say yes. Could he be playing a prank on her? Shane responded, "Do I seem like I'm joking?" Haley shook her head. She had heard many rumors about Shane before. He was known for being decisive, keeping his distance from strangers, and avoiding romantic entanglements. Given his status and position, there was no need for him to waste time joking with her here. "Why then?" Haley asked. "The old lady at home is pressuring me to get married. I need someone to serve as a shield for me. If you agree, I can help you dissolve your engagement with James." Haley froze, looking at him in disbelief. Shane was holding the umbrella, shielding her from the rain that fell upon her. The dim light from the roadside lamp illuminated half of his face, while the other half remained hidden in the darkness, adding a mysterious air to him. This exceptional man was simply incomparable to James, that scoundrel! Yet, her rationality remained. She questioned in puzzlement, "Why me?" With Shane's power and his devastatingly handsome face, attracting any woman should have been a piece of cake for him. So why choose her? She never believed that good fortune would fall into her lap. Even if it did, it would never hit her. Shane explained, "Because I need someone who knows the ins and outs and can also achieve mutual interests with me. You fit my criteria." "But..." Just as Haley hesitated, Shane suddenly leaned down. His deep and enticing voice sounded in her ear. "Don't you want James to call you 'aunt'? Moreover, if you marry me, Xena will never set foot into the Ford family." Haley's eyes lit up instantly, unable to contain her excitement. If she married Shane, James would have to address her as his aunt. Just thinking about it felt satisfying! She stole a glance at Shane, a hint of pity flashing in her eyes. Rumor had it that Shane was already thirty years old and didn't even have a woman by his side. Either he liked men, or he had some hidden illness. Now it seemed that those rumors were probably true. No wonder he wanted to enter into a marriage agreement with her. After pondering for a moment, Haley asked in distress, "Mr. Ford, won't Mrs. Ford Sr. object to this?" After all, until the engagement with James was officially dissolved, Haley was still his fiancΓ©e. If she turned around and married Shane, who knows what kind of rumors might spread outside? Despite Haley's concerns, Shane remained calm and didn't even furrow his brows. "Don't worry, I'll handle it." With his assurance, Haley completely dispelled any lingering doubts and decisively agreed, "Okay, I agree!" "Then let's go." Shane's lips curled slightly as he lowered his gaze, concealing the subtle emotions within his eyes, before opening the backseat car door. He leaned his hand against the car roof, considerately protecting Haley's head. His actions were gentlemanly and caring, as if he were treating an intimate lover. Haley was startled by her own thoughts, her cheeks flushing slightly as she hurriedly got into the car. Although the heater was on inside the car, she couldn't help but shiver. She hugged her arms and leaned back in the seat, wishing she could curl up into a ball. Suddenly, a hand with distinct knuckles passed her a towel. Shane's voice remained steady, without any fluctuation. "Wipe yourself dry. Don't catch a cold." Haley thanked him quickly and took the towel, wiping her damp hair. The car fell into an eerie silence, with only the sound of her drying her hair breaking the quiet. The atmosphere was strangely unsettling. Feeling uneasy all over, Haley cleared her throat and pretended to be calm as she asked, "Are we going to the county clerk's office now?" Shane glanced at her, his expression profound. "We can, but are you sure you want to go like this?" Following his gaze, Haley lowered her eyes, only then realizing that she was completely soaked and looked disheveled. Her cheeks flushed with embarrassment, wishing she could find a hole to hide in. She had almost forgotten that because of the rain, she was drenched all over. Her white shirt was clinging tightly to her skin, and even the color of her bra was clearly visible. This appearance was indeed not suitable for getting married. And did she sound too eager just now, as if she were in a rush to marry him? Would he misunderstand? Haley cautiously glanced at him out of the corner of her eye, seeing his calm expression, finally breathed a silent sigh of relief. Shaneβs assistant, Dean, who was driving, couldn't help but sigh as he looked at the rearview mirror. His boss was too unusual, completely overturning his previous understanding. In fact, they had been waiting outside the hotel the whole afternoon. Originally, he had come with Shane for a business meeting, but before they even got out of the car, they saw James and Haley's step-sister, Xena, entering the hotel together. Shane immediately instructed him to anonymously message Haley to catch them in the act at the hotel. At first, he didn't quite understand why his boss wanted to scheme against his own nephew. But now, he finally understood. How could a nephew be more important than a wife! No wonder his boss always looked at Haley with a peculiar gaze before. Now, thinking back, everything made sense! His boss had long harbored feelings for Haley. No, it's more like deep affection for her! Chapter 3 While Dean was lost in thought, he suddenly felt a chill at the back of his neck. He turned his head and met Shane's cold, beast-like gaze. Shivering fiercely, he dared not wander in his thoughts anymore, focusing solely on driving. Fortunately, Shane only gave him a cold glance, warning him to drive properly, and quickly withdrew his gaze. After getting out of the car, Shane took Haley into his residence. He fetched a clean set of clothes from the closet and handed them to her. "Go take a hot shower first. There aren't any women's clothes here, so you can wear mine for now." "Okay," Haley's cheeks flushed slightly as she hurriedly took the clothes and entered the bathroom. She almost fled, too afraid to meet Shane's gaze and thus missed the fleeting smile in his eyes. Haley spent a long time in the bathroom, leaning against the wall, letting the shower water wash over her. Being betrayed by James and Xena was something she had never expected, and marrying Shane was even beyond her wildest imagination. She felt that something was amiss, but her mind was a jumble, unable to sort out her thoughts. Soon, steam filled the bathroom, reddening her fair, snow-like face. When she emerged from the bathroom, Shane was no longer in the bedroom. Descending the stairs, she found a tall figure bustling about in the kitchen. The man was tall, clad in a white shirt and neatly tailored trousers, exuding extraordinary charisma. His shirt sleeves were rolled up, revealing well-defined arms. He wore a dark blue apron that softened his cold and aloof demeanor, adding a touch of warmth. Haley's eyes flashed with surprise. Could it be that Shane, a business tycoon, also cooked for himself? What a gentle and domesticated man! He perfectly matched her criteria for a partner from head to toe! Suddenly, something crossed her mind, and Haley's admiring gaze turned into pity. She sighed silently in her heart. How could such an outstanding man have hidden ailments? What a pity! Hearing footsteps, Shane paused and slowly turned around. His gaze fell upon Haley, and his eyes darkened slightly. Her petite figure was enveloped by his white shirt, the hem barely covering her upper legs, revealing a glimpse of slender and fair legs, straight and well-proportioned. In the light, they seemed dazzling. Shane's eyes lingered on those pretty, slender legs for a moment, suddenly feeling a heat rise within him. He averted his gaze, his voice tightening slightly. "Go put on some pants." Haley lowered her eyes and realized that dressing like this in front of an adult man was indeed a bit ambiguous. Her cheeks flushed in response. She whispered, "Your pants are too big for me, I can't wear them." Shane's expression turned cold as he went upstairs without looking back. If Haley had observed carefully, she would have noticed that his steps were somewhat disordered. But her cheeks were already as red as ripe shrimp, and she had no mind to observe Shane. Not long after, Shane came downstairs with a black pair of trousers and a belt in hand. "Put these on," he instructed. Perhaps sensing his tone was a bit harsh, he added, "Be careful not to catch a cold." Haley took the pants and went to the bathroom to change. With the constraint of the belt, she managed to put on the pants, though they were long and baggy, appearing quite bulky. She had to roll up the cuffs. When she came out of the bathroom, she found Shane had already set a bowl of freshly made chicken noodle soup on the table. It was a comforting and savory bowl of soup, with tender noodles and garnished with freshly chopped parsley. Haley was so shocked that she couldn't speak. She never expected Shane to actually cook. Though it was just a simple bowl of noodles, coming from Shane, it felt somehow out of place. Seeing Shane heading to the kitchen to fetch utensils, she followed him voluntarily. "Mr. Ford, do you need any help?" Upon hearing the term "Mr. Ford," Shane's body stiffened, and a hint of coldness almost overflowed from his eyes. He lowered his gaze, forcing himself to restrain his emotions, and hoarsely replied, "No need, just sit down and wait. I'll handle it myself." Haley didn't insist further and obediently sat down at the table, waiting for the meal to begin. After experiencing so much this afternoon, she was indeed feeling a bit hungry. Shane handed her the fork and spoon, then sat down opposite her. 'Dig in, just be careful, it's hot.'" Haley immediately started eating, the fragrance of the noodles filling her taste buds. A warmth spread through her empty stomach. Perhaps even she hadn't noticed, but her wariness and guard against Shane were slowly diminishing. As she ate, she raised her thumb towards Shane. "It's delicious, Mr. Ford. I didn't expect you to be such a great cook!" The warm-toned light in the dining room shone on her, illuminating her delicate and fair cheeks, soft and beautiful. She lowered her gaze, her cheeks puffing up with each chew, her eyes squinting with happiness and contentment. She looked so obedient that it made him want to ruffle her hair. But he couldn't do that, or he might scare her away. A skilled hunter should possess patience above all else, and that was one thing he definitely had. His palm curled slightly, then he casually retracted it. Shane silently told himself that there was plenty of time ahead. Haley was immersed in her food, completely unaware that she had become the lamb to be eaten, enjoying her meal with extra satisfaction. Halfway through, she noticed there was a poached egg at the bottom of the bowl. She looked up at the man across from her, but saw him eating his noodles gracefully, his expression showing no sign of anything unusual. Haley silently watched him eat until he finished his bowl of noodles, but there was no sign of the poached egg. So, was it specially made for her? Haley's emotions suddenly became somewhat complicated. Previously, she always felt that Shane's gaze was too intense, so she always tried to avoid it whenever possible. Coupled with the rumors surrounding him in the outside world, she became even more afraid of him. But now, it seemed like he wasn't that scary after all, and he was even very attentive and meticulous. After finishing the meal, Shane got up to clean up the dishes. He glanced at a girl sitting in the chair, gently stroking her belly, her face filled with contentment, and a smile formed at the corner of his lips. Haley quickly stood up from her chair, feeling somewhat embarrassed. "Mr. Ford, let me do it, I know how to wash dishes." "No need, just leave it to me," Shane dodged her hand and walked straight to the kitchen. Watching him skillfully turn on the faucet and start washing the dishes, Haley touched her nose, feeling like she would just be a hindrance if she went, so she sat back down. Shane finished washing the dishes and came out of the kitchen, handing Haley a printed document. Curiously, Haley took it and saw several large words written on it, "Marriage Agreement, Party A: Shane, Party B: Haley..." She widened her eyes in surprise. "Mr. Ford, when did you write this?" Meeting Haley's clear and bright eyes, Shane cleared his throat lightly. "On the way back." Actually, when Haley went into the hotel to "catch the affair," his car was parked nearby, and that's when he started writing this marriage agreement. But these were things he absolutely couldn't say out loud. Chapter 4 Haley skimmed through the marriage agreement, falling into a moment of silence. Seeing her hesitation, Shane's heart inexplicably tightened, prompting him to ask, "Is there a problem?" Haley shook her head, incredulous. "Mr. Ford, are you sure you want to sign this agreement with me?" The agreement posed no issues; in fact, each clause within it was almost entirely in her favor. Marrying Shane not only granted her the status and position of Mrs. Ford but also secured a 3% stake in the Ford Corporation, along with real estate under Shane's name. In the event of a divorce, she would even be entitled to half of Shane's personal assets. The Ford Corporation was the largest multinational conglomerate in Jasper City, with investments in finance, real estate, hospitality, and various other industries, and its stock value was continuously rising. Compared to her third-rate wealthy family, whose combined assets couldn't even afford 1% of the Ford Corporation's shares, Haley would overnight become immensely wealthy through this marriage. Shane's expression remained calm and composed as he casually poured a dose of cold medicine from a bottle. "Hmm, go ahead and sign." He was certain he wouldn't divorce. As for money, it was merely a bunch of numbers to him. The purpose of making money was simply to accumulate assets for his wife. According to what he'd heard from his subordinates, after marriage, the husband was expected to hand over his salary and assets to his spouse. As for divorce... Well, that was out of the question for this lifetime. Having finally lured his little wife back home, there was no chance she would escape again. Haley gritted her teeth and swiftly signed her name on the agreement. Regardless of how long this marriage lasted, she was guaranteed to benefit! Watching as Haley signed her name in the bottom right corner, Shane smirked in satisfaction. He took the marriage agreement and handed over the cold medicine he had prepared. "Drink this medicine. You got caught in the rain, be careful not to catch a cold." "Thank you, Mr. Ford," Haley said, flashing a sweet smile as she took the cup. The bitter taste of the cold medicine hit her senses as she took a sip. Pinching her nose, she gulped down the medicine in one breath. Shane lowered his gaze, suppressing the curve of his lips from turning upwards, and spoke slowly, "It's getting late. You should rest early." Haley suddenly froze. Tonight... was she going to sleep with Shane? The thought sent her heart racing. "Mr. Ford, could you maybe spare a separate room for me?" Shane raised an eyebrow. "Hmm? Are you worried I might do something to you?" "Of course not!" Haley denied without thinking. She just wasn't accustomed to sleeping with strangers. To her, Shane had always been her elder, her fiancΓ©'s uncle. Shane's dark eyes bore into her, emitting a chilling aura. "There's no clause in our agreement about separate rooms." Haley was at a loss for words. Indeed, there wasn't such a clause in the agreement. She suddenly regretted signing the marriage agreement. Shane was too mysterious, too dangerous. Collaborating with him was like dancing with a tiger. Seeing Haley's hesitation, Shane sighed softly. "If you're uncomfortable sleeping together, I can give you time to adjust. But as a married couple, we are supposed to spend our lives together." The words "spend our lives together" were spoken with particular seriousness. Haley blushed and lowered her head, too embarrassed to meet Shane's gaze. After a long silence, she gritted her teeth and said, "It's fine. I can adapt!" Since she had signed the contract, she had to honor it. It was just sharing a bed, and it wasn't like she was losing out! Haley was led into Shane's bedroom in a daze. When she came in to take a shower before dinner, she rushed into the bathroom in a panic. Now, with a quiet mind, she began to size up the bedroom. Was this really a place where people lived? It felt too deserted. The large bedroom was decorated mainly in black and white, simple yet understated. There was barely any furniture in the room. Despite being the master bedroom, it felt excessively vacant, devoid of any warmth or homely atmosphere. Instead of feeling like a home, it resembled more of a temporary lodging. Haley cast a complicated glance at Shane, unable to imagine how he could live in such a cold environment. Shane cleared his throat uneasily. "Just make do for tonight. If there's anything you need, we can buy it tomorrow." "Okay." "I still have work to do. You go ahead and sleep." "Okay!" Her tone was noticeably more eager than before, almost as if she couldn't wait for him to leave. Shane gave her a deep look. "You're really eager for me to leave, aren't you?" Meeting his probing gaze, Haley chuckled awkwardly and waved at him. "Goodnight, Mr. Ford." "Hmm." Shane turned and left the bedroom. As the door closed behind him, the slight tension in his lips, which had been held back, relaxed ever so slightly, forming a faint curve. His gaze lingered on the closed door, and he lowered his voice. "Goodnight." In the room, Haley lay on the soft bed, her tense nerves slowly relaxing, sighing in comfort. The bedding seemed to carry the scent of pine from Shane, refreshing and pleasant. She had thought she would have trouble sleeping in a strange bed, but she fell asleep as soon as her head hit the pillow. After finishing his video conference, Shane realized it was already past two in the morning. He closed his laptop and headed towards the bedroom. In the dark night, the bedroom door opened silently, and the tall figure of a man slowly approached the bed, gazing at the person already fast asleep. The moonlight streamed through the window, casting a gentle glow on the girl's delicate and fair face. Before lying down beside her, Shane reached out his hand, his rough fingertips gently stroking her cheek. Haley didn't sleep well that night, instinctively sensing the approach of danger in her dreams. It was as if she was being stalked by a wild beast in the jungle, sending shivers down her spine. When she woke up, she found her back and forehead drenched in sweat. Looking around the unfamiliar room, it took her a few seconds to remember what had happened the day before. At that moment, there was a knock on the door, followed by a respectful and steady male voice from outside. "Madam, are you awake? I'm Bob Moore, the butler of Violet Grove." "Yes, give me a moment." Haley quickly got out of bed to answer the door. Despite looking a bit disheveled from just waking up, it didn't diminish her beauty in the slightest. Her fair cheeks were smooth and radiant, while her eyes, clear and bright, held a hint of sleepiness, adding a touch of innocence. A glint of admiration flashed in the butler's eyes, nodding with satisfaction. Finally, Mr. Ford's wish had been fulfilled. Mr. Ford always achieved what he wanted, without fail. Although the methods were somewhat less than honorable and might tarnish the Ford family's reputation if exposed, those were minor issues. Mr. Ford's reputation outside wasn't great to begin with, so a little more damage wouldn't matter. He smiled and said, "Madam, breakfast is ready. Would you like to have some?" As he assessed Haley, she was also studying him. He appeared to be in his forties, dressed sharply in a suit, meticulously groomed, with a perfectly poised smile on his lips, courteous yet distant. "Okay." Haley smiled and quickly freshened up before heading downstairs. As she sat down at the dining table, she noticed that Shane wasn't there, which piqued her curiosity. The butler noticed her puzzlement and explained, "Mr. Ford had a meeting this morning. He left for the office about an hour ago." "Ah, I see," Haley nodded, indicating that she understood. She ate her breakfast quietly, feeling relieved inside. Even though they were married by agreement, she still felt strangely nervous at the thought of Shane. Perhaps it was because of his overpowering presence that made people hesitate to approach him easily. Chapter 5 The household staff huddled together, gossiping quietly. And the subject of their gossip was none other than Haley. Early in the morning, the butler informed them that there would be a new lady of the house from now on, and instructed them to take care accordingly. Everyone was shocked, unable to believe that the usually aloof Shane had actually brought a woman home. Before Haley descended the stairs, everyone speculated about her identity. They all wanted to know what kind of woman could match Shane, this high and mighty figure. When they finally laid eyes on Haley's face, they were all thoroughly amazed. Haley's features were delicate, her skin as fair as snow, her almond-shaped eyes bright and clear, yet exuding an inexplicable allure. She was even more beautiful than the actresses on TV! What surprised them the most was that Haley was wearing Shane's shirt. Shane was known throughout the entire villa for his slight obsession with cleanliness. Nobody was allowed to touch his belongings. Being able to wear Shane's shirt indicated a relationship that was definitely out of the ordinary. "This is the first time Mr. Ford has brought a woman home. It's really unheard of!" "She's so beautiful, no wonder Mr. Ford made an exception for her." "Mr. Ford isn't getting any younger. It's time for him to have a wife." ... Just as everyone was discussing, someone suddenly spoke up: "Wife? Do you even know who this woman is? She's James's fiancΓ©e!" Everyone turned to look at the person who spoke. Her name was Lily Frank and everyone called her Lily. She had been working at the family estate before Shane moved in and took several household staff with him. Lily was one of them. "What? James's fiancΓ©e?" Lily glanced disdainfully in the direction of the dining room and said, "Sheβs just a seductive vixen. If James isn't into her, she goes after Mr. Ford!" She had seen Haley at the family estate before and naturally knew about the engagement between James and Haley. Flirting around without calling off the engagement, what else could she be but a seductress? She couldn't stand such women, with their pretty faces, seducing others everywhere. Who knew what spell she cast on Mr. Ford to bring her home? If this were to get out, the Ford family's reputation would surely be tarnished, wouldn't it? Lily's words piqued everyone's curiosity, and they gathered around to ask what she knew. Just then, a furious roar came from behind, "What are you all gathering here for? Are all the chores done?" Seeing the butler approaching with a stern face, the household staff couldn't help but cower and quickly dispersed. They had a natural fear of the butler. Although he was always polite and maintained a courteous smile, he still gave off an oppressive aura. Every interaction with him left them breathless. As the butler approached, his gaze swept over all the household staff, and he warned, "Let me reiterate, Madam is the lady of the house here. If I hear any gossip from your mouths again, pack your bags and leave. Do you understand?" "Yes, understood!" The household staff nodded hastily. Satisfied, the butler withdrew his gaze and looked at Lily. "Repeat what you just said in front of me." Lily was startled and immediately lowered her head further. "I didn't say anything! Bob, please forgive me. I just spoke without thinking." The butler sneered, "Come see me later and settle this month's wages." Lily panicked, "Bob, you can't treat me like this! I was personally chosen by Mrs. Ford Sr.!" The butler glanced at her indifferently. "I will personally report this to Mrs. Ford Sr. and I believe she will decide who is more important, the daughter-in-law or the household staff." With that, he left without looking back. Lily's legs went weak, and she fell to the ground, her face turning pale with fright. It's over, it's all over now! The other household staff were also stunned. Lily had followed from the family estate and had been working here for several years, yet she was dismissed so easily. Wouldn't their fate be even worse? After this incident, almost all the household staff remembered one thing: never disrespect Haley. In the dining room, Haley was completely unaware of this, enjoying her breakfast. The chefs hired by the Ford family were top-notch, and the breakfast they made was delicious. Haley ate contentedly, her mood becoming very pleasant. Just then, her phone on the side suddenly rang. Haley's brows furrowed slightly as she glanced at the caller ID. It was her father, Joe Carter, calling. Without much thought, she knew it must be her dear younger sister tattling on her again. As she answered, she was greeted with a burst of anger, "Haley, you've grown some guts, actually daring to stay out all night and making your sister cry. Get back here right now!" Coldness flashed in Haley's eyes as she retorted without hesitation, "Isn't this what I learned from you? My staying out all night is all thanks to your exemplary teachings." When her mother was still alive, Joe often used the excuse of being too busy with work to come home. In the past, she naively believed it, striving to be an obedient and sensible child, afraid of causing trouble for Joe. But what was the result? Less than a month after her mother's death, he shamelessly brought his mistress and illegitimate daughter into the house. It wasn't until then that she realized, the so-called work was just an excuse. In reality, he had long been with another family. Joe gave all the paternal love she yearned for to another daughter. As for her and her mother, they meant nothing to him. It was truly remarkable how he managed to navigate between two families for over a decade without being caught. Not acknowledging him as a time management master was really unfair considering all his years of hard work. Chapter 6 "Haley, you dare say that again! Have I raised you all these years just so you could argue with me? How did I end up with such a troublemaker like you?" Joe was about to explode with anger, barely believing these words were coming from Haley's mouth. Haley took her phone away without expression, rubbed her ears, and said, "If you're so eager to hear it, why don't you just record it? Play it every night before bed." She behaved obediently in front of Shane out of instinctive fear. As for others, even her biological father, she could argue with them without hesitation. In the past, she used to feel hurt and upset because of Joe's scolding, but after her mother's death, she came to terms with it. She realized that one should never have expected what didn't belong to them, or you would only end up hurting yourself. So when she found out about James's betrayal, she didn't feel too sad. Instead, she felt relieved. At least they weren't married yet, and there was still a chance to salvage everything. Joe's angry scolding kept coming through the earpiece, and she impatiently said, "Got it," before hanging up the phone. She did need to go back; she hadn't settled the score with Xena yet, and this matter wasn't over. She elegantly wiped the corners of her mouth, got up, and met the bewildered gaze of the butler. Haley coughed lightly, smiled at the butler, nodded, and quickly went upstairs. She wasn't afraid of being misunderstood; she just felt a little awkward. Although she and Shane had an agreement to get married, having lived in the aristocratic circle for more than twenty years, she knew that the wealthier the family, the more they valued their reputation. Since she intended to use Shane to get back at James and Xena, she had to play the role of Mrs. Ford well. The butler watched her departing figure with mixed feelings. He never expected that this seemingly obedient and gentle girl would have such a tough side. However, thinking about the rumors surrounding the Carter family, the butler couldn't help but feel sorry for Haley. Joe was originally a poor boy with nothing. Later on, he married Yvonne Ramsey, Haley's mother, and with her help, they started a company. Yvonne was a woman with a keen business acumen, and within a few years, she had managed the company exceptionally well. The brand 'JY' even penetrated the international market, expanding from a clothing brand to various sectors including finance, real estate, and more. At its peak, the Carter family even entered the upper-class circles. However, later on, Yvonne got cancer and faced Joe's betrayal, gradually becoming weaker and having no time or energy to manage the company anymore. Joe took the opportunity to intervene in the company, and even inserted many of his own people, intending to take over the company. What's more, less than a month after Yvonne's death, Joe actually brought his mistress and illegitimate daughter home. Haley's position in the Carter family became awkward. Later, rumors in the circle often circulated about Haley's fiancΓ©, James, having ambiguous relationships with Xena, his illegitimate daughter. Everyone was waiting for Haley to be dumped, eager to witness her downfall. She was indeed a pitiable child. Fortunately, with her husband's protection in the future, everything would only get better. ** Haley changed into the clothes she washed and dried the night before, greeted the butler and prepared to go out. The butler kindly asked, "Madam, would you like the driver to take you? It's not very convenient to get a taxi around here." This area was surrounded by a large villa district, where there were usually dedicated drivers, and it was rare to take a taxi. Moreover, the security system here was very high-level, and if one couldn't prove their identity, the security guards wouldn't let them in. Haley thought for a moment and nodded. "Okay." The butler immediately selected a low-key yet luxurious car from the garage and instructed the driver to safely escort Haley. Upon arriving at the Carter family, Haley got out of the car and took a deep breath. If it weren't for something she had to take with her from home, she wouldn't set foot here again. This place was never her home, and Joe had never considered her his daughter. She could even foresee how much scolding and rebuking she would endure once she entered. Sure enough, as soon as she stepped into the Carter family's living room, something was suddenly thrown out from inside. Her pupils contracted, instinctively she dodged to the side. A delicate and pretty glass flew past her and landed not far behind her with a loud shattering sound, almost piercing Haley's eardrums. If Haley had been a little slower to dodge, she would probably have been hit severely. Joe was still furious, putting all his strength into it. If the glass landed on Haley, it would definitely leave a severe injury. Haley stood stunned for several seconds before coming to her senses, and as she turned her head, she met Joe's angry gaze. "You have the nerve to come back? How did I raise such a wicked daughter? You even have the audacity to bully your own sister!" He seemed still enraged, his entire face as dark as coal, and his voice carried an uncontrollable anger. Accompanying his roar was a sob filled with grievances. Haley looked over and saw her stepmother, Zoe Lewis, and stepsister, Xena, sitting on the sofa, huddled together in tears. Their appearance seemed to suggest they had suffered a great injustice. Chapter 7 Zoe wiped her tears as she lamented, "Haley, I know you've never liked me as your stepmother, but Xena is innocent. How could you be so heartless?" "Did she tell you I bullied her?" Haley suddenly chuckled, though the smile didn't reach her eyes; instead, they were icy cold. Meeting Haley's gaze, Xena suddenly shivered, her eyes flickering with guilt. But when she remembered James's assurance from last night, promising to break off the engagement with Haley, her sense of guilt completely vanished. James loved her. It was Haley's own fault for not being able to win a man's affection. Haley couldnβt blame her! Seeing her brazen demeanor, Joe grew angry. "Who else but you? Xena is gentle and kind, unlike you, who is jealous and malicious." Haley seemed to find the situation ludicrous and actually laughed. She looked at Xena coldly. "Gentle and kind? Indeed, very kind, to take care of my fiancΓ© in her bed." She didn't bother arguing further with them, instead pulling out her phone and playing a recording. The sultry sounds of a woman mingled with the heavy breaths of a man emanated from the speaker. Joe stood dumbfounded, his whole being frozen in shock. The voices in the video were all too familiar to him. One was his beloved daughter, Xena, and the other was Haley's fiancΓ©, James. He had always believed the rumors were false because he firmly believed that the gentle and kind Xena would never try to steal her sister's man. However, he couldn't deny the truth. He looked at Xena, hoping for her to deny it, but all he saw was her guilty expression as she lowered her head. Now, what was there left for him to misunderstand? He trembled with anger, clutching at his slightly stinging chest, and sternly questioned Xena, "Is this true? Did you really do such a thing?" Xena's face turned pale, she shook her head frantically, and grabbed Joe's sleeve, acting coquettishly, "Dad, listen to me explain. Things aren't like that." Joe's face turned livid, displeased as he said, "But he's your sister's fiancΓ©. Why would you do something like this?" Why? Of course, it was to completely ruin Haley! As long as that old woman from the Ford family was still alive, James wouldn't successfully break off the engagement. Xena absolutely wouldn't allow Haley to marry into the top-tier Ford family and become the esteemed Mrs. Ford while she was forever burdened with the title of the illegitimate daughter! So, she didn't hesitate to seduce James at any cost, behaving lovingly towards him while in the presence of Haley, all to make her realize the reality and voluntarily break off the engagement. Although she was now caught red-handed by Haley, she didn't regret it at all. As long as she could trample Haley underfoot, she was willing to pay any price. From childhood to adulthood, Haley overshadowed her in every aspect. Whether it was in terms of background, appearance, academics, or social connections, wherever Haley was, her radiance would always be completely overshadowed. She refused to accept it! Xena's eyes were full of resentment, like a venomous snake hiding in the grass, spitting poison at its prey. Sinister and dangerous. She stood up and rushed over to snatch Haley's phone. "Haley, turn off the recording for me! James and I are truly in love. If you're sensible, you should take the initiative to step back. It's better for everyone!" Haley quickly stepped back two steps, avoiding her hand. Hearing her words, she couldn't help but sneer. "If you're a third wheel, you're a third wheel. Why bother with all the excuses?" Regardless of whom James truly loved, nominally, she was the only fiancΓ©e. James knew very well that she despised betrayal because of her mother, yet he still got involved with Xena, which was even more nauseating. Upon hearing this, Zoe exploded, as if her deepest pain had been pricked. "Who are you calling a third wheel?" She gritted her teeth and raised her arm to slap Haley. But her hand fell in midair, firmly grasped by a fair and delicate hand. Then, with a crisp sound, the clear slap echoed, and Zoe's cheek stung with a fiery pain. She was stunned by Haley's action, covering her face in disbelief. "You hit me? How dare you hit me?" Haley's lips curled slightly as she pulled out a tissue from her shoulder bag and wiped her hands leisurely. After finishing, she said lightly, "Zoe, I just made a passing remark. Why feel so guilty? Besides, you were the one who struck first. You can't blame me for your slow reaction." "You!" Zoe gritted her teeth, her eyes almost bursting with suppressed anger. | Reading matter | 8 | https://facebook.com/61559156515503 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718002800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879655 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410701 | 1723321845 | 995 | 1191279425651029 | 1 | 1.1841458962763E+15 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 299026206627385 | 0 | Reading matter | 120209775879570390 | findokn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | β€οΈπWhat happens nextπClick Here to read onπ | https://findokn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11632&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717754696 | 2.9902620662738E+14 | Reading matter | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959833_690035193239071_8338086885496487765_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=QUFcGNRC398Q7kNvgFxAmgt&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCWbUkdH9z0_PV1OvwqycTOxeLawo5lW9bV27bjjkvCVg&oe=6672ACB9 | person_profile | 0 | Reading matter | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959769_1190715732374544_2758543800221804444_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=HMc1ybrp76sQ7kNvgGxl7Rn&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDTbtuCE2oc7epCLXYFTWIHnrtsOeIyXj12-3O0DMTsrQ&oe=6672C9A3 | 0 | 3 | "James, between me and Haley, who do you love more?" "Of course, it's you, my dear. Haven't my actions proven it enough? Hmm?" "But, I want to hear you say it yourself." "Darling, you are the woman I love the most. Relax, you're too tense..." The man's suppressed heavy breathing, mixed with the woman's seductive sounds, soon filled the hotel suite. Haley Carter stood outside the slightly ajar door, her blood almost freezing, unable to stop trembling from the piercing cold. An hour ago, someone sent her a video clip. In the video, her fiancΓ©, James Ford, was hot kissing her half-sister Xena Carter in the corridor of this hotel. She initially thought it was a prank, but she never expected that these two had long been involved with each other. She took a deep breath, trying to restrain the anger surging in her chest. Quietly, she took out her phone from her pocket and pushed the door open. The two on the bed were still immersed in their intense pleasure when suddenly they heard a cold voice, "What a splendid drama. Shall I applaud for you?" Both froze, turning their gaze towards the direction of the door. "Ah!" Xena screamed, panicked, and shrank into James's embrace. "Haley? What are you doing here?" James covered himself with a blanket, displeased. "Who let you come in?" Haley crossed her arms, looking at him mockingly. "If I didn't come, wouldn't I miss such a splendid scene?" "Haley, James and I truly love each other. Please, let us be together!" Xena's eyes reddened, tears glistening, portraying an innocent and pitiful look. James felt heartbroken, tightly holding her in his arms, and said in a deep voice, "Haley, if you have any issues, take them up with me. Xena is innocent!" Haley sneered, "Innocent? How dare you utter those words?" "That's enough! The one I love, from beginning to end, has only been Xena. If you had an ounce of self-awareness, you would go to Grandma and cancel our engagement!" What he liked was someone like Xena, gentle and submissive, yet uninhibited and open-minded in bed. But Haley was awkward and conservative, not even allowing a touch of hands, utterly boring! Being with Haley, he couldn't feel an ounce of joy! Haley's eyes narrowed, a dangerous and icy light flickering at the depths. "Cheating is cheating. Don't give yourselves excuses. If I were to release the video of you two in bed, would anyone still think you're innocent?" James and Xena's faces turned pale, roaring, "Haley, delete the video now!" "And if I say no?" Haley stepped back two paces, provocatively lifting her chin towards them. "James, if you don't like me, you could have straightforwardly called off the engagement. I'm not someone who can't live without you. Your current behavior disgusts me." If James had openly called off the engagement, maybe she would have respected him a bit more. But alas... "Haley, stop right there!" Watching Haley walk away, James burned with anger, instinctively wanting to chase after her. However, Xena held onto his waist tightly, crying with grievance. "James, what should we do? Haley must be mad at me. Perhaps from the beginning, I shouldn't have liked you, then I wouldn't have hurt her..." Hearing this, James's heart filled with guilt and pity, leaving him with no inclination to chase after Haley. He kissed Xena's forehead and whispered softly, "Xena, you're just too kind. If it weren't for her interference, maybe we would have been together long ago!" "James, you're so good to me..." Xena's lips curved slightly, her eyes fixed on the direction Haley disappeared, a trace of a triumphant smile flashing. Thinking of competing with her? Haley was still too naive! She believed it wouldn't be long before she snatched away the position of Mrs. Ford! β¦ As Haley left the hotel, it started to pour outside. Endless night enveloped her, with only occasional flashes of lightning and dim streetlights visible through the pouring rain. Standing in the rain, Haley was drenched from head to toe. The scenes of James and Xena's affair played over and over in her mind, making her feel nauseous. On top of not eating all day, her stomach was cramping painfully. She forced herself to walk to the roadside, but finally couldn't bear it anymore and slowly crouched down. The icy rain hit her snow-white skin, sending shivers down her spine. Her vision blurred, making it hard for her to distinguish reality from dreams. After who knows how long, the rain hitting her seemed to gradually stop. Haley slowly opened her eyes and noticed a shadow before her. She had a sense of it and slowly lifted her gaze. The first thing she saw was a pair of well-tailored trousers, wrapping around a pair of long, straight legs. Moving upwards, she saw a handsome face with a cold demeanor. The man's slightly furrowed brows, high nose bridge, and tightly pursed lips were striking. His deep eyes were lowered, shrouded in darkness, seemingly blending with the night. Haley stared at him in surprise, a hint of bewilderment in her eyes. "Mr. Ford? Why are you here?" The man before her was Shane Ford, the most influential member of the Ford family, the top-tier business family in Jasper City. He was also her former fiancΓ©'s uncle, James's uncle. He was the late child of Mr. Ford Sr. and inherited exceptional business acumen. Taking over the Ford Corporation in just a few years, its market value multiplied several times over. What was most feared about him was his ruthless methods and decisive personality. However, he always remained low-key and mysterious, seldom interacting with the younger generation like them. Haley had only crossed paths with him a few times at the Ford family gatherings and hardly ever exchanged words. This man exuded an aura of danger, and Haley usually avoided him whenever possible. Never did she expect to encounter him today, especially in her current disheveled state. "What could possibly make you disregard your own well-being like this?" The man's brow furrowed slightly, his deep, velvety voice sensual and captivating, as if it sent an electric current tingling through her ears, simultaneously soothing and arousing. There was also a subtle hint of concern mixed in. Haley suddenly snapped out of her daze, hastily trying to stand up. However, due to crouching on the ground for too long, her legs had gone numb. Her body swayed suddenly, uncontrollably tilting backward. Just when she thought she was about to fall awkwardly, a pair of warm and powerful hands suddenly wrapped around her waist. The next moment, she fell into a warm and broad chest. Anxiously, she grabbed onto the front of his shirt, afraid of falling. At this moment, the man's rich and husky voice sounded in her ear, tinged with a hint of mockery: "Are you taking advantage of me?" Chapter 2 As she realized the ambiguous position they were in, Haley's cheeks flushed red, and she quickly pulled away from the man's embrace. Feeling embarrassed, she murmured softly, "No, my legs are numb." "Hmm," Shane responded with a pleasant chuckle, though it wasn't clear if he believed her or not. His gentle and deep voice seemed to have a calming effect, causing Haley's heart to flutter slightly, feeling both tingly and itchy. She rubbed her ears curiously and asked, "Mr. Ford, what are you doing here?" Shane replied nonchalantly, "I just happened to pass by." And he happened to see a poor little creature standing in the rain by the roadside, helpless and pitiful like an abandoned cat. Haley nodded knowingly but didn't know what to say. She had just experienced betrayal and felt physically and emotionally drained, only wanting to find a quiet place to rest. Shane glanced at her and asked, "Do you want revenge?" "What?" Haley stared at him in confusion, not understanding his meaning. Shane seemed to understand her confusion and asked patiently, "James betrayed you. Are you planning to let him off the hook?" Haley's expression changed abruptly, becoming wary. "How do you know about this?" If Shane knew, did that mean other members of the Ford family knew too? If that were the case, then all the tough talk she had given in front of James and Xena would turn into a joke. Shane replied, "You came out of the hotel looking like this, isn't that already saying everything?" Haley was stunned for a moment, then suddenly realized. Realizing she had misunderstood him, she apologized, "Thank you, Mr. Ford, but I'll handle it myself." No gain without pain. Besides, Shane was also a member of the Ford family. How could he genuinely help her? Regardless, she didn't want to have any further involvement with James and his family. Shane chuckled lightly and answered calmly, "I'll help you, but it's conditional. You might want to hear the terms first." "What terms?" Haley asked. "I'm in need of a wife," he stated succinctly. Haley almost thought she was hearing things. It took her a while to find her voice again. "Mr. Ford, are you kidding me?" Was Shane really looking for a wife? If he wanted to, there would be a line of women eager to say yes. Could he be playing a prank on her? Shane responded, "Do I seem like I'm joking?" Haley shook her head. She had heard many rumors about Shane before. He was known for being decisive, keeping his distance from strangers, and avoiding romantic entanglements. Given his status and position, there was no need for him to waste time joking with her here. "Why then?" Haley asked. "The old lady at home is pressuring me to get married. I need someone to serve as a shield for me. If you agree, I can help you dissolve your engagement with James." Haley froze, looking at him in disbelief. Shane was holding the umbrella, shielding her from the rain that fell upon her. The dim light from the roadside lamp illuminated half of his face, while the other half remained hidden in the darkness, adding a mysterious air to him. This exceptional man was simply incomparable to James, that scoundrel! Yet, her rationality remained. She questioned in puzzlement, "Why me?" With Shane's power and his devastatingly handsome face, attracting any woman should have been a piece of cake for him. So why choose her? She never believed that good fortune would fall into her lap. Even if it did, it would never hit her. Shane explained, "Because I need someone who knows the ins and outs and can also achieve mutual interests with me. You fit my criteria." "But..." Just as Haley hesitated, Shane suddenly leaned down. His deep and enticing voice sounded in her ear. "Don't you want James to call you 'aunt'? Moreover, if you marry me, Xena will never set foot into the Ford family." Haley's eyes lit up instantly, unable to contain her excitement. If she married Shane, James would have to address her as his aunt. Just thinking about it felt satisfying! She stole a glance at Shane, a hint of pity flashing in her eyes. Rumor had it that Shane was already thirty years old and didn't even have a woman by his side. Either he liked men, or he had some hidden illness. Now it seemed that those rumors were probably true. No wonder he wanted to enter into a marriage agreement with her. After pondering for a moment, Haley asked in distress, "Mr. Ford, won't Mrs. Ford Sr. object to this?" After all, until the engagement with James was officially dissolved, Haley was still his fiancΓ©e. If she turned around and married Shane, who knows what kind of rumors might spread outside? Despite Haley's concerns, Shane remained calm and didn't even furrow his brows. "Don't worry, I'll handle it." With his assurance, Haley completely dispelled any lingering doubts and decisively agreed, "Okay, I agree!" "Then let's go." Shane's lips curled slightly as he lowered his gaze, concealing the subtle emotions within his eyes, before opening the backseat car door. He leaned his hand against the car roof, considerately protecting Haley's head. His actions were gentlemanly and caring, as if he were treating an intimate lover. Haley was startled by her own thoughts, her cheeks flushing slightly as she hurriedly got into the car. Although the heater was on inside the car, she couldn't help but shiver. She hugged her arms and leaned back in the seat, wishing she could curl up into a ball. Suddenly, a hand with distinct knuckles passed her a towel. Shane's voice remained steady, without any fluctuation. "Wipe yourself dry. Don't catch a cold." Haley thanked him quickly and took the towel, wiping her damp hair. The car fell into an eerie silence, with only the sound of her drying her hair breaking the quiet. The atmosphere was strangely unsettling. Feeling uneasy all over, Haley cleared her throat and pretended to be calm as she asked, "Are we going to the county clerk's office now?" Shane glanced at her, his expression profound. "We can, but are you sure you want to go like this?" Following his gaze, Haley lowered her eyes, only then realizing that she was completely soaked and looked disheveled. Her cheeks flushed with embarrassment, wishing she could find a hole to hide in. She had almost forgotten that because of the rain, she was drenched all over. Her white shirt was clinging tightly to her skin, and even the color of her bra was clearly visible. This appearance was indeed not suitable for getting married. And did she sound too eager just now, as if she were in a rush to marry him? Would he misunderstand? Haley cautiously glanced at him out of the corner of her eye, seeing his calm expression, finally breathed a silent sigh of relief. Shaneβs assistant, Dean, who was driving, couldn't help but sigh as he looked at the rearview mirror. His boss was too unusual, completely overturning his previous understanding. In fact, they had been waiting outside the hotel the whole afternoon. Originally, he had come with Shane for a business meeting, but before they even got out of the car, they saw James and Haley's step-sister, Xena, entering the hotel together. Shane immediately instructed him to anonymously message Haley to catch them in the act at the hotel. At first, he didn't quite understand why his boss wanted to scheme against his own nephew. But now, he finally understood. How could a nephew be more important than a wife! No wonder his boss always looked at Haley with a peculiar gaze before. Now, thinking back, everything made sense! His boss had long harbored feelings for Haley. No, it's more like deep affection for her! Chapter 3 While Dean was lost in thought, he suddenly felt a chill at the back of his neck. He turned his head and met Shane's cold, beast-like gaze. Shivering fiercely, he dared not wander in his thoughts anymore, focusing solely on driving. Fortunately, Shane only gave him a cold glance, warning him to drive properly, and quickly withdrew his gaze. After getting out of the car, Shane took Haley into his residence. He fetched a clean set of clothes from the closet and handed them to her. "Go take a hot shower first. There aren't any women's clothes here, so you can wear mine for now." "Okay," Haley's cheeks flushed slightly as she hurriedly took the clothes and entered the bathroom. She almost fled, too afraid to meet Shane's gaze and thus missed the fleeting smile in his eyes. Haley spent a long time in the bathroom, leaning against the wall, letting the shower water wash over her. Being betrayed by James and Xena was something she had never expected, and marrying Shane was even beyond her wildest imagination. She felt that something was amiss, but her mind was a jumble, unable to sort out her thoughts. Soon, steam filled the bathroom, reddening her fair, snow-like face. When she emerged from the bathroom, Shane was no longer in the bedroom. Descending the stairs, she found a tall figure bustling about in the kitchen. The man was tall, clad in a white shirt and neatly tailored trousers, exuding extraordinary charisma. His shirt sleeves were rolled up, revealing well-defined arms. He wore a dark blue apron that softened his cold and aloof demeanor, adding a touch of warmth. Haley's eyes flashed with surprise. Could it be that Shane, a business tycoon, also cooked for himself? What a gentle and domesticated man! He perfectly matched her criteria for a partner from head to toe! Suddenly, something crossed her mind, and Haley's admiring gaze turned into pity. She sighed silently in her heart. How could such an outstanding man have hidden ailments? What a pity! Hearing footsteps, Shane paused and slowly turned around. His gaze fell upon Haley, and his eyes darkened slightly. Her petite figure was enveloped by his white shirt, the hem barely covering her upper legs, revealing a glimpse of slender and fair legs, straight and well-proportioned. In the light, they seemed dazzling. Shane's eyes lingered on those pretty, slender legs for a moment, suddenly feeling a heat rise within him. He averted his gaze, his voice tightening slightly. "Go put on some pants." Haley lowered her eyes and realized that dressing like this in front of an adult man was indeed a bit ambiguous. Her cheeks flushed in response. She whispered, "Your pants are too big for me, I can't wear them." Shane's expression turned cold as he went upstairs without looking back. If Haley had observed carefully, she would have noticed that his steps were somewhat disordered. But her cheeks were already as red as ripe shrimp, and she had no mind to observe Shane. Not long after, Shane came downstairs with a black pair of trousers and a belt in hand. "Put these on," he instructed. Perhaps sensing his tone was a bit harsh, he added, "Be careful not to catch a cold." Haley took the pants and went to the bathroom to change. With the constraint of the belt, she managed to put on the pants, though they were long and baggy, appearing quite bulky. She had to roll up the cuffs. When she came out of the bathroom, she found Shane had already set a bowl of freshly made chicken noodle soup on the table. It was a comforting and savory bowl of soup, with tender noodles and garnished with freshly chopped parsley. Haley was so shocked that she couldn't speak. She never expected Shane to actually cook. Though it was just a simple bowl of noodles, coming from Shane, it felt somehow out of place. Seeing Shane heading to the kitchen to fetch utensils, she followed him voluntarily. "Mr. Ford, do you need any help?" Upon hearing the term "Mr. Ford," Shane's body stiffened, and a hint of coldness almost overflowed from his eyes. He lowered his gaze, forcing himself to restrain his emotions, and hoarsely replied, "No need, just sit down and wait. I'll handle it myself." Haley didn't insist further and obediently sat down at the table, waiting for the meal to begin. After experiencing so much this afternoon, she was indeed feeling a bit hungry. Shane handed her the fork and spoon, then sat down opposite her. 'Dig in, just be careful, it's hot.'" Haley immediately started eating, the fragrance of the noodles filling her taste buds. A warmth spread through her empty stomach. Perhaps even she hadn't noticed, but her wariness and guard against Shane were slowly diminishing. As she ate, she raised her thumb towards Shane. "It's delicious, Mr. Ford. I didn't expect you to be such a great cook!" The warm-toned light in the dining room shone on her, illuminating her delicate and fair cheeks, soft and beautiful. She lowered her gaze, her cheeks puffing up with each chew, her eyes squinting with happiness and contentment. She looked so obedient that it made him want to ruffle her hair. But he couldn't do that, or he might scare her away. A skilled hunter should possess patience above all else, and that was one thing he definitely had. His palm curled slightly, then he casually retracted it. Shane silently told himself that there was plenty of time ahead. Haley was immersed in her food, completely unaware that she had become the lamb to be eaten, enjoying her meal with extra satisfaction. Halfway through, she noticed there was a poached egg at the bottom of the bowl. She looked up at the man across from her, but saw him eating his noodles gracefully, his expression showing no sign of anything unusual. Haley silently watched him eat until he finished his bowl of noodles, but there was no sign of the poached egg. So, was it specially made for her? Haley's emotions suddenly became somewhat complicated. Previously, she always felt that Shane's gaze was too intense, so she always tried to avoid it whenever possible. Coupled with the rumors surrounding him in the outside world, she became even more afraid of him. But now, it seemed like he wasn't that scary after all, and he was even very attentive and meticulous. After finishing the meal, Shane got up to clean up the dishes. He glanced at a girl sitting in the chair, gently stroking her belly, her face filled with contentment, and a smile formed at the corner of his lips. Haley quickly stood up from her chair, feeling somewhat embarrassed. "Mr. Ford, let me do it, I know how to wash dishes." "No need, just leave it to me," Shane dodged her hand and walked straight to the kitchen. Watching him skillfully turn on the faucet and start washing the dishes, Haley touched her nose, feeling like she would just be a hindrance if she went, so she sat back down. Shane finished washing the dishes and came out of the kitchen, handing Haley a printed document. Curiously, Haley took it and saw several large words written on it, "Marriage Agreement, Party A: Shane, Party B: Haley..." She widened her eyes in surprise. "Mr. Ford, when did you write this?" Meeting Haley's clear and bright eyes, Shane cleared his throat lightly. "On the way back." Actually, when Haley went into the hotel to "catch the affair," his car was parked nearby, and that's when he started writing this marriage agreement. But these were things he absolutely couldn't say out loud. Chapter 4 Haley skimmed through the marriage agreement, falling into a moment of silence. Seeing her hesitation, Shane's heart inexplicably tightened, prompting him to ask, "Is there a problem?" Haley shook her head, incredulous. "Mr. Ford, are you sure you want to sign this agreement with me?" The agreement posed no issues; in fact, each clause within it was almost entirely in her favor. Marrying Shane not only granted her the status and position of Mrs. Ford but also secured a 3% stake in the Ford Corporation, along with real estate under Shane's name. In the event of a divorce, she would even be entitled to half of Shane's personal assets. The Ford Corporation was the largest multinational conglomerate in Jasper City, with investments in finance, real estate, hospitality, and various other industries, and its stock value was continuously rising. Compared to her third-rate wealthy family, whose combined assets couldn't even afford 1% of the Ford Corporation's shares, Haley would overnight become immensely wealthy through this marriage. Shane's expression remained calm and composed as he casually poured a dose of cold medicine from a bottle. "Hmm, go ahead and sign." He was certain he wouldn't divorce. As for money, it was merely a bunch of numbers to him. The purpose of making money was simply to accumulate assets for his wife. According to what he'd heard from his subordinates, after marriage, the husband was expected to hand over his salary and assets to his spouse. As for divorce... Well, that was out of the question for this lifetime. Having finally lured his little wife back home, there was no chance she would escape again. Haley gritted her teeth and swiftly signed her name on the agreement. Regardless of how long this marriage lasted, she was guaranteed to benefit! Watching as Haley signed her name in the bottom right corner, Shane smirked in satisfaction. He took the marriage agreement and handed over the cold medicine he had prepared. "Drink this medicine. You got caught in the rain, be careful not to catch a cold." "Thank you, Mr. Ford," Haley said, flashing a sweet smile as she took the cup. The bitter taste of the cold medicine hit her senses as she took a sip. Pinching her nose, she gulped down the medicine in one breath. Shane lowered his gaze, suppressing the curve of his lips from turning upwards, and spoke slowly, "It's getting late. You should rest early." Haley suddenly froze. Tonight... was she going to sleep with Shane? The thought sent her heart racing. "Mr. Ford, could you maybe spare a separate room for me?" Shane raised an eyebrow. "Hmm? Are you worried I might do something to you?" "Of course not!" Haley denied without thinking. She just wasn't accustomed to sleeping with strangers. To her, Shane had always been her elder, her fiancΓ©'s uncle. Shane's dark eyes bore into her, emitting a chilling aura. "There's no clause in our agreement about separate rooms." Haley was at a loss for words. Indeed, there wasn't such a clause in the agreement. She suddenly regretted signing the marriage agreement. Shane was too mysterious, too dangerous. Collaborating with him was like dancing with a tiger. Seeing Haley's hesitation, Shane sighed softly. "If you're uncomfortable sleeping together, I can give you time to adjust. But as a married couple, we are supposed to spend our lives together." The words "spend our lives together" were spoken with particular seriousness. Haley blushed and lowered her head, too embarrassed to meet Shane's gaze. After a long silence, she gritted her teeth and said, "It's fine. I can adapt!" Since she had signed the contract, she had to honor it. It was just sharing a bed, and it wasn't like she was losing out! Haley was led into Shane's bedroom in a daze. When she came in to take a shower before dinner, she rushed into the bathroom in a panic. Now, with a quiet mind, she began to size up the bedroom. Was this really a place where people lived? It felt too deserted. The large bedroom was decorated mainly in black and white, simple yet understated. There was barely any furniture in the room. Despite being the master bedroom, it felt excessively vacant, devoid of any warmth or homely atmosphere. Instead of feeling like a home, it resembled more of a temporary lodging. Haley cast a complicated glance at Shane, unable to imagine how he could live in such a cold environment. Shane cleared his throat uneasily. "Just make do for tonight. If there's anything you need, we can buy it tomorrow." "Okay." "I still have work to do. You go ahead and sleep." "Okay!" Her tone was noticeably more eager than before, almost as if she couldn't wait for him to leave. Shane gave her a deep look. "You're really eager for me to leave, aren't you?" Meeting his probing gaze, Haley chuckled awkwardly and waved at him. "Goodnight, Mr. Ford." "Hmm." Shane turned and left the bedroom. As the door closed behind him, the slight tension in his lips, which had been held back, relaxed ever so slightly, forming a faint curve. His gaze lingered on the closed door, and he lowered his voice. "Goodnight." In the room, Haley lay on the soft bed, her tense nerves slowly relaxing, sighing in comfort. The bedding seemed to carry the scent of pine from Shane, refreshing and pleasant. She had thought she would have trouble sleeping in a strange bed, but she fell asleep as soon as her head hit the pillow. After finishing his video conference, Shane realized it was already past two in the morning. He closed his laptop and headed towards the bedroom. In the dark night, the bedroom door opened silently, and the tall figure of a man slowly approached the bed, gazing at the person already fast asleep. The moonlight streamed through the window, casting a gentle glow on the girl's delicate and fair face. Before lying down beside her, Shane reached out his hand, his rough fingertips gently stroking her cheek. Haley didn't sleep well that night, instinctively sensing the approach of danger in her dreams. It was as if she was being stalked by a wild beast in the jungle, sending shivers down her spine. When she woke up, she found her back and forehead drenched in sweat. Looking around the unfamiliar room, it took her a few seconds to remember what had happened the day before. At that moment, there was a knock on the door, followed by a respectful and steady male voice from outside. "Madam, are you awake? I'm Bob Moore, the butler of Violet Grove." "Yes, give me a moment." Haley quickly got out of bed to answer the door. Despite looking a bit disheveled from just waking up, it didn't diminish her beauty in the slightest. Her fair cheeks were smooth and radiant, while her eyes, clear and bright, held a hint of sleepiness, adding a touch of innocence. A glint of admiration flashed in the butler's eyes, nodding with satisfaction. Finally, Mr. Ford's wish had been fulfilled. Mr. Ford always achieved what he wanted, without fail. Although the methods were somewhat less than honorable and might tarnish the Ford family's reputation if exposed, those were minor issues. Mr. Ford's reputation outside wasn't great to begin with, so a little more damage wouldn't matter. He smiled and said, "Madam, breakfast is ready. Would you like to have some?" As he assessed Haley, she was also studying him. He appeared to be in his forties, dressed sharply in a suit, meticulously groomed, with a perfectly poised smile on his lips, courteous yet distant. "Okay." Haley smiled and quickly freshened up before heading downstairs. As she sat down at the dining table, she noticed that Shane wasn't there, which piqued her curiosity. The butler noticed her puzzlement and explained, "Mr. Ford had a meeting this morning. He left for the office about an hour ago." "Ah, I see," Haley nodded, indicating that she understood. She ate her breakfast quietly, feeling relieved inside. Even though they were married by agreement, she still felt strangely nervous at the thought of Shane. Perhaps it was because of his overpowering presence that made people hesitate to approach him easily. Chapter 5 The household staff huddled together, gossiping quietly. And the subject of their gossip was none other than Haley. Early in the morning, the butler informed them that there would be a new lady of the house from now on, and instructed them to take care accordingly. Everyone was shocked, unable to believe that the usually aloof Shane had actually brought a woman home. Before Haley descended the stairs, everyone speculated about her identity. They all wanted to know what kind of woman could match Shane, this high and mighty figure. When they finally laid eyes on Haley's face, they were all thoroughly amazed. Haley's features were delicate, her skin as fair as snow, her almond-shaped eyes bright and clear, yet exuding an inexplicable allure. She was even more beautiful than the actresses on TV! What surprised them the most was that Haley was wearing Shane's shirt. Shane was known throughout the entire villa for his slight obsession with cleanliness. Nobody was allowed to touch his belongings. Being able to wear Shane's shirt indicated a relationship that was definitely out of the ordinary. "This is the first time Mr. Ford has brought a woman home. It's really unheard of!" "She's so beautiful, no wonder Mr. Ford made an exception for her." "Mr. Ford isn't getting any younger. It's time for him to have a wife." ... Just as everyone was discussing, someone suddenly spoke up: "Wife? Do you even know who this woman is? She's James's fiancΓ©e!" Everyone turned to look at the person who spoke. Her name was Lily Frank and everyone called her Lily. She had been working at the family estate before Shane moved in and took several household staff with him. Lily was one of them. "What? James's fiancΓ©e?" Lily glanced disdainfully in the direction of the dining room and said, "Sheβs just a seductive vixen. If James isn't into her, she goes after Mr. Ford!" She had seen Haley at the family estate before and naturally knew about the engagement between James and Haley. Flirting around without calling off the engagement, what else could she be but a seductress? She couldn't stand such women, with their pretty faces, seducing others everywhere. Who knew what spell she cast on Mr. Ford to bring her home? If this were to get out, the Ford family's reputation would surely be tarnished, wouldn't it? Lily's words piqued everyone's curiosity, and they gathered around to ask what she knew. Just then, a furious roar came from behind, "What are you all gathering here for? Are all the chores done?" Seeing the butler approaching with a stern face, the household staff couldn't help but cower and quickly dispersed. They had a natural fear of the butler. Although he was always polite and maintained a courteous smile, he still gave off an oppressive aura. Every interaction with him left them breathless. As the butler approached, his gaze swept over all the household staff, and he warned, "Let me reiterate, Madam is the lady of the house here. If I hear any gossip from your mouths again, pack your bags and leave. Do you understand?" "Yes, understood!" The household staff nodded hastily. Satisfied, the butler withdrew his gaze and looked at Lily. "Repeat what you just said in front of me." Lily was startled and immediately lowered her head further. "I didn't say anything! Bob, please forgive me. I just spoke without thinking." The butler sneered, "Come see me later and settle this month's wages." Lily panicked, "Bob, you can't treat me like this! I was personally chosen by Mrs. Ford Sr.!" The butler glanced at her indifferently. "I will personally report this to Mrs. Ford Sr. and I believe she will decide who is more important, the daughter-in-law or the household staff." With that, he left without looking back. Lily's legs went weak, and she fell to the ground, her face turning pale with fright. It's over, it's all over now! The other household staff were also stunned. Lily had followed from the family estate and had been working here for several years, yet she was dismissed so easily. Wouldn't their fate be even worse? After this incident, almost all the household staff remembered one thing: never disrespect Haley. In the dining room, Haley was completely unaware of this, enjoying her breakfast. The chefs hired by the Ford family were top-notch, and the breakfast they made was delicious. Haley ate contentedly, her mood becoming very pleasant. Just then, her phone on the side suddenly rang. Haley's brows furrowed slightly as she glanced at the caller ID. It was her father, Joe Carter, calling. Without much thought, she knew it must be her dear younger sister tattling on her again. As she answered, she was greeted with a burst of anger, "Haley, you've grown some guts, actually daring to stay out all night and making your sister cry. Get back here right now!" Coldness flashed in Haley's eyes as she retorted without hesitation, "Isn't this what I learned from you? My staying out all night is all thanks to your exemplary teachings." When her mother was still alive, Joe often used the excuse of being too busy with work to come home. In the past, she naively believed it, striving to be an obedient and sensible child, afraid of causing trouble for Joe. But what was the result? Less than a month after her mother's death, he shamelessly brought his mistress and illegitimate daughter into the house. It wasn't until then that she realized, the so-called work was just an excuse. In reality, he had long been with another family. Joe gave all the paternal love she yearned for to another daughter. As for her and her mother, they meant nothing to him. It was truly remarkable how he managed to navigate between two families for over a decade without being caught. Not acknowledging him as a time management master was really unfair considering all his years of hard work. Chapter 6 "Haley, you dare say that again! Have I raised you all these years just so you could argue with me? How did I end up with such a troublemaker like you?" Joe was about to explode with anger, barely believing these words were coming from Haley's mouth. Haley took her phone away without expression, rubbed her ears, and said, "If you're so eager to hear it, why don't you just record it? Play it every night before bed." She behaved obediently in front of Shane out of instinctive fear. As for others, even her biological father, she could argue with them without hesitation. In the past, she used to feel hurt and upset because of Joe's scolding, but after her mother's death, she came to terms with it. She realized that one should never have expected what didn't belong to them, or you would only end up hurting yourself. So when she found out about James's betrayal, she didn't feel too sad. Instead, she felt relieved. At least they weren't married yet, and there was still a chance to salvage everything. Joe's angry scolding kept coming through the earpiece, and she impatiently said, "Got it," before hanging up the phone. She did need to go back; she hadn't settled the score with Xena yet, and this matter wasn't over. She elegantly wiped the corners of her mouth, got up, and met the bewildered gaze of the butler. Haley coughed lightly, smiled at the butler, nodded, and quickly went upstairs. She wasn't afraid of being misunderstood; she just felt a little awkward. Although she and Shane had an agreement to get married, having lived in the aristocratic circle for more than twenty years, she knew that the wealthier the family, the more they valued their reputation. Since she intended to use Shane to get back at James and Xena, she had to play the role of Mrs. Ford well. The butler watched her departing figure with mixed feelings. He never expected that this seemingly obedient and gentle girl would have such a tough side. However, thinking about the rumors surrounding the Carter family, the butler couldn't help but feel sorry for Haley. Joe was originally a poor boy with nothing. Later on, he married Yvonne Ramsey, Haley's mother, and with her help, they started a company. Yvonne was a woman with a keen business acumen, and within a few years, she had managed the company exceptionally well. The brand 'JY' even penetrated the international market, expanding from a clothing brand to various sectors including finance, real estate, and more. At its peak, the Carter family even entered the upper-class circles. However, later on, Yvonne got cancer and faced Joe's betrayal, gradually becoming weaker and having no time or energy to manage the company anymore. Joe took the opportunity to intervene in the company, and even inserted many of his own people, intending to take over the company. What's more, less than a month after Yvonne's death, Joe actually brought his mistress and illegitimate daughter home. Haley's position in the Carter family became awkward. Later, rumors in the circle often circulated about Haley's fiancΓ©, James, having ambiguous relationships with Xena, his illegitimate daughter. Everyone was waiting for Haley to be dumped, eager to witness her downfall. She was indeed a pitiable child. Fortunately, with her husband's protection in the future, everything would only get better. ** Haley changed into the clothes she washed and dried the night before, greeted the butler and prepared to go out. The butler kindly asked, "Madam, would you like the driver to take you? It's not very convenient to get a taxi around here." This area was surrounded by a large villa district, where there were usually dedicated drivers, and it was rare to take a taxi. Moreover, the security system here was very high-level, and if one couldn't prove their identity, the security guards wouldn't let them in. Haley thought for a moment and nodded. "Okay." The butler immediately selected a low-key yet luxurious car from the garage and instructed the driver to safely escort Haley. Upon arriving at the Carter family, Haley got out of the car and took a deep breath. If it weren't for something she had to take with her from home, she wouldn't set foot here again. This place was never her home, and Joe had never considered her his daughter. She could even foresee how much scolding and rebuking she would endure once she entered. Sure enough, as soon as she stepped into the Carter family's living room, something was suddenly thrown out from inside. Her pupils contracted, instinctively she dodged to the side. A delicate and pretty glass flew past her and landed not far behind her with a loud shattering sound, almost piercing Haley's eardrums. If Haley had been a little slower to dodge, she would probably have been hit severely. Joe was still furious, putting all his strength into it. If the glass landed on Haley, it would definitely leave a severe injury. Haley stood stunned for several seconds before coming to her senses, and as she turned her head, she met Joe's angry gaze. "You have the nerve to come back? How did I raise such a wicked daughter? You even have the audacity to bully your own sister!" He seemed still enraged, his entire face as dark as coal, and his voice carried an uncontrollable anger. Accompanying his roar was a sob filled with grievances. Haley looked over and saw her stepmother, Zoe Lewis, and stepsister, Xena, sitting on the sofa, huddled together in tears. Their appearance seemed to suggest they had suffered a great injustice. Chapter 7 Zoe wiped her tears as she lamented, "Haley, I know you've never liked me as your stepmother, but Xena is innocent. How could you be so heartless?" "Did she tell you I bullied her?" Haley suddenly chuckled, though the smile didn't reach her eyes; instead, they were icy cold. Meeting Haley's gaze, Xena suddenly shivered, her eyes flickering with guilt. But when she remembered James's assurance from last night, promising to break off the engagement with Haley, her sense of guilt completely vanished. James loved her. It was Haley's own fault for not being able to win a man's affection. Haley couldnβt blame her! Seeing her brazen demeanor, Joe grew angry. "Who else but you? Xena is gentle and kind, unlike you, who is jealous and malicious." Haley seemed to find the situation ludicrous and actually laughed. She looked at Xena coldly. "Gentle and kind? Indeed, very kind, to take care of my fiancΓ© in her bed." She didn't bother arguing further with them, instead pulling out her phone and playing a recording. The sultry sounds of a woman mingled with the heavy breaths of a man emanated from the speaker. Joe stood dumbfounded, his whole being frozen in shock. The voices in the video were all too familiar to him. One was his beloved daughter, Xena, and the other was Haley's fiancΓ©, James. He had always believed the rumors were false because he firmly believed that the gentle and kind Xena would never try to steal her sister's man. However, he couldn't deny the truth. He looked at Xena, hoping for her to deny it, but all he saw was her guilty expression as she lowered her head. Now, what was there left for him to misunderstand? He trembled with anger, clutching at his slightly stinging chest, and sternly questioned Xena, "Is this true? Did you really do such a thing?" Xena's face turned pale, she shook her head frantically, and grabbed Joe's sleeve, acting coquettishly, "Dad, listen to me explain. Things aren't like that." Joe's face turned livid, displeased as he said, "But he's your sister's fiancΓ©. Why would you do something like this?" Why? Of course, it was to completely ruin Haley! As long as that old woman from the Ford family was still alive, James wouldn't successfully break off the engagement. Xena absolutely wouldn't allow Haley to marry into the top-tier Ford family and become the esteemed Mrs. Ford while she was forever burdened with the title of the illegitimate daughter! So, she didn't hesitate to seduce James at any cost, behaving lovingly towards him while in the presence of Haley, all to make her realize the reality and voluntarily break off the engagement. Although she was now caught red-handed by Haley, she didn't regret it at all. As long as she could trample Haley underfoot, she was willing to pay any price. From childhood to adulthood, Haley overshadowed her in every aspect. Whether it was in terms of background, appearance, academics, or social connections, wherever Haley was, her radiance would always be completely overshadowed. She refused to accept it! Xena's eyes were full of resentment, like a venomous snake hiding in the grass, spitting poison at its prey. Sinister and dangerous. She stood up and rushed over to snatch Haley's phone. "Haley, turn off the recording for me! James and I are truly in love. If you're sensible, you should take the initiative to step back. It's better for everyone!" Haley quickly stepped back two steps, avoiding her hand. Hearing her words, she couldn't help but sneer. "If you're a third wheel, you're a third wheel. Why bother with all the excuses?" Regardless of whom James truly loved, nominally, she was the only fiancΓ©e. James knew very well that she despised betrayal because of her mother, yet he still got involved with Xena, which was even more nauseating. Upon hearing this, Zoe exploded, as if her deepest pain had been pricked. "Who are you calling a third wheel?" She gritted her teeth and raised her arm to slap Haley. But her hand fell in midair, firmly grasped by a fair and delicate hand. Then, with a crisp sound, the clear slap echoed, and Zoe's cheek stung with a fiery pain. She was stunned by Haley's action, covering her face in disbelief. "You hit me? How dare you hit me?" Haley's lips curled slightly as she pulled out a tissue from her shoulder bag and wiped her hands leisurely. After finishing, she said lightly, "Zoe, I just made a passing remark. Why feel so guilty? Besides, you were the one who struck first. You can't blame me for your slow reaction." "You!" Zoe gritted her teeth, her eyes almost bursting with suppressed anger. | Reading matter | 8 | https://facebook.com/61559156515503 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718002800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879656 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410701 | 1723321845 | 995 | 1191279425651029 | 1 | 1.1841458962763E+15 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 299026206627385 | 0 | Reading matter | 120209775879570390 | findokn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | β€οΈπWhat happens nextπClick Here to read onπ | https://findokn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11632&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717754696 | 2.9902620662738E+14 | Reading matter | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959833_690035193239071_8338086885496487765_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=QUFcGNRC398Q7kNvgFxAmgt&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCWbUkdH9z0_PV1OvwqycTOxeLawo5lW9bV27bjjkvCVg&oe=6672ACB9 | person_profile | 0 | Reading matter | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959769_1190715732374544_2758543800221804444_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=HMc1ybrp76sQ7kNvgGxl7Rn&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDTbtuCE2oc7epCLXYFTWIHnrtsOeIyXj12-3O0DMTsrQ&oe=6672C9A3 | 0 | 3 | "James, between me and Haley, who do you love more?" "Of course, it's you, my dear. Haven't my actions proven it enough? Hmm?" "But, I want to hear you say it yourself." "Darling, you are the woman I love the most. Relax, you're too tense..." The man's suppressed heavy breathing, mixed with the woman's seductive sounds, soon filled the hotel suite. Haley Carter stood outside the slightly ajar door, her blood almost freezing, unable to stop trembling from the piercing cold. An hour ago, someone sent her a video clip. In the video, her fiancΓ©, James Ford, was hot kissing her half-sister Xena Carter in the corridor of this hotel. She initially thought it was a prank, but she never expected that these two had long been involved with each other. She took a deep breath, trying to restrain the anger surging in her chest. Quietly, she took out her phone from her pocket and pushed the door open. The two on the bed were still immersed in their intense pleasure when suddenly they heard a cold voice, "What a splendid drama. Shall I applaud for you?" Both froze, turning their gaze towards the direction of the door. "Ah!" Xena screamed, panicked, and shrank into James's embrace. "Haley? What are you doing here?" James covered himself with a blanket, displeased. "Who let you come in?" Haley crossed her arms, looking at him mockingly. "If I didn't come, wouldn't I miss such a splendid scene?" "Haley, James and I truly love each other. Please, let us be together!" Xena's eyes reddened, tears glistening, portraying an innocent and pitiful look. James felt heartbroken, tightly holding her in his arms, and said in a deep voice, "Haley, if you have any issues, take them up with me. Xena is innocent!" Haley sneered, "Innocent? How dare you utter those words?" "That's enough! The one I love, from beginning to end, has only been Xena. If you had an ounce of self-awareness, you would go to Grandma and cancel our engagement!" What he liked was someone like Xena, gentle and submissive, yet uninhibited and open-minded in bed. But Haley was awkward and conservative, not even allowing a touch of hands, utterly boring! Being with Haley, he couldn't feel an ounce of joy! Haley's eyes narrowed, a dangerous and icy light flickering at the depths. "Cheating is cheating. Don't give yourselves excuses. If I were to release the video of you two in bed, would anyone still think you're innocent?" James and Xena's faces turned pale, roaring, "Haley, delete the video now!" "And if I say no?" Haley stepped back two paces, provocatively lifting her chin towards them. "James, if you don't like me, you could have straightforwardly called off the engagement. I'm not someone who can't live without you. Your current behavior disgusts me." If James had openly called off the engagement, maybe she would have respected him a bit more. But alas... "Haley, stop right there!" Watching Haley walk away, James burned with anger, instinctively wanting to chase after her. However, Xena held onto his waist tightly, crying with grievance. "James, what should we do? Haley must be mad at me. Perhaps from the beginning, I shouldn't have liked you, then I wouldn't have hurt her..." Hearing this, James's heart filled with guilt and pity, leaving him with no inclination to chase after Haley. He kissed Xena's forehead and whispered softly, "Xena, you're just too kind. If it weren't for her interference, maybe we would have been together long ago!" "James, you're so good to me..." Xena's lips curved slightly, her eyes fixed on the direction Haley disappeared, a trace of a triumphant smile flashing. Thinking of competing with her? Haley was still too naive! She believed it wouldn't be long before she snatched away the position of Mrs. Ford! β¦ As Haley left the hotel, it started to pour outside. Endless night enveloped her, with only occasional flashes of lightning and dim streetlights visible through the pouring rain. Standing in the rain, Haley was drenched from head to toe. The scenes of James and Xena's affair played over and over in her mind, making her feel nauseous. On top of not eating all day, her stomach was cramping painfully. She forced herself to walk to the roadside, but finally couldn't bear it anymore and slowly crouched down. The icy rain hit her snow-white skin, sending shivers down her spine. Her vision blurred, making it hard for her to distinguish reality from dreams. After who knows how long, the rain hitting her seemed to gradually stop. Haley slowly opened her eyes and noticed a shadow before her. She had a sense of it and slowly lifted her gaze. The first thing she saw was a pair of well-tailored trousers, wrapping around a pair of long, straight legs. Moving upwards, she saw a handsome face with a cold demeanor. The man's slightly furrowed brows, high nose bridge, and tightly pursed lips were striking. His deep eyes were lowered, shrouded in darkness, seemingly blending with the night. Haley stared at him in surprise, a hint of bewilderment in her eyes. "Mr. Ford? Why are you here?" The man before her was Shane Ford, the most influential member of the Ford family, the top-tier business family in Jasper City. He was also her former fiancΓ©'s uncle, James's uncle. He was the late child of Mr. Ford Sr. and inherited exceptional business acumen. Taking over the Ford Corporation in just a few years, its market value multiplied several times over. What was most feared about him was his ruthless methods and decisive personality. However, he always remained low-key and mysterious, seldom interacting with the younger generation like them. Haley had only crossed paths with him a few times at the Ford family gatherings and hardly ever exchanged words. This man exuded an aura of danger, and Haley usually avoided him whenever possible. Never did she expect to encounter him today, especially in her current disheveled state. "What could possibly make you disregard your own well-being like this?" The man's brow furrowed slightly, his deep, velvety voice sensual and captivating, as if it sent an electric current tingling through her ears, simultaneously soothing and arousing. There was also a subtle hint of concern mixed in. Haley suddenly snapped out of her daze, hastily trying to stand up. However, due to crouching on the ground for too long, her legs had gone numb. Her body swayed suddenly, uncontrollably tilting backward. Just when she thought she was about to fall awkwardly, a pair of warm and powerful hands suddenly wrapped around her waist. The next moment, she fell into a warm and broad chest. Anxiously, she grabbed onto the front of his shirt, afraid of falling. At this moment, the man's rich and husky voice sounded in her ear, tinged with a hint of mockery: "Are you taking advantage of me?" Chapter 2 As she realized the ambiguous position they were in, Haley's cheeks flushed red, and she quickly pulled away from the man's embrace. Feeling embarrassed, she murmured softly, "No, my legs are numb." "Hmm," Shane responded with a pleasant chuckle, though it wasn't clear if he believed her or not. His gentle and deep voice seemed to have a calming effect, causing Haley's heart to flutter slightly, feeling both tingly and itchy. She rubbed her ears curiously and asked, "Mr. Ford, what are you doing here?" Shane replied nonchalantly, "I just happened to pass by." And he happened to see a poor little creature standing in the rain by the roadside, helpless and pitiful like an abandoned cat. Haley nodded knowingly but didn't know what to say. She had just experienced betrayal and felt physically and emotionally drained, only wanting to find a quiet place to rest. Shane glanced at her and asked, "Do you want revenge?" "What?" Haley stared at him in confusion, not understanding his meaning. Shane seemed to understand her confusion and asked patiently, "James betrayed you. Are you planning to let him off the hook?" Haley's expression changed abruptly, becoming wary. "How do you know about this?" If Shane knew, did that mean other members of the Ford family knew too? If that were the case, then all the tough talk she had given in front of James and Xena would turn into a joke. Shane replied, "You came out of the hotel looking like this, isn't that already saying everything?" Haley was stunned for a moment, then suddenly realized. Realizing she had misunderstood him, she apologized, "Thank you, Mr. Ford, but I'll handle it myself." No gain without pain. Besides, Shane was also a member of the Ford family. How could he genuinely help her? Regardless, she didn't want to have any further involvement with James and his family. Shane chuckled lightly and answered calmly, "I'll help you, but it's conditional. You might want to hear the terms first." "What terms?" Haley asked. "I'm in need of a wife," he stated succinctly. Haley almost thought she was hearing things. It took her a while to find her voice again. "Mr. Ford, are you kidding me?" Was Shane really looking for a wife? If he wanted to, there would be a line of women eager to say yes. Could he be playing a prank on her? Shane responded, "Do I seem like I'm joking?" Haley shook her head. She had heard many rumors about Shane before. He was known for being decisive, keeping his distance from strangers, and avoiding romantic entanglements. Given his status and position, there was no need for him to waste time joking with her here. "Why then?" Haley asked. "The old lady at home is pressuring me to get married. I need someone to serve as a shield for me. If you agree, I can help you dissolve your engagement with James." Haley froze, looking at him in disbelief. Shane was holding the umbrella, shielding her from the rain that fell upon her. The dim light from the roadside lamp illuminated half of his face, while the other half remained hidden in the darkness, adding a mysterious air to him. This exceptional man was simply incomparable to James, that scoundrel! Yet, her rationality remained. She questioned in puzzlement, "Why me?" With Shane's power and his devastatingly handsome face, attracting any woman should have been a piece of cake for him. So why choose her? She never believed that good fortune would fall into her lap. Even if it did, it would never hit her. Shane explained, "Because I need someone who knows the ins and outs and can also achieve mutual interests with me. You fit my criteria." "But..." Just as Haley hesitated, Shane suddenly leaned down. His deep and enticing voice sounded in her ear. "Don't you want James to call you 'aunt'? Moreover, if you marry me, Xena will never set foot into the Ford family." Haley's eyes lit up instantly, unable to contain her excitement. If she married Shane, James would have to address her as his aunt. Just thinking about it felt satisfying! She stole a glance at Shane, a hint of pity flashing in her eyes. Rumor had it that Shane was already thirty years old and didn't even have a woman by his side. Either he liked men, or he had some hidden illness. Now it seemed that those rumors were probably true. No wonder he wanted to enter into a marriage agreement with her. After pondering for a moment, Haley asked in distress, "Mr. Ford, won't Mrs. Ford Sr. object to this?" After all, until the engagement with James was officially dissolved, Haley was still his fiancΓ©e. If she turned around and married Shane, who knows what kind of rumors might spread outside? Despite Haley's concerns, Shane remained calm and didn't even furrow his brows. "Don't worry, I'll handle it." With his assurance, Haley completely dispelled any lingering doubts and decisively agreed, "Okay, I agree!" "Then let's go." Shane's lips curled slightly as he lowered his gaze, concealing the subtle emotions within his eyes, before opening the backseat car door. He leaned his hand against the car roof, considerately protecting Haley's head. His actions were gentlemanly and caring, as if he were treating an intimate lover. Haley was startled by her own thoughts, her cheeks flushing slightly as she hurriedly got into the car. Although the heater was on inside the car, she couldn't help but shiver. She hugged her arms and leaned back in the seat, wishing she could curl up into a ball. Suddenly, a hand with distinct knuckles passed her a towel. Shane's voice remained steady, without any fluctuation. "Wipe yourself dry. Don't catch a cold." Haley thanked him quickly and took the towel, wiping her damp hair. The car fell into an eerie silence, with only the sound of her drying her hair breaking the quiet. The atmosphere was strangely unsettling. Feeling uneasy all over, Haley cleared her throat and pretended to be calm as she asked, "Are we going to the county clerk's office now?" Shane glanced at her, his expression profound. "We can, but are you sure you want to go like this?" Following his gaze, Haley lowered her eyes, only then realizing that she was completely soaked and looked disheveled. Her cheeks flushed with embarrassment, wishing she could find a hole to hide in. She had almost forgotten that because of the rain, she was drenched all over. Her white shirt was clinging tightly to her skin, and even the color of her bra was clearly visible. This appearance was indeed not suitable for getting married. And did she sound too eager just now, as if she were in a rush to marry him? Would he misunderstand? Haley cautiously glanced at him out of the corner of her eye, seeing his calm expression, finally breathed a silent sigh of relief. Shaneβs assistant, Dean, who was driving, couldn't help but sigh as he looked at the rearview mirror. His boss was too unusual, completely overturning his previous understanding. In fact, they had been waiting outside the hotel the whole afternoon. Originally, he had come with Shane for a business meeting, but before they even got out of the car, they saw James and Haley's step-sister, Xena, entering the hotel together. Shane immediately instructed him to anonymously message Haley to catch them in the act at the hotel. At first, he didn't quite understand why his boss wanted to scheme against his own nephew. But now, he finally understood. How could a nephew be more important than a wife! No wonder his boss always looked at Haley with a peculiar gaze before. Now, thinking back, everything made sense! His boss had long harbored feelings for Haley. No, it's more like deep affection for her! Chapter 3 While Dean was lost in thought, he suddenly felt a chill at the back of his neck. He turned his head and met Shane's cold, beast-like gaze. Shivering fiercely, he dared not wander in his thoughts anymore, focusing solely on driving. Fortunately, Shane only gave him a cold glance, warning him to drive properly, and quickly withdrew his gaze. After getting out of the car, Shane took Haley into his residence. He fetched a clean set of clothes from the closet and handed them to her. "Go take a hot shower first. There aren't any women's clothes here, so you can wear mine for now." "Okay," Haley's cheeks flushed slightly as she hurriedly took the clothes and entered the bathroom. She almost fled, too afraid to meet Shane's gaze and thus missed the fleeting smile in his eyes. Haley spent a long time in the bathroom, leaning against the wall, letting the shower water wash over her. Being betrayed by James and Xena was something she had never expected, and marrying Shane was even beyond her wildest imagination. She felt that something was amiss, but her mind was a jumble, unable to sort out her thoughts. Soon, steam filled the bathroom, reddening her fair, snow-like face. When she emerged from the bathroom, Shane was no longer in the bedroom. Descending the stairs, she found a tall figure bustling about in the kitchen. The man was tall, clad in a white shirt and neatly tailored trousers, exuding extraordinary charisma. His shirt sleeves were rolled up, revealing well-defined arms. He wore a dark blue apron that softened his cold and aloof demeanor, adding a touch of warmth. Haley's eyes flashed with surprise. Could it be that Shane, a business tycoon, also cooked for himself? What a gentle and domesticated man! He perfectly matched her criteria for a partner from head to toe! Suddenly, something crossed her mind, and Haley's admiring gaze turned into pity. She sighed silently in her heart. How could such an outstanding man have hidden ailments? What a pity! Hearing footsteps, Shane paused and slowly turned around. His gaze fell upon Haley, and his eyes darkened slightly. Her petite figure was enveloped by his white shirt, the hem barely covering her upper legs, revealing a glimpse of slender and fair legs, straight and well-proportioned. In the light, they seemed dazzling. Shane's eyes lingered on those pretty, slender legs for a moment, suddenly feeling a heat rise within him. He averted his gaze, his voice tightening slightly. "Go put on some pants." Haley lowered her eyes and realized that dressing like this in front of an adult man was indeed a bit ambiguous. Her cheeks flushed in response. She whispered, "Your pants are too big for me, I can't wear them." Shane's expression turned cold as he went upstairs without looking back. If Haley had observed carefully, she would have noticed that his steps were somewhat disordered. But her cheeks were already as red as ripe shrimp, and she had no mind to observe Shane. Not long after, Shane came downstairs with a black pair of trousers and a belt in hand. "Put these on," he instructed. Perhaps sensing his tone was a bit harsh, he added, "Be careful not to catch a cold." Haley took the pants and went to the bathroom to change. With the constraint of the belt, she managed to put on the pants, though they were long and baggy, appearing quite bulky. She had to roll up the cuffs. When she came out of the bathroom, she found Shane had already set a bowl of freshly made chicken noodle soup on the table. It was a comforting and savory bowl of soup, with tender noodles and garnished with freshly chopped parsley. Haley was so shocked that she couldn't speak. She never expected Shane to actually cook. Though it was just a simple bowl of noodles, coming from Shane, it felt somehow out of place. Seeing Shane heading to the kitchen to fetch utensils, she followed him voluntarily. "Mr. Ford, do you need any help?" Upon hearing the term "Mr. Ford," Shane's body stiffened, and a hint of coldness almost overflowed from his eyes. He lowered his gaze, forcing himself to restrain his emotions, and hoarsely replied, "No need, just sit down and wait. I'll handle it myself." Haley didn't insist further and obediently sat down at the table, waiting for the meal to begin. After experiencing so much this afternoon, she was indeed feeling a bit hungry. Shane handed her the fork and spoon, then sat down opposite her. 'Dig in, just be careful, it's hot.'" Haley immediately started eating, the fragrance of the noodles filling her taste buds. A warmth spread through her empty stomach. Perhaps even she hadn't noticed, but her wariness and guard against Shane were slowly diminishing. As she ate, she raised her thumb towards Shane. "It's delicious, Mr. Ford. I didn't expect you to be such a great cook!" The warm-toned light in the dining room shone on her, illuminating her delicate and fair cheeks, soft and beautiful. She lowered her gaze, her cheeks puffing up with each chew, her eyes squinting with happiness and contentment. She looked so obedient that it made him want to ruffle her hair. But he couldn't do that, or he might scare her away. A skilled hunter should possess patience above all else, and that was one thing he definitely had. His palm curled slightly, then he casually retracted it. Shane silently told himself that there was plenty of time ahead. Haley was immersed in her food, completely unaware that she had become the lamb to be eaten, enjoying her meal with extra satisfaction. Halfway through, she noticed there was a poached egg at the bottom of the bowl. She looked up at the man across from her, but saw him eating his noodles gracefully, his expression showing no sign of anything unusual. Haley silently watched him eat until he finished his bowl of noodles, but there was no sign of the poached egg. So, was it specially made for her? Haley's emotions suddenly became somewhat complicated. Previously, she always felt that Shane's gaze was too intense, so she always tried to avoid it whenever possible. Coupled with the rumors surrounding him in the outside world, she became even more afraid of him. But now, it seemed like he wasn't that scary after all, and he was even very attentive and meticulous. After finishing the meal, Shane got up to clean up the dishes. He glanced at a girl sitting in the chair, gently stroking her belly, her face filled with contentment, and a smile formed at the corner of his lips. Haley quickly stood up from her chair, feeling somewhat embarrassed. "Mr. Ford, let me do it, I know how to wash dishes." "No need, just leave it to me," Shane dodged her hand and walked straight to the kitchen. Watching him skillfully turn on the faucet and start washing the dishes, Haley touched her nose, feeling like she would just be a hindrance if she went, so she sat back down. Shane finished washing the dishes and came out of the kitchen, handing Haley a printed document. Curiously, Haley took it and saw several large words written on it, "Marriage Agreement, Party A: Shane, Party B: Haley..." She widened her eyes in surprise. "Mr. Ford, when did you write this?" Meeting Haley's clear and bright eyes, Shane cleared his throat lightly. "On the way back." Actually, when Haley went into the hotel to "catch the affair," his car was parked nearby, and that's when he started writing this marriage agreement. But these were things he absolutely couldn't say out loud. Chapter 4 Haley skimmed through the marriage agreement, falling into a moment of silence. Seeing her hesitation, Shane's heart inexplicably tightened, prompting him to ask, "Is there a problem?" Haley shook her head, incredulous. "Mr. Ford, are you sure you want to sign this agreement with me?" The agreement posed no issues; in fact, each clause within it was almost entirely in her favor. Marrying Shane not only granted her the status and position of Mrs. Ford but also secured a 3% stake in the Ford Corporation, along with real estate under Shane's name. In the event of a divorce, she would even be entitled to half of Shane's personal assets. The Ford Corporation was the largest multinational conglomerate in Jasper City, with investments in finance, real estate, hospitality, and various other industries, and its stock value was continuously rising. Compared to her third-rate wealthy family, whose combined assets couldn't even afford 1% of the Ford Corporation's shares, Haley would overnight become immensely wealthy through this marriage. Shane's expression remained calm and composed as he casually poured a dose of cold medicine from a bottle. "Hmm, go ahead and sign." He was certain he wouldn't divorce. As for money, it was merely a bunch of numbers to him. The purpose of making money was simply to accumulate assets for his wife. According to what he'd heard from his subordinates, after marriage, the husband was expected to hand over his salary and assets to his spouse. As for divorce... Well, that was out of the question for this lifetime. Having finally lured his little wife back home, there was no chance she would escape again. Haley gritted her teeth and swiftly signed her name on the agreement. Regardless of how long this marriage lasted, she was guaranteed to benefit! Watching as Haley signed her name in the bottom right corner, Shane smirked in satisfaction. He took the marriage agreement and handed over the cold medicine he had prepared. "Drink this medicine. You got caught in the rain, be careful not to catch a cold." "Thank you, Mr. Ford," Haley said, flashing a sweet smile as she took the cup. The bitter taste of the cold medicine hit her senses as she took a sip. Pinching her nose, she gulped down the medicine in one breath. Shane lowered his gaze, suppressing the curve of his lips from turning upwards, and spoke slowly, "It's getting late. You should rest early." Haley suddenly froze. Tonight... was she going to sleep with Shane? The thought sent her heart racing. "Mr. Ford, could you maybe spare a separate room for me?" Shane raised an eyebrow. "Hmm? Are you worried I might do something to you?" "Of course not!" Haley denied without thinking. She just wasn't accustomed to sleeping with strangers. To her, Shane had always been her elder, her fiancΓ©'s uncle. Shane's dark eyes bore into her, emitting a chilling aura. "There's no clause in our agreement about separate rooms." Haley was at a loss for words. Indeed, there wasn't such a clause in the agreement. She suddenly regretted signing the marriage agreement. Shane was too mysterious, too dangerous. Collaborating with him was like dancing with a tiger. Seeing Haley's hesitation, Shane sighed softly. "If you're uncomfortable sleeping together, I can give you time to adjust. But as a married couple, we are supposed to spend our lives together." The words "spend our lives together" were spoken with particular seriousness. Haley blushed and lowered her head, too embarrassed to meet Shane's gaze. After a long silence, she gritted her teeth and said, "It's fine. I can adapt!" Since she had signed the contract, she had to honor it. It was just sharing a bed, and it wasn't like she was losing out! Haley was led into Shane's bedroom in a daze. When she came in to take a shower before dinner, she rushed into the bathroom in a panic. Now, with a quiet mind, she began to size up the bedroom. Was this really a place where people lived? It felt too deserted. The large bedroom was decorated mainly in black and white, simple yet understated. There was barely any furniture in the room. Despite being the master bedroom, it felt excessively vacant, devoid of any warmth or homely atmosphere. Instead of feeling like a home, it resembled more of a temporary lodging. Haley cast a complicated glance at Shane, unable to imagine how he could live in such a cold environment. Shane cleared his throat uneasily. "Just make do for tonight. If there's anything you need, we can buy it tomorrow." "Okay." "I still have work to do. You go ahead and sleep." "Okay!" Her tone was noticeably more eager than before, almost as if she couldn't wait for him to leave. Shane gave her a deep look. "You're really eager for me to leave, aren't you?" Meeting his probing gaze, Haley chuckled awkwardly and waved at him. "Goodnight, Mr. Ford." "Hmm." Shane turned and left the bedroom. As the door closed behind him, the slight tension in his lips, which had been held back, relaxed ever so slightly, forming a faint curve. His gaze lingered on the closed door, and he lowered his voice. "Goodnight." In the room, Haley lay on the soft bed, her tense nerves slowly relaxing, sighing in comfort. The bedding seemed to carry the scent of pine from Shane, refreshing and pleasant. She had thought she would have trouble sleeping in a strange bed, but she fell asleep as soon as her head hit the pillow. After finishing his video conference, Shane realized it was already past two in the morning. He closed his laptop and headed towards the bedroom. In the dark night, the bedroom door opened silently, and the tall figure of a man slowly approached the bed, gazing at the person already fast asleep. The moonlight streamed through the window, casting a gentle glow on the girl's delicate and fair face. Before lying down beside her, Shane reached out his hand, his rough fingertips gently stroking her cheek. Haley didn't sleep well that night, instinctively sensing the approach of danger in her dreams. It was as if she was being stalked by a wild beast in the jungle, sending shivers down her spine. When she woke up, she found her back and forehead drenched in sweat. Looking around the unfamiliar room, it took her a few seconds to remember what had happened the day before. At that moment, there was a knock on the door, followed by a respectful and steady male voice from outside. "Madam, are you awake? I'm Bob Moore, the butler of Violet Grove." "Yes, give me a moment." Haley quickly got out of bed to answer the door. Despite looking a bit disheveled from just waking up, it didn't diminish her beauty in the slightest. Her fair cheeks were smooth and radiant, while her eyes, clear and bright, held a hint of sleepiness, adding a touch of innocence. A glint of admiration flashed in the butler's eyes, nodding with satisfaction. Finally, Mr. Ford's wish had been fulfilled. Mr. Ford always achieved what he wanted, without fail. Although the methods were somewhat less than honorable and might tarnish the Ford family's reputation if exposed, those were minor issues. Mr. Ford's reputation outside wasn't great to begin with, so a little more damage wouldn't matter. He smiled and said, "Madam, breakfast is ready. Would you like to have some?" As he assessed Haley, she was also studying him. He appeared to be in his forties, dressed sharply in a suit, meticulously groomed, with a perfectly poised smile on his lips, courteous yet distant. "Okay." Haley smiled and quickly freshened up before heading downstairs. As she sat down at the dining table, she noticed that Shane wasn't there, which piqued her curiosity. The butler noticed her puzzlement and explained, "Mr. Ford had a meeting this morning. He left for the office about an hour ago." "Ah, I see," Haley nodded, indicating that she understood. She ate her breakfast quietly, feeling relieved inside. Even though they were married by agreement, she still felt strangely nervous at the thought of Shane. Perhaps it was because of his overpowering presence that made people hesitate to approach him easily. Chapter 5 The household staff huddled together, gossiping quietly. And the subject of their gossip was none other than Haley. Early in the morning, the butler informed them that there would be a new lady of the house from now on, and instructed them to take care accordingly. Everyone was shocked, unable to believe that the usually aloof Shane had actually brought a woman home. Before Haley descended the stairs, everyone speculated about her identity. They all wanted to know what kind of woman could match Shane, this high and mighty figure. When they finally laid eyes on Haley's face, they were all thoroughly amazed. Haley's features were delicate, her skin as fair as snow, her almond-shaped eyes bright and clear, yet exuding an inexplicable allure. She was even more beautiful than the actresses on TV! What surprised them the most was that Haley was wearing Shane's shirt. Shane was known throughout the entire villa for his slight obsession with cleanliness. Nobody was allowed to touch his belongings. Being able to wear Shane's shirt indicated a relationship that was definitely out of the ordinary. "This is the first time Mr. Ford has brought a woman home. It's really unheard of!" "She's so beautiful, no wonder Mr. Ford made an exception for her." "Mr. Ford isn't getting any younger. It's time for him to have a wife." ... Just as everyone was discussing, someone suddenly spoke up: "Wife? Do you even know who this woman is? She's James's fiancΓ©e!" Everyone turned to look at the person who spoke. Her name was Lily Frank and everyone called her Lily. She had been working at the family estate before Shane moved in and took several household staff with him. Lily was one of them. "What? James's fiancΓ©e?" Lily glanced disdainfully in the direction of the dining room and said, "Sheβs just a seductive vixen. If James isn't into her, she goes after Mr. Ford!" She had seen Haley at the family estate before and naturally knew about the engagement between James and Haley. Flirting around without calling off the engagement, what else could she be but a seductress? She couldn't stand such women, with their pretty faces, seducing others everywhere. Who knew what spell she cast on Mr. Ford to bring her home? If this were to get out, the Ford family's reputation would surely be tarnished, wouldn't it? Lily's words piqued everyone's curiosity, and they gathered around to ask what she knew. Just then, a furious roar came from behind, "What are you all gathering here for? Are all the chores done?" Seeing the butler approaching with a stern face, the household staff couldn't help but cower and quickly dispersed. They had a natural fear of the butler. Although he was always polite and maintained a courteous smile, he still gave off an oppressive aura. Every interaction with him left them breathless. As the butler approached, his gaze swept over all the household staff, and he warned, "Let me reiterate, Madam is the lady of the house here. If I hear any gossip from your mouths again, pack your bags and leave. Do you understand?" "Yes, understood!" The household staff nodded hastily. Satisfied, the butler withdrew his gaze and looked at Lily. "Repeat what you just said in front of me." Lily was startled and immediately lowered her head further. "I didn't say anything! Bob, please forgive me. I just spoke without thinking." The butler sneered, "Come see me later and settle this month's wages." Lily panicked, "Bob, you can't treat me like this! I was personally chosen by Mrs. Ford Sr.!" The butler glanced at her indifferently. "I will personally report this to Mrs. Ford Sr. and I believe she will decide who is more important, the daughter-in-law or the household staff." With that, he left without looking back. Lily's legs went weak, and she fell to the ground, her face turning pale with fright. It's over, it's all over now! The other household staff were also stunned. Lily had followed from the family estate and had been working here for several years, yet she was dismissed so easily. Wouldn't their fate be even worse? After this incident, almost all the household staff remembered one thing: never disrespect Haley. In the dining room, Haley was completely unaware of this, enjoying her breakfast. The chefs hired by the Ford family were top-notch, and the breakfast they made was delicious. Haley ate contentedly, her mood becoming very pleasant. Just then, her phone on the side suddenly rang. Haley's brows furrowed slightly as she glanced at the caller ID. It was her father, Joe Carter, calling. Without much thought, she knew it must be her dear younger sister tattling on her again. As she answered, she was greeted with a burst of anger, "Haley, you've grown some guts, actually daring to stay out all night and making your sister cry. Get back here right now!" Coldness flashed in Haley's eyes as she retorted without hesitation, "Isn't this what I learned from you? My staying out all night is all thanks to your exemplary teachings." When her mother was still alive, Joe often used the excuse of being too busy with work to come home. In the past, she naively believed it, striving to be an obedient and sensible child, afraid of causing trouble for Joe. But what was the result? Less than a month after her mother's death, he shamelessly brought his mistress and illegitimate daughter into the house. It wasn't until then that she realized, the so-called work was just an excuse. In reality, he had long been with another family. Joe gave all the paternal love she yearned for to another daughter. As for her and her mother, they meant nothing to him. It was truly remarkable how he managed to navigate between two families for over a decade without being caught. Not acknowledging him as a time management master was really unfair considering all his years of hard work. Chapter 6 "Haley, you dare say that again! Have I raised you all these years just so you could argue with me? How did I end up with such a troublemaker like you?" Joe was about to explode with anger, barely believing these words were coming from Haley's mouth. Haley took her phone away without expression, rubbed her ears, and said, "If you're so eager to hear it, why don't you just record it? Play it every night before bed." She behaved obediently in front of Shane out of instinctive fear. As for others, even her biological father, she could argue with them without hesitation. In the past, she used to feel hurt and upset because of Joe's scolding, but after her mother's death, she came to terms with it. She realized that one should never have expected what didn't belong to them, or you would only end up hurting yourself. So when she found out about James's betrayal, she didn't feel too sad. Instead, she felt relieved. At least they weren't married yet, and there was still a chance to salvage everything. Joe's angry scolding kept coming through the earpiece, and she impatiently said, "Got it," before hanging up the phone. She did need to go back; she hadn't settled the score with Xena yet, and this matter wasn't over. She elegantly wiped the corners of her mouth, got up, and met the bewildered gaze of the butler. Haley coughed lightly, smiled at the butler, nodded, and quickly went upstairs. She wasn't afraid of being misunderstood; she just felt a little awkward. Although she and Shane had an agreement to get married, having lived in the aristocratic circle for more than twenty years, she knew that the wealthier the family, the more they valued their reputation. Since she intended to use Shane to get back at James and Xena, she had to play the role of Mrs. Ford well. The butler watched her departing figure with mixed feelings. He never expected that this seemingly obedient and gentle girl would have such a tough side. However, thinking about the rumors surrounding the Carter family, the butler couldn't help but feel sorry for Haley. Joe was originally a poor boy with nothing. Later on, he married Yvonne Ramsey, Haley's mother, and with her help, they started a company. Yvonne was a woman with a keen business acumen, and within a few years, she had managed the company exceptionally well. The brand 'JY' even penetrated the international market, expanding from a clothing brand to various sectors including finance, real estate, and more. At its peak, the Carter family even entered the upper-class circles. However, later on, Yvonne got cancer and faced Joe's betrayal, gradually becoming weaker and having no time or energy to manage the company anymore. Joe took the opportunity to intervene in the company, and even inserted many of his own people, intending to take over the company. What's more, less than a month after Yvonne's death, Joe actually brought his mistress and illegitimate daughter home. Haley's position in the Carter family became awkward. Later, rumors in the circle often circulated about Haley's fiancΓ©, James, having ambiguous relationships with Xena, his illegitimate daughter. Everyone was waiting for Haley to be dumped, eager to witness her downfall. She was indeed a pitiable child. Fortunately, with her husband's protection in the future, everything would only get better. ** Haley changed into the clothes she washed and dried the night before, greeted the butler and prepared to go out. The butler kindly asked, "Madam, would you like the driver to take you? It's not very convenient to get a taxi around here." This area was surrounded by a large villa district, where there were usually dedicated drivers, and it was rare to take a taxi. Moreover, the security system here was very high-level, and if one couldn't prove their identity, the security guards wouldn't let them in. Haley thought for a moment and nodded. "Okay." The butler immediately selected a low-key yet luxurious car from the garage and instructed the driver to safely escort Haley. Upon arriving at the Carter family, Haley got out of the car and took a deep breath. If it weren't for something she had to take with her from home, she wouldn't set foot here again. This place was never her home, and Joe had never considered her his daughter. She could even foresee how much scolding and rebuking she would endure once she entered. Sure enough, as soon as she stepped into the Carter family's living room, something was suddenly thrown out from inside. Her pupils contracted, instinctively she dodged to the side. A delicate and pretty glass flew past her and landed not far behind her with a loud shattering sound, almost piercing Haley's eardrums. If Haley had been a little slower to dodge, she would probably have been hit severely. Joe was still furious, putting all his strength into it. If the glass landed on Haley, it would definitely leave a severe injury. Haley stood stunned for several seconds before coming to her senses, and as she turned her head, she met Joe's angry gaze. "You have the nerve to come back? How did I raise such a wicked daughter? You even have the audacity to bully your own sister!" He seemed still enraged, his entire face as dark as coal, and his voice carried an uncontrollable anger. Accompanying his roar was a sob filled with grievances. Haley looked over and saw her stepmother, Zoe Lewis, and stepsister, Xena, sitting on the sofa, huddled together in tears. Their appearance seemed to suggest they had suffered a great injustice. Chapter 7 Zoe wiped her tears as she lamented, "Haley, I know you've never liked me as your stepmother, but Xena is innocent. How could you be so heartless?" "Did she tell you I bullied her?" Haley suddenly chuckled, though the smile didn't reach her eyes; instead, they were icy cold. Meeting Haley's gaze, Xena suddenly shivered, her eyes flickering with guilt. But when she remembered James's assurance from last night, promising to break off the engagement with Haley, her sense of guilt completely vanished. James loved her. It was Haley's own fault for not being able to win a man's affection. Haley couldnβt blame her! Seeing her brazen demeanor, Joe grew angry. "Who else but you? Xena is gentle and kind, unlike you, who is jealous and malicious." Haley seemed to find the situation ludicrous and actually laughed. She looked at Xena coldly. "Gentle and kind? Indeed, very kind, to take care of my fiancΓ© in her bed." She didn't bother arguing further with them, instead pulling out her phone and playing a recording. The sultry sounds of a woman mingled with the heavy breaths of a man emanated from the speaker. Joe stood dumbfounded, his whole being frozen in shock. The voices in the video were all too familiar to him. One was his beloved daughter, Xena, and the other was Haley's fiancΓ©, James. He had always believed the rumors were false because he firmly believed that the gentle and kind Xena would never try to steal her sister's man. However, he couldn't deny the truth. He looked at Xena, hoping for her to deny it, but all he saw was her guilty expression as she lowered her head. Now, what was there left for him to misunderstand? He trembled with anger, clutching at his slightly stinging chest, and sternly questioned Xena, "Is this true? Did you really do such a thing?" Xena's face turned pale, she shook her head frantically, and grabbed Joe's sleeve, acting coquettishly, "Dad, listen to me explain. Things aren't like that." Joe's face turned livid, displeased as he said, "But he's your sister's fiancΓ©. Why would you do something like this?" Why? Of course, it was to completely ruin Haley! As long as that old woman from the Ford family was still alive, James wouldn't successfully break off the engagement. Xena absolutely wouldn't allow Haley to marry into the top-tier Ford family and become the esteemed Mrs. Ford while she was forever burdened with the title of the illegitimate daughter! So, she didn't hesitate to seduce James at any cost, behaving lovingly towards him while in the presence of Haley, all to make her realize the reality and voluntarily break off the engagement. Although she was now caught red-handed by Haley, she didn't regret it at all. As long as she could trample Haley underfoot, she was willing to pay any price. From childhood to adulthood, Haley overshadowed her in every aspect. Whether it was in terms of background, appearance, academics, or social connections, wherever Haley was, her radiance would always be completely overshadowed. She refused to accept it! Xena's eyes were full of resentment, like a venomous snake hiding in the grass, spitting poison at its prey. Sinister and dangerous. She stood up and rushed over to snatch Haley's phone. "Haley, turn off the recording for me! James and I are truly in love. If you're sensible, you should take the initiative to step back. It's better for everyone!" Haley quickly stepped back two steps, avoiding her hand. Hearing her words, she couldn't help but sneer. "If you're a third wheel, you're a third wheel. Why bother with all the excuses?" Regardless of whom James truly loved, nominally, she was the only fiancΓ©e. James knew very well that she despised betrayal because of her mother, yet he still got involved with Xena, which was even more nauseating. Upon hearing this, Zoe exploded, as if her deepest pain had been pricked. "Who are you calling a third wheel?" She gritted her teeth and raised her arm to slap Haley. But her hand fell in midair, firmly grasped by a fair and delicate hand. Then, with a crisp sound, the clear slap echoed, and Zoe's cheek stung with a fiery pain. She was stunned by Haley's action, covering her face in disbelief. "You hit me? How dare you hit me?" Haley's lips curled slightly as she pulled out a tissue from her shoulder bag and wiped her hands leisurely. After finishing, she said lightly, "Zoe, I just made a passing remark. Why feel so guilty? Besides, you were the one who struck first. You can't blame me for your slow reaction." "You!" Zoe gritted her teeth, her eyes almost bursting with suppressed anger. | Reading matter | 8 | https://facebook.com/61559156515503 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718002800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879657 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410701 | 1723321845 | 995 | 1191279425651029 | 1 | 1.1841458962763E+15 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 299026206627385 | 0 | Reading matter | 120209775879570390 | findokn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | β€οΈπWhat happens nextπClick Here to read onπ | https://findokn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11632&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717754696 | 2.9902620662738E+14 | Reading matter | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959833_690035193239071_8338086885496487765_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=QUFcGNRC398Q7kNvgFxAmgt&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCWbUkdH9z0_PV1OvwqycTOxeLawo5lW9bV27bjjkvCVg&oe=6672ACB9 | person_profile | 0 | Reading matter | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959769_1190715732374544_2758543800221804444_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=HMc1ybrp76sQ7kNvgGxl7Rn&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDTbtuCE2oc7epCLXYFTWIHnrtsOeIyXj12-3O0DMTsrQ&oe=6672C9A3 | 0 | 3 | "James, between me and Haley, who do you love more?" "Of course, it's you, my dear. Haven't my actions proven it enough? Hmm?" "But, I want to hear you say it yourself." "Darling, you are the woman I love the most. Relax, you're too tense..." The man's suppressed heavy breathing, mixed with the woman's seductive sounds, soon filled the hotel suite. Haley Carter stood outside the slightly ajar door, her blood almost freezing, unable to stop trembling from the piercing cold. An hour ago, someone sent her a video clip. In the video, her fiancΓ©, James Ford, was hot kissing her half-sister Xena Carter in the corridor of this hotel. She initially thought it was a prank, but she never expected that these two had long been involved with each other. She took a deep breath, trying to restrain the anger surging in her chest. Quietly, she took out her phone from her pocket and pushed the door open. The two on the bed were still immersed in their intense pleasure when suddenly they heard a cold voice, "What a splendid drama. Shall I applaud for you?" Both froze, turning their gaze towards the direction of the door. "Ah!" Xena screamed, panicked, and shrank into James's embrace. "Haley? What are you doing here?" James covered himself with a blanket, displeased. "Who let you come in?" Haley crossed her arms, looking at him mockingly. "If I didn't come, wouldn't I miss such a splendid scene?" "Haley, James and I truly love each other. Please, let us be together!" Xena's eyes reddened, tears glistening, portraying an innocent and pitiful look. James felt heartbroken, tightly holding her in his arms, and said in a deep voice, "Haley, if you have any issues, take them up with me. Xena is innocent!" Haley sneered, "Innocent? How dare you utter those words?" "That's enough! The one I love, from beginning to end, has only been Xena. If you had an ounce of self-awareness, you would go to Grandma and cancel our engagement!" What he liked was someone like Xena, gentle and submissive, yet uninhibited and open-minded in bed. But Haley was awkward and conservative, not even allowing a touch of hands, utterly boring! Being with Haley, he couldn't feel an ounce of joy! Haley's eyes narrowed, a dangerous and icy light flickering at the depths. "Cheating is cheating. Don't give yourselves excuses. If I were to release the video of you two in bed, would anyone still think you're innocent?" James and Xena's faces turned pale, roaring, "Haley, delete the video now!" "And if I say no?" Haley stepped back two paces, provocatively lifting her chin towards them. "James, if you don't like me, you could have straightforwardly called off the engagement. I'm not someone who can't live without you. Your current behavior disgusts me." If James had openly called off the engagement, maybe she would have respected him a bit more. But alas... "Haley, stop right there!" Watching Haley walk away, James burned with anger, instinctively wanting to chase after her. However, Xena held onto his waist tightly, crying with grievance. "James, what should we do? Haley must be mad at me. Perhaps from the beginning, I shouldn't have liked you, then I wouldn't have hurt her..." Hearing this, James's heart filled with guilt and pity, leaving him with no inclination to chase after Haley. He kissed Xena's forehead and whispered softly, "Xena, you're just too kind. If it weren't for her interference, maybe we would have been together long ago!" "James, you're so good to me..." Xena's lips curved slightly, her eyes fixed on the direction Haley disappeared, a trace of a triumphant smile flashing. Thinking of competing with her? Haley was still too naive! She believed it wouldn't be long before she snatched away the position of Mrs. Ford! β¦ As Haley left the hotel, it started to pour outside. Endless night enveloped her, with only occasional flashes of lightning and dim streetlights visible through the pouring rain. Standing in the rain, Haley was drenched from head to toe. The scenes of James and Xena's affair played over and over in her mind, making her feel nauseous. On top of not eating all day, her stomach was cramping painfully. She forced herself to walk to the roadside, but finally couldn't bear it anymore and slowly crouched down. The icy rain hit her snow-white skin, sending shivers down her spine. Her vision blurred, making it hard for her to distinguish reality from dreams. After who knows how long, the rain hitting her seemed to gradually stop. Haley slowly opened her eyes and noticed a shadow before her. She had a sense of it and slowly lifted her gaze. The first thing she saw was a pair of well-tailored trousers, wrapping around a pair of long, straight legs. Moving upwards, she saw a handsome face with a cold demeanor. The man's slightly furrowed brows, high nose bridge, and tightly pursed lips were striking. His deep eyes were lowered, shrouded in darkness, seemingly blending with the night. Haley stared at him in surprise, a hint of bewilderment in her eyes. "Mr. Ford? Why are you here?" The man before her was Shane Ford, the most influential member of the Ford family, the top-tier business family in Jasper City. He was also her former fiancΓ©'s uncle, James's uncle. He was the late child of Mr. Ford Sr. and inherited exceptional business acumen. Taking over the Ford Corporation in just a few years, its market value multiplied several times over. What was most feared about him was his ruthless methods and decisive personality. However, he always remained low-key and mysterious, seldom interacting with the younger generation like them. Haley had only crossed paths with him a few times at the Ford family gatherings and hardly ever exchanged words. This man exuded an aura of danger, and Haley usually avoided him whenever possible. Never did she expect to encounter him today, especially in her current disheveled state. "What could possibly make you disregard your own well-being like this?" The man's brow furrowed slightly, his deep, velvety voice sensual and captivating, as if it sent an electric current tingling through her ears, simultaneously soothing and arousing. There was also a subtle hint of concern mixed in. Haley suddenly snapped out of her daze, hastily trying to stand up. However, due to crouching on the ground for too long, her legs had gone numb. Her body swayed suddenly, uncontrollably tilting backward. Just when she thought she was about to fall awkwardly, a pair of warm and powerful hands suddenly wrapped around her waist. The next moment, she fell into a warm and broad chest. Anxiously, she grabbed onto the front of his shirt, afraid of falling. At this moment, the man's rich and husky voice sounded in her ear, tinged with a hint of mockery: "Are you taking advantage of me?" Chapter 2 As she realized the ambiguous position they were in, Haley's cheeks flushed red, and she quickly pulled away from the man's embrace. Feeling embarrassed, she murmured softly, "No, my legs are numb." "Hmm," Shane responded with a pleasant chuckle, though it wasn't clear if he believed her or not. His gentle and deep voice seemed to have a calming effect, causing Haley's heart to flutter slightly, feeling both tingly and itchy. She rubbed her ears curiously and asked, "Mr. Ford, what are you doing here?" Shane replied nonchalantly, "I just happened to pass by." And he happened to see a poor little creature standing in the rain by the roadside, helpless and pitiful like an abandoned cat. Haley nodded knowingly but didn't know what to say. She had just experienced betrayal and felt physically and emotionally drained, only wanting to find a quiet place to rest. Shane glanced at her and asked, "Do you want revenge?" "What?" Haley stared at him in confusion, not understanding his meaning. Shane seemed to understand her confusion and asked patiently, "James betrayed you. Are you planning to let him off the hook?" Haley's expression changed abruptly, becoming wary. "How do you know about this?" If Shane knew, did that mean other members of the Ford family knew too? If that were the case, then all the tough talk she had given in front of James and Xena would turn into a joke. Shane replied, "You came out of the hotel looking like this, isn't that already saying everything?" Haley was stunned for a moment, then suddenly realized. Realizing she had misunderstood him, she apologized, "Thank you, Mr. Ford, but I'll handle it myself." No gain without pain. Besides, Shane was also a member of the Ford family. How could he genuinely help her? Regardless, she didn't want to have any further involvement with James and his family. Shane chuckled lightly and answered calmly, "I'll help you, but it's conditional. You might want to hear the terms first." "What terms?" Haley asked. "I'm in need of a wife," he stated succinctly. Haley almost thought she was hearing things. It took her a while to find her voice again. "Mr. Ford, are you kidding me?" Was Shane really looking for a wife? If he wanted to, there would be a line of women eager to say yes. Could he be playing a prank on her? Shane responded, "Do I seem like I'm joking?" Haley shook her head. She had heard many rumors about Shane before. He was known for being decisive, keeping his distance from strangers, and avoiding romantic entanglements. Given his status and position, there was no need for him to waste time joking with her here. "Why then?" Haley asked. "The old lady at home is pressuring me to get married. I need someone to serve as a shield for me. If you agree, I can help you dissolve your engagement with James." Haley froze, looking at him in disbelief. Shane was holding the umbrella, shielding her from the rain that fell upon her. The dim light from the roadside lamp illuminated half of his face, while the other half remained hidden in the darkness, adding a mysterious air to him. This exceptional man was simply incomparable to James, that scoundrel! Yet, her rationality remained. She questioned in puzzlement, "Why me?" With Shane's power and his devastatingly handsome face, attracting any woman should have been a piece of cake for him. So why choose her? She never believed that good fortune would fall into her lap. Even if it did, it would never hit her. Shane explained, "Because I need someone who knows the ins and outs and can also achieve mutual interests with me. You fit my criteria." "But..." Just as Haley hesitated, Shane suddenly leaned down. His deep and enticing voice sounded in her ear. "Don't you want James to call you 'aunt'? Moreover, if you marry me, Xena will never set foot into the Ford family." Haley's eyes lit up instantly, unable to contain her excitement. If she married Shane, James would have to address her as his aunt. Just thinking about it felt satisfying! She stole a glance at Shane, a hint of pity flashing in her eyes. Rumor had it that Shane was already thirty years old and didn't even have a woman by his side. Either he liked men, or he had some hidden illness. Now it seemed that those rumors were probably true. No wonder he wanted to enter into a marriage agreement with her. After pondering for a moment, Haley asked in distress, "Mr. Ford, won't Mrs. Ford Sr. object to this?" After all, until the engagement with James was officially dissolved, Haley was still his fiancΓ©e. If she turned around and married Shane, who knows what kind of rumors might spread outside? Despite Haley's concerns, Shane remained calm and didn't even furrow his brows. "Don't worry, I'll handle it." With his assurance, Haley completely dispelled any lingering doubts and decisively agreed, "Okay, I agree!" "Then let's go." Shane's lips curled slightly as he lowered his gaze, concealing the subtle emotions within his eyes, before opening the backseat car door. He leaned his hand against the car roof, considerately protecting Haley's head. His actions were gentlemanly and caring, as if he were treating an intimate lover. Haley was startled by her own thoughts, her cheeks flushing slightly as she hurriedly got into the car. Although the heater was on inside the car, she couldn't help but shiver. She hugged her arms and leaned back in the seat, wishing she could curl up into a ball. Suddenly, a hand with distinct knuckles passed her a towel. Shane's voice remained steady, without any fluctuation. "Wipe yourself dry. Don't catch a cold." Haley thanked him quickly and took the towel, wiping her damp hair. The car fell into an eerie silence, with only the sound of her drying her hair breaking the quiet. The atmosphere was strangely unsettling. Feeling uneasy all over, Haley cleared her throat and pretended to be calm as she asked, "Are we going to the county clerk's office now?" Shane glanced at her, his expression profound. "We can, but are you sure you want to go like this?" Following his gaze, Haley lowered her eyes, only then realizing that she was completely soaked and looked disheveled. Her cheeks flushed with embarrassment, wishing she could find a hole to hide in. She had almost forgotten that because of the rain, she was drenched all over. Her white shirt was clinging tightly to her skin, and even the color of her bra was clearly visible. This appearance was indeed not suitable for getting married. And did she sound too eager just now, as if she were in a rush to marry him? Would he misunderstand? Haley cautiously glanced at him out of the corner of her eye, seeing his calm expression, finally breathed a silent sigh of relief. Shaneβs assistant, Dean, who was driving, couldn't help but sigh as he looked at the rearview mirror. His boss was too unusual, completely overturning his previous understanding. In fact, they had been waiting outside the hotel the whole afternoon. Originally, he had come with Shane for a business meeting, but before they even got out of the car, they saw James and Haley's step-sister, Xena, entering the hotel together. Shane immediately instructed him to anonymously message Haley to catch them in the act at the hotel. At first, he didn't quite understand why his boss wanted to scheme against his own nephew. But now, he finally understood. How could a nephew be more important than a wife! No wonder his boss always looked at Haley with a peculiar gaze before. Now, thinking back, everything made sense! His boss had long harbored feelings for Haley. No, it's more like deep affection for her! Chapter 3 While Dean was lost in thought, he suddenly felt a chill at the back of his neck. He turned his head and met Shane's cold, beast-like gaze. Shivering fiercely, he dared not wander in his thoughts anymore, focusing solely on driving. Fortunately, Shane only gave him a cold glance, warning him to drive properly, and quickly withdrew his gaze. After getting out of the car, Shane took Haley into his residence. He fetched a clean set of clothes from the closet and handed them to her. "Go take a hot shower first. There aren't any women's clothes here, so you can wear mine for now." "Okay," Haley's cheeks flushed slightly as she hurriedly took the clothes and entered the bathroom. She almost fled, too afraid to meet Shane's gaze and thus missed the fleeting smile in his eyes. Haley spent a long time in the bathroom, leaning against the wall, letting the shower water wash over her. Being betrayed by James and Xena was something she had never expected, and marrying Shane was even beyond her wildest imagination. She felt that something was amiss, but her mind was a jumble, unable to sort out her thoughts. Soon, steam filled the bathroom, reddening her fair, snow-like face. When she emerged from the bathroom, Shane was no longer in the bedroom. Descending the stairs, she found a tall figure bustling about in the kitchen. The man was tall, clad in a white shirt and neatly tailored trousers, exuding extraordinary charisma. His shirt sleeves were rolled up, revealing well-defined arms. He wore a dark blue apron that softened his cold and aloof demeanor, adding a touch of warmth. Haley's eyes flashed with surprise. Could it be that Shane, a business tycoon, also cooked for himself? What a gentle and domesticated man! He perfectly matched her criteria for a partner from head to toe! Suddenly, something crossed her mind, and Haley's admiring gaze turned into pity. She sighed silently in her heart. How could such an outstanding man have hidden ailments? What a pity! Hearing footsteps, Shane paused and slowly turned around. His gaze fell upon Haley, and his eyes darkened slightly. Her petite figure was enveloped by his white shirt, the hem barely covering her upper legs, revealing a glimpse of slender and fair legs, straight and well-proportioned. In the light, they seemed dazzling. Shane's eyes lingered on those pretty, slender legs for a moment, suddenly feeling a heat rise within him. He averted his gaze, his voice tightening slightly. "Go put on some pants." Haley lowered her eyes and realized that dressing like this in front of an adult man was indeed a bit ambiguous. Her cheeks flushed in response. She whispered, "Your pants are too big for me, I can't wear them." Shane's expression turned cold as he went upstairs without looking back. If Haley had observed carefully, she would have noticed that his steps were somewhat disordered. But her cheeks were already as red as ripe shrimp, and she had no mind to observe Shane. Not long after, Shane came downstairs with a black pair of trousers and a belt in hand. "Put these on," he instructed. Perhaps sensing his tone was a bit harsh, he added, "Be careful not to catch a cold." Haley took the pants and went to the bathroom to change. With the constraint of the belt, she managed to put on the pants, though they were long and baggy, appearing quite bulky. She had to roll up the cuffs. When she came out of the bathroom, she found Shane had already set a bowl of freshly made chicken noodle soup on the table. It was a comforting and savory bowl of soup, with tender noodles and garnished with freshly chopped parsley. Haley was so shocked that she couldn't speak. She never expected Shane to actually cook. Though it was just a simple bowl of noodles, coming from Shane, it felt somehow out of place. Seeing Shane heading to the kitchen to fetch utensils, she followed him voluntarily. "Mr. Ford, do you need any help?" Upon hearing the term "Mr. Ford," Shane's body stiffened, and a hint of coldness almost overflowed from his eyes. He lowered his gaze, forcing himself to restrain his emotions, and hoarsely replied, "No need, just sit down and wait. I'll handle it myself." Haley didn't insist further and obediently sat down at the table, waiting for the meal to begin. After experiencing so much this afternoon, she was indeed feeling a bit hungry. Shane handed her the fork and spoon, then sat down opposite her. 'Dig in, just be careful, it's hot.'" Haley immediately started eating, the fragrance of the noodles filling her taste buds. A warmth spread through her empty stomach. Perhaps even she hadn't noticed, but her wariness and guard against Shane were slowly diminishing. As she ate, she raised her thumb towards Shane. "It's delicious, Mr. Ford. I didn't expect you to be such a great cook!" The warm-toned light in the dining room shone on her, illuminating her delicate and fair cheeks, soft and beautiful. She lowered her gaze, her cheeks puffing up with each chew, her eyes squinting with happiness and contentment. She looked so obedient that it made him want to ruffle her hair. But he couldn't do that, or he might scare her away. A skilled hunter should possess patience above all else, and that was one thing he definitely had. His palm curled slightly, then he casually retracted it. Shane silently told himself that there was plenty of time ahead. Haley was immersed in her food, completely unaware that she had become the lamb to be eaten, enjoying her meal with extra satisfaction. Halfway through, she noticed there was a poached egg at the bottom of the bowl. She looked up at the man across from her, but saw him eating his noodles gracefully, his expression showing no sign of anything unusual. Haley silently watched him eat until he finished his bowl of noodles, but there was no sign of the poached egg. So, was it specially made for her? Haley's emotions suddenly became somewhat complicated. Previously, she always felt that Shane's gaze was too intense, so she always tried to avoid it whenever possible. Coupled with the rumors surrounding him in the outside world, she became even more afraid of him. But now, it seemed like he wasn't that scary after all, and he was even very attentive and meticulous. After finishing the meal, Shane got up to clean up the dishes. He glanced at a girl sitting in the chair, gently stroking her belly, her face filled with contentment, and a smile formed at the corner of his lips. Haley quickly stood up from her chair, feeling somewhat embarrassed. "Mr. Ford, let me do it, I know how to wash dishes." "No need, just leave it to me," Shane dodged her hand and walked straight to the kitchen. Watching him skillfully turn on the faucet and start washing the dishes, Haley touched her nose, feeling like she would just be a hindrance if she went, so she sat back down. Shane finished washing the dishes and came out of the kitchen, handing Haley a printed document. Curiously, Haley took it and saw several large words written on it, "Marriage Agreement, Party A: Shane, Party B: Haley..." She widened her eyes in surprise. "Mr. Ford, when did you write this?" Meeting Haley's clear and bright eyes, Shane cleared his throat lightly. "On the way back." Actually, when Haley went into the hotel to "catch the affair," his car was parked nearby, and that's when he started writing this marriage agreement. But these were things he absolutely couldn't say out loud. Chapter 4 Haley skimmed through the marriage agreement, falling into a moment of silence. Seeing her hesitation, Shane's heart inexplicably tightened, prompting him to ask, "Is there a problem?" Haley shook her head, incredulous. "Mr. Ford, are you sure you want to sign this agreement with me?" The agreement posed no issues; in fact, each clause within it was almost entirely in her favor. Marrying Shane not only granted her the status and position of Mrs. Ford but also secured a 3% stake in the Ford Corporation, along with real estate under Shane's name. In the event of a divorce, she would even be entitled to half of Shane's personal assets. The Ford Corporation was the largest multinational conglomerate in Jasper City, with investments in finance, real estate, hospitality, and various other industries, and its stock value was continuously rising. Compared to her third-rate wealthy family, whose combined assets couldn't even afford 1% of the Ford Corporation's shares, Haley would overnight become immensely wealthy through this marriage. Shane's expression remained calm and composed as he casually poured a dose of cold medicine from a bottle. "Hmm, go ahead and sign." He was certain he wouldn't divorce. As for money, it was merely a bunch of numbers to him. The purpose of making money was simply to accumulate assets for his wife. According to what he'd heard from his subordinates, after marriage, the husband was expected to hand over his salary and assets to his spouse. As for divorce... Well, that was out of the question for this lifetime. Having finally lured his little wife back home, there was no chance she would escape again. Haley gritted her teeth and swiftly signed her name on the agreement. Regardless of how long this marriage lasted, she was guaranteed to benefit! Watching as Haley signed her name in the bottom right corner, Shane smirked in satisfaction. He took the marriage agreement and handed over the cold medicine he had prepared. "Drink this medicine. You got caught in the rain, be careful not to catch a cold." "Thank you, Mr. Ford," Haley said, flashing a sweet smile as she took the cup. The bitter taste of the cold medicine hit her senses as she took a sip. Pinching her nose, she gulped down the medicine in one breath. Shane lowered his gaze, suppressing the curve of his lips from turning upwards, and spoke slowly, "It's getting late. You should rest early." Haley suddenly froze. Tonight... was she going to sleep with Shane? The thought sent her heart racing. "Mr. Ford, could you maybe spare a separate room for me?" Shane raised an eyebrow. "Hmm? Are you worried I might do something to you?" "Of course not!" Haley denied without thinking. She just wasn't accustomed to sleeping with strangers. To her, Shane had always been her elder, her fiancΓ©'s uncle. Shane's dark eyes bore into her, emitting a chilling aura. "There's no clause in our agreement about separate rooms." Haley was at a loss for words. Indeed, there wasn't such a clause in the agreement. She suddenly regretted signing the marriage agreement. Shane was too mysterious, too dangerous. Collaborating with him was like dancing with a tiger. Seeing Haley's hesitation, Shane sighed softly. "If you're uncomfortable sleeping together, I can give you time to adjust. But as a married couple, we are supposed to spend our lives together." The words "spend our lives together" were spoken with particular seriousness. Haley blushed and lowered her head, too embarrassed to meet Shane's gaze. After a long silence, she gritted her teeth and said, "It's fine. I can adapt!" Since she had signed the contract, she had to honor it. It was just sharing a bed, and it wasn't like she was losing out! Haley was led into Shane's bedroom in a daze. When she came in to take a shower before dinner, she rushed into the bathroom in a panic. Now, with a quiet mind, she began to size up the bedroom. Was this really a place where people lived? It felt too deserted. The large bedroom was decorated mainly in black and white, simple yet understated. There was barely any furniture in the room. Despite being the master bedroom, it felt excessively vacant, devoid of any warmth or homely atmosphere. Instead of feeling like a home, it resembled more of a temporary lodging. Haley cast a complicated glance at Shane, unable to imagine how he could live in such a cold environment. Shane cleared his throat uneasily. "Just make do for tonight. If there's anything you need, we can buy it tomorrow." "Okay." "I still have work to do. You go ahead and sleep." "Okay!" Her tone was noticeably more eager than before, almost as if she couldn't wait for him to leave. Shane gave her a deep look. "You're really eager for me to leave, aren't you?" Meeting his probing gaze, Haley chuckled awkwardly and waved at him. "Goodnight, Mr. Ford." "Hmm." Shane turned and left the bedroom. As the door closed behind him, the slight tension in his lips, which had been held back, relaxed ever so slightly, forming a faint curve. His gaze lingered on the closed door, and he lowered his voice. "Goodnight." In the room, Haley lay on the soft bed, her tense nerves slowly relaxing, sighing in comfort. The bedding seemed to carry the scent of pine from Shane, refreshing and pleasant. She had thought she would have trouble sleeping in a strange bed, but she fell asleep as soon as her head hit the pillow. After finishing his video conference, Shane realized it was already past two in the morning. He closed his laptop and headed towards the bedroom. In the dark night, the bedroom door opened silently, and the tall figure of a man slowly approached the bed, gazing at the person already fast asleep. The moonlight streamed through the window, casting a gentle glow on the girl's delicate and fair face. Before lying down beside her, Shane reached out his hand, his rough fingertips gently stroking her cheek. Haley didn't sleep well that night, instinctively sensing the approach of danger in her dreams. It was as if she was being stalked by a wild beast in the jungle, sending shivers down her spine. When she woke up, she found her back and forehead drenched in sweat. Looking around the unfamiliar room, it took her a few seconds to remember what had happened the day before. At that moment, there was a knock on the door, followed by a respectful and steady male voice from outside. "Madam, are you awake? I'm Bob Moore, the butler of Violet Grove." "Yes, give me a moment." Haley quickly got out of bed to answer the door. Despite looking a bit disheveled from just waking up, it didn't diminish her beauty in the slightest. Her fair cheeks were smooth and radiant, while her eyes, clear and bright, held a hint of sleepiness, adding a touch of innocence. A glint of admiration flashed in the butler's eyes, nodding with satisfaction. Finally, Mr. Ford's wish had been fulfilled. Mr. Ford always achieved what he wanted, without fail. Although the methods were somewhat less than honorable and might tarnish the Ford family's reputation if exposed, those were minor issues. Mr. Ford's reputation outside wasn't great to begin with, so a little more damage wouldn't matter. He smiled and said, "Madam, breakfast is ready. Would you like to have some?" As he assessed Haley, she was also studying him. He appeared to be in his forties, dressed sharply in a suit, meticulously groomed, with a perfectly poised smile on his lips, courteous yet distant. "Okay." Haley smiled and quickly freshened up before heading downstairs. As she sat down at the dining table, she noticed that Shane wasn't there, which piqued her curiosity. The butler noticed her puzzlement and explained, "Mr. Ford had a meeting this morning. He left for the office about an hour ago." "Ah, I see," Haley nodded, indicating that she understood. She ate her breakfast quietly, feeling relieved inside. Even though they were married by agreement, she still felt strangely nervous at the thought of Shane. Perhaps it was because of his overpowering presence that made people hesitate to approach him easily. Chapter 5 The household staff huddled together, gossiping quietly. And the subject of their gossip was none other than Haley. Early in the morning, the butler informed them that there would be a new lady of the house from now on, and instructed them to take care accordingly. Everyone was shocked, unable to believe that the usually aloof Shane had actually brought a woman home. Before Haley descended the stairs, everyone speculated about her identity. They all wanted to know what kind of woman could match Shane, this high and mighty figure. When they finally laid eyes on Haley's face, they were all thoroughly amazed. Haley's features were delicate, her skin as fair as snow, her almond-shaped eyes bright and clear, yet exuding an inexplicable allure. She was even more beautiful than the actresses on TV! What surprised them the most was that Haley was wearing Shane's shirt. Shane was known throughout the entire villa for his slight obsession with cleanliness. Nobody was allowed to touch his belongings. Being able to wear Shane's shirt indicated a relationship that was definitely out of the ordinary. "This is the first time Mr. Ford has brought a woman home. It's really unheard of!" "She's so beautiful, no wonder Mr. Ford made an exception for her." "Mr. Ford isn't getting any younger. It's time for him to have a wife." ... Just as everyone was discussing, someone suddenly spoke up: "Wife? Do you even know who this woman is? She's James's fiancΓ©e!" Everyone turned to look at the person who spoke. Her name was Lily Frank and everyone called her Lily. She had been working at the family estate before Shane moved in and took several household staff with him. Lily was one of them. "What? James's fiancΓ©e?" Lily glanced disdainfully in the direction of the dining room and said, "Sheβs just a seductive vixen. If James isn't into her, she goes after Mr. Ford!" She had seen Haley at the family estate before and naturally knew about the engagement between James and Haley. Flirting around without calling off the engagement, what else could she be but a seductress? She couldn't stand such women, with their pretty faces, seducing others everywhere. Who knew what spell she cast on Mr. Ford to bring her home? If this were to get out, the Ford family's reputation would surely be tarnished, wouldn't it? Lily's words piqued everyone's curiosity, and they gathered around to ask what she knew. Just then, a furious roar came from behind, "What are you all gathering here for? Are all the chores done?" Seeing the butler approaching with a stern face, the household staff couldn't help but cower and quickly dispersed. They had a natural fear of the butler. Although he was always polite and maintained a courteous smile, he still gave off an oppressive aura. Every interaction with him left them breathless. As the butler approached, his gaze swept over all the household staff, and he warned, "Let me reiterate, Madam is the lady of the house here. If I hear any gossip from your mouths again, pack your bags and leave. Do you understand?" "Yes, understood!" The household staff nodded hastily. Satisfied, the butler withdrew his gaze and looked at Lily. "Repeat what you just said in front of me." Lily was startled and immediately lowered her head further. "I didn't say anything! Bob, please forgive me. I just spoke without thinking." The butler sneered, "Come see me later and settle this month's wages." Lily panicked, "Bob, you can't treat me like this! I was personally chosen by Mrs. Ford Sr.!" The butler glanced at her indifferently. "I will personally report this to Mrs. Ford Sr. and I believe she will decide who is more important, the daughter-in-law or the household staff." With that, he left without looking back. Lily's legs went weak, and she fell to the ground, her face turning pale with fright. It's over, it's all over now! The other household staff were also stunned. Lily had followed from the family estate and had been working here for several years, yet she was dismissed so easily. Wouldn't their fate be even worse? After this incident, almost all the household staff remembered one thing: never disrespect Haley. In the dining room, Haley was completely unaware of this, enjoying her breakfast. The chefs hired by the Ford family were top-notch, and the breakfast they made was delicious. Haley ate contentedly, her mood becoming very pleasant. Just then, her phone on the side suddenly rang. Haley's brows furrowed slightly as she glanced at the caller ID. It was her father, Joe Carter, calling. Without much thought, she knew it must be her dear younger sister tattling on her again. As she answered, she was greeted with a burst of anger, "Haley, you've grown some guts, actually daring to stay out all night and making your sister cry. Get back here right now!" Coldness flashed in Haley's eyes as she retorted without hesitation, "Isn't this what I learned from you? My staying out all night is all thanks to your exemplary teachings." When her mother was still alive, Joe often used the excuse of being too busy with work to come home. In the past, she naively believed it, striving to be an obedient and sensible child, afraid of causing trouble for Joe. But what was the result? Less than a month after her mother's death, he shamelessly brought his mistress and illegitimate daughter into the house. It wasn't until then that she realized, the so-called work was just an excuse. In reality, he had long been with another family. Joe gave all the paternal love she yearned for to another daughter. As for her and her mother, they meant nothing to him. It was truly remarkable how he managed to navigate between two families for over a decade without being caught. Not acknowledging him as a time management master was really unfair considering all his years of hard work. Chapter 6 "Haley, you dare say that again! Have I raised you all these years just so you could argue with me? How did I end up with such a troublemaker like you?" Joe was about to explode with anger, barely believing these words were coming from Haley's mouth. Haley took her phone away without expression, rubbed her ears, and said, "If you're so eager to hear it, why don't you just record it? Play it every night before bed." She behaved obediently in front of Shane out of instinctive fear. As for others, even her biological father, she could argue with them without hesitation. In the past, she used to feel hurt and upset because of Joe's scolding, but after her mother's death, she came to terms with it. She realized that one should never have expected what didn't belong to them, or you would only end up hurting yourself. So when she found out about James's betrayal, she didn't feel too sad. Instead, she felt relieved. At least they weren't married yet, and there was still a chance to salvage everything. Joe's angry scolding kept coming through the earpiece, and she impatiently said, "Got it," before hanging up the phone. She did need to go back; she hadn't settled the score with Xena yet, and this matter wasn't over. She elegantly wiped the corners of her mouth, got up, and met the bewildered gaze of the butler. Haley coughed lightly, smiled at the butler, nodded, and quickly went upstairs. She wasn't afraid of being misunderstood; she just felt a little awkward. Although she and Shane had an agreement to get married, having lived in the aristocratic circle for more than twenty years, she knew that the wealthier the family, the more they valued their reputation. Since she intended to use Shane to get back at James and Xena, she had to play the role of Mrs. Ford well. The butler watched her departing figure with mixed feelings. He never expected that this seemingly obedient and gentle girl would have such a tough side. However, thinking about the rumors surrounding the Carter family, the butler couldn't help but feel sorry for Haley. Joe was originally a poor boy with nothing. Later on, he married Yvonne Ramsey, Haley's mother, and with her help, they started a company. Yvonne was a woman with a keen business acumen, and within a few years, she had managed the company exceptionally well. The brand 'JY' even penetrated the international market, expanding from a clothing brand to various sectors including finance, real estate, and more. At its peak, the Carter family even entered the upper-class circles. However, later on, Yvonne got cancer and faced Joe's betrayal, gradually becoming weaker and having no time or energy to manage the company anymore. Joe took the opportunity to intervene in the company, and even inserted many of his own people, intending to take over the company. What's more, less than a month after Yvonne's death, Joe actually brought his mistress and illegitimate daughter home. Haley's position in the Carter family became awkward. Later, rumors in the circle often circulated about Haley's fiancΓ©, James, having ambiguous relationships with Xena, his illegitimate daughter. Everyone was waiting for Haley to be dumped, eager to witness her downfall. She was indeed a pitiable child. Fortunately, with her husband's protection in the future, everything would only get better. ** Haley changed into the clothes she washed and dried the night before, greeted the butler and prepared to go out. The butler kindly asked, "Madam, would you like the driver to take you? It's not very convenient to get a taxi around here." This area was surrounded by a large villa district, where there were usually dedicated drivers, and it was rare to take a taxi. Moreover, the security system here was very high-level, and if one couldn't prove their identity, the security guards wouldn't let them in. Haley thought for a moment and nodded. "Okay." The butler immediately selected a low-key yet luxurious car from the garage and instructed the driver to safely escort Haley. Upon arriving at the Carter family, Haley got out of the car and took a deep breath. If it weren't for something she had to take with her from home, she wouldn't set foot here again. This place was never her home, and Joe had never considered her his daughter. She could even foresee how much scolding and rebuking she would endure once she entered. Sure enough, as soon as she stepped into the Carter family's living room, something was suddenly thrown out from inside. Her pupils contracted, instinctively she dodged to the side. A delicate and pretty glass flew past her and landed not far behind her with a loud shattering sound, almost piercing Haley's eardrums. If Haley had been a little slower to dodge, she would probably have been hit severely. Joe was still furious, putting all his strength into it. If the glass landed on Haley, it would definitely leave a severe injury. Haley stood stunned for several seconds before coming to her senses, and as she turned her head, she met Joe's angry gaze. "You have the nerve to come back? How did I raise such a wicked daughter? You even have the audacity to bully your own sister!" He seemed still enraged, his entire face as dark as coal, and his voice carried an uncontrollable anger. Accompanying his roar was a sob filled with grievances. Haley looked over and saw her stepmother, Zoe Lewis, and stepsister, Xena, sitting on the sofa, huddled together in tears. Their appearance seemed to suggest they had suffered a great injustice. Chapter 7 Zoe wiped her tears as she lamented, "Haley, I know you've never liked me as your stepmother, but Xena is innocent. How could you be so heartless?" "Did she tell you I bullied her?" Haley suddenly chuckled, though the smile didn't reach her eyes; instead, they were icy cold. Meeting Haley's gaze, Xena suddenly shivered, her eyes flickering with guilt. But when she remembered James's assurance from last night, promising to break off the engagement with Haley, her sense of guilt completely vanished. James loved her. It was Haley's own fault for not being able to win a man's affection. Haley couldnβt blame her! Seeing her brazen demeanor, Joe grew angry. "Who else but you? Xena is gentle and kind, unlike you, who is jealous and malicious." Haley seemed to find the situation ludicrous and actually laughed. She looked at Xena coldly. "Gentle and kind? Indeed, very kind, to take care of my fiancΓ© in her bed." She didn't bother arguing further with them, instead pulling out her phone and playing a recording. The sultry sounds of a woman mingled with the heavy breaths of a man emanated from the speaker. Joe stood dumbfounded, his whole being frozen in shock. The voices in the video were all too familiar to him. One was his beloved daughter, Xena, and the other was Haley's fiancΓ©, James. He had always believed the rumors were false because he firmly believed that the gentle and kind Xena would never try to steal her sister's man. However, he couldn't deny the truth. He looked at Xena, hoping for her to deny it, but all he saw was her guilty expression as she lowered her head. Now, what was there left for him to misunderstand? He trembled with anger, clutching at his slightly stinging chest, and sternly questioned Xena, "Is this true? Did you really do such a thing?" Xena's face turned pale, she shook her head frantically, and grabbed Joe's sleeve, acting coquettishly, "Dad, listen to me explain. Things aren't like that." Joe's face turned livid, displeased as he said, "But he's your sister's fiancΓ©. Why would you do something like this?" Why? Of course, it was to completely ruin Haley! As long as that old woman from the Ford family was still alive, James wouldn't successfully break off the engagement. Xena absolutely wouldn't allow Haley to marry into the top-tier Ford family and become the esteemed Mrs. Ford while she was forever burdened with the title of the illegitimate daughter! So, she didn't hesitate to seduce James at any cost, behaving lovingly towards him while in the presence of Haley, all to make her realize the reality and voluntarily break off the engagement. Although she was now caught red-handed by Haley, she didn't regret it at all. As long as she could trample Haley underfoot, she was willing to pay any price. From childhood to adulthood, Haley overshadowed her in every aspect. Whether it was in terms of background, appearance, academics, or social connections, wherever Haley was, her radiance would always be completely overshadowed. She refused to accept it! Xena's eyes were full of resentment, like a venomous snake hiding in the grass, spitting poison at its prey. Sinister and dangerous. She stood up and rushed over to snatch Haley's phone. "Haley, turn off the recording for me! James and I are truly in love. If you're sensible, you should take the initiative to step back. It's better for everyone!" Haley quickly stepped back two steps, avoiding her hand. Hearing her words, she couldn't help but sneer. "If you're a third wheel, you're a third wheel. Why bother with all the excuses?" Regardless of whom James truly loved, nominally, she was the only fiancΓ©e. James knew very well that she despised betrayal because of her mother, yet he still got involved with Xena, which was even more nauseating. Upon hearing this, Zoe exploded, as if her deepest pain had been pricked. "Who are you calling a third wheel?" She gritted her teeth and raised her arm to slap Haley. But her hand fell in midair, firmly grasped by a fair and delicate hand. Then, with a crisp sound, the clear slap echoed, and Zoe's cheek stung with a fiery pain. She was stunned by Haley's action, covering her face in disbelief. "You hit me? How dare you hit me?" Haley's lips curled slightly as she pulled out a tissue from her shoulder bag and wiped her hands leisurely. After finishing, she said lightly, "Zoe, I just made a passing remark. Why feel so guilty? Besides, you were the one who struck first. You can't blame me for your slow reaction." "You!" Zoe gritted her teeth, her eyes almost bursting with suppressed anger. | Reading matter | 8 | https://facebook.com/61559156515503 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718002800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879658 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410701 | 1723321845 | 995 | 1191279425651029 | 1 | 1.1841458962763E+15 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 299026206627385 | 0 | Reading matter | 120209775879570390 | findokn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | β€οΈπWhat happens nextπClick Here to read onπ | https://findokn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11632&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717754696 | 2.9902620662738E+14 | Reading matter | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959833_690035193239071_8338086885496487765_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=QUFcGNRC398Q7kNvgFxAmgt&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCWbUkdH9z0_PV1OvwqycTOxeLawo5lW9bV27bjjkvCVg&oe=6672ACB9 | person_profile | 0 | Reading matter | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959769_1190715732374544_2758543800221804444_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=HMc1ybrp76sQ7kNvgGxl7Rn&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDTbtuCE2oc7epCLXYFTWIHnrtsOeIyXj12-3O0DMTsrQ&oe=6672C9A3 | 0 | 3 | "James, between me and Haley, who do you love more?" "Of course, it's you, my dear. Haven't my actions proven it enough? Hmm?" "But, I want to hear you say it yourself." "Darling, you are the woman I love the most. Relax, you're too tense..." The man's suppressed heavy breathing, mixed with the woman's seductive sounds, soon filled the hotel suite. Haley Carter stood outside the slightly ajar door, her blood almost freezing, unable to stop trembling from the piercing cold. An hour ago, someone sent her a video clip. In the video, her fiancΓ©, James Ford, was hot kissing her half-sister Xena Carter in the corridor of this hotel. She initially thought it was a prank, but she never expected that these two had long been involved with each other. She took a deep breath, trying to restrain the anger surging in her chest. Quietly, she took out her phone from her pocket and pushed the door open. The two on the bed were still immersed in their intense pleasure when suddenly they heard a cold voice, "What a splendid drama. Shall I applaud for you?" Both froze, turning their gaze towards the direction of the door. "Ah!" Xena screamed, panicked, and shrank into James's embrace. "Haley? What are you doing here?" James covered himself with a blanket, displeased. "Who let you come in?" Haley crossed her arms, looking at him mockingly. "If I didn't come, wouldn't I miss such a splendid scene?" "Haley, James and I truly love each other. Please, let us be together!" Xena's eyes reddened, tears glistening, portraying an innocent and pitiful look. James felt heartbroken, tightly holding her in his arms, and said in a deep voice, "Haley, if you have any issues, take them up with me. Xena is innocent!" Haley sneered, "Innocent? How dare you utter those words?" "That's enough! The one I love, from beginning to end, has only been Xena. If you had an ounce of self-awareness, you would go to Grandma and cancel our engagement!" What he liked was someone like Xena, gentle and submissive, yet uninhibited and open-minded in bed. But Haley was awkward and conservative, not even allowing a touch of hands, utterly boring! Being with Haley, he couldn't feel an ounce of joy! Haley's eyes narrowed, a dangerous and icy light flickering at the depths. "Cheating is cheating. Don't give yourselves excuses. If I were to release the video of you two in bed, would anyone still think you're innocent?" James and Xena's faces turned pale, roaring, "Haley, delete the video now!" "And if I say no?" Haley stepped back two paces, provocatively lifting her chin towards them. "James, if you don't like me, you could have straightforwardly called off the engagement. I'm not someone who can't live without you. Your current behavior disgusts me." If James had openly called off the engagement, maybe she would have respected him a bit more. But alas... "Haley, stop right there!" Watching Haley walk away, James burned with anger, instinctively wanting to chase after her. However, Xena held onto his waist tightly, crying with grievance. "James, what should we do? Haley must be mad at me. Perhaps from the beginning, I shouldn't have liked you, then I wouldn't have hurt her..." Hearing this, James's heart filled with guilt and pity, leaving him with no inclination to chase after Haley. He kissed Xena's forehead and whispered softly, "Xena, you're just too kind. If it weren't for her interference, maybe we would have been together long ago!" "James, you're so good to me..." Xena's lips curved slightly, her eyes fixed on the direction Haley disappeared, a trace of a triumphant smile flashing. Thinking of competing with her? Haley was still too naive! She believed it wouldn't be long before she snatched away the position of Mrs. Ford! β¦ As Haley left the hotel, it started to pour outside. Endless night enveloped her, with only occasional flashes of lightning and dim streetlights visible through the pouring rain. Standing in the rain, Haley was drenched from head to toe. The scenes of James and Xena's affair played over and over in her mind, making her feel nauseous. On top of not eating all day, her stomach was cramping painfully. She forced herself to walk to the roadside, but finally couldn't bear it anymore and slowly crouched down. The icy rain hit her snow-white skin, sending shivers down her spine. Her vision blurred, making it hard for her to distinguish reality from dreams. After who knows how long, the rain hitting her seemed to gradually stop. Haley slowly opened her eyes and noticed a shadow before her. She had a sense of it and slowly lifted her gaze. The first thing she saw was a pair of well-tailored trousers, wrapping around a pair of long, straight legs. Moving upwards, she saw a handsome face with a cold demeanor. The man's slightly furrowed brows, high nose bridge, and tightly pursed lips were striking. His deep eyes were lowered, shrouded in darkness, seemingly blending with the night. Haley stared at him in surprise, a hint of bewilderment in her eyes. "Mr. Ford? Why are you here?" The man before her was Shane Ford, the most influential member of the Ford family, the top-tier business family in Jasper City. He was also her former fiancΓ©'s uncle, James's uncle. He was the late child of Mr. Ford Sr. and inherited exceptional business acumen. Taking over the Ford Corporation in just a few years, its market value multiplied several times over. What was most feared about him was his ruthless methods and decisive personality. However, he always remained low-key and mysterious, seldom interacting with the younger generation like them. Haley had only crossed paths with him a few times at the Ford family gatherings and hardly ever exchanged words. This man exuded an aura of danger, and Haley usually avoided him whenever possible. Never did she expect to encounter him today, especially in her current disheveled state. "What could possibly make you disregard your own well-being like this?" The man's brow furrowed slightly, his deep, velvety voice sensual and captivating, as if it sent an electric current tingling through her ears, simultaneously soothing and arousing. There was also a subtle hint of concern mixed in. Haley suddenly snapped out of her daze, hastily trying to stand up. However, due to crouching on the ground for too long, her legs had gone numb. Her body swayed suddenly, uncontrollably tilting backward. Just when she thought she was about to fall awkwardly, a pair of warm and powerful hands suddenly wrapped around her waist. The next moment, she fell into a warm and broad chest. Anxiously, she grabbed onto the front of his shirt, afraid of falling. At this moment, the man's rich and husky voice sounded in her ear, tinged with a hint of mockery: "Are you taking advantage of me?" Chapter 2 As she realized the ambiguous position they were in, Haley's cheeks flushed red, and she quickly pulled away from the man's embrace. Feeling embarrassed, she murmured softly, "No, my legs are numb." "Hmm," Shane responded with a pleasant chuckle, though it wasn't clear if he believed her or not. His gentle and deep voice seemed to have a calming effect, causing Haley's heart to flutter slightly, feeling both tingly and itchy. She rubbed her ears curiously and asked, "Mr. Ford, what are you doing here?" Shane replied nonchalantly, "I just happened to pass by." And he happened to see a poor little creature standing in the rain by the roadside, helpless and pitiful like an abandoned cat. Haley nodded knowingly but didn't know what to say. She had just experienced betrayal and felt physically and emotionally drained, only wanting to find a quiet place to rest. Shane glanced at her and asked, "Do you want revenge?" "What?" Haley stared at him in confusion, not understanding his meaning. Shane seemed to understand her confusion and asked patiently, "James betrayed you. Are you planning to let him off the hook?" Haley's expression changed abruptly, becoming wary. "How do you know about this?" If Shane knew, did that mean other members of the Ford family knew too? If that were the case, then all the tough talk she had given in front of James and Xena would turn into a joke. Shane replied, "You came out of the hotel looking like this, isn't that already saying everything?" Haley was stunned for a moment, then suddenly realized. Realizing she had misunderstood him, she apologized, "Thank you, Mr. Ford, but I'll handle it myself." No gain without pain. Besides, Shane was also a member of the Ford family. How could he genuinely help her? Regardless, she didn't want to have any further involvement with James and his family. Shane chuckled lightly and answered calmly, "I'll help you, but it's conditional. You might want to hear the terms first." "What terms?" Haley asked. "I'm in need of a wife," he stated succinctly. Haley almost thought she was hearing things. It took her a while to find her voice again. "Mr. Ford, are you kidding me?" Was Shane really looking for a wife? If he wanted to, there would be a line of women eager to say yes. Could he be playing a prank on her? Shane responded, "Do I seem like I'm joking?" Haley shook her head. She had heard many rumors about Shane before. He was known for being decisive, keeping his distance from strangers, and avoiding romantic entanglements. Given his status and position, there was no need for him to waste time joking with her here. "Why then?" Haley asked. "The old lady at home is pressuring me to get married. I need someone to serve as a shield for me. If you agree, I can help you dissolve your engagement with James." Haley froze, looking at him in disbelief. Shane was holding the umbrella, shielding her from the rain that fell upon her. The dim light from the roadside lamp illuminated half of his face, while the other half remained hidden in the darkness, adding a mysterious air to him. This exceptional man was simply incomparable to James, that scoundrel! Yet, her rationality remained. She questioned in puzzlement, "Why me?" With Shane's power and his devastatingly handsome face, attracting any woman should have been a piece of cake for him. So why choose her? She never believed that good fortune would fall into her lap. Even if it did, it would never hit her. Shane explained, "Because I need someone who knows the ins and outs and can also achieve mutual interests with me. You fit my criteria." "But..." Just as Haley hesitated, Shane suddenly leaned down. His deep and enticing voice sounded in her ear. "Don't you want James to call you 'aunt'? Moreover, if you marry me, Xena will never set foot into the Ford family." Haley's eyes lit up instantly, unable to contain her excitement. If she married Shane, James would have to address her as his aunt. Just thinking about it felt satisfying! She stole a glance at Shane, a hint of pity flashing in her eyes. Rumor had it that Shane was already thirty years old and didn't even have a woman by his side. Either he liked men, or he had some hidden illness. Now it seemed that those rumors were probably true. No wonder he wanted to enter into a marriage agreement with her. After pondering for a moment, Haley asked in distress, "Mr. Ford, won't Mrs. Ford Sr. object to this?" After all, until the engagement with James was officially dissolved, Haley was still his fiancΓ©e. If she turned around and married Shane, who knows what kind of rumors might spread outside? Despite Haley's concerns, Shane remained calm and didn't even furrow his brows. "Don't worry, I'll handle it." With his assurance, Haley completely dispelled any lingering doubts and decisively agreed, "Okay, I agree!" "Then let's go." Shane's lips curled slightly as he lowered his gaze, concealing the subtle emotions within his eyes, before opening the backseat car door. He leaned his hand against the car roof, considerately protecting Haley's head. His actions were gentlemanly and caring, as if he were treating an intimate lover. Haley was startled by her own thoughts, her cheeks flushing slightly as she hurriedly got into the car. Although the heater was on inside the car, she couldn't help but shiver. She hugged her arms and leaned back in the seat, wishing she could curl up into a ball. Suddenly, a hand with distinct knuckles passed her a towel. Shane's voice remained steady, without any fluctuation. "Wipe yourself dry. Don't catch a cold." Haley thanked him quickly and took the towel, wiping her damp hair. The car fell into an eerie silence, with only the sound of her drying her hair breaking the quiet. The atmosphere was strangely unsettling. Feeling uneasy all over, Haley cleared her throat and pretended to be calm as she asked, "Are we going to the county clerk's office now?" Shane glanced at her, his expression profound. "We can, but are you sure you want to go like this?" Following his gaze, Haley lowered her eyes, only then realizing that she was completely soaked and looked disheveled. Her cheeks flushed with embarrassment, wishing she could find a hole to hide in. She had almost forgotten that because of the rain, she was drenched all over. Her white shirt was clinging tightly to her skin, and even the color of her bra was clearly visible. This appearance was indeed not suitable for getting married. And did she sound too eager just now, as if she were in a rush to marry him? Would he misunderstand? Haley cautiously glanced at him out of the corner of her eye, seeing his calm expression, finally breathed a silent sigh of relief. Shaneβs assistant, Dean, who was driving, couldn't help but sigh as he looked at the rearview mirror. His boss was too unusual, completely overturning his previous understanding. In fact, they had been waiting outside the hotel the whole afternoon. Originally, he had come with Shane for a business meeting, but before they even got out of the car, they saw James and Haley's step-sister, Xena, entering the hotel together. Shane immediately instructed him to anonymously message Haley to catch them in the act at the hotel. At first, he didn't quite understand why his boss wanted to scheme against his own nephew. But now, he finally understood. How could a nephew be more important than a wife! No wonder his boss always looked at Haley with a peculiar gaze before. Now, thinking back, everything made sense! His boss had long harbored feelings for Haley. No, it's more like deep affection for her! Chapter 3 While Dean was lost in thought, he suddenly felt a chill at the back of his neck. He turned his head and met Shane's cold, beast-like gaze. Shivering fiercely, he dared not wander in his thoughts anymore, focusing solely on driving. Fortunately, Shane only gave him a cold glance, warning him to drive properly, and quickly withdrew his gaze. After getting out of the car, Shane took Haley into his residence. He fetched a clean set of clothes from the closet and handed them to her. "Go take a hot shower first. There aren't any women's clothes here, so you can wear mine for now." "Okay," Haley's cheeks flushed slightly as she hurriedly took the clothes and entered the bathroom. She almost fled, too afraid to meet Shane's gaze and thus missed the fleeting smile in his eyes. Haley spent a long time in the bathroom, leaning against the wall, letting the shower water wash over her. Being betrayed by James and Xena was something she had never expected, and marrying Shane was even beyond her wildest imagination. She felt that something was amiss, but her mind was a jumble, unable to sort out her thoughts. Soon, steam filled the bathroom, reddening her fair, snow-like face. When she emerged from the bathroom, Shane was no longer in the bedroom. Descending the stairs, she found a tall figure bustling about in the kitchen. The man was tall, clad in a white shirt and neatly tailored trousers, exuding extraordinary charisma. His shirt sleeves were rolled up, revealing well-defined arms. He wore a dark blue apron that softened his cold and aloof demeanor, adding a touch of warmth. Haley's eyes flashed with surprise. Could it be that Shane, a business tycoon, also cooked for himself? What a gentle and domesticated man! He perfectly matched her criteria for a partner from head to toe! Suddenly, something crossed her mind, and Haley's admiring gaze turned into pity. She sighed silently in her heart. How could such an outstanding man have hidden ailments? What a pity! Hearing footsteps, Shane paused and slowly turned around. His gaze fell upon Haley, and his eyes darkened slightly. Her petite figure was enveloped by his white shirt, the hem barely covering her upper legs, revealing a glimpse of slender and fair legs, straight and well-proportioned. In the light, they seemed dazzling. Shane's eyes lingered on those pretty, slender legs for a moment, suddenly feeling a heat rise within him. He averted his gaze, his voice tightening slightly. "Go put on some pants." Haley lowered her eyes and realized that dressing like this in front of an adult man was indeed a bit ambiguous. Her cheeks flushed in response. She whispered, "Your pants are too big for me, I can't wear them." Shane's expression turned cold as he went upstairs without looking back. If Haley had observed carefully, she would have noticed that his steps were somewhat disordered. But her cheeks were already as red as ripe shrimp, and she had no mind to observe Shane. Not long after, Shane came downstairs with a black pair of trousers and a belt in hand. "Put these on," he instructed. Perhaps sensing his tone was a bit harsh, he added, "Be careful not to catch a cold." Haley took the pants and went to the bathroom to change. With the constraint of the belt, she managed to put on the pants, though they were long and baggy, appearing quite bulky. She had to roll up the cuffs. When she came out of the bathroom, she found Shane had already set a bowl of freshly made chicken noodle soup on the table. It was a comforting and savory bowl of soup, with tender noodles and garnished with freshly chopped parsley. Haley was so shocked that she couldn't speak. She never expected Shane to actually cook. Though it was just a simple bowl of noodles, coming from Shane, it felt somehow out of place. Seeing Shane heading to the kitchen to fetch utensils, she followed him voluntarily. "Mr. Ford, do you need any help?" Upon hearing the term "Mr. Ford," Shane's body stiffened, and a hint of coldness almost overflowed from his eyes. He lowered his gaze, forcing himself to restrain his emotions, and hoarsely replied, "No need, just sit down and wait. I'll handle it myself." Haley didn't insist further and obediently sat down at the table, waiting for the meal to begin. After experiencing so much this afternoon, she was indeed feeling a bit hungry. Shane handed her the fork and spoon, then sat down opposite her. 'Dig in, just be careful, it's hot.'" Haley immediately started eating, the fragrance of the noodles filling her taste buds. A warmth spread through her empty stomach. Perhaps even she hadn't noticed, but her wariness and guard against Shane were slowly diminishing. As she ate, she raised her thumb towards Shane. "It's delicious, Mr. Ford. I didn't expect you to be such a great cook!" The warm-toned light in the dining room shone on her, illuminating her delicate and fair cheeks, soft and beautiful. She lowered her gaze, her cheeks puffing up with each chew, her eyes squinting with happiness and contentment. She looked so obedient that it made him want to ruffle her hair. But he couldn't do that, or he might scare her away. A skilled hunter should possess patience above all else, and that was one thing he definitely had. His palm curled slightly, then he casually retracted it. Shane silently told himself that there was plenty of time ahead. Haley was immersed in her food, completely unaware that she had become the lamb to be eaten, enjoying her meal with extra satisfaction. Halfway through, she noticed there was a poached egg at the bottom of the bowl. She looked up at the man across from her, but saw him eating his noodles gracefully, his expression showing no sign of anything unusual. Haley silently watched him eat until he finished his bowl of noodles, but there was no sign of the poached egg. So, was it specially made for her? Haley's emotions suddenly became somewhat complicated. Previously, she always felt that Shane's gaze was too intense, so she always tried to avoid it whenever possible. Coupled with the rumors surrounding him in the outside world, she became even more afraid of him. But now, it seemed like he wasn't that scary after all, and he was even very attentive and meticulous. After finishing the meal, Shane got up to clean up the dishes. He glanced at a girl sitting in the chair, gently stroking her belly, her face filled with contentment, and a smile formed at the corner of his lips. Haley quickly stood up from her chair, feeling somewhat embarrassed. "Mr. Ford, let me do it, I know how to wash dishes." "No need, just leave it to me," Shane dodged her hand and walked straight to the kitchen. Watching him skillfully turn on the faucet and start washing the dishes, Haley touched her nose, feeling like she would just be a hindrance if she went, so she sat back down. Shane finished washing the dishes and came out of the kitchen, handing Haley a printed document. Curiously, Haley took it and saw several large words written on it, "Marriage Agreement, Party A: Shane, Party B: Haley..." She widened her eyes in surprise. "Mr. Ford, when did you write this?" Meeting Haley's clear and bright eyes, Shane cleared his throat lightly. "On the way back." Actually, when Haley went into the hotel to "catch the affair," his car was parked nearby, and that's when he started writing this marriage agreement. But these were things he absolutely couldn't say out loud. Chapter 4 Haley skimmed through the marriage agreement, falling into a moment of silence. Seeing her hesitation, Shane's heart inexplicably tightened, prompting him to ask, "Is there a problem?" Haley shook her head, incredulous. "Mr. Ford, are you sure you want to sign this agreement with me?" The agreement posed no issues; in fact, each clause within it was almost entirely in her favor. Marrying Shane not only granted her the status and position of Mrs. Ford but also secured a 3% stake in the Ford Corporation, along with real estate under Shane's name. In the event of a divorce, she would even be entitled to half of Shane's personal assets. The Ford Corporation was the largest multinational conglomerate in Jasper City, with investments in finance, real estate, hospitality, and various other industries, and its stock value was continuously rising. Compared to her third-rate wealthy family, whose combined assets couldn't even afford 1% of the Ford Corporation's shares, Haley would overnight become immensely wealthy through this marriage. Shane's expression remained calm and composed as he casually poured a dose of cold medicine from a bottle. "Hmm, go ahead and sign." He was certain he wouldn't divorce. As for money, it was merely a bunch of numbers to him. The purpose of making money was simply to accumulate assets for his wife. According to what he'd heard from his subordinates, after marriage, the husband was expected to hand over his salary and assets to his spouse. As for divorce... Well, that was out of the question for this lifetime. Having finally lured his little wife back home, there was no chance she would escape again. Haley gritted her teeth and swiftly signed her name on the agreement. Regardless of how long this marriage lasted, she was guaranteed to benefit! Watching as Haley signed her name in the bottom right corner, Shane smirked in satisfaction. He took the marriage agreement and handed over the cold medicine he had prepared. "Drink this medicine. You got caught in the rain, be careful not to catch a cold." "Thank you, Mr. Ford," Haley said, flashing a sweet smile as she took the cup. The bitter taste of the cold medicine hit her senses as she took a sip. Pinching her nose, she gulped down the medicine in one breath. Shane lowered his gaze, suppressing the curve of his lips from turning upwards, and spoke slowly, "It's getting late. You should rest early." Haley suddenly froze. Tonight... was she going to sleep with Shane? The thought sent her heart racing. "Mr. Ford, could you maybe spare a separate room for me?" Shane raised an eyebrow. "Hmm? Are you worried I might do something to you?" "Of course not!" Haley denied without thinking. She just wasn't accustomed to sleeping with strangers. To her, Shane had always been her elder, her fiancΓ©'s uncle. Shane's dark eyes bore into her, emitting a chilling aura. "There's no clause in our agreement about separate rooms." Haley was at a loss for words. Indeed, there wasn't such a clause in the agreement. She suddenly regretted signing the marriage agreement. Shane was too mysterious, too dangerous. Collaborating with him was like dancing with a tiger. Seeing Haley's hesitation, Shane sighed softly. "If you're uncomfortable sleeping together, I can give you time to adjust. But as a married couple, we are supposed to spend our lives together." The words "spend our lives together" were spoken with particular seriousness. Haley blushed and lowered her head, too embarrassed to meet Shane's gaze. After a long silence, she gritted her teeth and said, "It's fine. I can adapt!" Since she had signed the contract, she had to honor it. It was just sharing a bed, and it wasn't like she was losing out! Haley was led into Shane's bedroom in a daze. When she came in to take a shower before dinner, she rushed into the bathroom in a panic. Now, with a quiet mind, she began to size up the bedroom. Was this really a place where people lived? It felt too deserted. The large bedroom was decorated mainly in black and white, simple yet understated. There was barely any furniture in the room. Despite being the master bedroom, it felt excessively vacant, devoid of any warmth or homely atmosphere. Instead of feeling like a home, it resembled more of a temporary lodging. Haley cast a complicated glance at Shane, unable to imagine how he could live in such a cold environment. Shane cleared his throat uneasily. "Just make do for tonight. If there's anything you need, we can buy it tomorrow." "Okay." "I still have work to do. You go ahead and sleep." "Okay!" Her tone was noticeably more eager than before, almost as if she couldn't wait for him to leave. Shane gave her a deep look. "You're really eager for me to leave, aren't you?" Meeting his probing gaze, Haley chuckled awkwardly and waved at him. "Goodnight, Mr. Ford." "Hmm." Shane turned and left the bedroom. As the door closed behind him, the slight tension in his lips, which had been held back, relaxed ever so slightly, forming a faint curve. His gaze lingered on the closed door, and he lowered his voice. "Goodnight." In the room, Haley lay on the soft bed, her tense nerves slowly relaxing, sighing in comfort. The bedding seemed to carry the scent of pine from Shane, refreshing and pleasant. She had thought she would have trouble sleeping in a strange bed, but she fell asleep as soon as her head hit the pillow. After finishing his video conference, Shane realized it was already past two in the morning. He closed his laptop and headed towards the bedroom. In the dark night, the bedroom door opened silently, and the tall figure of a man slowly approached the bed, gazing at the person already fast asleep. The moonlight streamed through the window, casting a gentle glow on the girl's delicate and fair face. Before lying down beside her, Shane reached out his hand, his rough fingertips gently stroking her cheek. Haley didn't sleep well that night, instinctively sensing the approach of danger in her dreams. It was as if she was being stalked by a wild beast in the jungle, sending shivers down her spine. When she woke up, she found her back and forehead drenched in sweat. Looking around the unfamiliar room, it took her a few seconds to remember what had happened the day before. At that moment, there was a knock on the door, followed by a respectful and steady male voice from outside. "Madam, are you awake? I'm Bob Moore, the butler of Violet Grove." "Yes, give me a moment." Haley quickly got out of bed to answer the door. Despite looking a bit disheveled from just waking up, it didn't diminish her beauty in the slightest. Her fair cheeks were smooth and radiant, while her eyes, clear and bright, held a hint of sleepiness, adding a touch of innocence. A glint of admiration flashed in the butler's eyes, nodding with satisfaction. Finally, Mr. Ford's wish had been fulfilled. Mr. Ford always achieved what he wanted, without fail. Although the methods were somewhat less than honorable and might tarnish the Ford family's reputation if exposed, those were minor issues. Mr. Ford's reputation outside wasn't great to begin with, so a little more damage wouldn't matter. He smiled and said, "Madam, breakfast is ready. Would you like to have some?" As he assessed Haley, she was also studying him. He appeared to be in his forties, dressed sharply in a suit, meticulously groomed, with a perfectly poised smile on his lips, courteous yet distant. "Okay." Haley smiled and quickly freshened up before heading downstairs. As she sat down at the dining table, she noticed that Shane wasn't there, which piqued her curiosity. The butler noticed her puzzlement and explained, "Mr. Ford had a meeting this morning. He left for the office about an hour ago." "Ah, I see," Haley nodded, indicating that she understood. She ate her breakfast quietly, feeling relieved inside. Even though they were married by agreement, she still felt strangely nervous at the thought of Shane. Perhaps it was because of his overpowering presence that made people hesitate to approach him easily. Chapter 5 The household staff huddled together, gossiping quietly. And the subject of their gossip was none other than Haley. Early in the morning, the butler informed them that there would be a new lady of the house from now on, and instructed them to take care accordingly. Everyone was shocked, unable to believe that the usually aloof Shane had actually brought a woman home. Before Haley descended the stairs, everyone speculated about her identity. They all wanted to know what kind of woman could match Shane, this high and mighty figure. When they finally laid eyes on Haley's face, they were all thoroughly amazed. Haley's features were delicate, her skin as fair as snow, her almond-shaped eyes bright and clear, yet exuding an inexplicable allure. She was even more beautiful than the actresses on TV! What surprised them the most was that Haley was wearing Shane's shirt. Shane was known throughout the entire villa for his slight obsession with cleanliness. Nobody was allowed to touch his belongings. Being able to wear Shane's shirt indicated a relationship that was definitely out of the ordinary. "This is the first time Mr. Ford has brought a woman home. It's really unheard of!" "She's so beautiful, no wonder Mr. Ford made an exception for her." "Mr. Ford isn't getting any younger. It's time for him to have a wife." ... Just as everyone was discussing, someone suddenly spoke up: "Wife? Do you even know who this woman is? She's James's fiancΓ©e!" Everyone turned to look at the person who spoke. Her name was Lily Frank and everyone called her Lily. She had been working at the family estate before Shane moved in and took several household staff with him. Lily was one of them. "What? James's fiancΓ©e?" Lily glanced disdainfully in the direction of the dining room and said, "Sheβs just a seductive vixen. If James isn't into her, she goes after Mr. Ford!" She had seen Haley at the family estate before and naturally knew about the engagement between James and Haley. Flirting around without calling off the engagement, what else could she be but a seductress? She couldn't stand such women, with their pretty faces, seducing others everywhere. Who knew what spell she cast on Mr. Ford to bring her home? If this were to get out, the Ford family's reputation would surely be tarnished, wouldn't it? Lily's words piqued everyone's curiosity, and they gathered around to ask what she knew. Just then, a furious roar came from behind, "What are you all gathering here for? Are all the chores done?" Seeing the butler approaching with a stern face, the household staff couldn't help but cower and quickly dispersed. They had a natural fear of the butler. Although he was always polite and maintained a courteous smile, he still gave off an oppressive aura. Every interaction with him left them breathless. As the butler approached, his gaze swept over all the household staff, and he warned, "Let me reiterate, Madam is the lady of the house here. If I hear any gossip from your mouths again, pack your bags and leave. Do you understand?" "Yes, understood!" The household staff nodded hastily. Satisfied, the butler withdrew his gaze and looked at Lily. "Repeat what you just said in front of me." Lily was startled and immediately lowered her head further. "I didn't say anything! Bob, please forgive me. I just spoke without thinking." The butler sneered, "Come see me later and settle this month's wages." Lily panicked, "Bob, you can't treat me like this! I was personally chosen by Mrs. Ford Sr.!" The butler glanced at her indifferently. "I will personally report this to Mrs. Ford Sr. and I believe she will decide who is more important, the daughter-in-law or the household staff." With that, he left without looking back. Lily's legs went weak, and she fell to the ground, her face turning pale with fright. It's over, it's all over now! The other household staff were also stunned. Lily had followed from the family estate and had been working here for several years, yet she was dismissed so easily. Wouldn't their fate be even worse? After this incident, almost all the household staff remembered one thing: never disrespect Haley. In the dining room, Haley was completely unaware of this, enjoying her breakfast. The chefs hired by the Ford family were top-notch, and the breakfast they made was delicious. Haley ate contentedly, her mood becoming very pleasant. Just then, her phone on the side suddenly rang. Haley's brows furrowed slightly as she glanced at the caller ID. It was her father, Joe Carter, calling. Without much thought, she knew it must be her dear younger sister tattling on her again. As she answered, she was greeted with a burst of anger, "Haley, you've grown some guts, actually daring to stay out all night and making your sister cry. Get back here right now!" Coldness flashed in Haley's eyes as she retorted without hesitation, "Isn't this what I learned from you? My staying out all night is all thanks to your exemplary teachings." When her mother was still alive, Joe often used the excuse of being too busy with work to come home. In the past, she naively believed it, striving to be an obedient and sensible child, afraid of causing trouble for Joe. But what was the result? Less than a month after her mother's death, he shamelessly brought his mistress and illegitimate daughter into the house. It wasn't until then that she realized, the so-called work was just an excuse. In reality, he had long been with another family. Joe gave all the paternal love she yearned for to another daughter. As for her and her mother, they meant nothing to him. It was truly remarkable how he managed to navigate between two families for over a decade without being caught. Not acknowledging him as a time management master was really unfair considering all his years of hard work. Chapter 6 "Haley, you dare say that again! Have I raised you all these years just so you could argue with me? How did I end up with such a troublemaker like you?" Joe was about to explode with anger, barely believing these words were coming from Haley's mouth. Haley took her phone away without expression, rubbed her ears, and said, "If you're so eager to hear it, why don't you just record it? Play it every night before bed." She behaved obediently in front of Shane out of instinctive fear. As for others, even her biological father, she could argue with them without hesitation. In the past, she used to feel hurt and upset because of Joe's scolding, but after her mother's death, she came to terms with it. She realized that one should never have expected what didn't belong to them, or you would only end up hurting yourself. So when she found out about James's betrayal, she didn't feel too sad. Instead, she felt relieved. At least they weren't married yet, and there was still a chance to salvage everything. Joe's angry scolding kept coming through the earpiece, and she impatiently said, "Got it," before hanging up the phone. She did need to go back; she hadn't settled the score with Xena yet, and this matter wasn't over. She elegantly wiped the corners of her mouth, got up, and met the bewildered gaze of the butler. Haley coughed lightly, smiled at the butler, nodded, and quickly went upstairs. She wasn't afraid of being misunderstood; she just felt a little awkward. Although she and Shane had an agreement to get married, having lived in the aristocratic circle for more than twenty years, she knew that the wealthier the family, the more they valued their reputation. Since she intended to use Shane to get back at James and Xena, she had to play the role of Mrs. Ford well. The butler watched her departing figure with mixed feelings. He never expected that this seemingly obedient and gentle girl would have such a tough side. However, thinking about the rumors surrounding the Carter family, the butler couldn't help but feel sorry for Haley. Joe was originally a poor boy with nothing. Later on, he married Yvonne Ramsey, Haley's mother, and with her help, they started a company. Yvonne was a woman with a keen business acumen, and within a few years, she had managed the company exceptionally well. The brand 'JY' even penetrated the international market, expanding from a clothing brand to various sectors including finance, real estate, and more. At its peak, the Carter family even entered the upper-class circles. However, later on, Yvonne got cancer and faced Joe's betrayal, gradually becoming weaker and having no time or energy to manage the company anymore. Joe took the opportunity to intervene in the company, and even inserted many of his own people, intending to take over the company. What's more, less than a month after Yvonne's death, Joe actually brought his mistress and illegitimate daughter home. Haley's position in the Carter family became awkward. Later, rumors in the circle often circulated about Haley's fiancΓ©, James, having ambiguous relationships with Xena, his illegitimate daughter. Everyone was waiting for Haley to be dumped, eager to witness her downfall. She was indeed a pitiable child. Fortunately, with her husband's protection in the future, everything would only get better. ** Haley changed into the clothes she washed and dried the night before, greeted the butler and prepared to go out. The butler kindly asked, "Madam, would you like the driver to take you? It's not very convenient to get a taxi around here." This area was surrounded by a large villa district, where there were usually dedicated drivers, and it was rare to take a taxi. Moreover, the security system here was very high-level, and if one couldn't prove their identity, the security guards wouldn't let them in. Haley thought for a moment and nodded. "Okay." The butler immediately selected a low-key yet luxurious car from the garage and instructed the driver to safely escort Haley. Upon arriving at the Carter family, Haley got out of the car and took a deep breath. If it weren't for something she had to take with her from home, she wouldn't set foot here again. This place was never her home, and Joe had never considered her his daughter. She could even foresee how much scolding and rebuking she would endure once she entered. Sure enough, as soon as she stepped into the Carter family's living room, something was suddenly thrown out from inside. Her pupils contracted, instinctively she dodged to the side. A delicate and pretty glass flew past her and landed not far behind her with a loud shattering sound, almost piercing Haley's eardrums. If Haley had been a little slower to dodge, she would probably have been hit severely. Joe was still furious, putting all his strength into it. If the glass landed on Haley, it would definitely leave a severe injury. Haley stood stunned for several seconds before coming to her senses, and as she turned her head, she met Joe's angry gaze. "You have the nerve to come back? How did I raise such a wicked daughter? You even have the audacity to bully your own sister!" He seemed still enraged, his entire face as dark as coal, and his voice carried an uncontrollable anger. Accompanying his roar was a sob filled with grievances. Haley looked over and saw her stepmother, Zoe Lewis, and stepsister, Xena, sitting on the sofa, huddled together in tears. Their appearance seemed to suggest they had suffered a great injustice. Chapter 7 Zoe wiped her tears as she lamented, "Haley, I know you've never liked me as your stepmother, but Xena is innocent. How could you be so heartless?" "Did she tell you I bullied her?" Haley suddenly chuckled, though the smile didn't reach her eyes; instead, they were icy cold. Meeting Haley's gaze, Xena suddenly shivered, her eyes flickering with guilt. But when she remembered James's assurance from last night, promising to break off the engagement with Haley, her sense of guilt completely vanished. James loved her. It was Haley's own fault for not being able to win a man's affection. Haley couldnβt blame her! Seeing her brazen demeanor, Joe grew angry. "Who else but you? Xena is gentle and kind, unlike you, who is jealous and malicious." Haley seemed to find the situation ludicrous and actually laughed. She looked at Xena coldly. "Gentle and kind? Indeed, very kind, to take care of my fiancΓ© in her bed." She didn't bother arguing further with them, instead pulling out her phone and playing a recording. The sultry sounds of a woman mingled with the heavy breaths of a man emanated from the speaker. Joe stood dumbfounded, his whole being frozen in shock. The voices in the video were all too familiar to him. One was his beloved daughter, Xena, and the other was Haley's fiancΓ©, James. He had always believed the rumors were false because he firmly believed that the gentle and kind Xena would never try to steal her sister's man. However, he couldn't deny the truth. He looked at Xena, hoping for her to deny it, but all he saw was her guilty expression as she lowered her head. Now, what was there left for him to misunderstand? He trembled with anger, clutching at his slightly stinging chest, and sternly questioned Xena, "Is this true? Did you really do such a thing?" Xena's face turned pale, she shook her head frantically, and grabbed Joe's sleeve, acting coquettishly, "Dad, listen to me explain. Things aren't like that." Joe's face turned livid, displeased as he said, "But he's your sister's fiancΓ©. Why would you do something like this?" Why? Of course, it was to completely ruin Haley! As long as that old woman from the Ford family was still alive, James wouldn't successfully break off the engagement. Xena absolutely wouldn't allow Haley to marry into the top-tier Ford family and become the esteemed Mrs. Ford while she was forever burdened with the title of the illegitimate daughter! So, she didn't hesitate to seduce James at any cost, behaving lovingly towards him while in the presence of Haley, all to make her realize the reality and voluntarily break off the engagement. Although she was now caught red-handed by Haley, she didn't regret it at all. As long as she could trample Haley underfoot, she was willing to pay any price. From childhood to adulthood, Haley overshadowed her in every aspect. Whether it was in terms of background, appearance, academics, or social connections, wherever Haley was, her radiance would always be completely overshadowed. She refused to accept it! Xena's eyes were full of resentment, like a venomous snake hiding in the grass, spitting poison at its prey. Sinister and dangerous. She stood up and rushed over to snatch Haley's phone. "Haley, turn off the recording for me! James and I are truly in love. If you're sensible, you should take the initiative to step back. It's better for everyone!" Haley quickly stepped back two steps, avoiding her hand. Hearing her words, she couldn't help but sneer. "If you're a third wheel, you're a third wheel. Why bother with all the excuses?" Regardless of whom James truly loved, nominally, she was the only fiancΓ©e. James knew very well that she despised betrayal because of her mother, yet he still got involved with Xena, which was even more nauseating. Upon hearing this, Zoe exploded, as if her deepest pain had been pricked. "Who are you calling a third wheel?" She gritted her teeth and raised her arm to slap Haley. But her hand fell in midair, firmly grasped by a fair and delicate hand. Then, with a crisp sound, the clear slap echoed, and Zoe's cheek stung with a fiery pain. She was stunned by Haley's action, covering her face in disbelief. "You hit me? How dare you hit me?" Haley's lips curled slightly as she pulled out a tissue from her shoulder bag and wiped her hands leisurely. After finishing, she said lightly, "Zoe, I just made a passing remark. Why feel so guilty? Besides, you were the one who struck first. You can't blame me for your slow reaction." "You!" Zoe gritted her teeth, her eyes almost bursting with suppressed anger. | Reading matter | 8 | https://facebook.com/61559156515503 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718002800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879659 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410701 | 1723321846 | 995 | 459835549897918 | 1 | 8.1371474369554E+14 | 1717398000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 144939265372419 | 0 | Indulge in story | 120212123041180002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πRead the next chaptersπ | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717156295 | 1.4493926537242E+14 | Indulge in story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447188158_427615253376044_1467412671752920547_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=jzL6Oa7-ii0Q7kNvgGCyckJ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYC2sJ_M5ES4pqvFdNz-SKj_5tvqa9Ru1TPF1lbMSI84qg&oe=6672BB43 | person_profile | 0 | Indulge in story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447187806_1591240261718800_9124110637169545735_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=D2ubYjH7fCAQ7kNvgHRaYDl&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAQa0MxUi0kNJhNxJS1vo1Zf69FgLlTpfw8zOhSYMbNdw&oe=6672A518 | 0 | 3 | My crush actually flipped the table and humiliated me in front of our whole family! During dinner, everyone was engaged in an enthusiastic discussion about my wedding to Felix. I've known Felix since we were born. I liked himβa lot, and he's always been nice and gentle to me. So I was stunned when he suddenly erupted. He shot to his feet and glared at me, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around, but I can't say or do anything about it! Stay away from me! Stop following me around!β In that instant, the room turned dead silent. I could feel the blood rush to my head, making my face flush and my ears ring. I have never seen Felix like this. His words were no different from a stinging slap in my face, and he had done it right in front of everyone. Tears welled up in my eyes, and it felt as if my breath had caught in my throat, making it hard for me to breathe. "Felix, I..." But he wasn't done yet. "If it weren't for you shamelessly pestering me all the time, they wouldn't try to pair us up!" I forced myself to suppress the hurt I felt and tried to reason with him. "Felix, listen to me. I just likeβ" "Don't call me that. I hate it when you call my name. Keep your feelings to yourself and leave me be. I don't need your affection. "In fact, they're nothing more than shackles to me. I don't want to be associated with you in any wayβnot ever," Felix interrupted. His words were venomous, and his eyes were filled with a cold hatred that made me shiver. It was like he was looking at a piece of trash. My heart ached, and I found myself gasping for breath. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet in the end, it was all my fault? My eyes were filled with tears, but I bit my lip hard to prevent my tears from falling. I didn't do anything wrong, so I couldn't allow myself to cry. He shouldn't have allowed me to get caught up in my presumptuous thoughts and feelings about our relationship, only to accuse me of shamelessly clinging to him. I was not shameless. I just loved him. If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I swore I would make him regret it! | Indulge in story | 598 | https://facebook.com/61552702618591 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717225200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879660 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410701 | 1723321846 | 995 | 459835549897918 | 1 | 8.1371474369554E+14 | 1717398000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 144939265372419 | 0 | Indulge in story | 120212123041180002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πRead the next chaptersπ | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717156295 | 1.4493926537242E+14 | Indulge in story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447188158_427615253376044_1467412671752920547_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=jzL6Oa7-ii0Q7kNvgGCyckJ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYC2sJ_M5ES4pqvFdNz-SKj_5tvqa9Ru1TPF1lbMSI84qg&oe=6672BB43 | person_profile | 0 | Indulge in story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447187806_1591240261718800_9124110637169545735_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=D2ubYjH7fCAQ7kNvgHRaYDl&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAQa0MxUi0kNJhNxJS1vo1Zf69FgLlTpfw8zOhSYMbNdw&oe=6672A518 | 0 | 3 | My crush actually flipped the table and humiliated me in front of our whole family! During dinner, everyone was engaged in an enthusiastic discussion about my wedding to Felix. I've known Felix since we were born. I liked himβa lot, and he's always been nice and gentle to me. So I was stunned when he suddenly erupted. He shot to his feet and glared at me, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around, but I can't say or do anything about it! Stay away from me! Stop following me around!β In that instant, the room turned dead silent. I could feel the blood rush to my head, making my face flush and my ears ring. I have never seen Felix like this. His words were no different from a stinging slap in my face, and he had done it right in front of everyone. Tears welled up in my eyes, and it felt as if my breath had caught in my throat, making it hard for me to breathe. "Felix, I..." But he wasn't done yet. "If it weren't for you shamelessly pestering me all the time, they wouldn't try to pair us up!" I forced myself to suppress the hurt I felt and tried to reason with him. "Felix, listen to me. I just likeβ" "Don't call me that. I hate it when you call my name. Keep your feelings to yourself and leave me be. I don't need your affection. "In fact, they're nothing more than shackles to me. I don't want to be associated with you in any wayβnot ever," Felix interrupted. His words were venomous, and his eyes were filled with a cold hatred that made me shiver. It was like he was looking at a piece of trash. My heart ached, and I found myself gasping for breath. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet in the end, it was all my fault? My eyes were filled with tears, but I bit my lip hard to prevent my tears from falling. I didn't do anything wrong, so I couldn't allow myself to cry. He shouldn't have allowed me to get caught up in my presumptuous thoughts and feelings about our relationship, only to accuse me of shamelessly clinging to him. I was not shameless. I just loved him. If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I swore I would make him regret it! | Indulge in story | 598 | https://facebook.com/61552702618591 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717225200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879661 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410701 | 1723321846 | 995 | 459835549897918 | 1 | 8.1371474369554E+14 | 1717398000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 144939265372419 | 0 | Indulge in story | 120212123041180002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πRead the next chaptersπ | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717156295 | 1.4493926537242E+14 | Indulge in story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447188158_427615253376044_1467412671752920547_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=jzL6Oa7-ii0Q7kNvgGCyckJ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYC2sJ_M5ES4pqvFdNz-SKj_5tvqa9Ru1TPF1lbMSI84qg&oe=6672BB43 | person_profile | 0 | Indulge in story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447187806_1591240261718800_9124110637169545735_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=D2ubYjH7fCAQ7kNvgHRaYDl&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAQa0MxUi0kNJhNxJS1vo1Zf69FgLlTpfw8zOhSYMbNdw&oe=6672A518 | 0 | 3 | My crush actually flipped the table and humiliated me in front of our whole family! During dinner, everyone was engaged in an enthusiastic discussion about my wedding to Felix. I've known Felix since we were born. I liked himβa lot, and he's always been nice and gentle to me. So I was stunned when he suddenly erupted. He shot to his feet and glared at me, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around, but I can't say or do anything about it! Stay away from me! Stop following me around!β In that instant, the room turned dead silent. I could feel the blood rush to my head, making my face flush and my ears ring. I have never seen Felix like this. His words were no different from a stinging slap in my face, and he had done it right in front of everyone. Tears welled up in my eyes, and it felt as if my breath had caught in my throat, making it hard for me to breathe. "Felix, I..." But he wasn't done yet. "If it weren't for you shamelessly pestering me all the time, they wouldn't try to pair us up!" I forced myself to suppress the hurt I felt and tried to reason with him. "Felix, listen to me. I just likeβ" "Don't call me that. I hate it when you call my name. Keep your feelings to yourself and leave me be. I don't need your affection. "In fact, they're nothing more than shackles to me. I don't want to be associated with you in any wayβnot ever," Felix interrupted. His words were venomous, and his eyes were filled with a cold hatred that made me shiver. It was like he was looking at a piece of trash. My heart ached, and I found myself gasping for breath. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet in the end, it was all my fault? My eyes were filled with tears, but I bit my lip hard to prevent my tears from falling. I didn't do anything wrong, so I couldn't allow myself to cry. He shouldn't have allowed me to get caught up in my presumptuous thoughts and feelings about our relationship, only to accuse me of shamelessly clinging to him. I was not shameless. I just loved him. If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I swore I would make him regret it! | Indulge in story | 598 | https://facebook.com/61552702618591 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717225200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879662 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410701 | 1723321846 | 995 | 459835549897918 | 1 | 8.1371474369554E+14 | 1717398000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 144939265372419 | 0 | Indulge in story | 120212123041180002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πRead the next chaptersπ | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717156295 | 1.4493926537242E+14 | Indulge in story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447188158_427615253376044_1467412671752920547_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=jzL6Oa7-ii0Q7kNvgGCyckJ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYC2sJ_M5ES4pqvFdNz-SKj_5tvqa9Ru1TPF1lbMSI84qg&oe=6672BB43 | person_profile | 0 | Indulge in story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447187806_1591240261718800_9124110637169545735_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=D2ubYjH7fCAQ7kNvgHRaYDl&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAQa0MxUi0kNJhNxJS1vo1Zf69FgLlTpfw8zOhSYMbNdw&oe=6672A518 | 0 | 3 | My crush actually flipped the table and humiliated me in front of our whole family! During dinner, everyone was engaged in an enthusiastic discussion about my wedding to Felix. I've known Felix since we were born. I liked himβa lot, and he's always been nice and gentle to me. So I was stunned when he suddenly erupted. He shot to his feet and glared at me, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around, but I can't say or do anything about it! Stay away from me! Stop following me around!β In that instant, the room turned dead silent. I could feel the blood rush to my head, making my face flush and my ears ring. I have never seen Felix like this. His words were no different from a stinging slap in my face, and he had done it right in front of everyone. Tears welled up in my eyes, and it felt as if my breath had caught in my throat, making it hard for me to breathe. "Felix, I..." But he wasn't done yet. "If it weren't for you shamelessly pestering me all the time, they wouldn't try to pair us up!" I forced myself to suppress the hurt I felt and tried to reason with him. "Felix, listen to me. I just likeβ" "Don't call me that. I hate it when you call my name. Keep your feelings to yourself and leave me be. I don't need your affection. "In fact, they're nothing more than shackles to me. I don't want to be associated with you in any wayβnot ever," Felix interrupted. His words were venomous, and his eyes were filled with a cold hatred that made me shiver. It was like he was looking at a piece of trash. My heart ached, and I found myself gasping for breath. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet in the end, it was all my fault? My eyes were filled with tears, but I bit my lip hard to prevent my tears from falling. I didn't do anything wrong, so I couldn't allow myself to cry. He shouldn't have allowed me to get caught up in my presumptuous thoughts and feelings about our relationship, only to accuse me of shamelessly clinging to him. I was not shameless. I just loved him. If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I swore I would make him regret it! | Indulge in story | 598 | https://facebook.com/61552702618591 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717225200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879663 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410701 | 1723321847 | 995 | 459835549897918 | 1 | 8.1371474369554E+14 | 1717398000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 144939265372419 | 0 | Indulge in story | 120212123041180002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πRead the next chaptersπ | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717156295 | 1.4493926537242E+14 | Indulge in story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447188158_427615253376044_1467412671752920547_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=jzL6Oa7-ii0Q7kNvgGCyckJ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYC2sJ_M5ES4pqvFdNz-SKj_5tvqa9Ru1TPF1lbMSI84qg&oe=6672BB43 | person_profile | 0 | Indulge in story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447187806_1591240261718800_9124110637169545735_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=D2ubYjH7fCAQ7kNvgHRaYDl&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAQa0MxUi0kNJhNxJS1vo1Zf69FgLlTpfw8zOhSYMbNdw&oe=6672A518 | 0 | 3 | My crush actually flipped the table and humiliated me in front of our whole family! During dinner, everyone was engaged in an enthusiastic discussion about my wedding to Felix. I've known Felix since we were born. I liked himβa lot, and he's always been nice and gentle to me. So I was stunned when he suddenly erupted. He shot to his feet and glared at me, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around, but I can't say or do anything about it! Stay away from me! Stop following me around!β In that instant, the room turned dead silent. I could feel the blood rush to my head, making my face flush and my ears ring. I have never seen Felix like this. His words were no different from a stinging slap in my face, and he had done it right in front of everyone. Tears welled up in my eyes, and it felt as if my breath had caught in my throat, making it hard for me to breathe. "Felix, I..." But he wasn't done yet. "If it weren't for you shamelessly pestering me all the time, they wouldn't try to pair us up!" I forced myself to suppress the hurt I felt and tried to reason with him. "Felix, listen to me. I just likeβ" "Don't call me that. I hate it when you call my name. Keep your feelings to yourself and leave me be. I don't need your affection. "In fact, they're nothing more than shackles to me. I don't want to be associated with you in any wayβnot ever," Felix interrupted. His words were venomous, and his eyes were filled with a cold hatred that made me shiver. It was like he was looking at a piece of trash. My heart ached, and I found myself gasping for breath. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet in the end, it was all my fault? My eyes were filled with tears, but I bit my lip hard to prevent my tears from falling. I didn't do anything wrong, so I couldn't allow myself to cry. He shouldn't have allowed me to get caught up in my presumptuous thoughts and feelings about our relationship, only to accuse me of shamelessly clinging to him. I was not shameless. I just loved him. If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I swore I would make him regret it! | Indulge in story | 598 | https://facebook.com/61552702618591 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717225200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879664 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410701 | 1723321847 | 995 | 459835549897918 | 1 | 8.1371474369554E+14 | 1717398000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 144939265372419 | 0 | Indulge in story | 120212123041180002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πRead the next chaptersπ | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717156295 | 1.4493926537242E+14 | Indulge in story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447188158_427615253376044_1467412671752920547_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=jzL6Oa7-ii0Q7kNvgGCyckJ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYC2sJ_M5ES4pqvFdNz-SKj_5tvqa9Ru1TPF1lbMSI84qg&oe=6672BB43 | person_profile | 0 | Indulge in story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447187806_1591240261718800_9124110637169545735_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=D2ubYjH7fCAQ7kNvgHRaYDl&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAQa0MxUi0kNJhNxJS1vo1Zf69FgLlTpfw8zOhSYMbNdw&oe=6672A518 | 0 | 3 | My crush actually flipped the table and humiliated me in front of our whole family! During dinner, everyone was engaged in an enthusiastic discussion about my wedding to Felix. I've known Felix since we were born. I liked himβa lot, and he's always been nice and gentle to me. So I was stunned when he suddenly erupted. He shot to his feet and glared at me, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around, but I can't say or do anything about it! Stay away from me! Stop following me around!β In that instant, the room turned dead silent. I could feel the blood rush to my head, making my face flush and my ears ring. I have never seen Felix like this. His words were no different from a stinging slap in my face, and he had done it right in front of everyone. Tears welled up in my eyes, and it felt as if my breath had caught in my throat, making it hard for me to breathe. "Felix, I..." But he wasn't done yet. "If it weren't for you shamelessly pestering me all the time, they wouldn't try to pair us up!" I forced myself to suppress the hurt I felt and tried to reason with him. "Felix, listen to me. I just likeβ" "Don't call me that. I hate it when you call my name. Keep your feelings to yourself and leave me be. I don't need your affection. "In fact, they're nothing more than shackles to me. I don't want to be associated with you in any wayβnot ever," Felix interrupted. His words were venomous, and his eyes were filled with a cold hatred that made me shiver. It was like he was looking at a piece of trash. My heart ached, and I found myself gasping for breath. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet in the end, it was all my fault? My eyes were filled with tears, but I bit my lip hard to prevent my tears from falling. I didn't do anything wrong, so I couldn't allow myself to cry. He shouldn't have allowed me to get caught up in my presumptuous thoughts and feelings about our relationship, only to accuse me of shamelessly clinging to him. I was not shameless. I just loved him. If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I swore I would make him regret it! | Indulge in story | 598 | https://facebook.com/61552702618591 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717225200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879665 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410701 | 1723321847 | 995 | 459835549897918 | 1 | 8.1371474369554E+14 | 1717398000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 144939265372419 | 0 | Indulge in story | 120212123041180002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πRead the next chaptersπ | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717156295 | 1.4493926537242E+14 | Indulge in story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447188158_427615253376044_1467412671752920547_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=jzL6Oa7-ii0Q7kNvgGCyckJ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYC2sJ_M5ES4pqvFdNz-SKj_5tvqa9Ru1TPF1lbMSI84qg&oe=6672BB43 | person_profile | 0 | Indulge in story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447187806_1591240261718800_9124110637169545735_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=D2ubYjH7fCAQ7kNvgHRaYDl&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAQa0MxUi0kNJhNxJS1vo1Zf69FgLlTpfw8zOhSYMbNdw&oe=6672A518 | 0 | 3 | My crush actually flipped the table and humiliated me in front of our whole family! During dinner, everyone was engaged in an enthusiastic discussion about my wedding to Felix. I've known Felix since we were born. I liked himβa lot, and he's always been nice and gentle to me. So I was stunned when he suddenly erupted. He shot to his feet and glared at me, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around, but I can't say or do anything about it! Stay away from me! Stop following me around!β In that instant, the room turned dead silent. I could feel the blood rush to my head, making my face flush and my ears ring. I have never seen Felix like this. His words were no different from a stinging slap in my face, and he had done it right in front of everyone. Tears welled up in my eyes, and it felt as if my breath had caught in my throat, making it hard for me to breathe. "Felix, I..." But he wasn't done yet. "If it weren't for you shamelessly pestering me all the time, they wouldn't try to pair us up!" I forced myself to suppress the hurt I felt and tried to reason with him. "Felix, listen to me. I just likeβ" "Don't call me that. I hate it when you call my name. Keep your feelings to yourself and leave me be. I don't need your affection. "In fact, they're nothing more than shackles to me. I don't want to be associated with you in any wayβnot ever," Felix interrupted. His words were venomous, and his eyes were filled with a cold hatred that made me shiver. It was like he was looking at a piece of trash. My heart ached, and I found myself gasping for breath. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet in the end, it was all my fault? My eyes were filled with tears, but I bit my lip hard to prevent my tears from falling. I didn't do anything wrong, so I couldn't allow myself to cry. He shouldn't have allowed me to get caught up in my presumptuous thoughts and feelings about our relationship, only to accuse me of shamelessly clinging to him. I was not shameless. I just loved him. If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I swore I would make him regret it! | Indulge in story | 598 | https://facebook.com/61552702618591 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717225200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879666 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410701 | 1723321847 | 995 | 459835549897918 | 1 | 8.1371474369554E+14 | 1717398000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 144939265372419 | 0 | Indulge in story | 120212123041180002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πRead the next chaptersπ | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717156295 | 1.4493926537242E+14 | Indulge in story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447188158_427615253376044_1467412671752920547_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=jzL6Oa7-ii0Q7kNvgGCyckJ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYC2sJ_M5ES4pqvFdNz-SKj_5tvqa9Ru1TPF1lbMSI84qg&oe=6672BB43 | person_profile | 0 | Indulge in story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447187806_1591240261718800_9124110637169545735_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=D2ubYjH7fCAQ7kNvgHRaYDl&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAQa0MxUi0kNJhNxJS1vo1Zf69FgLlTpfw8zOhSYMbNdw&oe=6672A518 | 0 | 3 | My crush actually flipped the table and humiliated me in front of our whole family! During dinner, everyone was engaged in an enthusiastic discussion about my wedding to Felix. I've known Felix since we were born. I liked himβa lot, and he's always been nice and gentle to me. So I was stunned when he suddenly erupted. He shot to his feet and glared at me, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around, but I can't say or do anything about it! Stay away from me! Stop following me around!β In that instant, the room turned dead silent. I could feel the blood rush to my head, making my face flush and my ears ring. I have never seen Felix like this. His words were no different from a stinging slap in my face, and he had done it right in front of everyone. Tears welled up in my eyes, and it felt as if my breath had caught in my throat, making it hard for me to breathe. "Felix, I..." But he wasn't done yet. "If it weren't for you shamelessly pestering me all the time, they wouldn't try to pair us up!" I forced myself to suppress the hurt I felt and tried to reason with him. "Felix, listen to me. I just likeβ" "Don't call me that. I hate it when you call my name. Keep your feelings to yourself and leave me be. I don't need your affection. "In fact, they're nothing more than shackles to me. I don't want to be associated with you in any wayβnot ever," Felix interrupted. His words were venomous, and his eyes were filled with a cold hatred that made me shiver. It was like he was looking at a piece of trash. My heart ached, and I found myself gasping for breath. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet in the end, it was all my fault? My eyes were filled with tears, but I bit my lip hard to prevent my tears from falling. I didn't do anything wrong, so I couldn't allow myself to cry. He shouldn't have allowed me to get caught up in my presumptuous thoughts and feelings about our relationship, only to accuse me of shamelessly clinging to him. I was not shameless. I just loved him. If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I swore I would make him regret it! | Indulge in story | 598 | https://facebook.com/61552702618591 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717225200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879668 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410701 | 1723321847 | 995 | 459835549897918 | 1 | 8.1371474369554E+14 | 1717398000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 144939265372419 | 0 | Indulge in story | 120212123041180002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πRead the next chaptersπ | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717156295 | 1.4493926537242E+14 | Indulge in story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447188158_427615253376044_1467412671752920547_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=jzL6Oa7-ii0Q7kNvgGCyckJ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYC2sJ_M5ES4pqvFdNz-SKj_5tvqa9Ru1TPF1lbMSI84qg&oe=6672BB43 | person_profile | 0 | Indulge in story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447187806_1591240261718800_9124110637169545735_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=D2ubYjH7fCAQ7kNvgHRaYDl&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAQa0MxUi0kNJhNxJS1vo1Zf69FgLlTpfw8zOhSYMbNdw&oe=6672A518 | 0 | 3 | My crush actually flipped the table and humiliated me in front of our whole family! During dinner, everyone was engaged in an enthusiastic discussion about my wedding to Felix. I've known Felix since we were born. I liked himβa lot, and he's always been nice and gentle to me. So I was stunned when he suddenly erupted. He shot to his feet and glared at me, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around, but I can't say or do anything about it! Stay away from me! Stop following me around!β In that instant, the room turned dead silent. I could feel the blood rush to my head, making my face flush and my ears ring. I have never seen Felix like this. His words were no different from a stinging slap in my face, and he had done it right in front of everyone. Tears welled up in my eyes, and it felt as if my breath had caught in my throat, making it hard for me to breathe. "Felix, I..." But he wasn't done yet. "If it weren't for you shamelessly pestering me all the time, they wouldn't try to pair us up!" I forced myself to suppress the hurt I felt and tried to reason with him. "Felix, listen to me. I just likeβ" "Don't call me that. I hate it when you call my name. Keep your feelings to yourself and leave me be. I don't need your affection. "In fact, they're nothing more than shackles to me. I don't want to be associated with you in any wayβnot ever," Felix interrupted. His words were venomous, and his eyes were filled with a cold hatred that made me shiver. It was like he was looking at a piece of trash. My heart ached, and I found myself gasping for breath. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet in the end, it was all my fault? My eyes were filled with tears, but I bit my lip hard to prevent my tears from falling. I didn't do anything wrong, so I couldn't allow myself to cry. He shouldn't have allowed me to get caught up in my presumptuous thoughts and feelings about our relationship, only to accuse me of shamelessly clinging to him. I was not shameless. I just loved him. If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I swore I would make him regret it! | Indulge in story | 598 | https://facebook.com/61552702618591 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717225200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879669 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410701 | 1723321847 | 995 | 1674901933251031 | 1 | 1.3730294167281E+15 | 1716966000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 342924965562549 | 0 | Random Reading | 120211964994730002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πRead the next chaptersπ | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1716635684 | 3.4292496556255E+14 | Random Reading | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/445179828_1231353154512704_2683978688725298454_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=oUjgDFvFI6cQ7kNvgFni6B6&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCXYZlXnH85BsC2YQavWKN1l2Y9_qP8ZyEeihC-g3d_aQ&oe=6672BBC4 | person_profile | 0 | Random Reading | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/444167427_431984266361305_92450316753065691_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=BfvNcSsxrvAQ7kNvgEXP0vD&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBysFQF0r3_NI-6qY4o-0S6MsuFhajRNPf1EAsZIaLPwg&oe=6672B8DB | 0 | 3 | I am Luna Lawson, and Felix White is my neighbor. From the moment we were born, the elders in our families had us engaged to one another. I've been sure of one thing my whole lifeβI'm Felix's future wife. Ever since I could walk on my own, I shadowed him wherever he went. Ever since I could speak, the word that I said the most was his name. Ever since I understood what love was, he took root in my heart, and my feelings for him kept growing. I liked himβa lot. However, that was just my own opinion, and Felix had a mind of his own. By the time we turn 18, at a family dinner party at his house, our mothers were discussing our marriage when he suddenly shot to his feet. He glared at me and spat, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around, but I can't say or do anything about it! Stay away from me! Stop following me around! I will never marry you!" In that instant, the room turned dead silent. His words were no different from accusing me of being a shameless simp, and he had done it right in front of everyone. His angry father then gave him a loud slap, sending him slumping to the floor. Felix shot me a scathing glare as if I was the sinner. "Are you happy now, Luna?" he spat. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. I forced the humiliation down as I continued, "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix." ... One year later, he brings a young lady to me. He gives her a tender and loving gaze, saying, "This is my girlfriend, Lily." I say, "Okay." Later, Felix says, "Lulu, Lili says she feels insecure because you've remained single this whole time." And so, I start dating Felix's older brother, Colin White. At first, I think he's pure of heart and free from desire, but after we get together, he starts seducing me with everything he's got. I try to flee, but he chases after me. When I get mad, he coaxes me. He laughs when I scold him and feeds me when I'm hungry. He also holds me when I'm cold β¦ I tell him, "Colin, stay away from me. It's so hot." He locks me in his embrace and smiles devilishly. "Be good. Let me give you another kiss." | Random Reading | 9 | https://facebook.com/61559743679549 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716706800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879670 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410702 | 1723321847 | 995 | 1674901933251031 | 1 | 1.3730294167281E+15 | 1716966000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 342924965562549 | 0 | Random Reading | 120211964994730002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πRead the next chaptersπ | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1716635684 | 3.4292496556255E+14 | Random Reading | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/445179828_1231353154512704_2683978688725298454_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=oUjgDFvFI6cQ7kNvgFni6B6&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCXYZlXnH85BsC2YQavWKN1l2Y9_qP8ZyEeihC-g3d_aQ&oe=6672BBC4 | person_profile | 0 | Random Reading | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/444167427_431984266361305_92450316753065691_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=BfvNcSsxrvAQ7kNvgEXP0vD&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBysFQF0r3_NI-6qY4o-0S6MsuFhajRNPf1EAsZIaLPwg&oe=6672B8DB | 0 | 3 | I am Luna Lawson, and Felix White is my neighbor. From the moment we were born, the elders in our families had us engaged to one another. I've been sure of one thing my whole lifeβI'm Felix's future wife. Ever since I could walk on my own, I shadowed him wherever he went. Ever since I could speak, the word that I said the most was his name. Ever since I understood what love was, he took root in my heart, and my feelings for him kept growing. I liked himβa lot. However, that was just my own opinion, and Felix had a mind of his own. By the time we turn 18, at a family dinner party at his house, our mothers were discussing our marriage when he suddenly shot to his feet. He glared at me and spat, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around, but I can't say or do anything about it! Stay away from me! Stop following me around! I will never marry you!" In that instant, the room turned dead silent. His words were no different from accusing me of being a shameless simp, and he had done it right in front of everyone. His angry father then gave him a loud slap, sending him slumping to the floor. Felix shot me a scathing glare as if I was the sinner. "Are you happy now, Luna?" he spat. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. I forced the humiliation down as I continued, "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix." ... One year later, he brings a young lady to me. He gives her a tender and loving gaze, saying, "This is my girlfriend, Lily." I say, "Okay." Later, Felix says, "Lulu, Lili says she feels insecure because you've remained single this whole time." And so, I start dating Felix's older brother, Colin White. At first, I think he's pure of heart and free from desire, but after we get together, he starts seducing me with everything he's got. I try to flee, but he chases after me. When I get mad, he coaxes me. He laughs when I scold him and feeds me when I'm hungry. He also holds me when I'm cold β¦ I tell him, "Colin, stay away from me. It's so hot." He locks me in his embrace and smiles devilishly. "Be good. Let me give you another kiss." | Random Reading | 9 | https://facebook.com/61559743679549 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716706800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879671 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410702 | 1723321847 | 995 | 1674901933251031 | 1 | 1.3730294167281E+15 | 1716966000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 342924965562549 | 0 | Random Reading | 120211964994730002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πRead the next chaptersπ | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1716635684 | 3.4292496556255E+14 | Random Reading | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/445179828_1231353154512704_2683978688725298454_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=oUjgDFvFI6cQ7kNvgFni6B6&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCXYZlXnH85BsC2YQavWKN1l2Y9_qP8ZyEeihC-g3d_aQ&oe=6672BBC4 | person_profile | 0 | Random Reading | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/444167427_431984266361305_92450316753065691_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=BfvNcSsxrvAQ7kNvgEXP0vD&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBysFQF0r3_NI-6qY4o-0S6MsuFhajRNPf1EAsZIaLPwg&oe=6672B8DB | 0 | 3 | I am Luna Lawson, and Felix White is my neighbor. From the moment we were born, the elders in our families had us engaged to one another. I've been sure of one thing my whole lifeβI'm Felix's future wife. Ever since I could walk on my own, I shadowed him wherever he went. Ever since I could speak, the word that I said the most was his name. Ever since I understood what love was, he took root in my heart, and my feelings for him kept growing. I liked himβa lot. However, that was just my own opinion, and Felix had a mind of his own. By the time we turn 18, at a family dinner party at his house, our mothers were discussing our marriage when he suddenly shot to his feet. He glared at me and spat, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around, but I can't say or do anything about it! Stay away from me! Stop following me around! I will never marry you!" In that instant, the room turned dead silent. His words were no different from accusing me of being a shameless simp, and he had done it right in front of everyone. His angry father then gave him a loud slap, sending him slumping to the floor. Felix shot me a scathing glare as if I was the sinner. "Are you happy now, Luna?" he spat. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. I forced the humiliation down as I continued, "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix." ... One year later, he brings a young lady to me. He gives her a tender and loving gaze, saying, "This is my girlfriend, Lily." I say, "Okay." Later, Felix says, "Lulu, Lili says she feels insecure because you've remained single this whole time." And so, I start dating Felix's older brother, Colin White. At first, I think he's pure of heart and free from desire, but after we get together, he starts seducing me with everything he's got. I try to flee, but he chases after me. When I get mad, he coaxes me. He laughs when I scold him and feeds me when I'm hungry. He also holds me when I'm cold β¦ I tell him, "Colin, stay away from me. It's so hot." He locks me in his embrace and smiles devilishly. "Be good. Let me give you another kiss." | Random Reading | 9 | https://facebook.com/61559743679549 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716706800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879672 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410702 | 1723321847 | 995 | 1674901933251031 | 1 | 1.3730294167281E+15 | 1716966000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 342924965562549 | 0 | Random Reading | 120211964994730002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πRead the next chaptersπ | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1716635684 | 3.4292496556255E+14 | Random Reading | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/445179828_1231353154512704_2683978688725298454_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=oUjgDFvFI6cQ7kNvgFni6B6&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCXYZlXnH85BsC2YQavWKN1l2Y9_qP8ZyEeihC-g3d_aQ&oe=6672BBC4 | person_profile | 0 | Random Reading | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/444167427_431984266361305_92450316753065691_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=BfvNcSsxrvAQ7kNvgEXP0vD&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBysFQF0r3_NI-6qY4o-0S6MsuFhajRNPf1EAsZIaLPwg&oe=6672B8DB | 0 | 3 | I am Luna Lawson, and Felix White is my neighbor. From the moment we were born, the elders in our families had us engaged to one another. I've been sure of one thing my whole lifeβI'm Felix's future wife. Ever since I could walk on my own, I shadowed him wherever he went. Ever since I could speak, the word that I said the most was his name. Ever since I understood what love was, he took root in my heart, and my feelings for him kept growing. I liked himβa lot. However, that was just my own opinion, and Felix had a mind of his own. By the time we turn 18, at a family dinner party at his house, our mothers were discussing our marriage when he suddenly shot to his feet. He glared at me and spat, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around, but I can't say or do anything about it! Stay away from me! Stop following me around! I will never marry you!" In that instant, the room turned dead silent. His words were no different from accusing me of being a shameless simp, and he had done it right in front of everyone. His angry father then gave him a loud slap, sending him slumping to the floor. Felix shot me a scathing glare as if I was the sinner. "Are you happy now, Luna?" he spat. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. I forced the humiliation down as I continued, "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix." ... One year later, he brings a young lady to me. He gives her a tender and loving gaze, saying, "This is my girlfriend, Lily." I say, "Okay." Later, Felix says, "Lulu, Lili says she feels insecure because you've remained single this whole time." And so, I start dating Felix's older brother, Colin White. At first, I think he's pure of heart and free from desire, but after we get together, he starts seducing me with everything he's got. I try to flee, but he chases after me. When I get mad, he coaxes me. He laughs when I scold him and feeds me when I'm hungry. He also holds me when I'm cold β¦ I tell him, "Colin, stay away from me. It's so hot." He locks me in his embrace and smiles devilishly. "Be good. Let me give you another kiss." | Random Reading | 9 | https://facebook.com/61559743679549 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716706800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879673 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410702 | 1723321847 | 995 | 1674901933251031 | 1 | 1.3730294167281E+15 | 1716966000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 342924965562549 | 0 | Random Reading | 120211964994730002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πRead the next chaptersπ | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1716635684 | 3.4292496556255E+14 | Random Reading | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/445179828_1231353154512704_2683978688725298454_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=oUjgDFvFI6cQ7kNvgFni6B6&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCXYZlXnH85BsC2YQavWKN1l2Y9_qP8ZyEeihC-g3d_aQ&oe=6672BBC4 | person_profile | 0 | Random Reading | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/444167427_431984266361305_92450316753065691_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=BfvNcSsxrvAQ7kNvgEXP0vD&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBysFQF0r3_NI-6qY4o-0S6MsuFhajRNPf1EAsZIaLPwg&oe=6672B8DB | 0 | 3 | I am Luna Lawson, and Felix White is my neighbor. From the moment we were born, the elders in our families had us engaged to one another. I've been sure of one thing my whole lifeβI'm Felix's future wife. Ever since I could walk on my own, I shadowed him wherever he went. Ever since I could speak, the word that I said the most was his name. Ever since I understood what love was, he took root in my heart, and my feelings for him kept growing. I liked himβa lot. However, that was just my own opinion, and Felix had a mind of his own. By the time we turn 18, at a family dinner party at his house, our mothers were discussing our marriage when he suddenly shot to his feet. He glared at me and spat, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around, but I can't say or do anything about it! Stay away from me! Stop following me around! I will never marry you!" In that instant, the room turned dead silent. His words were no different from accusing me of being a shameless simp, and he had done it right in front of everyone. His angry father then gave him a loud slap, sending him slumping to the floor. Felix shot me a scathing glare as if I was the sinner. "Are you happy now, Luna?" he spat. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. I forced the humiliation down as I continued, "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix." ... One year later, he brings a young lady to me. He gives her a tender and loving gaze, saying, "This is my girlfriend, Lily." I say, "Okay." Later, Felix says, "Lulu, Lili says she feels insecure because you've remained single this whole time." And so, I start dating Felix's older brother, Colin White. At first, I think he's pure of heart and free from desire, but after we get together, he starts seducing me with everything he's got. I try to flee, but he chases after me. When I get mad, he coaxes me. He laughs when I scold him and feeds me when I'm hungry. He also holds me when I'm cold β¦ I tell him, "Colin, stay away from me. It's so hot." He locks me in his embrace and smiles devilishly. "Be good. Let me give you another kiss." | Random Reading | 9 | https://facebook.com/61559743679549 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716706800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879674 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410702 | 1723321848 | 995 | 1674901933251031 | 1 | 1.3730294167281E+15 | 1716966000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 342924965562549 | 0 | Random Reading | 120211964994730002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πRead the next chaptersπ | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1716635684 | 3.4292496556255E+14 | Random Reading | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/445179828_1231353154512704_2683978688725298454_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=oUjgDFvFI6cQ7kNvgFni6B6&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCXYZlXnH85BsC2YQavWKN1l2Y9_qP8ZyEeihC-g3d_aQ&oe=6672BBC4 | person_profile | 0 | Random Reading | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/444167427_431984266361305_92450316753065691_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=BfvNcSsxrvAQ7kNvgEXP0vD&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBysFQF0r3_NI-6qY4o-0S6MsuFhajRNPf1EAsZIaLPwg&oe=6672B8DB | 0 | 3 | I am Luna Lawson, and Felix White is my neighbor. From the moment we were born, the elders in our families had us engaged to one another. I've been sure of one thing my whole lifeβI'm Felix's future wife. Ever since I could walk on my own, I shadowed him wherever he went. Ever since I could speak, the word that I said the most was his name. Ever since I understood what love was, he took root in my heart, and my feelings for him kept growing. I liked himβa lot. However, that was just my own opinion, and Felix had a mind of his own. By the time we turn 18, at a family dinner party at his house, our mothers were discussing our marriage when he suddenly shot to his feet. He glared at me and spat, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around, but I can't say or do anything about it! Stay away from me! Stop following me around! I will never marry you!" In that instant, the room turned dead silent. His words were no different from accusing me of being a shameless simp, and he had done it right in front of everyone. His angry father then gave him a loud slap, sending him slumping to the floor. Felix shot me a scathing glare as if I was the sinner. "Are you happy now, Luna?" he spat. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. I forced the humiliation down as I continued, "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix." ... One year later, he brings a young lady to me. He gives her a tender and loving gaze, saying, "This is my girlfriend, Lily." I say, "Okay." Later, Felix says, "Lulu, Lili says she feels insecure because you've remained single this whole time." And so, I start dating Felix's older brother, Colin White. At first, I think he's pure of heart and free from desire, but after we get together, he starts seducing me with everything he's got. I try to flee, but he chases after me. When I get mad, he coaxes me. He laughs when I scold him and feeds me when I'm hungry. He also holds me when I'm cold β¦ I tell him, "Colin, stay away from me. It's so hot." He locks me in his embrace and smiles devilishly. "Be good. Let me give you another kiss." | Random Reading | 9 | https://facebook.com/61559743679549 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716706800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879675 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410702 | 1723321848 | 995 | 1674901933251031 | 1 | 1.3730294167281E+15 | 1716966000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 342924965562549 | 0 | Random Reading | 120211964994730002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πRead the next chaptersπ | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1716635684 | 3.4292496556255E+14 | Random Reading | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/445179828_1231353154512704_2683978688725298454_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=oUjgDFvFI6cQ7kNvgFni6B6&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCXYZlXnH85BsC2YQavWKN1l2Y9_qP8ZyEeihC-g3d_aQ&oe=6672BBC4 | person_profile | 0 | Random Reading | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/444167427_431984266361305_92450316753065691_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=BfvNcSsxrvAQ7kNvgEXP0vD&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBysFQF0r3_NI-6qY4o-0S6MsuFhajRNPf1EAsZIaLPwg&oe=6672B8DB | 0 | 3 | I am Luna Lawson, and Felix White is my neighbor. From the moment we were born, the elders in our families had us engaged to one another. I've been sure of one thing my whole lifeβI'm Felix's future wife. Ever since I could walk on my own, I shadowed him wherever he went. Ever since I could speak, the word that I said the most was his name. Ever since I understood what love was, he took root in my heart, and my feelings for him kept growing. I liked himβa lot. However, that was just my own opinion, and Felix had a mind of his own. By the time we turn 18, at a family dinner party at his house, our mothers were discussing our marriage when he suddenly shot to his feet. He glared at me and spat, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around, but I can't say or do anything about it! Stay away from me! Stop following me around! I will never marry you!" In that instant, the room turned dead silent. His words were no different from accusing me of being a shameless simp, and he had done it right in front of everyone. His angry father then gave him a loud slap, sending him slumping to the floor. Felix shot me a scathing glare as if I was the sinner. "Are you happy now, Luna?" he spat. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. I forced the humiliation down as I continued, "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix." ... One year later, he brings a young lady to me. He gives her a tender and loving gaze, saying, "This is my girlfriend, Lily." I say, "Okay." Later, Felix says, "Lulu, Lili says she feels insecure because you've remained single this whole time." And so, I start dating Felix's older brother, Colin White. At first, I think he's pure of heart and free from desire, but after we get together, he starts seducing me with everything he's got. I try to flee, but he chases after me. When I get mad, he coaxes me. He laughs when I scold him and feeds me when I'm hungry. He also holds me when I'm cold β¦ I tell him, "Colin, stay away from me. It's so hot." He locks me in his embrace and smiles devilishly. "Be good. Let me give you another kiss." | Random Reading | 9 | https://facebook.com/61559743679549 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716706800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879677 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410702 | 1723321848 | 995 | 1674901933251031 | 1 | 1.3730294167281E+15 | 1716966000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 342924965562549 | 0 | Random Reading | 120211964994730002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πRead the next chaptersπ | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1716635684 | 3.4292496556255E+14 | Random Reading | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/445179828_1231353154512704_2683978688725298454_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=oUjgDFvFI6cQ7kNvgFni6B6&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCXYZlXnH85BsC2YQavWKN1l2Y9_qP8ZyEeihC-g3d_aQ&oe=6672BBC4 | person_profile | 0 | Random Reading | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/444167427_431984266361305_92450316753065691_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=BfvNcSsxrvAQ7kNvgEXP0vD&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBysFQF0r3_NI-6qY4o-0S6MsuFhajRNPf1EAsZIaLPwg&oe=6672B8DB | 0 | 3 | I am Luna Lawson, and Felix White is my neighbor. From the moment we were born, the elders in our families had us engaged to one another. I've been sure of one thing my whole lifeβI'm Felix's future wife. Ever since I could walk on my own, I shadowed him wherever he went. Ever since I could speak, the word that I said the most was his name. Ever since I understood what love was, he took root in my heart, and my feelings for him kept growing. I liked himβa lot. However, that was just my own opinion, and Felix had a mind of his own. By the time we turn 18, at a family dinner party at his house, our mothers were discussing our marriage when he suddenly shot to his feet. He glared at me and spat, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around, but I can't say or do anything about it! Stay away from me! Stop following me around! I will never marry you!" In that instant, the room turned dead silent. His words were no different from accusing me of being a shameless simp, and he had done it right in front of everyone. His angry father then gave him a loud slap, sending him slumping to the floor. Felix shot me a scathing glare as if I was the sinner. "Are you happy now, Luna?" he spat. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. I forced the humiliation down as I continued, "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix." ... One year later, he brings a young lady to me. He gives her a tender and loving gaze, saying, "This is my girlfriend, Lily." I say, "Okay." Later, Felix says, "Lulu, Lili says she feels insecure because you've remained single this whole time." And so, I start dating Felix's older brother, Colin White. At first, I think he's pure of heart and free from desire, but after we get together, he starts seducing me with everything he's got. I try to flee, but he chases after me. When I get mad, he coaxes me. He laughs when I scold him and feeds me when I'm hungry. He also holds me when I'm cold β¦ I tell him, "Colin, stay away from me. It's so hot." He locks me in his embrace and smiles devilishly. "Be good. Let me give you another kiss." | Random Reading | 9 | https://facebook.com/61559743679549 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716706800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879679 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410702 | 1723321848 | 995 | 302398159575876 | 6 | 7.9376878362617E+15 | 1716274800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120211846693390779 | qweasdzxconline.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πRead the next chaptersπ | https://qweasdzxconline.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11090&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715085862 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438129100_1146045226739178_2601865360875538189_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pgaM6op9EH4Q7kNvgFvStUz&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAnzNXAdVZ3R4dAiEpauXywjYljw4eXW7quZ6rvyHSXBw&oe=6672A490 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440747644_315502774915635_6353252339687881796_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YicSkuGzOiMQ7kNvgEoi2bQ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAN9i2X9Y9MK7cgBix3paDsplYdUdBGGi_LOwLoSJKKaQ&oe=6672CB97 | 0 | 3 | π"Ned Fletcher, with how you're treating Angie right now, aren't you worried that you're going to regret it when you finally regain your memories one day? You loved her so much before and you two got married for love! Despite you forgetting your feelings about her, how could you post so many indecent photos of her on social media?" Ned spoke nonchalantly, saying, "Why are you still holding me hostage with morals and principles? She was the one who framed me by lowly methods. I was just warning her. If Ingrid hadn't asked me to stop, I'd have gone even further! By the way, show your respect to Ingrid. Sheβs not a new girl but my only one forever and never!" Angeline Emmerson heard the talk standing outside the door. She used to be treated ever so lovingly by Ned in the past. Angeline felt her eyes reddening and filling with tears. The Ned she knew had died in the car accident that happened four years ago. The one inside was merely a stranger! Angeline inhaled deeply. Then, she pushed the door open. Ned looked up and saw her entering. "Who brought you here?" Angeline stared at Ned and said, "I've already made a police report regarding your spiked drink at the event and your spreading of my photos for revenge." Hearing this, everyone's reactions differed from one another. Angeline continued, "Ned Fletcher, it's true that I wanted to try rekindling our relationship, but I would never have stooped so low as to do those disgusting things to you. I didn't want to let go of this relationship because I was worried that the Ned I knew would return someday and blame me for giving up on him so easily," Angeline placed the divorce agreement she'd been hugging onto the table. "I tried my best, but I'm tired now. Ned Fletcher, I'm giving up on you. I don't want you anymore." Ned's eyes traveled from the divorce agreement to Angeline's face. There was a hint of surprise in his cold eyes. "Let's finalize the divorce after the police have cleared my name and you have publicly apologized to me." | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715670000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879680 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410702 | 1723321848 | 995 | 302398159575876 | 6 | 7.9376878362617E+15 | 1716274800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120211846693390779 | qweasdzxconline.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πRead the next chaptersπ | https://qweasdzxconline.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11090&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715085862 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438129100_1146045226739178_2601865360875538189_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pgaM6op9EH4Q7kNvgFvStUz&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAnzNXAdVZ3R4dAiEpauXywjYljw4eXW7quZ6rvyHSXBw&oe=6672A490 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440747644_315502774915635_6353252339687881796_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YicSkuGzOiMQ7kNvgEoi2bQ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAN9i2X9Y9MK7cgBix3paDsplYdUdBGGi_LOwLoSJKKaQ&oe=6672CB97 | 0 | 3 | π"Ned Fletcher, with how you're treating Angie right now, aren't you worried that you're going to regret it when you finally regain your memories one day? You loved her so much before and you two got married for love! Despite you forgetting your feelings about her, how could you post so many indecent photos of her on social media?" Ned spoke nonchalantly, saying, "Why are you still holding me hostage with morals and principles? She was the one who framed me by lowly methods. I was just warning her. If Ingrid hadn't asked me to stop, I'd have gone even further! By the way, show your respect to Ingrid. Sheβs not a new girl but my only one forever and never!" Angeline Emmerson heard the talk standing outside the door. She used to be treated ever so lovingly by Ned in the past. Angeline felt her eyes reddening and filling with tears. The Ned she knew had died in the car accident that happened four years ago. The one inside was merely a stranger! Angeline inhaled deeply. Then, she pushed the door open. Ned looked up and saw her entering. "Who brought you here?" Angeline stared at Ned and said, "I've already made a police report regarding your spiked drink at the event and your spreading of my photos for revenge." Hearing this, everyone's reactions differed from one another. Angeline continued, "Ned Fletcher, it's true that I wanted to try rekindling our relationship, but I would never have stooped so low as to do those disgusting things to you. I didn't want to let go of this relationship because I was worried that the Ned I knew would return someday and blame me for giving up on him so easily," Angeline placed the divorce agreement she'd been hugging onto the table. "I tried my best, but I'm tired now. Ned Fletcher, I'm giving up on you. I don't want you anymore." Ned's eyes traveled from the divorce agreement to Angeline's face. There was a hint of surprise in his cold eyes. "Let's finalize the divorce after the police have cleared my name and you have publicly apologized to me." | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715670000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879681 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410702 | 1723321848 | 995 | 302398159575876 | 6 | 7.9376878362617E+15 | 1716274800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120211846693390779 | qweasdzxconline.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πRead the next chaptersπ | https://qweasdzxconline.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11090&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715085862 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438129100_1146045226739178_2601865360875538189_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pgaM6op9EH4Q7kNvgFvStUz&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAnzNXAdVZ3R4dAiEpauXywjYljw4eXW7quZ6rvyHSXBw&oe=6672A490 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440747644_315502774915635_6353252339687881796_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YicSkuGzOiMQ7kNvgEoi2bQ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAN9i2X9Y9MK7cgBix3paDsplYdUdBGGi_LOwLoSJKKaQ&oe=6672CB97 | 0 | 3 | π"Ned Fletcher, with how you're treating Angie right now, aren't you worried that you're going to regret it when you finally regain your memories one day? You loved her so much before and you two got married for love! Despite you forgetting your feelings about her, how could you post so many indecent photos of her on social media?" Ned spoke nonchalantly, saying, "Why are you still holding me hostage with morals and principles? She was the one who framed me by lowly methods. I was just warning her. If Ingrid hadn't asked me to stop, I'd have gone even further! By the way, show your respect to Ingrid. Sheβs not a new girl but my only one forever and never!" Angeline Emmerson heard the talk standing outside the door. She used to be treated ever so lovingly by Ned in the past. Angeline felt her eyes reddening and filling with tears. The Ned she knew had died in the car accident that happened four years ago. The one inside was merely a stranger! Angeline inhaled deeply. Then, she pushed the door open. Ned looked up and saw her entering. "Who brought you here?" Angeline stared at Ned and said, "I've already made a police report regarding your spiked drink at the event and your spreading of my photos for revenge." Hearing this, everyone's reactions differed from one another. Angeline continued, "Ned Fletcher, it's true that I wanted to try rekindling our relationship, but I would never have stooped so low as to do those disgusting things to you. I didn't want to let go of this relationship because I was worried that the Ned I knew would return someday and blame me for giving up on him so easily," Angeline placed the divorce agreement she'd been hugging onto the table. "I tried my best, but I'm tired now. Ned Fletcher, I'm giving up on you. I don't want you anymore." Ned's eyes traveled from the divorce agreement to Angeline's face. There was a hint of surprise in his cold eyes. "Let's finalize the divorce after the police have cleared my name and you have publicly apologized to me." | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715670000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879682 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410703 | 1723321848 | 995 | 302398159575876 | 6 | 7.9376878362617E+15 | 1716274800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120211846693390779 | qweasdzxconline.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πRead the next chaptersπ | https://qweasdzxconline.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11090&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715085862 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438129100_1146045226739178_2601865360875538189_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pgaM6op9EH4Q7kNvgFvStUz&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAnzNXAdVZ3R4dAiEpauXywjYljw4eXW7quZ6rvyHSXBw&oe=6672A490 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440747644_315502774915635_6353252339687881796_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YicSkuGzOiMQ7kNvgEoi2bQ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAN9i2X9Y9MK7cgBix3paDsplYdUdBGGi_LOwLoSJKKaQ&oe=6672CB97 | 0 | 3 | π"Ned Fletcher, with how you're treating Angie right now, aren't you worried that you're going to regret it when you finally regain your memories one day? You loved her so much before and you two got married for love! Despite you forgetting your feelings about her, how could you post so many indecent photos of her on social media?" Ned spoke nonchalantly, saying, "Why are you still holding me hostage with morals and principles? She was the one who framed me by lowly methods. I was just warning her. If Ingrid hadn't asked me to stop, I'd have gone even further! By the way, show your respect to Ingrid. Sheβs not a new girl but my only one forever and never!" Angeline Emmerson heard the talk standing outside the door. She used to be treated ever so lovingly by Ned in the past. Angeline felt her eyes reddening and filling with tears. The Ned she knew had died in the car accident that happened four years ago. The one inside was merely a stranger! Angeline inhaled deeply. Then, she pushed the door open. Ned looked up and saw her entering. "Who brought you here?" Angeline stared at Ned and said, "I've already made a police report regarding your spiked drink at the event and your spreading of my photos for revenge." Hearing this, everyone's reactions differed from one another. Angeline continued, "Ned Fletcher, it's true that I wanted to try rekindling our relationship, but I would never have stooped so low as to do those disgusting things to you. I didn't want to let go of this relationship because I was worried that the Ned I knew would return someday and blame me for giving up on him so easily," Angeline placed the divorce agreement she'd been hugging onto the table. "I tried my best, but I'm tired now. Ned Fletcher, I'm giving up on you. I don't want you anymore." Ned's eyes traveled from the divorce agreement to Angeline's face. There was a hint of surprise in his cold eyes. "Let's finalize the divorce after the police have cleared my name and you have publicly apologized to me." | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715670000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879683 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410703 | 1723321848 | 995 | 302398159575876 | 6 | 7.9376878362617E+15 | 1716274800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120211846693390779 | qweasdzxconline.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πRead the next chaptersπ | https://qweasdzxconline.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11090&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715085862 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438129100_1146045226739178_2601865360875538189_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pgaM6op9EH4Q7kNvgFvStUz&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAnzNXAdVZ3R4dAiEpauXywjYljw4eXW7quZ6rvyHSXBw&oe=6672A490 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440747644_315502774915635_6353252339687881796_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YicSkuGzOiMQ7kNvgEoi2bQ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAN9i2X9Y9MK7cgBix3paDsplYdUdBGGi_LOwLoSJKKaQ&oe=6672CB97 | 0 | 3 | π"Ned Fletcher, with how you're treating Angie right now, aren't you worried that you're going to regret it when you finally regain your memories one day? You loved her so much before and you two got married for love! Despite you forgetting your feelings about her, how could you post so many indecent photos of her on social media?" Ned spoke nonchalantly, saying, "Why are you still holding me hostage with morals and principles? She was the one who framed me by lowly methods. I was just warning her. If Ingrid hadn't asked me to stop, I'd have gone even further! By the way, show your respect to Ingrid. Sheβs not a new girl but my only one forever and never!" Angeline Emmerson heard the talk standing outside the door. She used to be treated ever so lovingly by Ned in the past. Angeline felt her eyes reddening and filling with tears. The Ned she knew had died in the car accident that happened four years ago. The one inside was merely a stranger! Angeline inhaled deeply. Then, she pushed the door open. Ned looked up and saw her entering. "Who brought you here?" Angeline stared at Ned and said, "I've already made a police report regarding your spiked drink at the event and your spreading of my photos for revenge." Hearing this, everyone's reactions differed from one another. Angeline continued, "Ned Fletcher, it's true that I wanted to try rekindling our relationship, but I would never have stooped so low as to do those disgusting things to you. I didn't want to let go of this relationship because I was worried that the Ned I knew would return someday and blame me for giving up on him so easily," Angeline placed the divorce agreement she'd been hugging onto the table. "I tried my best, but I'm tired now. Ned Fletcher, I'm giving up on you. I don't want you anymore." Ned's eyes traveled from the divorce agreement to Angeline's face. There was a hint of surprise in his cold eyes. "Let's finalize the divorce after the police have cleared my name and you have publicly apologized to me." | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715670000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879684 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410703 | 1723321848 | 995 | 302398159575876 | 6 | 7.9376878362617E+15 | 1716274800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120211846693390779 | qweasdzxconline.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πRead the next chaptersπ | https://qweasdzxconline.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11090&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715085862 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438129100_1146045226739178_2601865360875538189_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pgaM6op9EH4Q7kNvgFvStUz&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAnzNXAdVZ3R4dAiEpauXywjYljw4eXW7quZ6rvyHSXBw&oe=6672A490 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440747644_315502774915635_6353252339687881796_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YicSkuGzOiMQ7kNvgEoi2bQ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAN9i2X9Y9MK7cgBix3paDsplYdUdBGGi_LOwLoSJKKaQ&oe=6672CB97 | 0 | 3 | π"Ned Fletcher, with how you're treating Angie right now, aren't you worried that you're going to regret it when you finally regain your memories one day? You loved her so much before and you two got married for love! Despite you forgetting your feelings about her, how could you post so many indecent photos of her on social media?" Ned spoke nonchalantly, saying, "Why are you still holding me hostage with morals and principles? She was the one who framed me by lowly methods. I was just warning her. If Ingrid hadn't asked me to stop, I'd have gone even further! By the way, show your respect to Ingrid. Sheβs not a new girl but my only one forever and never!" Angeline Emmerson heard the talk standing outside the door. She used to be treated ever so lovingly by Ned in the past. Angeline felt her eyes reddening and filling with tears. The Ned she knew had died in the car accident that happened four years ago. The one inside was merely a stranger! Angeline inhaled deeply. Then, she pushed the door open. Ned looked up and saw her entering. "Who brought you here?" Angeline stared at Ned and said, "I've already made a police report regarding your spiked drink at the event and your spreading of my photos for revenge." Hearing this, everyone's reactions differed from one another. Angeline continued, "Ned Fletcher, it's true that I wanted to try rekindling our relationship, but I would never have stooped so low as to do those disgusting things to you. I didn't want to let go of this relationship because I was worried that the Ned I knew would return someday and blame me for giving up on him so easily," Angeline placed the divorce agreement she'd been hugging onto the table. "I tried my best, but I'm tired now. Ned Fletcher, I'm giving up on you. I don't want you anymore." Ned's eyes traveled from the divorce agreement to Angeline's face. There was a hint of surprise in his cold eyes. "Let's finalize the divorce after the police have cleared my name and you have publicly apologized to me." | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715670000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879685 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410703 | 1723321848 | 995 | 302398159575876 | 6 | 7.9376878362617E+15 | 1716274800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120211846693390779 | qweasdzxconline.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πRead the next chaptersπ | https://qweasdzxconline.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11090&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715085862 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438129100_1146045226739178_2601865360875538189_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pgaM6op9EH4Q7kNvgFvStUz&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAnzNXAdVZ3R4dAiEpauXywjYljw4eXW7quZ6rvyHSXBw&oe=6672A490 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440747644_315502774915635_6353252339687881796_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YicSkuGzOiMQ7kNvgEoi2bQ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAN9i2X9Y9MK7cgBix3paDsplYdUdBGGi_LOwLoSJKKaQ&oe=6672CB97 | 0 | 3 | π"Ned Fletcher, with how you're treating Angie right now, aren't you worried that you're going to regret it when you finally regain your memories one day? You loved her so much before and you two got married for love! Despite you forgetting your feelings about her, how could you post so many indecent photos of her on social media?" Ned spoke nonchalantly, saying, "Why are you still holding me hostage with morals and principles? She was the one who framed me by lowly methods. I was just warning her. If Ingrid hadn't asked me to stop, I'd have gone even further! By the way, show your respect to Ingrid. Sheβs not a new girl but my only one forever and never!" Angeline Emmerson heard the talk standing outside the door. She used to be treated ever so lovingly by Ned in the past. Angeline felt her eyes reddening and filling with tears. The Ned she knew had died in the car accident that happened four years ago. The one inside was merely a stranger! Angeline inhaled deeply. Then, she pushed the door open. Ned looked up and saw her entering. "Who brought you here?" Angeline stared at Ned and said, "I've already made a police report regarding your spiked drink at the event and your spreading of my photos for revenge." Hearing this, everyone's reactions differed from one another. Angeline continued, "Ned Fletcher, it's true that I wanted to try rekindling our relationship, but I would never have stooped so low as to do those disgusting things to you. I didn't want to let go of this relationship because I was worried that the Ned I knew would return someday and blame me for giving up on him so easily," Angeline placed the divorce agreement she'd been hugging onto the table. "I tried my best, but I'm tired now. Ned Fletcher, I'm giving up on you. I don't want you anymore." Ned's eyes traveled from the divorce agreement to Angeline's face. There was a hint of surprise in his cold eyes. "Let's finalize the divorce after the police have cleared my name and you have publicly apologized to me." | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715670000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879686 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410704 | 1723321849 | 995 | 302398159575876 | 6 | 7.9376878362617E+15 | 1716274800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120211846693390779 | qweasdzxconline.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πRead the next chaptersπ | https://qweasdzxconline.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11090&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715085862 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438129100_1146045226739178_2601865360875538189_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pgaM6op9EH4Q7kNvgFvStUz&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAnzNXAdVZ3R4dAiEpauXywjYljw4eXW7quZ6rvyHSXBw&oe=6672A490 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440747644_315502774915635_6353252339687881796_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YicSkuGzOiMQ7kNvgEoi2bQ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAN9i2X9Y9MK7cgBix3paDsplYdUdBGGi_LOwLoSJKKaQ&oe=6672CB97 | 0 | 3 | π"Ned Fletcher, with how you're treating Angie right now, aren't you worried that you're going to regret it when you finally regain your memories one day? You loved her so much before and you two got married for love! Despite you forgetting your feelings about her, how could you post so many indecent photos of her on social media?" Ned spoke nonchalantly, saying, "Why are you still holding me hostage with morals and principles? She was the one who framed me by lowly methods. I was just warning her. If Ingrid hadn't asked me to stop, I'd have gone even further! By the way, show your respect to Ingrid. Sheβs not a new girl but my only one forever and never!" Angeline Emmerson heard the talk standing outside the door. She used to be treated ever so lovingly by Ned in the past. Angeline felt her eyes reddening and filling with tears. The Ned she knew had died in the car accident that happened four years ago. The one inside was merely a stranger! Angeline inhaled deeply. Then, she pushed the door open. Ned looked up and saw her entering. "Who brought you here?" Angeline stared at Ned and said, "I've already made a police report regarding your spiked drink at the event and your spreading of my photos for revenge." Hearing this, everyone's reactions differed from one another. Angeline continued, "Ned Fletcher, it's true that I wanted to try rekindling our relationship, but I would never have stooped so low as to do those disgusting things to you. I didn't want to let go of this relationship because I was worried that the Ned I knew would return someday and blame me for giving up on him so easily," Angeline placed the divorce agreement she'd been hugging onto the table. "I tried my best, but I'm tired now. Ned Fletcher, I'm giving up on you. I don't want you anymore." Ned's eyes traveled from the divorce agreement to Angeline's face. There was a hint of surprise in his cold eyes. "Let's finalize the divorce after the police have cleared my name and you have publicly apologized to me." | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715670000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879688 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410704 | 1723321849 | 995 | 302398159575876 | 6 | 7.9376878362617E+15 | 1716274800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120211846693390779 | qweasdzxconline.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πRead the next chaptersπ | https://qweasdzxconline.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11090&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715085862 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438129100_1146045226739178_2601865360875538189_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pgaM6op9EH4Q7kNvgFvStUz&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAnzNXAdVZ3R4dAiEpauXywjYljw4eXW7quZ6rvyHSXBw&oe=6672A490 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440747644_315502774915635_6353252339687881796_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YicSkuGzOiMQ7kNvgEoi2bQ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAN9i2X9Y9MK7cgBix3paDsplYdUdBGGi_LOwLoSJKKaQ&oe=6672CB97 | 0 | 3 | π"Ned Fletcher, with how you're treating Angie right now, aren't you worried that you're going to regret it when you finally regain your memories one day? You loved her so much before and you two got married for love! Despite you forgetting your feelings about her, how could you post so many indecent photos of her on social media?" Ned spoke nonchalantly, saying, "Why are you still holding me hostage with morals and principles? She was the one who framed me by lowly methods. I was just warning her. If Ingrid hadn't asked me to stop, I'd have gone even further! By the way, show your respect to Ingrid. Sheβs not a new girl but my only one forever and never!" Angeline Emmerson heard the talk standing outside the door. She used to be treated ever so lovingly by Ned in the past. Angeline felt her eyes reddening and filling with tears. The Ned she knew had died in the car accident that happened four years ago. The one inside was merely a stranger! Angeline inhaled deeply. Then, she pushed the door open. Ned looked up and saw her entering. "Who brought you here?" Angeline stared at Ned and said, "I've already made a police report regarding your spiked drink at the event and your spreading of my photos for revenge." Hearing this, everyone's reactions differed from one another. Angeline continued, "Ned Fletcher, it's true that I wanted to try rekindling our relationship, but I would never have stooped so low as to do those disgusting things to you. I didn't want to let go of this relationship because I was worried that the Ned I knew would return someday and blame me for giving up on him so easily," Angeline placed the divorce agreement she'd been hugging onto the table. "I tried my best, but I'm tired now. Ned Fletcher, I'm giving up on you. I don't want you anymore." Ned's eyes traveled from the divorce agreement to Angeline's face. There was a hint of surprise in his cold eyes. "Let's finalize the divorce after the police have cleared my name and you have publicly apologized to me." | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715670000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879689 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410704 | 1723321849 | 995 | 304024709307949 | 7 | 1.4590207180467E+15 | 1717743600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120211846693390779 | qweasdzxconline.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πRead the next chaptersπ | https://qweasdzxconline.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11090&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715085862 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438129100_1146045226739178_2601865360875538189_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pgaM6op9EH4Q7kNvgFvStUz&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAnzNXAdVZ3R4dAiEpauXywjYljw4eXW7quZ6rvyHSXBw&oe=6672A490 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440747644_315502774915635_6353252339687881796_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YicSkuGzOiMQ7kNvgEoi2bQ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAN9i2X9Y9MK7cgBix3paDsplYdUdBGGi_LOwLoSJKKaQ&oe=6672CB97 | 0 | 3 | π"Ned Fletcher, with how you're treating Angie right now, aren't you worried that you're going to regret it when you finally regain your memories one day? You loved her so much before and you two got married for love! Despite you forgetting your feelings about her, how could you post so many indecent photos of her on social media?" Ned spoke nonchalantly, saying, "Why are you still holding me hostage with morals and principles? She was the one who framed me by lowly methods. I was just warning her. If Ingrid hadn't asked me to stop, I'd have gone even further! By the way, show your respect to Ingrid. Sheβs not a new girl but my only one forever and never!" Angeline Emmerson heard the talk standing outside the door. She used to be treated ever so lovingly by Ned in the past. Angeline felt her eyes reddening and filling with tears. The Ned she knew had died in the car accident that happened four years ago. The one inside was merely a stranger! Angeline inhaled deeply. Then, she pushed the door open. Ned looked up and saw her entering. "Who brought you here?" Angeline stared at Ned and said, "I've already made a police report regarding your spiked drink at the event and your spreading of my photos for revenge." Hearing this, everyone's reactions differed from one another. Angeline continued, "Ned Fletcher, it's true that I wanted to try rekindling our relationship, but I would never have stooped so low as to do those disgusting things to you. I didn't want to let go of this relationship because I was worried that the Ned I knew would return someday and blame me for giving up on him so easily," Angeline placed the divorce agreement she'd been hugging onto the table. "I tried my best, but I'm tired now. Ned Fletcher, I'm giving up on you. I don't want you anymore." Ned's eyes traveled from the divorce agreement to Angeline's face. There was a hint of surprise in his cold eyes. "Let's finalize the divorce after the police have cleared my name and you have publicly apologized to me." | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717484400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879690 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410705 | 1723321849 | 995 | 304024709307949 | 7 | 1.4590207180467E+15 | 1717743600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120211846693390779 | qweasdzxconline.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πRead the next chaptersπ | https://qweasdzxconline.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11090&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715085862 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438129100_1146045226739178_2601865360875538189_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pgaM6op9EH4Q7kNvgFvStUz&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAnzNXAdVZ3R4dAiEpauXywjYljw4eXW7quZ6rvyHSXBw&oe=6672A490 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440747644_315502774915635_6353252339687881796_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YicSkuGzOiMQ7kNvgEoi2bQ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAN9i2X9Y9MK7cgBix3paDsplYdUdBGGi_LOwLoSJKKaQ&oe=6672CB97 | 0 | 3 | π"Ned Fletcher, with how you're treating Angie right now, aren't you worried that you're going to regret it when you finally regain your memories one day? You loved her so much before and you two got married for love! Despite you forgetting your feelings about her, how could you post so many indecent photos of her on social media?" Ned spoke nonchalantly, saying, "Why are you still holding me hostage with morals and principles? She was the one who framed me by lowly methods. I was just warning her. If Ingrid hadn't asked me to stop, I'd have gone even further! By the way, show your respect to Ingrid. Sheβs not a new girl but my only one forever and never!" Angeline Emmerson heard the talk standing outside the door. She used to be treated ever so lovingly by Ned in the past. Angeline felt her eyes reddening and filling with tears. The Ned she knew had died in the car accident that happened four years ago. The one inside was merely a stranger! Angeline inhaled deeply. Then, she pushed the door open. Ned looked up and saw her entering. "Who brought you here?" Angeline stared at Ned and said, "I've already made a police report regarding your spiked drink at the event and your spreading of my photos for revenge." Hearing this, everyone's reactions differed from one another. Angeline continued, "Ned Fletcher, it's true that I wanted to try rekindling our relationship, but I would never have stooped so low as to do those disgusting things to you. I didn't want to let go of this relationship because I was worried that the Ned I knew would return someday and blame me for giving up on him so easily," Angeline placed the divorce agreement she'd been hugging onto the table. "I tried my best, but I'm tired now. Ned Fletcher, I'm giving up on you. I don't want you anymore." Ned's eyes traveled from the divorce agreement to Angeline's face. There was a hint of surprise in his cold eyes. "Let's finalize the divorce after the police have cleared my name and you have publicly apologized to me." | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717484400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879691 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410705 | 1723321849 | 995 | 304024709307949 | 7 | 1.4590207180467E+15 | 1717743600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120211846693390779 | qweasdzxconline.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πRead the next chaptersπ | https://qweasdzxconline.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11090&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715085862 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438129100_1146045226739178_2601865360875538189_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pgaM6op9EH4Q7kNvgFvStUz&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAnzNXAdVZ3R4dAiEpauXywjYljw4eXW7quZ6rvyHSXBw&oe=6672A490 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440747644_315502774915635_6353252339687881796_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YicSkuGzOiMQ7kNvgEoi2bQ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAN9i2X9Y9MK7cgBix3paDsplYdUdBGGi_LOwLoSJKKaQ&oe=6672CB97 | 0 | 3 | π"Ned Fletcher, with how you're treating Angie right now, aren't you worried that you're going to regret it when you finally regain your memories one day? You loved her so much before and you two got married for love! Despite you forgetting your feelings about her, how could you post so many indecent photos of her on social media?" Ned spoke nonchalantly, saying, "Why are you still holding me hostage with morals and principles? She was the one who framed me by lowly methods. I was just warning her. If Ingrid hadn't asked me to stop, I'd have gone even further! By the way, show your respect to Ingrid. Sheβs not a new girl but my only one forever and never!" Angeline Emmerson heard the talk standing outside the door. She used to be treated ever so lovingly by Ned in the past. Angeline felt her eyes reddening and filling with tears. The Ned she knew had died in the car accident that happened four years ago. The one inside was merely a stranger! Angeline inhaled deeply. Then, she pushed the door open. Ned looked up and saw her entering. "Who brought you here?" Angeline stared at Ned and said, "I've already made a police report regarding your spiked drink at the event and your spreading of my photos for revenge." Hearing this, everyone's reactions differed from one another. Angeline continued, "Ned Fletcher, it's true that I wanted to try rekindling our relationship, but I would never have stooped so low as to do those disgusting things to you. I didn't want to let go of this relationship because I was worried that the Ned I knew would return someday and blame me for giving up on him so easily," Angeline placed the divorce agreement she'd been hugging onto the table. "I tried my best, but I'm tired now. Ned Fletcher, I'm giving up on you. I don't want you anymore." Ned's eyes traveled from the divorce agreement to Angeline's face. There was a hint of surprise in his cold eyes. "Let's finalize the divorce after the police have cleared my name and you have publicly apologized to me." | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717484400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879692 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410705 | 1723321849 | 995 | 304024709307949 | 7 | 1.4590207180467E+15 | 1717743600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120211846693390779 | qweasdzxconline.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πRead the next chaptersπ | https://qweasdzxconline.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11090&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715085862 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438129100_1146045226739178_2601865360875538189_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pgaM6op9EH4Q7kNvgFvStUz&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAnzNXAdVZ3R4dAiEpauXywjYljw4eXW7quZ6rvyHSXBw&oe=6672A490 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440747644_315502774915635_6353252339687881796_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YicSkuGzOiMQ7kNvgEoi2bQ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAN9i2X9Y9MK7cgBix3paDsplYdUdBGGi_LOwLoSJKKaQ&oe=6672CB97 | 0 | 3 | π"Ned Fletcher, with how you're treating Angie right now, aren't you worried that you're going to regret it when you finally regain your memories one day? You loved her so much before and you two got married for love! Despite you forgetting your feelings about her, how could you post so many indecent photos of her on social media?" Ned spoke nonchalantly, saying, "Why are you still holding me hostage with morals and principles? She was the one who framed me by lowly methods. I was just warning her. If Ingrid hadn't asked me to stop, I'd have gone even further! By the way, show your respect to Ingrid. Sheβs not a new girl but my only one forever and never!" Angeline Emmerson heard the talk standing outside the door. She used to be treated ever so lovingly by Ned in the past. Angeline felt her eyes reddening and filling with tears. The Ned she knew had died in the car accident that happened four years ago. The one inside was merely a stranger! Angeline inhaled deeply. Then, she pushed the door open. Ned looked up and saw her entering. "Who brought you here?" Angeline stared at Ned and said, "I've already made a police report regarding your spiked drink at the event and your spreading of my photos for revenge." Hearing this, everyone's reactions differed from one another. Angeline continued, "Ned Fletcher, it's true that I wanted to try rekindling our relationship, but I would never have stooped so low as to do those disgusting things to you. I didn't want to let go of this relationship because I was worried that the Ned I knew would return someday and blame me for giving up on him so easily," Angeline placed the divorce agreement she'd been hugging onto the table. "I tried my best, but I'm tired now. Ned Fletcher, I'm giving up on you. I don't want you anymore." Ned's eyes traveled from the divorce agreement to Angeline's face. There was a hint of surprise in his cold eyes. "Let's finalize the divorce after the police have cleared my name and you have publicly apologized to me." | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717484400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879693 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410705 | 1723321849 | 995 | 304024709307949 | 7 | 1.4590207180467E+15 | 1717743600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120211846693390779 | qweasdzxconline.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πRead the next chaptersπ | https://qweasdzxconline.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11090&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715085862 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438129100_1146045226739178_2601865360875538189_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pgaM6op9EH4Q7kNvgFvStUz&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAnzNXAdVZ3R4dAiEpauXywjYljw4eXW7quZ6rvyHSXBw&oe=6672A490 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440747644_315502774915635_6353252339687881796_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YicSkuGzOiMQ7kNvgEoi2bQ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAN9i2X9Y9MK7cgBix3paDsplYdUdBGGi_LOwLoSJKKaQ&oe=6672CB97 | 0 | 3 | π"Ned Fletcher, with how you're treating Angie right now, aren't you worried that you're going to regret it when you finally regain your memories one day? You loved her so much before and you two got married for love! Despite you forgetting your feelings about her, how could you post so many indecent photos of her on social media?" Ned spoke nonchalantly, saying, "Why are you still holding me hostage with morals and principles? She was the one who framed me by lowly methods. I was just warning her. If Ingrid hadn't asked me to stop, I'd have gone even further! By the way, show your respect to Ingrid. Sheβs not a new girl but my only one forever and never!" Angeline Emmerson heard the talk standing outside the door. She used to be treated ever so lovingly by Ned in the past. Angeline felt her eyes reddening and filling with tears. The Ned she knew had died in the car accident that happened four years ago. The one inside was merely a stranger! Angeline inhaled deeply. Then, she pushed the door open. Ned looked up and saw her entering. "Who brought you here?" Angeline stared at Ned and said, "I've already made a police report regarding your spiked drink at the event and your spreading of my photos for revenge." Hearing this, everyone's reactions differed from one another. Angeline continued, "Ned Fletcher, it's true that I wanted to try rekindling our relationship, but I would never have stooped so low as to do those disgusting things to you. I didn't want to let go of this relationship because I was worried that the Ned I knew would return someday and blame me for giving up on him so easily," Angeline placed the divorce agreement she'd been hugging onto the table. "I tried my best, but I'm tired now. Ned Fletcher, I'm giving up on you. I don't want you anymore." Ned's eyes traveled from the divorce agreement to Angeline's face. There was a hint of surprise in his cold eyes. "Let's finalize the divorce after the police have cleared my name and you have publicly apologized to me." | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717484400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879694 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410706 | 1723321849 | 995 | 304024709307949 | 7 | 1.4590207180467E+15 | 1717743600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120211846693390779 | qweasdzxconline.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πRead the next chaptersπ | https://qweasdzxconline.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11090&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715085862 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438129100_1146045226739178_2601865360875538189_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pgaM6op9EH4Q7kNvgFvStUz&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAnzNXAdVZ3R4dAiEpauXywjYljw4eXW7quZ6rvyHSXBw&oe=6672A490 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440747644_315502774915635_6353252339687881796_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YicSkuGzOiMQ7kNvgEoi2bQ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAN9i2X9Y9MK7cgBix3paDsplYdUdBGGi_LOwLoSJKKaQ&oe=6672CB97 | 0 | 3 | π"Ned Fletcher, with how you're treating Angie right now, aren't you worried that you're going to regret it when you finally regain your memories one day? You loved her so much before and you two got married for love! Despite you forgetting your feelings about her, how could you post so many indecent photos of her on social media?" Ned spoke nonchalantly, saying, "Why are you still holding me hostage with morals and principles? She was the one who framed me by lowly methods. I was just warning her. If Ingrid hadn't asked me to stop, I'd have gone even further! By the way, show your respect to Ingrid. Sheβs not a new girl but my only one forever and never!" Angeline Emmerson heard the talk standing outside the door. She used to be treated ever so lovingly by Ned in the past. Angeline felt her eyes reddening and filling with tears. The Ned she knew had died in the car accident that happened four years ago. The one inside was merely a stranger! Angeline inhaled deeply. Then, she pushed the door open. Ned looked up and saw her entering. "Who brought you here?" Angeline stared at Ned and said, "I've already made a police report regarding your spiked drink at the event and your spreading of my photos for revenge." Hearing this, everyone's reactions differed from one another. Angeline continued, "Ned Fletcher, it's true that I wanted to try rekindling our relationship, but I would never have stooped so low as to do those disgusting things to you. I didn't want to let go of this relationship because I was worried that the Ned I knew would return someday and blame me for giving up on him so easily," Angeline placed the divorce agreement she'd been hugging onto the table. "I tried my best, but I'm tired now. Ned Fletcher, I'm giving up on you. I don't want you anymore." Ned's eyes traveled from the divorce agreement to Angeline's face. There was a hint of surprise in his cold eyes. "Let's finalize the divorce after the police have cleared my name and you have publicly apologized to me." | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717484400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879695 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410706 | 1723321849 | 995 | 304024709307949 | 7 | 1.4590207180467E+15 | 1717743600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120211846693390779 | qweasdzxconline.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πRead the next chaptersπ | https://qweasdzxconline.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11090&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715085862 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438129100_1146045226739178_2601865360875538189_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pgaM6op9EH4Q7kNvgFvStUz&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAnzNXAdVZ3R4dAiEpauXywjYljw4eXW7quZ6rvyHSXBw&oe=6672A490 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440747644_315502774915635_6353252339687881796_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YicSkuGzOiMQ7kNvgEoi2bQ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAN9i2X9Y9MK7cgBix3paDsplYdUdBGGi_LOwLoSJKKaQ&oe=6672CB97 | 0 | 3 | π"Ned Fletcher, with how you're treating Angie right now, aren't you worried that you're going to regret it when you finally regain your memories one day? You loved her so much before and you two got married for love! Despite you forgetting your feelings about her, how could you post so many indecent photos of her on social media?" Ned spoke nonchalantly, saying, "Why are you still holding me hostage with morals and principles? She was the one who framed me by lowly methods. I was just warning her. If Ingrid hadn't asked me to stop, I'd have gone even further! By the way, show your respect to Ingrid. Sheβs not a new girl but my only one forever and never!" Angeline Emmerson heard the talk standing outside the door. She used to be treated ever so lovingly by Ned in the past. Angeline felt her eyes reddening and filling with tears. The Ned she knew had died in the car accident that happened four years ago. The one inside was merely a stranger! Angeline inhaled deeply. Then, she pushed the door open. Ned looked up and saw her entering. "Who brought you here?" Angeline stared at Ned and said, "I've already made a police report regarding your spiked drink at the event and your spreading of my photos for revenge." Hearing this, everyone's reactions differed from one another. Angeline continued, "Ned Fletcher, it's true that I wanted to try rekindling our relationship, but I would never have stooped so low as to do those disgusting things to you. I didn't want to let go of this relationship because I was worried that the Ned I knew would return someday and blame me for giving up on him so easily," Angeline placed the divorce agreement she'd been hugging onto the table. "I tried my best, but I'm tired now. Ned Fletcher, I'm giving up on you. I don't want you anymore." Ned's eyes traveled from the divorce agreement to Angeline's face. There was a hint of surprise in his cold eyes. "Let's finalize the divorce after the police have cleared my name and you have publicly apologized to me." | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717484400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879696 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410706 | 1723321849 | 995 | 304024709307949 | 7 | 1.4590207180467E+15 | 1717743600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120211846693390779 | qweasdzxconline.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πRead the next chaptersπ | https://qweasdzxconline.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11090&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715085862 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438129100_1146045226739178_2601865360875538189_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pgaM6op9EH4Q7kNvgFvStUz&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAnzNXAdVZ3R4dAiEpauXywjYljw4eXW7quZ6rvyHSXBw&oe=6672A490 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440747644_315502774915635_6353252339687881796_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YicSkuGzOiMQ7kNvgEoi2bQ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAN9i2X9Y9MK7cgBix3paDsplYdUdBGGi_LOwLoSJKKaQ&oe=6672CB97 | 0 | 3 | π"Ned Fletcher, with how you're treating Angie right now, aren't you worried that you're going to regret it when you finally regain your memories one day? You loved her so much before and you two got married for love! Despite you forgetting your feelings about her, how could you post so many indecent photos of her on social media?" Ned spoke nonchalantly, saying, "Why are you still holding me hostage with morals and principles? She was the one who framed me by lowly methods. I was just warning her. If Ingrid hadn't asked me to stop, I'd have gone even further! By the way, show your respect to Ingrid. Sheβs not a new girl but my only one forever and never!" Angeline Emmerson heard the talk standing outside the door. She used to be treated ever so lovingly by Ned in the past. Angeline felt her eyes reddening and filling with tears. The Ned she knew had died in the car accident that happened four years ago. The one inside was merely a stranger! Angeline inhaled deeply. Then, she pushed the door open. Ned looked up and saw her entering. "Who brought you here?" Angeline stared at Ned and said, "I've already made a police report regarding your spiked drink at the event and your spreading of my photos for revenge." Hearing this, everyone's reactions differed from one another. Angeline continued, "Ned Fletcher, it's true that I wanted to try rekindling our relationship, but I would never have stooped so low as to do those disgusting things to you. I didn't want to let go of this relationship because I was worried that the Ned I knew would return someday and blame me for giving up on him so easily," Angeline placed the divorce agreement she'd been hugging onto the table. "I tried my best, but I'm tired now. Ned Fletcher, I'm giving up on you. I don't want you anymore." Ned's eyes traveled from the divorce agreement to Angeline's face. There was a hint of surprise in his cold eyes. "Let's finalize the divorce after the police have cleared my name and you have publicly apologized to me." | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717484400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879698 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410707 | 1723321849 | 995 | 304024709307949 | 7 | 1.4590207180467E+15 | 1717743600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120211846693390779 | qweasdzxconline.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πRead the next chaptersπ | https://qweasdzxconline.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11090&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715085862 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438129100_1146045226739178_2601865360875538189_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pgaM6op9EH4Q7kNvgFvStUz&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAnzNXAdVZ3R4dAiEpauXywjYljw4eXW7quZ6rvyHSXBw&oe=6672A490 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440747644_315502774915635_6353252339687881796_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YicSkuGzOiMQ7kNvgEoi2bQ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAN9i2X9Y9MK7cgBix3paDsplYdUdBGGi_LOwLoSJKKaQ&oe=6672CB97 | 0 | 3 | π"Ned Fletcher, with how you're treating Angie right now, aren't you worried that you're going to regret it when you finally regain your memories one day? You loved her so much before and you two got married for love! Despite you forgetting your feelings about her, how could you post so many indecent photos of her on social media?" Ned spoke nonchalantly, saying, "Why are you still holding me hostage with morals and principles? She was the one who framed me by lowly methods. I was just warning her. If Ingrid hadn't asked me to stop, I'd have gone even further! By the way, show your respect to Ingrid. Sheβs not a new girl but my only one forever and never!" Angeline Emmerson heard the talk standing outside the door. She used to be treated ever so lovingly by Ned in the past. Angeline felt her eyes reddening and filling with tears. The Ned she knew had died in the car accident that happened four years ago. The one inside was merely a stranger! Angeline inhaled deeply. Then, she pushed the door open. Ned looked up and saw her entering. "Who brought you here?" Angeline stared at Ned and said, "I've already made a police report regarding your spiked drink at the event and your spreading of my photos for revenge." Hearing this, everyone's reactions differed from one another. Angeline continued, "Ned Fletcher, it's true that I wanted to try rekindling our relationship, but I would never have stooped so low as to do those disgusting things to you. I didn't want to let go of this relationship because I was worried that the Ned I knew would return someday and blame me for giving up on him so easily," Angeline placed the divorce agreement she'd been hugging onto the table. "I tried my best, but I'm tired now. Ned Fletcher, I'm giving up on you. I don't want you anymore." Ned's eyes traveled from the divorce agreement to Angeline's face. There was a hint of surprise in his cold eyes. "Let's finalize the divorce after the police have cleared my name and you have publicly apologized to me." | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717484400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879699 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410707 | 1723321850 | 995 | 350229604734306 | 16 | 9.8242705956723E+14 | 1715324400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120211846693390779 | qweasdzxconline.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πRead the next chaptersπ | https://qweasdzxconline.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11090&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715085862 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438129100_1146045226739178_2601865360875538189_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pgaM6op9EH4Q7kNvgFvStUz&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAnzNXAdVZ3R4dAiEpauXywjYljw4eXW7quZ6rvyHSXBw&oe=6672A490 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440747644_315502774915635_6353252339687881796_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YicSkuGzOiMQ7kNvgEoi2bQ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAN9i2X9Y9MK7cgBix3paDsplYdUdBGGi_LOwLoSJKKaQ&oe=6672CB97 | 0 | 3 | π"Ned Fletcher, with how you're treating Angie right now, aren't you worried that you're going to regret it when you finally regain your memories one day? You loved her so much before and you two got married for love! Despite you forgetting your feelings about her, how could you post so many indecent photos of her on social media?" Ned spoke nonchalantly, saying, "Why are you still holding me hostage with morals and principles? She was the one who framed me by lowly methods. I was just warning her. If Ingrid hadn't asked me to stop, I'd have gone even further! By the way, show your respect to Ingrid. Sheβs not a new girl but my only one forever and never!" Angeline Emmerson heard the talk standing outside the door. She used to be treated ever so lovingly by Ned in the past. Angeline felt her eyes reddening and filling with tears. The Ned she knew had died in the car accident that happened four years ago. The one inside was merely a stranger! Angeline inhaled deeply. Then, she pushed the door open. Ned looked up and saw her entering. "Who brought you here?" Angeline stared at Ned and said, "I've already made a police report regarding your spiked drink at the event and your spreading of my photos for revenge." Hearing this, everyone's reactions differed from one another. Angeline continued, "Ned Fletcher, it's true that I wanted to try rekindling our relationship, but I would never have stooped so low as to do those disgusting things to you. I didn't want to let go of this relationship because I was worried that the Ned I knew would return someday and blame me for giving up on him so easily," Angeline placed the divorce agreement she'd been hugging onto the table. "I tried my best, but I'm tired now. Ned Fletcher, I'm giving up on you. I don't want you anymore." Ned's eyes traveled from the divorce agreement to Angeline's face. There was a hint of surprise in his cold eyes. "Let's finalize the divorce after the police have cleared my name and you have publicly apologized to me." | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879700 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410707 | 1723321850 | 995 | 350229604734306 | 16 | 9.8242705956723E+14 | 1715324400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120211846693390779 | qweasdzxconline.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πRead the next chaptersπ | https://qweasdzxconline.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11090&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715085862 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438129100_1146045226739178_2601865360875538189_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pgaM6op9EH4Q7kNvgFvStUz&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAnzNXAdVZ3R4dAiEpauXywjYljw4eXW7quZ6rvyHSXBw&oe=6672A490 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440747644_315502774915635_6353252339687881796_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YicSkuGzOiMQ7kNvgEoi2bQ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAN9i2X9Y9MK7cgBix3paDsplYdUdBGGi_LOwLoSJKKaQ&oe=6672CB97 | 0 | 3 | π"Ned Fletcher, with how you're treating Angie right now, aren't you worried that you're going to regret it when you finally regain your memories one day? You loved her so much before and you two got married for love! Despite you forgetting your feelings about her, how could you post so many indecent photos of her on social media?" Ned spoke nonchalantly, saying, "Why are you still holding me hostage with morals and principles? She was the one who framed me by lowly methods. I was just warning her. If Ingrid hadn't asked me to stop, I'd have gone even further! By the way, show your respect to Ingrid. Sheβs not a new girl but my only one forever and never!" Angeline Emmerson heard the talk standing outside the door. She used to be treated ever so lovingly by Ned in the past. Angeline felt her eyes reddening and filling with tears. The Ned she knew had died in the car accident that happened four years ago. The one inside was merely a stranger! Angeline inhaled deeply. Then, she pushed the door open. Ned looked up and saw her entering. "Who brought you here?" Angeline stared at Ned and said, "I've already made a police report regarding your spiked drink at the event and your spreading of my photos for revenge." Hearing this, everyone's reactions differed from one another. Angeline continued, "Ned Fletcher, it's true that I wanted to try rekindling our relationship, but I would never have stooped so low as to do those disgusting things to you. I didn't want to let go of this relationship because I was worried that the Ned I knew would return someday and blame me for giving up on him so easily," Angeline placed the divorce agreement she'd been hugging onto the table. "I tried my best, but I'm tired now. Ned Fletcher, I'm giving up on you. I don't want you anymore." Ned's eyes traveled from the divorce agreement to Angeline's face. There was a hint of surprise in his cold eyes. "Let's finalize the divorce after the police have cleared my name and you have publicly apologized to me." | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879701 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410707 | 1723321850 | 995 | 350229604734306 | 16 | 9.8242705956723E+14 | 1715324400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120211846693390779 | qweasdzxconline.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πRead the next chaptersπ | https://qweasdzxconline.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11090&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715085862 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438129100_1146045226739178_2601865360875538189_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pgaM6op9EH4Q7kNvgFvStUz&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAnzNXAdVZ3R4dAiEpauXywjYljw4eXW7quZ6rvyHSXBw&oe=6672A490 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440747644_315502774915635_6353252339687881796_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YicSkuGzOiMQ7kNvgEoi2bQ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAN9i2X9Y9MK7cgBix3paDsplYdUdBGGi_LOwLoSJKKaQ&oe=6672CB97 | 0 | 3 | π"Ned Fletcher, with how you're treating Angie right now, aren't you worried that you're going to regret it when you finally regain your memories one day? You loved her so much before and you two got married for love! Despite you forgetting your feelings about her, how could you post so many indecent photos of her on social media?" Ned spoke nonchalantly, saying, "Why are you still holding me hostage with morals and principles? She was the one who framed me by lowly methods. I was just warning her. If Ingrid hadn't asked me to stop, I'd have gone even further! By the way, show your respect to Ingrid. Sheβs not a new girl but my only one forever and never!" Angeline Emmerson heard the talk standing outside the door. She used to be treated ever so lovingly by Ned in the past. Angeline felt her eyes reddening and filling with tears. The Ned she knew had died in the car accident that happened four years ago. The one inside was merely a stranger! Angeline inhaled deeply. Then, she pushed the door open. Ned looked up and saw her entering. "Who brought you here?" Angeline stared at Ned and said, "I've already made a police report regarding your spiked drink at the event and your spreading of my photos for revenge." Hearing this, everyone's reactions differed from one another. Angeline continued, "Ned Fletcher, it's true that I wanted to try rekindling our relationship, but I would never have stooped so low as to do those disgusting things to you. I didn't want to let go of this relationship because I was worried that the Ned I knew would return someday and blame me for giving up on him so easily," Angeline placed the divorce agreement she'd been hugging onto the table. "I tried my best, but I'm tired now. Ned Fletcher, I'm giving up on you. I don't want you anymore." Ned's eyes traveled from the divorce agreement to Angeline's face. There was a hint of surprise in his cold eyes. "Let's finalize the divorce after the police have cleared my name and you have publicly apologized to me." | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879702 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410708 | 1723321850 | 995 | 350229604734306 | 16 | 9.8242705956723E+14 | 1715324400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120211846693390779 | qweasdzxconline.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πRead the next chaptersπ | https://qweasdzxconline.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11090&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715085862 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438129100_1146045226739178_2601865360875538189_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pgaM6op9EH4Q7kNvgFvStUz&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAnzNXAdVZ3R4dAiEpauXywjYljw4eXW7quZ6rvyHSXBw&oe=6672A490 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440747644_315502774915635_6353252339687881796_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YicSkuGzOiMQ7kNvgEoi2bQ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAN9i2X9Y9MK7cgBix3paDsplYdUdBGGi_LOwLoSJKKaQ&oe=6672CB97 | 0 | 3 | π"Ned Fletcher, with how you're treating Angie right now, aren't you worried that you're going to regret it when you finally regain your memories one day? You loved her so much before and you two got married for love! Despite you forgetting your feelings about her, how could you post so many indecent photos of her on social media?" Ned spoke nonchalantly, saying, "Why are you still holding me hostage with morals and principles? She was the one who framed me by lowly methods. I was just warning her. If Ingrid hadn't asked me to stop, I'd have gone even further! By the way, show your respect to Ingrid. Sheβs not a new girl but my only one forever and never!" Angeline Emmerson heard the talk standing outside the door. She used to be treated ever so lovingly by Ned in the past. Angeline felt her eyes reddening and filling with tears. The Ned she knew had died in the car accident that happened four years ago. The one inside was merely a stranger! Angeline inhaled deeply. Then, she pushed the door open. Ned looked up and saw her entering. "Who brought you here?" Angeline stared at Ned and said, "I've already made a police report regarding your spiked drink at the event and your spreading of my photos for revenge." Hearing this, everyone's reactions differed from one another. Angeline continued, "Ned Fletcher, it's true that I wanted to try rekindling our relationship, but I would never have stooped so low as to do those disgusting things to you. I didn't want to let go of this relationship because I was worried that the Ned I knew would return someday and blame me for giving up on him so easily," Angeline placed the divorce agreement she'd been hugging onto the table. "I tried my best, but I'm tired now. Ned Fletcher, I'm giving up on you. I don't want you anymore." Ned's eyes traveled from the divorce agreement to Angeline's face. There was a hint of surprise in his cold eyes. "Let's finalize the divorce after the police have cleared my name and you have publicly apologized to me." | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879703 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410708 | 1723321850 | 995 | 350229604734306 | 16 | 9.8242705956723E+14 | 1715324400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120211846693390779 | qweasdzxconline.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πRead the next chaptersπ | https://qweasdzxconline.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11090&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715085862 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438129100_1146045226739178_2601865360875538189_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pgaM6op9EH4Q7kNvgFvStUz&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAnzNXAdVZ3R4dAiEpauXywjYljw4eXW7quZ6rvyHSXBw&oe=6672A490 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440747644_315502774915635_6353252339687881796_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YicSkuGzOiMQ7kNvgEoi2bQ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAN9i2X9Y9MK7cgBix3paDsplYdUdBGGi_LOwLoSJKKaQ&oe=6672CB97 | 0 | 3 | π"Ned Fletcher, with how you're treating Angie right now, aren't you worried that you're going to regret it when you finally regain your memories one day? You loved her so much before and you two got married for love! Despite you forgetting your feelings about her, how could you post so many indecent photos of her on social media?" Ned spoke nonchalantly, saying, "Why are you still holding me hostage with morals and principles? She was the one who framed me by lowly methods. I was just warning her. If Ingrid hadn't asked me to stop, I'd have gone even further! By the way, show your respect to Ingrid. Sheβs not a new girl but my only one forever and never!" Angeline Emmerson heard the talk standing outside the door. She used to be treated ever so lovingly by Ned in the past. Angeline felt her eyes reddening and filling with tears. The Ned she knew had died in the car accident that happened four years ago. The one inside was merely a stranger! Angeline inhaled deeply. Then, she pushed the door open. Ned looked up and saw her entering. "Who brought you here?" Angeline stared at Ned and said, "I've already made a police report regarding your spiked drink at the event and your spreading of my photos for revenge." Hearing this, everyone's reactions differed from one another. Angeline continued, "Ned Fletcher, it's true that I wanted to try rekindling our relationship, but I would never have stooped so low as to do those disgusting things to you. I didn't want to let go of this relationship because I was worried that the Ned I knew would return someday and blame me for giving up on him so easily," Angeline placed the divorce agreement she'd been hugging onto the table. "I tried my best, but I'm tired now. Ned Fletcher, I'm giving up on you. I don't want you anymore." Ned's eyes traveled from the divorce agreement to Angeline's face. There was a hint of surprise in his cold eyes. "Let's finalize the divorce after the police have cleared my name and you have publicly apologized to me." | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879705 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410708 | 1723321850 | 995 | 350229604734306 | 16 | 9.8242705956723E+14 | 1715324400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120211846693390779 | qweasdzxconline.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πRead the next chaptersπ | https://qweasdzxconline.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11090&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715085862 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438129100_1146045226739178_2601865360875538189_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pgaM6op9EH4Q7kNvgFvStUz&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAnzNXAdVZ3R4dAiEpauXywjYljw4eXW7quZ6rvyHSXBw&oe=6672A490 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440747644_315502774915635_6353252339687881796_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YicSkuGzOiMQ7kNvgEoi2bQ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAN9i2X9Y9MK7cgBix3paDsplYdUdBGGi_LOwLoSJKKaQ&oe=6672CB97 | 0 | 3 | π"Ned Fletcher, with how you're treating Angie right now, aren't you worried that you're going to regret it when you finally regain your memories one day? You loved her so much before and you two got married for love! Despite you forgetting your feelings about her, how could you post so many indecent photos of her on social media?" Ned spoke nonchalantly, saying, "Why are you still holding me hostage with morals and principles? She was the one who framed me by lowly methods. I was just warning her. If Ingrid hadn't asked me to stop, I'd have gone even further! By the way, show your respect to Ingrid. Sheβs not a new girl but my only one forever and never!" Angeline Emmerson heard the talk standing outside the door. She used to be treated ever so lovingly by Ned in the past. Angeline felt her eyes reddening and filling with tears. The Ned she knew had died in the car accident that happened four years ago. The one inside was merely a stranger! Angeline inhaled deeply. Then, she pushed the door open. Ned looked up and saw her entering. "Who brought you here?" Angeline stared at Ned and said, "I've already made a police report regarding your spiked drink at the event and your spreading of my photos for revenge." Hearing this, everyone's reactions differed from one another. Angeline continued, "Ned Fletcher, it's true that I wanted to try rekindling our relationship, but I would never have stooped so low as to do those disgusting things to you. I didn't want to let go of this relationship because I was worried that the Ned I knew would return someday and blame me for giving up on him so easily," Angeline placed the divorce agreement she'd been hugging onto the table. "I tried my best, but I'm tired now. Ned Fletcher, I'm giving up on you. I don't want you anymore." Ned's eyes traveled from the divorce agreement to Angeline's face. There was a hint of surprise in his cold eyes. "Let's finalize the divorce after the police have cleared my name and you have publicly apologized to me." | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879706 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410709 | 1723321851 | 995 | 350229604734306 | 16 | 9.8242705956723E+14 | 1715324400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120211846693390779 | qweasdzxconline.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πRead the next chaptersπ | https://qweasdzxconline.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11090&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715085862 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438129100_1146045226739178_2601865360875538189_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pgaM6op9EH4Q7kNvgFvStUz&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAnzNXAdVZ3R4dAiEpauXywjYljw4eXW7quZ6rvyHSXBw&oe=6672A490 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440747644_315502774915635_6353252339687881796_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YicSkuGzOiMQ7kNvgEoi2bQ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAN9i2X9Y9MK7cgBix3paDsplYdUdBGGi_LOwLoSJKKaQ&oe=6672CB97 | 0 | 3 | π"Ned Fletcher, with how you're treating Angie right now, aren't you worried that you're going to regret it when you finally regain your memories one day? You loved her so much before and you two got married for love! Despite you forgetting your feelings about her, how could you post so many indecent photos of her on social media?" Ned spoke nonchalantly, saying, "Why are you still holding me hostage with morals and principles? She was the one who framed me by lowly methods. I was just warning her. If Ingrid hadn't asked me to stop, I'd have gone even further! By the way, show your respect to Ingrid. Sheβs not a new girl but my only one forever and never!" Angeline Emmerson heard the talk standing outside the door. She used to be treated ever so lovingly by Ned in the past. Angeline felt her eyes reddening and filling with tears. The Ned she knew had died in the car accident that happened four years ago. The one inside was merely a stranger! Angeline inhaled deeply. Then, she pushed the door open. Ned looked up and saw her entering. "Who brought you here?" Angeline stared at Ned and said, "I've already made a police report regarding your spiked drink at the event and your spreading of my photos for revenge." Hearing this, everyone's reactions differed from one another. Angeline continued, "Ned Fletcher, it's true that I wanted to try rekindling our relationship, but I would never have stooped so low as to do those disgusting things to you. I didn't want to let go of this relationship because I was worried that the Ned I knew would return someday and blame me for giving up on him so easily," Angeline placed the divorce agreement she'd been hugging onto the table. "I tried my best, but I'm tired now. Ned Fletcher, I'm giving up on you. I don't want you anymore." Ned's eyes traveled from the divorce agreement to Angeline's face. There was a hint of surprise in his cold eyes. "Let's finalize the divorce after the police have cleared my name and you have publicly apologized to me." | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879707 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410709 | 1723321851 | 995 | 350229604734306 | 16 | 9.8242705956723E+14 | 1715324400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120211846693390779 | qweasdzxconline.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πRead the next chaptersπ | https://qweasdzxconline.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11090&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715085862 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438129100_1146045226739178_2601865360875538189_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pgaM6op9EH4Q7kNvgFvStUz&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAnzNXAdVZ3R4dAiEpauXywjYljw4eXW7quZ6rvyHSXBw&oe=6672A490 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440747644_315502774915635_6353252339687881796_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YicSkuGzOiMQ7kNvgEoi2bQ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAN9i2X9Y9MK7cgBix3paDsplYdUdBGGi_LOwLoSJKKaQ&oe=6672CB97 | 0 | 3 | π"Ned Fletcher, with how you're treating Angie right now, aren't you worried that you're going to regret it when you finally regain your memories one day? You loved her so much before and you two got married for love! Despite you forgetting your feelings about her, how could you post so many indecent photos of her on social media?" Ned spoke nonchalantly, saying, "Why are you still holding me hostage with morals and principles? She was the one who framed me by lowly methods. I was just warning her. If Ingrid hadn't asked me to stop, I'd have gone even further! By the way, show your respect to Ingrid. Sheβs not a new girl but my only one forever and never!" Angeline Emmerson heard the talk standing outside the door. She used to be treated ever so lovingly by Ned in the past. Angeline felt her eyes reddening and filling with tears. The Ned she knew had died in the car accident that happened four years ago. The one inside was merely a stranger! Angeline inhaled deeply. Then, she pushed the door open. Ned looked up and saw her entering. "Who brought you here?" Angeline stared at Ned and said, "I've already made a police report regarding your spiked drink at the event and your spreading of my photos for revenge." Hearing this, everyone's reactions differed from one another. Angeline continued, "Ned Fletcher, it's true that I wanted to try rekindling our relationship, but I would never have stooped so low as to do those disgusting things to you. I didn't want to let go of this relationship because I was worried that the Ned I knew would return someday and blame me for giving up on him so easily," Angeline placed the divorce agreement she'd been hugging onto the table. "I tried my best, but I'm tired now. Ned Fletcher, I'm giving up on you. I don't want you anymore." Ned's eyes traveled from the divorce agreement to Angeline's face. There was a hint of surprise in his cold eyes. "Let's finalize the divorce after the police have cleared my name and you have publicly apologized to me." | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879708 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410709 | 1723321851 | 995 | 350229604734306 | 16 | 9.8242705956723E+14 | 1715324400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120211846693390779 | qweasdzxconline.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πRead the next chaptersπ | https://qweasdzxconline.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11090&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715085862 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438129100_1146045226739178_2601865360875538189_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pgaM6op9EH4Q7kNvgFvStUz&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAnzNXAdVZ3R4dAiEpauXywjYljw4eXW7quZ6rvyHSXBw&oe=6672A490 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440747644_315502774915635_6353252339687881796_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YicSkuGzOiMQ7kNvgEoi2bQ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAN9i2X9Y9MK7cgBix3paDsplYdUdBGGi_LOwLoSJKKaQ&oe=6672CB97 | 0 | 3 | π"Ned Fletcher, with how you're treating Angie right now, aren't you worried that you're going to regret it when you finally regain your memories one day? You loved her so much before and you two got married for love! Despite you forgetting your feelings about her, how could you post so many indecent photos of her on social media?" Ned spoke nonchalantly, saying, "Why are you still holding me hostage with morals and principles? She was the one who framed me by lowly methods. I was just warning her. If Ingrid hadn't asked me to stop, I'd have gone even further! By the way, show your respect to Ingrid. Sheβs not a new girl but my only one forever and never!" Angeline Emmerson heard the talk standing outside the door. She used to be treated ever so lovingly by Ned in the past. Angeline felt her eyes reddening and filling with tears. The Ned she knew had died in the car accident that happened four years ago. The one inside was merely a stranger! Angeline inhaled deeply. Then, she pushed the door open. Ned looked up and saw her entering. "Who brought you here?" Angeline stared at Ned and said, "I've already made a police report regarding your spiked drink at the event and your spreading of my photos for revenge." Hearing this, everyone's reactions differed from one another. Angeline continued, "Ned Fletcher, it's true that I wanted to try rekindling our relationship, but I would never have stooped so low as to do those disgusting things to you. I didn't want to let go of this relationship because I was worried that the Ned I knew would return someday and blame me for giving up on him so easily," Angeline placed the divorce agreement she'd been hugging onto the table. "I tried my best, but I'm tired now. Ned Fletcher, I'm giving up on you. I don't want you anymore." Ned's eyes traveled from the divorce agreement to Angeline's face. There was a hint of surprise in his cold eyes. "Let's finalize the divorce after the police have cleared my name and you have publicly apologized to me." | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879710 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410709 | 1723321851 | 995 | 472704218538310 | 12 | 8.4162250112428E+14 | 1715929200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120211846693390779 | qweasdzxconline.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πRead the next chaptersπ | https://qweasdzxconline.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11090&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715085862 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438129100_1146045226739178_2601865360875538189_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pgaM6op9EH4Q7kNvgFvStUz&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAnzNXAdVZ3R4dAiEpauXywjYljw4eXW7quZ6rvyHSXBw&oe=6672A490 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440747644_315502774915635_6353252339687881796_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YicSkuGzOiMQ7kNvgEoi2bQ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAN9i2X9Y9MK7cgBix3paDsplYdUdBGGi_LOwLoSJKKaQ&oe=6672CB97 | 0 | 3 | π"Ned Fletcher, with how you're treating Angie right now, aren't you worried that you're going to regret it when you finally regain your memories one day? You loved her so much before and you two got married for love! Despite you forgetting your feelings about her, how could you post so many indecent photos of her on social media?" Ned spoke nonchalantly, saying, "Why are you still holding me hostage with morals and principles? She was the one who framed me by lowly methods. I was just warning her. If Ingrid hadn't asked me to stop, I'd have gone even further! By the way, show your respect to Ingrid. Sheβs not a new girl but my only one forever and never!" Angeline Emmerson heard the talk standing outside the door. She used to be treated ever so lovingly by Ned in the past. Angeline felt her eyes reddening and filling with tears. The Ned she knew had died in the car accident that happened four years ago. The one inside was merely a stranger! Angeline inhaled deeply. Then, she pushed the door open. Ned looked up and saw her entering. "Who brought you here?" Angeline stared at Ned and said, "I've already made a police report regarding your spiked drink at the event and your spreading of my photos for revenge." Hearing this, everyone's reactions differed from one another. Angeline continued, "Ned Fletcher, it's true that I wanted to try rekindling our relationship, but I would never have stooped so low as to do those disgusting things to you. I didn't want to let go of this relationship because I was worried that the Ned I knew would return someday and blame me for giving up on him so easily," Angeline placed the divorce agreement she'd been hugging onto the table. "I tried my best, but I'm tired now. Ned Fletcher, I'm giving up on you. I don't want you anymore." Ned's eyes traveled from the divorce agreement to Angeline's face. There was a hint of surprise in his cold eyes. "Let's finalize the divorce after the police have cleared my name and you have publicly apologized to me." | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715583600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879711 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410710 | 1723321851 | 995 | 472704218538310 | 12 | 8.4162250112428E+14 | 1715929200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120211846693390779 | qweasdzxconline.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πRead the next chaptersπ | https://qweasdzxconline.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11090&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715085862 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438129100_1146045226739178_2601865360875538189_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pgaM6op9EH4Q7kNvgFvStUz&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAnzNXAdVZ3R4dAiEpauXywjYljw4eXW7quZ6rvyHSXBw&oe=6672A490 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440747644_315502774915635_6353252339687881796_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YicSkuGzOiMQ7kNvgEoi2bQ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAN9i2X9Y9MK7cgBix3paDsplYdUdBGGi_LOwLoSJKKaQ&oe=6672CB97 | 0 | 3 | π"Ned Fletcher, with how you're treating Angie right now, aren't you worried that you're going to regret it when you finally regain your memories one day? You loved her so much before and you two got married for love! Despite you forgetting your feelings about her, how could you post so many indecent photos of her on social media?" Ned spoke nonchalantly, saying, "Why are you still holding me hostage with morals and principles? She was the one who framed me by lowly methods. I was just warning her. If Ingrid hadn't asked me to stop, I'd have gone even further! By the way, show your respect to Ingrid. Sheβs not a new girl but my only one forever and never!" Angeline Emmerson heard the talk standing outside the door. She used to be treated ever so lovingly by Ned in the past. Angeline felt her eyes reddening and filling with tears. The Ned she knew had died in the car accident that happened four years ago. The one inside was merely a stranger! Angeline inhaled deeply. Then, she pushed the door open. Ned looked up and saw her entering. "Who brought you here?" Angeline stared at Ned and said, "I've already made a police report regarding your spiked drink at the event and your spreading of my photos for revenge." Hearing this, everyone's reactions differed from one another. Angeline continued, "Ned Fletcher, it's true that I wanted to try rekindling our relationship, but I would never have stooped so low as to do those disgusting things to you. I didn't want to let go of this relationship because I was worried that the Ned I knew would return someday and blame me for giving up on him so easily," Angeline placed the divorce agreement she'd been hugging onto the table. "I tried my best, but I'm tired now. Ned Fletcher, I'm giving up on you. I don't want you anymore." Ned's eyes traveled from the divorce agreement to Angeline's face. There was a hint of surprise in his cold eyes. "Let's finalize the divorce after the police have cleared my name and you have publicly apologized to me." | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715583600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879712 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410710 | 1723321851 | 995 | 472704218538310 | 12 | 8.4162250112428E+14 | 1715929200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120211846693390779 | qweasdzxconline.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πRead the next chaptersπ | https://qweasdzxconline.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11090&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715085862 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438129100_1146045226739178_2601865360875538189_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pgaM6op9EH4Q7kNvgFvStUz&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAnzNXAdVZ3R4dAiEpauXywjYljw4eXW7quZ6rvyHSXBw&oe=6672A490 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440747644_315502774915635_6353252339687881796_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YicSkuGzOiMQ7kNvgEoi2bQ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAN9i2X9Y9MK7cgBix3paDsplYdUdBGGi_LOwLoSJKKaQ&oe=6672CB97 | 0 | 3 | π"Ned Fletcher, with how you're treating Angie right now, aren't you worried that you're going to regret it when you finally regain your memories one day? You loved her so much before and you two got married for love! Despite you forgetting your feelings about her, how could you post so many indecent photos of her on social media?" Ned spoke nonchalantly, saying, "Why are you still holding me hostage with morals and principles? She was the one who framed me by lowly methods. I was just warning her. If Ingrid hadn't asked me to stop, I'd have gone even further! By the way, show your respect to Ingrid. Sheβs not a new girl but my only one forever and never!" Angeline Emmerson heard the talk standing outside the door. She used to be treated ever so lovingly by Ned in the past. Angeline felt her eyes reddening and filling with tears. The Ned she knew had died in the car accident that happened four years ago. The one inside was merely a stranger! Angeline inhaled deeply. Then, she pushed the door open. Ned looked up and saw her entering. "Who brought you here?" Angeline stared at Ned and said, "I've already made a police report regarding your spiked drink at the event and your spreading of my photos for revenge." Hearing this, everyone's reactions differed from one another. Angeline continued, "Ned Fletcher, it's true that I wanted to try rekindling our relationship, but I would never have stooped so low as to do those disgusting things to you. I didn't want to let go of this relationship because I was worried that the Ned I knew would return someday and blame me for giving up on him so easily," Angeline placed the divorce agreement she'd been hugging onto the table. "I tried my best, but I'm tired now. Ned Fletcher, I'm giving up on you. I don't want you anymore." Ned's eyes traveled from the divorce agreement to Angeline's face. There was a hint of surprise in his cold eyes. "Let's finalize the divorce after the police have cleared my name and you have publicly apologized to me." | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715583600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879713 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410710 | 1723321851 | 995 | 472704218538310 | 12 | 8.4162250112428E+14 | 1715929200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120211846693390779 | qweasdzxconline.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πRead the next chaptersπ | https://qweasdzxconline.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11090&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715085862 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438129100_1146045226739178_2601865360875538189_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pgaM6op9EH4Q7kNvgFvStUz&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAnzNXAdVZ3R4dAiEpauXywjYljw4eXW7quZ6rvyHSXBw&oe=6672A490 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440747644_315502774915635_6353252339687881796_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YicSkuGzOiMQ7kNvgEoi2bQ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAN9i2X9Y9MK7cgBix3paDsplYdUdBGGi_LOwLoSJKKaQ&oe=6672CB97 | 0 | 3 | π"Ned Fletcher, with how you're treating Angie right now, aren't you worried that you're going to regret it when you finally regain your memories one day? You loved her so much before and you two got married for love! Despite you forgetting your feelings about her, how could you post so many indecent photos of her on social media?" Ned spoke nonchalantly, saying, "Why are you still holding me hostage with morals and principles? She was the one who framed me by lowly methods. I was just warning her. If Ingrid hadn't asked me to stop, I'd have gone even further! By the way, show your respect to Ingrid. Sheβs not a new girl but my only one forever and never!" Angeline Emmerson heard the talk standing outside the door. She used to be treated ever so lovingly by Ned in the past. Angeline felt her eyes reddening and filling with tears. The Ned she knew had died in the car accident that happened four years ago. The one inside was merely a stranger! Angeline inhaled deeply. Then, she pushed the door open. Ned looked up and saw her entering. "Who brought you here?" Angeline stared at Ned and said, "I've already made a police report regarding your spiked drink at the event and your spreading of my photos for revenge." Hearing this, everyone's reactions differed from one another. Angeline continued, "Ned Fletcher, it's true that I wanted to try rekindling our relationship, but I would never have stooped so low as to do those disgusting things to you. I didn't want to let go of this relationship because I was worried that the Ned I knew would return someday and blame me for giving up on him so easily," Angeline placed the divorce agreement she'd been hugging onto the table. "I tried my best, but I'm tired now. Ned Fletcher, I'm giving up on you. I don't want you anymore." Ned's eyes traveled from the divorce agreement to Angeline's face. There was a hint of surprise in his cold eyes. "Let's finalize the divorce after the police have cleared my name and you have publicly apologized to me." | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715583600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879714 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410711 | 1723321851 | 995 | 472704218538310 | 12 | 8.4162250112428E+14 | 1715929200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120211846693390779 | qweasdzxconline.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πRead the next chaptersπ | https://qweasdzxconline.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11090&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715085862 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438129100_1146045226739178_2601865360875538189_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pgaM6op9EH4Q7kNvgFvStUz&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAnzNXAdVZ3R4dAiEpauXywjYljw4eXW7quZ6rvyHSXBw&oe=6672A490 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440747644_315502774915635_6353252339687881796_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YicSkuGzOiMQ7kNvgEoi2bQ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAN9i2X9Y9MK7cgBix3paDsplYdUdBGGi_LOwLoSJKKaQ&oe=6672CB97 | 0 | 3 | π"Ned Fletcher, with how you're treating Angie right now, aren't you worried that you're going to regret it when you finally regain your memories one day? You loved her so much before and you two got married for love! Despite you forgetting your feelings about her, how could you post so many indecent photos of her on social media?" Ned spoke nonchalantly, saying, "Why are you still holding me hostage with morals and principles? She was the one who framed me by lowly methods. I was just warning her. If Ingrid hadn't asked me to stop, I'd have gone even further! By the way, show your respect to Ingrid. Sheβs not a new girl but my only one forever and never!" Angeline Emmerson heard the talk standing outside the door. She used to be treated ever so lovingly by Ned in the past. Angeline felt her eyes reddening and filling with tears. The Ned she knew had died in the car accident that happened four years ago. The one inside was merely a stranger! Angeline inhaled deeply. Then, she pushed the door open. Ned looked up and saw her entering. "Who brought you here?" Angeline stared at Ned and said, "I've already made a police report regarding your spiked drink at the event and your spreading of my photos for revenge." Hearing this, everyone's reactions differed from one another. Angeline continued, "Ned Fletcher, it's true that I wanted to try rekindling our relationship, but I would never have stooped so low as to do those disgusting things to you. I didn't want to let go of this relationship because I was worried that the Ned I knew would return someday and blame me for giving up on him so easily," Angeline placed the divorce agreement she'd been hugging onto the table. "I tried my best, but I'm tired now. Ned Fletcher, I'm giving up on you. I don't want you anymore." Ned's eyes traveled from the divorce agreement to Angeline's face. There was a hint of surprise in his cold eyes. "Let's finalize the divorce after the police have cleared my name and you have publicly apologized to me." | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715583600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879716 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410711 | 1723321851 | 995 | 472704218538310 | 12 | 8.4162250112428E+14 | 1715929200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120211846693390779 | qweasdzxconline.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πRead the next chaptersπ | https://qweasdzxconline.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11090&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715085862 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438129100_1146045226739178_2601865360875538189_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pgaM6op9EH4Q7kNvgFvStUz&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAnzNXAdVZ3R4dAiEpauXywjYljw4eXW7quZ6rvyHSXBw&oe=6672A490 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440747644_315502774915635_6353252339687881796_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YicSkuGzOiMQ7kNvgEoi2bQ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAN9i2X9Y9MK7cgBix3paDsplYdUdBGGi_LOwLoSJKKaQ&oe=6672CB97 | 0 | 3 | π"Ned Fletcher, with how you're treating Angie right now, aren't you worried that you're going to regret it when you finally regain your memories one day? You loved her so much before and you two got married for love! Despite you forgetting your feelings about her, how could you post so many indecent photos of her on social media?" Ned spoke nonchalantly, saying, "Why are you still holding me hostage with morals and principles? She was the one who framed me by lowly methods. I was just warning her. If Ingrid hadn't asked me to stop, I'd have gone even further! By the way, show your respect to Ingrid. Sheβs not a new girl but my only one forever and never!" Angeline Emmerson heard the talk standing outside the door. She used to be treated ever so lovingly by Ned in the past. Angeline felt her eyes reddening and filling with tears. The Ned she knew had died in the car accident that happened four years ago. The one inside was merely a stranger! Angeline inhaled deeply. Then, she pushed the door open. Ned looked up and saw her entering. "Who brought you here?" Angeline stared at Ned and said, "I've already made a police report regarding your spiked drink at the event and your spreading of my photos for revenge." Hearing this, everyone's reactions differed from one another. Angeline continued, "Ned Fletcher, it's true that I wanted to try rekindling our relationship, but I would never have stooped so low as to do those disgusting things to you. I didn't want to let go of this relationship because I was worried that the Ned I knew would return someday and blame me for giving up on him so easily," Angeline placed the divorce agreement she'd been hugging onto the table. "I tried my best, but I'm tired now. Ned Fletcher, I'm giving up on you. I don't want you anymore." Ned's eyes traveled from the divorce agreement to Angeline's face. There was a hint of surprise in his cold eyes. "Let's finalize the divorce after the police have cleared my name and you have publicly apologized to me." | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715583600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879718 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410712 | 1723321851 | 995 | 472704218538310 | 12 | 8.4162250112428E+14 | 1715929200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120211846693390779 | qweasdzxconline.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πRead the next chaptersπ | https://qweasdzxconline.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11090&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715085862 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438129100_1146045226739178_2601865360875538189_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pgaM6op9EH4Q7kNvgFvStUz&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAnzNXAdVZ3R4dAiEpauXywjYljw4eXW7quZ6rvyHSXBw&oe=6672A490 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440747644_315502774915635_6353252339687881796_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YicSkuGzOiMQ7kNvgEoi2bQ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAN9i2X9Y9MK7cgBix3paDsplYdUdBGGi_LOwLoSJKKaQ&oe=6672CB97 | 0 | 3 | π"Ned Fletcher, with how you're treating Angie right now, aren't you worried that you're going to regret it when you finally regain your memories one day? You loved her so much before and you two got married for love! Despite you forgetting your feelings about her, how could you post so many indecent photos of her on social media?" Ned spoke nonchalantly, saying, "Why are you still holding me hostage with morals and principles? She was the one who framed me by lowly methods. I was just warning her. If Ingrid hadn't asked me to stop, I'd have gone even further! By the way, show your respect to Ingrid. Sheβs not a new girl but my only one forever and never!" Angeline Emmerson heard the talk standing outside the door. She used to be treated ever so lovingly by Ned in the past. Angeline felt her eyes reddening and filling with tears. The Ned she knew had died in the car accident that happened four years ago. The one inside was merely a stranger! Angeline inhaled deeply. Then, she pushed the door open. Ned looked up and saw her entering. "Who brought you here?" Angeline stared at Ned and said, "I've already made a police report regarding your spiked drink at the event and your spreading of my photos for revenge." Hearing this, everyone's reactions differed from one another. Angeline continued, "Ned Fletcher, it's true that I wanted to try rekindling our relationship, but I would never have stooped so low as to do those disgusting things to you. I didn't want to let go of this relationship because I was worried that the Ned I knew would return someday and blame me for giving up on him so easily," Angeline placed the divorce agreement she'd been hugging onto the table. "I tried my best, but I'm tired now. Ned Fletcher, I'm giving up on you. I don't want you anymore." Ned's eyes traveled from the divorce agreement to Angeline's face. There was a hint of surprise in his cold eyes. "Let's finalize the divorce after the police have cleared my name and you have publicly apologized to me." | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715583600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879719 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410712 | 1723321852 | 995 | 478272224667453 | 1 | 9.8867341249763E+14 | 1715497200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120208322655090240 | beokn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πRead the next chaptersπ | https://beokn.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=11222&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715247646 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441959051_459948103069197_1403971259308613209_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=1TSfEhiF8D4Q7kNvgEsEyd9&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCPNRByqeAZCHU6FMOpZDTMDfP5mY-xNTPdLThPIEzSTA&oe=6672B59C | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441520392_1857443494727194_4363879934185925189_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=QPeoCanp0RMQ7kNvgGSYpS5&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAiCFpH1dTSMHzenkisoYvpFPTfZKxTYULLfGfWMJ5I7Q&oe=6672A42A | 0 | 3 | Melody Swanson had her cell phone's torch turned on to light the path to a white cottage amidst the lavenders. The night breeze was chilly, but all she had on was a white, sleeveless nightgown and lounge slippers. Her expression lifted when she saw she was getting close to the cottage. But the next second, someone reached out from the bushes beside her and gripped her right shoulder tightly. She yelped in shock, dropping her phone onto the ground. The faint light disappeared. The next thing she knew, she was dragged into a hot embrace. "I'll give you a million for one night!" The man's voice rang out behind her. It was deep and smooth. Melody's heart raced at this plot twist. Before she knew it, she'd been flipped onto her front and pinned to the ground amidst the sea of flowers. She widened her eyes and flailed, trying to escape. "No, wait! You've got the wrong person!" "Stop moving, sweetheart. Or are you that desperate for it?" the man rasped. "Let me go!" Melody struggled harder, but the man's tall and toned figure held her in place as he flipped her onto her back. She started feeling scared. She widened her eyes even more, but all she could see were the stars in the sky behind the man's head. There was barely enough light for her to see the man's chiseled featuresβthe desire burning in his eyes was clear as day, though. It was almost as bright as the stars above. Melody tried her best to escape but to no avail. Pain shot through her; the man leaned down to kiss her and swallow her cries. After a long while, he spoke again. His voice was alluring and hoarse. "You're so sweet, darling. I'll give you a million for another round. How about that?" "You're a monster!" Melody's voice was also hoarse from her crying. How could he do something like this to her in such a saintly place? The wind lifted her dress, stained purple by the lavenders they'd crushed underneath them. The scent was oddly intoxicating. They were in Violetville, which was famous for its sea of lavenders. It was so picturesque that many film companies had been attracted to film there. It gradually turned into a filming base. Recently, John Wales, an internationally renowned director, brought a crew of award-winning actors and actresses to Violetville to film a huge production. He'd happened to catch sight of Melody, who was home from college for the holidays. He'd invited her to play the role of an important side character. Melody hadn't expected her sister, Queenie Swanson, to trick her out of the house in the middle of the night upon hearing the news. Queenie had locked the door and refused to open it no matter how she pleaded. Their parents heard everything but did nothing to stop Queenie. The words Queenie had said not too long ago were still reverberating in Melody's mind. "You were capable of catching that director's eye, weren't you? Is it because you've already slept with him? What are you still doing here, then? Go sleep in his hotel room! I won't open the door for you, so get lost!" With no place to go, Melody had no choice but to take shelter in the white cottage amidst the sea of flowers, which was only meant for sightseeing. She hadn't expected to experience something like this, though. Her family's betrayal and the man's advances made her tears flow. They wet the flowers crushed underneath her body. Melody didn't know how long it would take for the man to be sated; it was as if he would never tire. When the sky started turning bright, he finally stopped. He released her hands, which he'd kept pinned in place. Melody immediately grabbed the nearest object and smashed it over the man's head. He'd been saying, "Tell me your name, sweetβ" Melody smashed a rock on his head before he could finish. He didn't manage to dodge itβperhaps he was too relaxed after having had his fill of her. Chapter 2 The man swayed on the spot from the impact. Melody pushed him away; he lay there, looking up at her blearily. She lifted the rock, intending to strike him again. This was self-defense! But the words echoed hollowly in her mindβshe couldn't do itβshe couldn't take his life. Even of a monster, it would stain her forever. Ultimately, she threw the bloodied rock aside and staggered to her feet. She took a step and happened to kick her phone. Melody picked it up and pulled out the cash tucked underneath her phone case. It was the change she'd gotten after doing some grocery shopping. She threw it at the man and snarled, "Listen upβI bought your services for one night, and that's your fee. Keep the change! And don't think it's too little. That's all you're worth!" With that, she turned and stumbled out of the sea of lavenders. The man's vision was already starting to blur. The blood trickled down his forehead and over his eyes. It dyed his vision red as he watched Melody walk away from him. The color of the flowers' stains on her nightgown seemed to mix with the blood in his eyes, giving him the impression that the flowers were blossoming. He was reminded of the night they'd just had together. "Don't goβ¦" he mumbled, reaching for her. But the darkness overtook him. The luxury watch on his wrist gleamed as his hand fell to the ground limply. β¦ Two months later, there was an uproar at the Swanson residence. "You're expecting a baby before marriage! You're a disgrace to the Swanson family! Get out of here!" Horace Swanson shoved Melody away furiously. "This is a small town, and the people here are all good, honest people. How could you pick up all these bad habits from those celebrities whose private lives are so messed up? Leave now! I'll just act like I never gave birth to you!" Susan Lett waved a hand, looking utterly disappointed. "You should leave, Melody. If the neighbors hear about this, how do you expect Mom and Dad to continue living here? I'm not married yet, you know. I don't want you to affect my reputation." Queenie stabbed an apple slice with a toothpick and ate it. She sat on the couch, looking like she was enjoying the show. Melody pointed at her. "Queenie's the one who locked me out of the house that night because she wanted to get the chance to be in that film! That's why I ended up getting assaulted. Why do you guys refuse to believe me?" Horace stood up and stormed over to her, giving her a hard slap. "Shut up, you imbecile! You're the one who did something so shameless, yet you're still trying to push the blame onto your sister! Don't ever step foot in here again!" "I raised your sister myself, so I know how kind and loving she is. How can you say that about her?" Susan pulled Queenie, who looked aggrieved, into her arms. She gave Melody, who'd fallen to the floor from Horace's slap, a reproachful look. "Is it really like Madam Williams said, Mom? Am I not your daughter? Is that why you won't believe me?" Melody didn't want to cry, but the tears refused to stay in her eyes. They streamed down her face. "Youβ¦ Of course you're my daughter! That's why I know what a bad apple you are! How dare you try to blame me when your misbehavior? Leave! Now!" "Fine! I'll go!" Melody staggered to her feet and walked out the door, looking resolute and lonely. β¦ Five years passed in the blink of an eye. Ford Manor was located among a cluster of villas halfway up a mountain in Tottenstone. Ethan Ford was having the same dream again. The woman in his dream wore a white dress, as usual. She had a long, silky smooth hair. He couldn't see her face, though. She didn't seem to enjoy his ministrationsβshe cried and pleaded with him to let her go, but he couldn't stop himself from sinking deeper. He held her close. In the next second, he opened his eyes and woke up from the dream. Chapter 3 It was this dream again. Ethan had experienced it almost every night for the past five years. No other woman had managed to arouse him since that incidentβonly the woman in his dreams could. He'd had the same dream for 1,826 days, including today. Even if he was already used to it, Ethan was still irritated. He wiped the sweat from his face; even his hair was damp. He got out of bed. His perfect figure was like a model's, but his face was more handsome than any model could ever have. His demeanor was cold, regal, and domineering. Ethan took a moment to compose himself. He strode to the bathroom after pushing the steamy images out of his mind. The butler, Bill Jones, heard this and came into the room. He quickly changed the soiled sheets. He'd just finished when Ethan came out of the bathroom with nothing but a towel around his waist. As soon as he graced the room with his toned figure, the atmosphere turned somewhat sensual. Bill stood there with his head bowed. When he saw Ethan head to the wardrobe, he said, "Ms. Wendy Nielson called to invite you out for dinner, Mr. Ford. Should I make arrangements? It's high time you let loose and have some fun, sir." Wendy was the daughter of a politician and one of the most well-known socialites in the region. She'd invited Ethan out countless times since running into him at a banquet a year ago. Ethan grabbed a black shirt and put it on, his back muscles rolling as he did so. He didn't even turn back as he said, "You're too noisy." Bill knew this meant Ethan was turning down the invitation. He didn't dare say anything else. 40 minutes later, Ethan strode out of the villa. His assistant, James Sawyer, hurriedly opened the door to a luxury car parked outside. Ethan got into the car elegantly. As the car drove past the main gates, Ethan glanced at the rearview mirror to see two bodyguards stop a woman in a cap and tracksuit. She tried to run after the car; her ponytail swung with her actions. Ethan retracted his gaze and said to James, "Tell the bodyguards they're out of jobs if I see any strangers as soon as I leave the house again." Sweat beaded on James' forehead. "Yes, sir." "Have you found anything on that woman from five years ago?" Ethan tugged on his tie, his eyes cold. He didn't even need to look at anyone to make them shudder. James stuttered, "N-Not yet, sir." "I'll give you another month. If you can't find anything, you can get lost, too!" Unbeknownst to Ethan, the woman he was searching for was behind him. Her figure became smaller and smaller in the rearview mirror. "Mr. Ford, don't go!" Melody finally liberated herself from the bodyguards, but she wasn't in time to catch up with the car. She wanted to run after it, but the bodyguards stopped her again. Amidst the tussle, she fell to the floor and landed on her arm. Pain shot through her. She raised her head to look at the car, but it was long gone. Oh no! It had already been a monthβshe'd staked out every place that Ethan could possibly be at, but someone had stopped her every time. She couldn't even get close to him. It had taken all her connections to get Ethan's address; she'd waited outside for him from 3:00 am onward for several days in a row. Still, she'd failed to even get close to him, let alone speak to him. "Mr. Sawyer just called us. If you show up here again tomorrow, you'll have to pay!" one of the bodyguards warned. Melody looked back at them and pleaded, "Can you please just let me see Mr. Ford? I only have a few things to say to himβit'll only take five minutes! It's about something important, I swear. This has to do with someone's life!" Chapter 4 "Every woman who wants to see Mr. Ford says they need him to save lives! He's not interested in you, okay? There's no point throwing yourself at him," one bodyguard snapped. "Get lost! Don't come here anymore!" another said. They looked like they would resort to violence if Melody refused to leave. She had no choice but to get up and trudge down the mountain, looking glum. "It's rare to see such a gorgeous woman. I'm sure she'd be set for life if she were to go after some other rich kid. Too bad she's greedyβdoesn't she realize where she is? Even Phoebe Shaw, that award-winning actress, isn't worthy of shining Mr. Ford's shoes, let alone her!" one bodyguard said. "You're right about her not knowing her place, but I have to say that she's a lot prettier than Phoebe Shaw," the other said. They continued chatting as they headed into the villa. β¦ It was already the afternoon by the time Melody returned to the hospital. She saw Clive Zimmerman's attending physician, Tom Filbert, come out of the hospital room before Clive's. She hurried over to him. "Dr. Filbert, how has Clive been recently?" "Oh, Mrs. Zimmerman. I've already made your husband's condition clear to youβwe need to find a matching donor as soon as possible for the bone marrow transplant. Otherwiseβ¦" Tom shook his head. Melody paled. Tom continued, "The hospital's been searching for a matching donor, but your husband's condition is deteriorating too quickly. He's running out of time. "As his family, you need to work with us. Try to think of any relatives he might have and bring them to the hospital so we can check their bone marrow. Maybe one of them might be a matchβ¦" Melody paled even more. Tom continued talking, but she couldn't really hear him anymore. She asked with difficulty, "How long does he still have if we can't find a donor?" Tom shook his head. "The bone marrow transplant has to be done within a month. Otherwise, he'll only have three to five months at most." Melody clenched her jaw; her expression became resolute. "I've already found a bone marrow that matches Clive's, but the person hasn't agreed to become a donor yet. I'll find a way to persuade him! "Please make the necessary arrangements for the transplant, Dr. Filbert. I'll bring the donor over before the surgery!" "That's great! I'll arrange for the transplant to be done in ten days, then. Remember to bring the donor over as soon as possibleβhe needs to be checked before the surgery." "Alright." Melody nodded. But once Tom was gone, she slumped against the wall weakly. What was she going to do? The surgery was in ten days, but she'd made zero progress. She hadn't even gotten close to Ethan, let alone persuaded him to donate his bone marrow to Clive. Ethan was the wealthiest man in Emperia, after all. A hair on his head was worth more than most other individuals' lives. Even if she did manage to speak to him, how was she going to get him to agree to help Clive? What was she going to do? Melody approached Clive's hospital room. Before she opened the door, she heard her children, Jacob and Jamie Swanson, singing. They were singing an Enolian song that had been dedicated to the singer's father. Melody peeped inside through the window on the door. Jacob and Jamie wore identical uniforms as they stood hand-in-hand before the window. The sunlight shone down on them, and they swayed on the spot while singing. Clive sat up in bed, also basking in the sunlight as he clapped his hands to the beat of the song. The hospital gown he had on looked too big for him because of the weight he'd lost, and he looked rather haggard. It didn't take away from his good looks, though. There was a gentle smile on his face. He didn't look like a patient who was on the brink of death. Instead, he looked like a patron of the artsβone who was enjoying a grand musical. Melody's eyes turned red. She turned away to dry her tears. Chapter 5 Five years ago, Melody had been kicked out of her home without a penny. At the time, she'd already carried Jacob and Jamie. When she'd been backed into a corner, Clive had taken her in. Not only had he helped her quit school, but he'd also taken care of her the whole time. Later, he'd even offered to marry her so that Jacob and Jamie wouldn't end up becoming illegitimate children. He'd helped her too many times to count over the yearsβshe had to repay him. His parents and relatives were all dead, and he now had serious disease. If she were to give up on him, he could only wait for death to take him. He was still so young and outstanding; this wasn't the end he deserved! No matter what, Melody had to convince Ethan to donate his bone marrow to Clive. She didn't care how difficult it would be! β¦ That night, Melody hid in a storage room at Privo Country Club, Tottenstone's most exclusive club. An auction was being held there that night, and it had taken her some time to find out that Ethan would be in attendance. Anyone who could get an invitation to the auction had to be a bigwig in Emperia's business world or an influential politician; Melody was neither, so she didn't have an invitation. Fortunately, she'd heard about the organizers of the auction holding something of a show for young women at the very end of the auction. It was supposed to be a show, but it was more like the young women were auctioning off their first time. Like regular auctions, the highest bidder would get. As long as Melody could blend in with them, she would have the chance to get to Ethan. At the moment, the young women who were being auctioned were standing by in the waiting room opposite the storage room. Melody was waiting for a chance to sneak in when she suddenly heard a muffled conversation outside. "Come with me!" "Listen to me, Ned. I came here willinglyβas long as someone bids on me tonight, we'll have money for your mother's medical bills. It's worth giving up my cherry to save her life!" "I don't need you to sacrifice yourself for me like this, Elaine! I love you! I've managed to get the money, so let's go!" "Really?" "Yeah!" "That's great! Let's go!" The footsteps faded into the distance. Melody came out of the storage room. She picked up the clothes and name tag that read "Elaine Johnson" from the floor and smiled as she looked down the corridor. She wished the couple all the best and also thanked them for this opportunity. An hour later, Melody stood barefoot on the marble floor, wearing only a bikini as she waited for her turn. "Next, let's welcome the beautiful Ms. Elaine Johnson, our eighth participant of the night! She's still a college student, everyone." The host's voice rang out on the other side of the curtain. Suddenly, Melody hesitated. She'd never worn anything so revealing in public before. "Get in there! What are you doing?" When an employee saw her standing there dazedly, he pushed her. She was caught off guard and stumbled onto the stage. The blinding spotlight landed on her; she could sense countless men staring at her. Melody stood there stiffly, so helpless that she was unable to move. Ethan wasn't the slightest bit interested in these things. He'd intended to leave immediately after the auction was over, but Wayne Smith of Ditham Corporation had approached him for a chat. He'd answered him perfunctorily while glancing at the stage. Then, he saw Melody. He narrowed his eyes and sat up, the laziness he'd earlier displayed fading from sight. The lights reflected off Melody's fair skin; they made her look like she was almost glowing. She didn't strut and show her stuff like those women before her. Instead, she stood there with her head bowed so no one could see what she looked like. All they could see was her silky smooth hair. But to Ethan, the sight of her was enough to arouse him. It was like a fire had started burning in him. On stage, Melody remained silent, feeling pierced by the men's gazes. They made her feel like she was standing there in her birthday suit. Chapter 6 Melody knew she couldn't act like this. She was here to look for Ethan; she had to save Clive's life! She couldn't act like this! She clenched her jaw and raised her head, revealing her innocent yet sensual face to the crowd. After a round of gasps, auction paddles flew into the air. "100,000!" "200,000!" "500,000!" "580,000!" β¦ Melody couldn't hear the sound of the bidding anymoreβshe was too anxious to track Ethan down. He was the wealthiest man in Emperia and the CEO of Regalia International, so he frequently made headlines. She'd long since committed his handsome face to memory. But before she could locate him, she felt a strong sense of oppression coming her way. She instinctively looked at the direction from which it had come. Then, she met a man's gaze. His eyes were cold and calm, yet there seemed to be molten lava buried within them. She could sense his kingly demeanor as his eyes threatened to suck her in. Melody lowered her head. He was terrifying. When Ethan saw her drop her head to avoid his gaze, he smirked. Wayne noticed this and stopped talking to glance at the stage. Then, his eyes lit up, and he chuckled. "She's a gorgeous one, isn't she? Are you interested in her, Mr. Ford?" Ethan didn't answer. Instead, he lifted a hand. James hurried forward to await his instruction. "I want her!" Ethan said. Then, he stood up and strode off. Several people had been bidding on Melody, but they stopped when they saw Ethan stand up. They got to their feet simultaneously to see him off. James hurriedly held up the auction paddle in his hand. He didn't even need to call out a priceβno one else would dare bid on Melody. Who would dare to do so now that they knew Ethan was interested in her? They'd be getting themselves a one-way ticket to bankruptcy if they were to try to fight him for her. On stage, the host cried excitedly, "Oh! Mr. Ford's won the auction for our lovely Ms. Johnson! Looks like someone's in luck!" Melody didn't know how she was led off stage. She followed the employees dazedly and asked them incredulously, "Is Mr. Ford really the one who bid on me? Mr. Ethan Ford? The CEO of Regalia International?" The employees could totally understand why she was acting like this. Anyone would be out of their minds with joy if Ethan were to pick them. "Would there be anyone else with that name? Congratulations, miss. Come with me, please. I'll take you to get your clothes changed. We don't want to keep Mr. Ford waiting." "She's so lucky!" "It's not like she has such a great figure. She's not even that pretty!" "Why didn't he pick me? That was Ethan Ford! I would've paid to be with him!" "Yeah, keep dreaming. You wouldn't be worthy of him even if you were to give up everything you own! Didn't you hear about the granddaughter of some country's leader trying and failing to spend a night with Mr. Ford? She offered to pay him a hefty sum, too!" β¦ As Melody followed the employees away, she heard the other women participating in the auction whispering among themselves about her. None of their words registered, though. She was still in disbelief that she'd succeeded just like that. Things had gone so smoothly! How was she going to beg him to agree to donate his bone marrow? Would he be moved if she were to get on her knees before him? Ten minutes later, Melody had changed into a white strappy minidress and a matching pair of 4-inch heels. She was brought to the 28th floor. | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715324400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879720 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410712 | 1723321852 | 995 | 478272224667453 | 1 | 9.8867341249763E+14 | 1715497200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120208322655090240 | beokn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πRead the next chaptersπ | https://beokn.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=11222&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715247646 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441959051_459948103069197_1403971259308613209_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=1TSfEhiF8D4Q7kNvgEsEyd9&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCPNRByqeAZCHU6FMOpZDTMDfP5mY-xNTPdLThPIEzSTA&oe=6672B59C | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441520392_1857443494727194_4363879934185925189_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=QPeoCanp0RMQ7kNvgGSYpS5&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAiCFpH1dTSMHzenkisoYvpFPTfZKxTYULLfGfWMJ5I7Q&oe=6672A42A | 0 | 3 | Melody Swanson had her cell phone's torch turned on to light the path to a white cottage amidst the lavenders. The night breeze was chilly, but all she had on was a white, sleeveless nightgown and lounge slippers. Her expression lifted when she saw she was getting close to the cottage. But the next second, someone reached out from the bushes beside her and gripped her right shoulder tightly. She yelped in shock, dropping her phone onto the ground. The faint light disappeared. The next thing she knew, she was dragged into a hot embrace. "I'll give you a million for one night!" The man's voice rang out behind her. It was deep and smooth. Melody's heart raced at this plot twist. Before she knew it, she'd been flipped onto her front and pinned to the ground amidst the sea of flowers. She widened her eyes and flailed, trying to escape. "No, wait! You've got the wrong person!" "Stop moving, sweetheart. Or are you that desperate for it?" the man rasped. "Let me go!" Melody struggled harder, but the man's tall and toned figure held her in place as he flipped her onto her back. She started feeling scared. She widened her eyes even more, but all she could see were the stars in the sky behind the man's head. There was barely enough light for her to see the man's chiseled featuresβthe desire burning in his eyes was clear as day, though. It was almost as bright as the stars above. Melody tried her best to escape but to no avail. Pain shot through her; the man leaned down to kiss her and swallow her cries. After a long while, he spoke again. His voice was alluring and hoarse. "You're so sweet, darling. I'll give you a million for another round. How about that?" "You're a monster!" Melody's voice was also hoarse from her crying. How could he do something like this to her in such a saintly place? The wind lifted her dress, stained purple by the lavenders they'd crushed underneath them. The scent was oddly intoxicating. They were in Violetville, which was famous for its sea of lavenders. It was so picturesque that many film companies had been attracted to film there. It gradually turned into a filming base. Recently, John Wales, an internationally renowned director, brought a crew of award-winning actors and actresses to Violetville to film a huge production. He'd happened to catch sight of Melody, who was home from college for the holidays. He'd invited her to play the role of an important side character. Melody hadn't expected her sister, Queenie Swanson, to trick her out of the house in the middle of the night upon hearing the news. Queenie had locked the door and refused to open it no matter how she pleaded. Their parents heard everything but did nothing to stop Queenie. The words Queenie had said not too long ago were still reverberating in Melody's mind. "You were capable of catching that director's eye, weren't you? Is it because you've already slept with him? What are you still doing here, then? Go sleep in his hotel room! I won't open the door for you, so get lost!" With no place to go, Melody had no choice but to take shelter in the white cottage amidst the sea of flowers, which was only meant for sightseeing. She hadn't expected to experience something like this, though. Her family's betrayal and the man's advances made her tears flow. They wet the flowers crushed underneath her body. Melody didn't know how long it would take for the man to be sated; it was as if he would never tire. When the sky started turning bright, he finally stopped. He released her hands, which he'd kept pinned in place. Melody immediately grabbed the nearest object and smashed it over the man's head. He'd been saying, "Tell me your name, sweetβ" Melody smashed a rock on his head before he could finish. He didn't manage to dodge itβperhaps he was too relaxed after having had his fill of her. Chapter 2 The man swayed on the spot from the impact. Melody pushed him away; he lay there, looking up at her blearily. She lifted the rock, intending to strike him again. This was self-defense! But the words echoed hollowly in her mindβshe couldn't do itβshe couldn't take his life. Even of a monster, it would stain her forever. Ultimately, she threw the bloodied rock aside and staggered to her feet. She took a step and happened to kick her phone. Melody picked it up and pulled out the cash tucked underneath her phone case. It was the change she'd gotten after doing some grocery shopping. She threw it at the man and snarled, "Listen upβI bought your services for one night, and that's your fee. Keep the change! And don't think it's too little. That's all you're worth!" With that, she turned and stumbled out of the sea of lavenders. The man's vision was already starting to blur. The blood trickled down his forehead and over his eyes. It dyed his vision red as he watched Melody walk away from him. The color of the flowers' stains on her nightgown seemed to mix with the blood in his eyes, giving him the impression that the flowers were blossoming. He was reminded of the night they'd just had together. "Don't goβ¦" he mumbled, reaching for her. But the darkness overtook him. The luxury watch on his wrist gleamed as his hand fell to the ground limply. β¦ Two months later, there was an uproar at the Swanson residence. "You're expecting a baby before marriage! You're a disgrace to the Swanson family! Get out of here!" Horace Swanson shoved Melody away furiously. "This is a small town, and the people here are all good, honest people. How could you pick up all these bad habits from those celebrities whose private lives are so messed up? Leave now! I'll just act like I never gave birth to you!" Susan Lett waved a hand, looking utterly disappointed. "You should leave, Melody. If the neighbors hear about this, how do you expect Mom and Dad to continue living here? I'm not married yet, you know. I don't want you to affect my reputation." Queenie stabbed an apple slice with a toothpick and ate it. She sat on the couch, looking like she was enjoying the show. Melody pointed at her. "Queenie's the one who locked me out of the house that night because she wanted to get the chance to be in that film! That's why I ended up getting assaulted. Why do you guys refuse to believe me?" Horace stood up and stormed over to her, giving her a hard slap. "Shut up, you imbecile! You're the one who did something so shameless, yet you're still trying to push the blame onto your sister! Don't ever step foot in here again!" "I raised your sister myself, so I know how kind and loving she is. How can you say that about her?" Susan pulled Queenie, who looked aggrieved, into her arms. She gave Melody, who'd fallen to the floor from Horace's slap, a reproachful look. "Is it really like Madam Williams said, Mom? Am I not your daughter? Is that why you won't believe me?" Melody didn't want to cry, but the tears refused to stay in her eyes. They streamed down her face. "Youβ¦ Of course you're my daughter! That's why I know what a bad apple you are! How dare you try to blame me when your misbehavior? Leave! Now!" "Fine! I'll go!" Melody staggered to her feet and walked out the door, looking resolute and lonely. β¦ Five years passed in the blink of an eye. Ford Manor was located among a cluster of villas halfway up a mountain in Tottenstone. Ethan Ford was having the same dream again. The woman in his dream wore a white dress, as usual. She had a long, silky smooth hair. He couldn't see her face, though. She didn't seem to enjoy his ministrationsβshe cried and pleaded with him to let her go, but he couldn't stop himself from sinking deeper. He held her close. In the next second, he opened his eyes and woke up from the dream. Chapter 3 It was this dream again. Ethan had experienced it almost every night for the past five years. No other woman had managed to arouse him since that incidentβonly the woman in his dreams could. He'd had the same dream for 1,826 days, including today. Even if he was already used to it, Ethan was still irritated. He wiped the sweat from his face; even his hair was damp. He got out of bed. His perfect figure was like a model's, but his face was more handsome than any model could ever have. His demeanor was cold, regal, and domineering. Ethan took a moment to compose himself. He strode to the bathroom after pushing the steamy images out of his mind. The butler, Bill Jones, heard this and came into the room. He quickly changed the soiled sheets. He'd just finished when Ethan came out of the bathroom with nothing but a towel around his waist. As soon as he graced the room with his toned figure, the atmosphere turned somewhat sensual. Bill stood there with his head bowed. When he saw Ethan head to the wardrobe, he said, "Ms. Wendy Nielson called to invite you out for dinner, Mr. Ford. Should I make arrangements? It's high time you let loose and have some fun, sir." Wendy was the daughter of a politician and one of the most well-known socialites in the region. She'd invited Ethan out countless times since running into him at a banquet a year ago. Ethan grabbed a black shirt and put it on, his back muscles rolling as he did so. He didn't even turn back as he said, "You're too noisy." Bill knew this meant Ethan was turning down the invitation. He didn't dare say anything else. 40 minutes later, Ethan strode out of the villa. His assistant, James Sawyer, hurriedly opened the door to a luxury car parked outside. Ethan got into the car elegantly. As the car drove past the main gates, Ethan glanced at the rearview mirror to see two bodyguards stop a woman in a cap and tracksuit. She tried to run after the car; her ponytail swung with her actions. Ethan retracted his gaze and said to James, "Tell the bodyguards they're out of jobs if I see any strangers as soon as I leave the house again." Sweat beaded on James' forehead. "Yes, sir." "Have you found anything on that woman from five years ago?" Ethan tugged on his tie, his eyes cold. He didn't even need to look at anyone to make them shudder. James stuttered, "N-Not yet, sir." "I'll give you another month. If you can't find anything, you can get lost, too!" Unbeknownst to Ethan, the woman he was searching for was behind him. Her figure became smaller and smaller in the rearview mirror. "Mr. Ford, don't go!" Melody finally liberated herself from the bodyguards, but she wasn't in time to catch up with the car. She wanted to run after it, but the bodyguards stopped her again. Amidst the tussle, she fell to the floor and landed on her arm. Pain shot through her. She raised her head to look at the car, but it was long gone. Oh no! It had already been a monthβshe'd staked out every place that Ethan could possibly be at, but someone had stopped her every time. She couldn't even get close to him. It had taken all her connections to get Ethan's address; she'd waited outside for him from 3:00 am onward for several days in a row. Still, she'd failed to even get close to him, let alone speak to him. "Mr. Sawyer just called us. If you show up here again tomorrow, you'll have to pay!" one of the bodyguards warned. Melody looked back at them and pleaded, "Can you please just let me see Mr. Ford? I only have a few things to say to himβit'll only take five minutes! It's about something important, I swear. This has to do with someone's life!" Chapter 4 "Every woman who wants to see Mr. Ford says they need him to save lives! He's not interested in you, okay? There's no point throwing yourself at him," one bodyguard snapped. "Get lost! Don't come here anymore!" another said. They looked like they would resort to violence if Melody refused to leave. She had no choice but to get up and trudge down the mountain, looking glum. "It's rare to see such a gorgeous woman. I'm sure she'd be set for life if she were to go after some other rich kid. Too bad she's greedyβdoesn't she realize where she is? Even Phoebe Shaw, that award-winning actress, isn't worthy of shining Mr. Ford's shoes, let alone her!" one bodyguard said. "You're right about her not knowing her place, but I have to say that she's a lot prettier than Phoebe Shaw," the other said. They continued chatting as they headed into the villa. β¦ It was already the afternoon by the time Melody returned to the hospital. She saw Clive Zimmerman's attending physician, Tom Filbert, come out of the hospital room before Clive's. She hurried over to him. "Dr. Filbert, how has Clive been recently?" "Oh, Mrs. Zimmerman. I've already made your husband's condition clear to youβwe need to find a matching donor as soon as possible for the bone marrow transplant. Otherwiseβ¦" Tom shook his head. Melody paled. Tom continued, "The hospital's been searching for a matching donor, but your husband's condition is deteriorating too quickly. He's running out of time. "As his family, you need to work with us. Try to think of any relatives he might have and bring them to the hospital so we can check their bone marrow. Maybe one of them might be a matchβ¦" Melody paled even more. Tom continued talking, but she couldn't really hear him anymore. She asked with difficulty, "How long does he still have if we can't find a donor?" Tom shook his head. "The bone marrow transplant has to be done within a month. Otherwise, he'll only have three to five months at most." Melody clenched her jaw; her expression became resolute. "I've already found a bone marrow that matches Clive's, but the person hasn't agreed to become a donor yet. I'll find a way to persuade him! "Please make the necessary arrangements for the transplant, Dr. Filbert. I'll bring the donor over before the surgery!" "That's great! I'll arrange for the transplant to be done in ten days, then. Remember to bring the donor over as soon as possibleβhe needs to be checked before the surgery." "Alright." Melody nodded. But once Tom was gone, she slumped against the wall weakly. What was she going to do? The surgery was in ten days, but she'd made zero progress. She hadn't even gotten close to Ethan, let alone persuaded him to donate his bone marrow to Clive. Ethan was the wealthiest man in Emperia, after all. A hair on his head was worth more than most other individuals' lives. Even if she did manage to speak to him, how was she going to get him to agree to help Clive? What was she going to do? Melody approached Clive's hospital room. Before she opened the door, she heard her children, Jacob and Jamie Swanson, singing. They were singing an Enolian song that had been dedicated to the singer's father. Melody peeped inside through the window on the door. Jacob and Jamie wore identical uniforms as they stood hand-in-hand before the window. The sunlight shone down on them, and they swayed on the spot while singing. Clive sat up in bed, also basking in the sunlight as he clapped his hands to the beat of the song. The hospital gown he had on looked too big for him because of the weight he'd lost, and he looked rather haggard. It didn't take away from his good looks, though. There was a gentle smile on his face. He didn't look like a patient who was on the brink of death. Instead, he looked like a patron of the artsβone who was enjoying a grand musical. Melody's eyes turned red. She turned away to dry her tears. Chapter 5 Five years ago, Melody had been kicked out of her home without a penny. At the time, she'd already carried Jacob and Jamie. When she'd been backed into a corner, Clive had taken her in. Not only had he helped her quit school, but he'd also taken care of her the whole time. Later, he'd even offered to marry her so that Jacob and Jamie wouldn't end up becoming illegitimate children. He'd helped her too many times to count over the yearsβshe had to repay him. His parents and relatives were all dead, and he now had serious disease. If she were to give up on him, he could only wait for death to take him. He was still so young and outstanding; this wasn't the end he deserved! No matter what, Melody had to convince Ethan to donate his bone marrow to Clive. She didn't care how difficult it would be! β¦ That night, Melody hid in a storage room at Privo Country Club, Tottenstone's most exclusive club. An auction was being held there that night, and it had taken her some time to find out that Ethan would be in attendance. Anyone who could get an invitation to the auction had to be a bigwig in Emperia's business world or an influential politician; Melody was neither, so she didn't have an invitation. Fortunately, she'd heard about the organizers of the auction holding something of a show for young women at the very end of the auction. It was supposed to be a show, but it was more like the young women were auctioning off their first time. Like regular auctions, the highest bidder would get. As long as Melody could blend in with them, she would have the chance to get to Ethan. At the moment, the young women who were being auctioned were standing by in the waiting room opposite the storage room. Melody was waiting for a chance to sneak in when she suddenly heard a muffled conversation outside. "Come with me!" "Listen to me, Ned. I came here willinglyβas long as someone bids on me tonight, we'll have money for your mother's medical bills. It's worth giving up my cherry to save her life!" "I don't need you to sacrifice yourself for me like this, Elaine! I love you! I've managed to get the money, so let's go!" "Really?" "Yeah!" "That's great! Let's go!" The footsteps faded into the distance. Melody came out of the storage room. She picked up the clothes and name tag that read "Elaine Johnson" from the floor and smiled as she looked down the corridor. She wished the couple all the best and also thanked them for this opportunity. An hour later, Melody stood barefoot on the marble floor, wearing only a bikini as she waited for her turn. "Next, let's welcome the beautiful Ms. Elaine Johnson, our eighth participant of the night! She's still a college student, everyone." The host's voice rang out on the other side of the curtain. Suddenly, Melody hesitated. She'd never worn anything so revealing in public before. "Get in there! What are you doing?" When an employee saw her standing there dazedly, he pushed her. She was caught off guard and stumbled onto the stage. The blinding spotlight landed on her; she could sense countless men staring at her. Melody stood there stiffly, so helpless that she was unable to move. Ethan wasn't the slightest bit interested in these things. He'd intended to leave immediately after the auction was over, but Wayne Smith of Ditham Corporation had approached him for a chat. He'd answered him perfunctorily while glancing at the stage. Then, he saw Melody. He narrowed his eyes and sat up, the laziness he'd earlier displayed fading from sight. The lights reflected off Melody's fair skin; they made her look like she was almost glowing. She didn't strut and show her stuff like those women before her. Instead, she stood there with her head bowed so no one could see what she looked like. All they could see was her silky smooth hair. But to Ethan, the sight of her was enough to arouse him. It was like a fire had started burning in him. On stage, Melody remained silent, feeling pierced by the men's gazes. They made her feel like she was standing there in her birthday suit. Chapter 6 Melody knew she couldn't act like this. She was here to look for Ethan; she had to save Clive's life! She couldn't act like this! She clenched her jaw and raised her head, revealing her innocent yet sensual face to the crowd. After a round of gasps, auction paddles flew into the air. "100,000!" "200,000!" "500,000!" "580,000!" β¦ Melody couldn't hear the sound of the bidding anymoreβshe was too anxious to track Ethan down. He was the wealthiest man in Emperia and the CEO of Regalia International, so he frequently made headlines. She'd long since committed his handsome face to memory. But before she could locate him, she felt a strong sense of oppression coming her way. She instinctively looked at the direction from which it had come. Then, she met a man's gaze. His eyes were cold and calm, yet there seemed to be molten lava buried within them. She could sense his kingly demeanor as his eyes threatened to suck her in. Melody lowered her head. He was terrifying. When Ethan saw her drop her head to avoid his gaze, he smirked. Wayne noticed this and stopped talking to glance at the stage. Then, his eyes lit up, and he chuckled. "She's a gorgeous one, isn't she? Are you interested in her, Mr. Ford?" Ethan didn't answer. Instead, he lifted a hand. James hurried forward to await his instruction. "I want her!" Ethan said. Then, he stood up and strode off. Several people had been bidding on Melody, but they stopped when they saw Ethan stand up. They got to their feet simultaneously to see him off. James hurriedly held up the auction paddle in his hand. He didn't even need to call out a priceβno one else would dare bid on Melody. Who would dare to do so now that they knew Ethan was interested in her? They'd be getting themselves a one-way ticket to bankruptcy if they were to try to fight him for her. On stage, the host cried excitedly, "Oh! Mr. Ford's won the auction for our lovely Ms. Johnson! Looks like someone's in luck!" Melody didn't know how she was led off stage. She followed the employees dazedly and asked them incredulously, "Is Mr. Ford really the one who bid on me? Mr. Ethan Ford? The CEO of Regalia International?" The employees could totally understand why she was acting like this. Anyone would be out of their minds with joy if Ethan were to pick them. "Would there be anyone else with that name? Congratulations, miss. Come with me, please. I'll take you to get your clothes changed. We don't want to keep Mr. Ford waiting." "She's so lucky!" "It's not like she has such a great figure. She's not even that pretty!" "Why didn't he pick me? That was Ethan Ford! I would've paid to be with him!" "Yeah, keep dreaming. You wouldn't be worthy of him even if you were to give up everything you own! Didn't you hear about the granddaughter of some country's leader trying and failing to spend a night with Mr. Ford? She offered to pay him a hefty sum, too!" β¦ As Melody followed the employees away, she heard the other women participating in the auction whispering among themselves about her. None of their words registered, though. She was still in disbelief that she'd succeeded just like that. Things had gone so smoothly! How was she going to beg him to agree to donate his bone marrow? Would he be moved if she were to get on her knees before him? Ten minutes later, Melody had changed into a white strappy minidress and a matching pair of 4-inch heels. She was brought to the 28th floor. | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715324400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879721 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410712 | 1723321852 | 995 | 478272224667453 | 1 | 9.8867341249763E+14 | 1715497200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120208322655090240 | beokn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πRead the next chaptersπ | https://beokn.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=11222&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715247646 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441959051_459948103069197_1403971259308613209_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=1TSfEhiF8D4Q7kNvgEsEyd9&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCPNRByqeAZCHU6FMOpZDTMDfP5mY-xNTPdLThPIEzSTA&oe=6672B59C | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441520392_1857443494727194_4363879934185925189_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=QPeoCanp0RMQ7kNvgGSYpS5&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAiCFpH1dTSMHzenkisoYvpFPTfZKxTYULLfGfWMJ5I7Q&oe=6672A42A | 0 | 3 | Melody Swanson had her cell phone's torch turned on to light the path to a white cottage amidst the lavenders. The night breeze was chilly, but all she had on was a white, sleeveless nightgown and lounge slippers. Her expression lifted when she saw she was getting close to the cottage. But the next second, someone reached out from the bushes beside her and gripped her right shoulder tightly. She yelped in shock, dropping her phone onto the ground. The faint light disappeared. The next thing she knew, she was dragged into a hot embrace. "I'll give you a million for one night!" The man's voice rang out behind her. It was deep and smooth. Melody's heart raced at this plot twist. Before she knew it, she'd been flipped onto her front and pinned to the ground amidst the sea of flowers. She widened her eyes and flailed, trying to escape. "No, wait! You've got the wrong person!" "Stop moving, sweetheart. Or are you that desperate for it?" the man rasped. "Let me go!" Melody struggled harder, but the man's tall and toned figure held her in place as he flipped her onto her back. She started feeling scared. She widened her eyes even more, but all she could see were the stars in the sky behind the man's head. There was barely enough light for her to see the man's chiseled featuresβthe desire burning in his eyes was clear as day, though. It was almost as bright as the stars above. Melody tried her best to escape but to no avail. Pain shot through her; the man leaned down to kiss her and swallow her cries. After a long while, he spoke again. His voice was alluring and hoarse. "You're so sweet, darling. I'll give you a million for another round. How about that?" "You're a monster!" Melody's voice was also hoarse from her crying. How could he do something like this to her in such a saintly place? The wind lifted her dress, stained purple by the lavenders they'd crushed underneath them. The scent was oddly intoxicating. They were in Violetville, which was famous for its sea of lavenders. It was so picturesque that many film companies had been attracted to film there. It gradually turned into a filming base. Recently, John Wales, an internationally renowned director, brought a crew of award-winning actors and actresses to Violetville to film a huge production. He'd happened to catch sight of Melody, who was home from college for the holidays. He'd invited her to play the role of an important side character. Melody hadn't expected her sister, Queenie Swanson, to trick her out of the house in the middle of the night upon hearing the news. Queenie had locked the door and refused to open it no matter how she pleaded. Their parents heard everything but did nothing to stop Queenie. The words Queenie had said not too long ago were still reverberating in Melody's mind. "You were capable of catching that director's eye, weren't you? Is it because you've already slept with him? What are you still doing here, then? Go sleep in his hotel room! I won't open the door for you, so get lost!" With no place to go, Melody had no choice but to take shelter in the white cottage amidst the sea of flowers, which was only meant for sightseeing. She hadn't expected to experience something like this, though. Her family's betrayal and the man's advances made her tears flow. They wet the flowers crushed underneath her body. Melody didn't know how long it would take for the man to be sated; it was as if he would never tire. When the sky started turning bright, he finally stopped. He released her hands, which he'd kept pinned in place. Melody immediately grabbed the nearest object and smashed it over the man's head. He'd been saying, "Tell me your name, sweetβ" Melody smashed a rock on his head before he could finish. He didn't manage to dodge itβperhaps he was too relaxed after having had his fill of her. Chapter 2 The man swayed on the spot from the impact. Melody pushed him away; he lay there, looking up at her blearily. She lifted the rock, intending to strike him again. This was self-defense! But the words echoed hollowly in her mindβshe couldn't do itβshe couldn't take his life. Even of a monster, it would stain her forever. Ultimately, she threw the bloodied rock aside and staggered to her feet. She took a step and happened to kick her phone. Melody picked it up and pulled out the cash tucked underneath her phone case. It was the change she'd gotten after doing some grocery shopping. She threw it at the man and snarled, "Listen upβI bought your services for one night, and that's your fee. Keep the change! And don't think it's too little. That's all you're worth!" With that, she turned and stumbled out of the sea of lavenders. The man's vision was already starting to blur. The blood trickled down his forehead and over his eyes. It dyed his vision red as he watched Melody walk away from him. The color of the flowers' stains on her nightgown seemed to mix with the blood in his eyes, giving him the impression that the flowers were blossoming. He was reminded of the night they'd just had together. "Don't goβ¦" he mumbled, reaching for her. But the darkness overtook him. The luxury watch on his wrist gleamed as his hand fell to the ground limply. β¦ Two months later, there was an uproar at the Swanson residence. "You're expecting a baby before marriage! You're a disgrace to the Swanson family! Get out of here!" Horace Swanson shoved Melody away furiously. "This is a small town, and the people here are all good, honest people. How could you pick up all these bad habits from those celebrities whose private lives are so messed up? Leave now! I'll just act like I never gave birth to you!" Susan Lett waved a hand, looking utterly disappointed. "You should leave, Melody. If the neighbors hear about this, how do you expect Mom and Dad to continue living here? I'm not married yet, you know. I don't want you to affect my reputation." Queenie stabbed an apple slice with a toothpick and ate it. She sat on the couch, looking like she was enjoying the show. Melody pointed at her. "Queenie's the one who locked me out of the house that night because she wanted to get the chance to be in that film! That's why I ended up getting assaulted. Why do you guys refuse to believe me?" Horace stood up and stormed over to her, giving her a hard slap. "Shut up, you imbecile! You're the one who did something so shameless, yet you're still trying to push the blame onto your sister! Don't ever step foot in here again!" "I raised your sister myself, so I know how kind and loving she is. How can you say that about her?" Susan pulled Queenie, who looked aggrieved, into her arms. She gave Melody, who'd fallen to the floor from Horace's slap, a reproachful look. "Is it really like Madam Williams said, Mom? Am I not your daughter? Is that why you won't believe me?" Melody didn't want to cry, but the tears refused to stay in her eyes. They streamed down her face. "Youβ¦ Of course you're my daughter! That's why I know what a bad apple you are! How dare you try to blame me when your misbehavior? Leave! Now!" "Fine! I'll go!" Melody staggered to her feet and walked out the door, looking resolute and lonely. β¦ Five years passed in the blink of an eye. Ford Manor was located among a cluster of villas halfway up a mountain in Tottenstone. Ethan Ford was having the same dream again. The woman in his dream wore a white dress, as usual. She had a long, silky smooth hair. He couldn't see her face, though. She didn't seem to enjoy his ministrationsβshe cried and pleaded with him to let her go, but he couldn't stop himself from sinking deeper. He held her close. In the next second, he opened his eyes and woke up from the dream. Chapter 3 It was this dream again. Ethan had experienced it almost every night for the past five years. No other woman had managed to arouse him since that incidentβonly the woman in his dreams could. He'd had the same dream for 1,826 days, including today. Even if he was already used to it, Ethan was still irritated. He wiped the sweat from his face; even his hair was damp. He got out of bed. His perfect figure was like a model's, but his face was more handsome than any model could ever have. His demeanor was cold, regal, and domineering. Ethan took a moment to compose himself. He strode to the bathroom after pushing the steamy images out of his mind. The butler, Bill Jones, heard this and came into the room. He quickly changed the soiled sheets. He'd just finished when Ethan came out of the bathroom with nothing but a towel around his waist. As soon as he graced the room with his toned figure, the atmosphere turned somewhat sensual. Bill stood there with his head bowed. When he saw Ethan head to the wardrobe, he said, "Ms. Wendy Nielson called to invite you out for dinner, Mr. Ford. Should I make arrangements? It's high time you let loose and have some fun, sir." Wendy was the daughter of a politician and one of the most well-known socialites in the region. She'd invited Ethan out countless times since running into him at a banquet a year ago. Ethan grabbed a black shirt and put it on, his back muscles rolling as he did so. He didn't even turn back as he said, "You're too noisy." Bill knew this meant Ethan was turning down the invitation. He didn't dare say anything else. 40 minutes later, Ethan strode out of the villa. His assistant, James Sawyer, hurriedly opened the door to a luxury car parked outside. Ethan got into the car elegantly. As the car drove past the main gates, Ethan glanced at the rearview mirror to see two bodyguards stop a woman in a cap and tracksuit. She tried to run after the car; her ponytail swung with her actions. Ethan retracted his gaze and said to James, "Tell the bodyguards they're out of jobs if I see any strangers as soon as I leave the house again." Sweat beaded on James' forehead. "Yes, sir." "Have you found anything on that woman from five years ago?" Ethan tugged on his tie, his eyes cold. He didn't even need to look at anyone to make them shudder. James stuttered, "N-Not yet, sir." "I'll give you another month. If you can't find anything, you can get lost, too!" Unbeknownst to Ethan, the woman he was searching for was behind him. Her figure became smaller and smaller in the rearview mirror. "Mr. Ford, don't go!" Melody finally liberated herself from the bodyguards, but she wasn't in time to catch up with the car. She wanted to run after it, but the bodyguards stopped her again. Amidst the tussle, she fell to the floor and landed on her arm. Pain shot through her. She raised her head to look at the car, but it was long gone. Oh no! It had already been a monthβshe'd staked out every place that Ethan could possibly be at, but someone had stopped her every time. She couldn't even get close to him. It had taken all her connections to get Ethan's address; she'd waited outside for him from 3:00 am onward for several days in a row. Still, she'd failed to even get close to him, let alone speak to him. "Mr. Sawyer just called us. If you show up here again tomorrow, you'll have to pay!" one of the bodyguards warned. Melody looked back at them and pleaded, "Can you please just let me see Mr. Ford? I only have a few things to say to himβit'll only take five minutes! It's about something important, I swear. This has to do with someone's life!" Chapter 4 "Every woman who wants to see Mr. Ford says they need him to save lives! He's not interested in you, okay? There's no point throwing yourself at him," one bodyguard snapped. "Get lost! Don't come here anymore!" another said. They looked like they would resort to violence if Melody refused to leave. She had no choice but to get up and trudge down the mountain, looking glum. "It's rare to see such a gorgeous woman. I'm sure she'd be set for life if she were to go after some other rich kid. Too bad she's greedyβdoesn't she realize where she is? Even Phoebe Shaw, that award-winning actress, isn't worthy of shining Mr. Ford's shoes, let alone her!" one bodyguard said. "You're right about her not knowing her place, but I have to say that she's a lot prettier than Phoebe Shaw," the other said. They continued chatting as they headed into the villa. β¦ It was already the afternoon by the time Melody returned to the hospital. She saw Clive Zimmerman's attending physician, Tom Filbert, come out of the hospital room before Clive's. She hurried over to him. "Dr. Filbert, how has Clive been recently?" "Oh, Mrs. Zimmerman. I've already made your husband's condition clear to youβwe need to find a matching donor as soon as possible for the bone marrow transplant. Otherwiseβ¦" Tom shook his head. Melody paled. Tom continued, "The hospital's been searching for a matching donor, but your husband's condition is deteriorating too quickly. He's running out of time. "As his family, you need to work with us. Try to think of any relatives he might have and bring them to the hospital so we can check their bone marrow. Maybe one of them might be a matchβ¦" Melody paled even more. Tom continued talking, but she couldn't really hear him anymore. She asked with difficulty, "How long does he still have if we can't find a donor?" Tom shook his head. "The bone marrow transplant has to be done within a month. Otherwise, he'll only have three to five months at most." Melody clenched her jaw; her expression became resolute. "I've already found a bone marrow that matches Clive's, but the person hasn't agreed to become a donor yet. I'll find a way to persuade him! "Please make the necessary arrangements for the transplant, Dr. Filbert. I'll bring the donor over before the surgery!" "That's great! I'll arrange for the transplant to be done in ten days, then. Remember to bring the donor over as soon as possibleβhe needs to be checked before the surgery." "Alright." Melody nodded. But once Tom was gone, she slumped against the wall weakly. What was she going to do? The surgery was in ten days, but she'd made zero progress. She hadn't even gotten close to Ethan, let alone persuaded him to donate his bone marrow to Clive. Ethan was the wealthiest man in Emperia, after all. A hair on his head was worth more than most other individuals' lives. Even if she did manage to speak to him, how was she going to get him to agree to help Clive? What was she going to do? Melody approached Clive's hospital room. Before she opened the door, she heard her children, Jacob and Jamie Swanson, singing. They were singing an Enolian song that had been dedicated to the singer's father. Melody peeped inside through the window on the door. Jacob and Jamie wore identical uniforms as they stood hand-in-hand before the window. The sunlight shone down on them, and they swayed on the spot while singing. Clive sat up in bed, also basking in the sunlight as he clapped his hands to the beat of the song. The hospital gown he had on looked too big for him because of the weight he'd lost, and he looked rather haggard. It didn't take away from his good looks, though. There was a gentle smile on his face. He didn't look like a patient who was on the brink of death. Instead, he looked like a patron of the artsβone who was enjoying a grand musical. Melody's eyes turned red. She turned away to dry her tears. Chapter 5 Five years ago, Melody had been kicked out of her home without a penny. At the time, she'd already carried Jacob and Jamie. When she'd been backed into a corner, Clive had taken her in. Not only had he helped her quit school, but he'd also taken care of her the whole time. Later, he'd even offered to marry her so that Jacob and Jamie wouldn't end up becoming illegitimate children. He'd helped her too many times to count over the yearsβshe had to repay him. His parents and relatives were all dead, and he now had serious disease. If she were to give up on him, he could only wait for death to take him. He was still so young and outstanding; this wasn't the end he deserved! No matter what, Melody had to convince Ethan to donate his bone marrow to Clive. She didn't care how difficult it would be! β¦ That night, Melody hid in a storage room at Privo Country Club, Tottenstone's most exclusive club. An auction was being held there that night, and it had taken her some time to find out that Ethan would be in attendance. Anyone who could get an invitation to the auction had to be a bigwig in Emperia's business world or an influential politician; Melody was neither, so she didn't have an invitation. Fortunately, she'd heard about the organizers of the auction holding something of a show for young women at the very end of the auction. It was supposed to be a show, but it was more like the young women were auctioning off their first time. Like regular auctions, the highest bidder would get. As long as Melody could blend in with them, she would have the chance to get to Ethan. At the moment, the young women who were being auctioned were standing by in the waiting room opposite the storage room. Melody was waiting for a chance to sneak in when she suddenly heard a muffled conversation outside. "Come with me!" "Listen to me, Ned. I came here willinglyβas long as someone bids on me tonight, we'll have money for your mother's medical bills. It's worth giving up my cherry to save her life!" "I don't need you to sacrifice yourself for me like this, Elaine! I love you! I've managed to get the money, so let's go!" "Really?" "Yeah!" "That's great! Let's go!" The footsteps faded into the distance. Melody came out of the storage room. She picked up the clothes and name tag that read "Elaine Johnson" from the floor and smiled as she looked down the corridor. She wished the couple all the best and also thanked them for this opportunity. An hour later, Melody stood barefoot on the marble floor, wearing only a bikini as she waited for her turn. "Next, let's welcome the beautiful Ms. Elaine Johnson, our eighth participant of the night! She's still a college student, everyone." The host's voice rang out on the other side of the curtain. Suddenly, Melody hesitated. She'd never worn anything so revealing in public before. "Get in there! What are you doing?" When an employee saw her standing there dazedly, he pushed her. She was caught off guard and stumbled onto the stage. The blinding spotlight landed on her; she could sense countless men staring at her. Melody stood there stiffly, so helpless that she was unable to move. Ethan wasn't the slightest bit interested in these things. He'd intended to leave immediately after the auction was over, but Wayne Smith of Ditham Corporation had approached him for a chat. He'd answered him perfunctorily while glancing at the stage. Then, he saw Melody. He narrowed his eyes and sat up, the laziness he'd earlier displayed fading from sight. The lights reflected off Melody's fair skin; they made her look like she was almost glowing. She didn't strut and show her stuff like those women before her. Instead, she stood there with her head bowed so no one could see what she looked like. All they could see was her silky smooth hair. But to Ethan, the sight of her was enough to arouse him. It was like a fire had started burning in him. On stage, Melody remained silent, feeling pierced by the men's gazes. They made her feel like she was standing there in her birthday suit. Chapter 6 Melody knew she couldn't act like this. She was here to look for Ethan; she had to save Clive's life! She couldn't act like this! She clenched her jaw and raised her head, revealing her innocent yet sensual face to the crowd. After a round of gasps, auction paddles flew into the air. "100,000!" "200,000!" "500,000!" "580,000!" β¦ Melody couldn't hear the sound of the bidding anymoreβshe was too anxious to track Ethan down. He was the wealthiest man in Emperia and the CEO of Regalia International, so he frequently made headlines. She'd long since committed his handsome face to memory. But before she could locate him, she felt a strong sense of oppression coming her way. She instinctively looked at the direction from which it had come. Then, she met a man's gaze. His eyes were cold and calm, yet there seemed to be molten lava buried within them. She could sense his kingly demeanor as his eyes threatened to suck her in. Melody lowered her head. He was terrifying. When Ethan saw her drop her head to avoid his gaze, he smirked. Wayne noticed this and stopped talking to glance at the stage. Then, his eyes lit up, and he chuckled. "She's a gorgeous one, isn't she? Are you interested in her, Mr. Ford?" Ethan didn't answer. Instead, he lifted a hand. James hurried forward to await his instruction. "I want her!" Ethan said. Then, he stood up and strode off. Several people had been bidding on Melody, but they stopped when they saw Ethan stand up. They got to their feet simultaneously to see him off. James hurriedly held up the auction paddle in his hand. He didn't even need to call out a priceβno one else would dare bid on Melody. Who would dare to do so now that they knew Ethan was interested in her? They'd be getting themselves a one-way ticket to bankruptcy if they were to try to fight him for her. On stage, the host cried excitedly, "Oh! Mr. Ford's won the auction for our lovely Ms. Johnson! Looks like someone's in luck!" Melody didn't know how she was led off stage. She followed the employees dazedly and asked them incredulously, "Is Mr. Ford really the one who bid on me? Mr. Ethan Ford? The CEO of Regalia International?" The employees could totally understand why she was acting like this. Anyone would be out of their minds with joy if Ethan were to pick them. "Would there be anyone else with that name? Congratulations, miss. Come with me, please. I'll take you to get your clothes changed. We don't want to keep Mr. Ford waiting." "She's so lucky!" "It's not like she has such a great figure. She's not even that pretty!" "Why didn't he pick me? That was Ethan Ford! I would've paid to be with him!" "Yeah, keep dreaming. You wouldn't be worthy of him even if you were to give up everything you own! Didn't you hear about the granddaughter of some country's leader trying and failing to spend a night with Mr. Ford? She offered to pay him a hefty sum, too!" β¦ As Melody followed the employees away, she heard the other women participating in the auction whispering among themselves about her. None of their words registered, though. She was still in disbelief that she'd succeeded just like that. Things had gone so smoothly! How was she going to beg him to agree to donate his bone marrow? Would he be moved if she were to get on her knees before him? Ten minutes later, Melody had changed into a white strappy minidress and a matching pair of 4-inch heels. She was brought to the 28th floor. | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715324400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879722 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410712 | 1723321852 | 995 | 478272224667453 | 1 | 9.8867341249763E+14 | 1715497200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120208322655090240 | beokn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πRead the next chaptersπ | https://beokn.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=11222&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715247646 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441959051_459948103069197_1403971259308613209_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=1TSfEhiF8D4Q7kNvgEsEyd9&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCPNRByqeAZCHU6FMOpZDTMDfP5mY-xNTPdLThPIEzSTA&oe=6672B59C | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441520392_1857443494727194_4363879934185925189_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=QPeoCanp0RMQ7kNvgGSYpS5&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAiCFpH1dTSMHzenkisoYvpFPTfZKxTYULLfGfWMJ5I7Q&oe=6672A42A | 0 | 3 | Melody Swanson had her cell phone's torch turned on to light the path to a white cottage amidst the lavenders. The night breeze was chilly, but all she had on was a white, sleeveless nightgown and lounge slippers. Her expression lifted when she saw she was getting close to the cottage. But the next second, someone reached out from the bushes beside her and gripped her right shoulder tightly. She yelped in shock, dropping her phone onto the ground. The faint light disappeared. The next thing she knew, she was dragged into a hot embrace. "I'll give you a million for one night!" The man's voice rang out behind her. It was deep and smooth. Melody's heart raced at this plot twist. Before she knew it, she'd been flipped onto her front and pinned to the ground amidst the sea of flowers. She widened her eyes and flailed, trying to escape. "No, wait! You've got the wrong person!" "Stop moving, sweetheart. Or are you that desperate for it?" the man rasped. "Let me go!" Melody struggled harder, but the man's tall and toned figure held her in place as he flipped her onto her back. She started feeling scared. She widened her eyes even more, but all she could see were the stars in the sky behind the man's head. There was barely enough light for her to see the man's chiseled featuresβthe desire burning in his eyes was clear as day, though. It was almost as bright as the stars above. Melody tried her best to escape but to no avail. Pain shot through her; the man leaned down to kiss her and swallow her cries. After a long while, he spoke again. His voice was alluring and hoarse. "You're so sweet, darling. I'll give you a million for another round. How about that?" "You're a monster!" Melody's voice was also hoarse from her crying. How could he do something like this to her in such a saintly place? The wind lifted her dress, stained purple by the lavenders they'd crushed underneath them. The scent was oddly intoxicating. They were in Violetville, which was famous for its sea of lavenders. It was so picturesque that many film companies had been attracted to film there. It gradually turned into a filming base. Recently, John Wales, an internationally renowned director, brought a crew of award-winning actors and actresses to Violetville to film a huge production. He'd happened to catch sight of Melody, who was home from college for the holidays. He'd invited her to play the role of an important side character. Melody hadn't expected her sister, Queenie Swanson, to trick her out of the house in the middle of the night upon hearing the news. Queenie had locked the door and refused to open it no matter how she pleaded. Their parents heard everything but did nothing to stop Queenie. The words Queenie had said not too long ago were still reverberating in Melody's mind. "You were capable of catching that director's eye, weren't you? Is it because you've already slept with him? What are you still doing here, then? Go sleep in his hotel room! I won't open the door for you, so get lost!" With no place to go, Melody had no choice but to take shelter in the white cottage amidst the sea of flowers, which was only meant for sightseeing. She hadn't expected to experience something like this, though. Her family's betrayal and the man's advances made her tears flow. They wet the flowers crushed underneath her body. Melody didn't know how long it would take for the man to be sated; it was as if he would never tire. When the sky started turning bright, he finally stopped. He released her hands, which he'd kept pinned in place. Melody immediately grabbed the nearest object and smashed it over the man's head. He'd been saying, "Tell me your name, sweetβ" Melody smashed a rock on his head before he could finish. He didn't manage to dodge itβperhaps he was too relaxed after having had his fill of her. Chapter 2 The man swayed on the spot from the impact. Melody pushed him away; he lay there, looking up at her blearily. She lifted the rock, intending to strike him again. This was self-defense! But the words echoed hollowly in her mindβshe couldn't do itβshe couldn't take his life. Even of a monster, it would stain her forever. Ultimately, she threw the bloodied rock aside and staggered to her feet. She took a step and happened to kick her phone. Melody picked it up and pulled out the cash tucked underneath her phone case. It was the change she'd gotten after doing some grocery shopping. She threw it at the man and snarled, "Listen upβI bought your services for one night, and that's your fee. Keep the change! And don't think it's too little. That's all you're worth!" With that, she turned and stumbled out of the sea of lavenders. The man's vision was already starting to blur. The blood trickled down his forehead and over his eyes. It dyed his vision red as he watched Melody walk away from him. The color of the flowers' stains on her nightgown seemed to mix with the blood in his eyes, giving him the impression that the flowers were blossoming. He was reminded of the night they'd just had together. "Don't goβ¦" he mumbled, reaching for her. But the darkness overtook him. The luxury watch on his wrist gleamed as his hand fell to the ground limply. β¦ Two months later, there was an uproar at the Swanson residence. "You're expecting a baby before marriage! You're a disgrace to the Swanson family! Get out of here!" Horace Swanson shoved Melody away furiously. "This is a small town, and the people here are all good, honest people. How could you pick up all these bad habits from those celebrities whose private lives are so messed up? Leave now! I'll just act like I never gave birth to you!" Susan Lett waved a hand, looking utterly disappointed. "You should leave, Melody. If the neighbors hear about this, how do you expect Mom and Dad to continue living here? I'm not married yet, you know. I don't want you to affect my reputation." Queenie stabbed an apple slice with a toothpick and ate it. She sat on the couch, looking like she was enjoying the show. Melody pointed at her. "Queenie's the one who locked me out of the house that night because she wanted to get the chance to be in that film! That's why I ended up getting assaulted. Why do you guys refuse to believe me?" Horace stood up and stormed over to her, giving her a hard slap. "Shut up, you imbecile! You're the one who did something so shameless, yet you're still trying to push the blame onto your sister! Don't ever step foot in here again!" "I raised your sister myself, so I know how kind and loving she is. How can you say that about her?" Susan pulled Queenie, who looked aggrieved, into her arms. She gave Melody, who'd fallen to the floor from Horace's slap, a reproachful look. "Is it really like Madam Williams said, Mom? Am I not your daughter? Is that why you won't believe me?" Melody didn't want to cry, but the tears refused to stay in her eyes. They streamed down her face. "Youβ¦ Of course you're my daughter! That's why I know what a bad apple you are! How dare you try to blame me when your misbehavior? Leave! Now!" "Fine! I'll go!" Melody staggered to her feet and walked out the door, looking resolute and lonely. β¦ Five years passed in the blink of an eye. Ford Manor was located among a cluster of villas halfway up a mountain in Tottenstone. Ethan Ford was having the same dream again. The woman in his dream wore a white dress, as usual. She had a long, silky smooth hair. He couldn't see her face, though. She didn't seem to enjoy his ministrationsβshe cried and pleaded with him to let her go, but he couldn't stop himself from sinking deeper. He held her close. In the next second, he opened his eyes and woke up from the dream. Chapter 3 It was this dream again. Ethan had experienced it almost every night for the past five years. No other woman had managed to arouse him since that incidentβonly the woman in his dreams could. He'd had the same dream for 1,826 days, including today. Even if he was already used to it, Ethan was still irritated. He wiped the sweat from his face; even his hair was damp. He got out of bed. His perfect figure was like a model's, but his face was more handsome than any model could ever have. His demeanor was cold, regal, and domineering. Ethan took a moment to compose himself. He strode to the bathroom after pushing the steamy images out of his mind. The butler, Bill Jones, heard this and came into the room. He quickly changed the soiled sheets. He'd just finished when Ethan came out of the bathroom with nothing but a towel around his waist. As soon as he graced the room with his toned figure, the atmosphere turned somewhat sensual. Bill stood there with his head bowed. When he saw Ethan head to the wardrobe, he said, "Ms. Wendy Nielson called to invite you out for dinner, Mr. Ford. Should I make arrangements? It's high time you let loose and have some fun, sir." Wendy was the daughter of a politician and one of the most well-known socialites in the region. She'd invited Ethan out countless times since running into him at a banquet a year ago. Ethan grabbed a black shirt and put it on, his back muscles rolling as he did so. He didn't even turn back as he said, "You're too noisy." Bill knew this meant Ethan was turning down the invitation. He didn't dare say anything else. 40 minutes later, Ethan strode out of the villa. His assistant, James Sawyer, hurriedly opened the door to a luxury car parked outside. Ethan got into the car elegantly. As the car drove past the main gates, Ethan glanced at the rearview mirror to see two bodyguards stop a woman in a cap and tracksuit. She tried to run after the car; her ponytail swung with her actions. Ethan retracted his gaze and said to James, "Tell the bodyguards they're out of jobs if I see any strangers as soon as I leave the house again." Sweat beaded on James' forehead. "Yes, sir." "Have you found anything on that woman from five years ago?" Ethan tugged on his tie, his eyes cold. He didn't even need to look at anyone to make them shudder. James stuttered, "N-Not yet, sir." "I'll give you another month. If you can't find anything, you can get lost, too!" Unbeknownst to Ethan, the woman he was searching for was behind him. Her figure became smaller and smaller in the rearview mirror. "Mr. Ford, don't go!" Melody finally liberated herself from the bodyguards, but she wasn't in time to catch up with the car. She wanted to run after it, but the bodyguards stopped her again. Amidst the tussle, she fell to the floor and landed on her arm. Pain shot through her. She raised her head to look at the car, but it was long gone. Oh no! It had already been a monthβshe'd staked out every place that Ethan could possibly be at, but someone had stopped her every time. She couldn't even get close to him. It had taken all her connections to get Ethan's address; she'd waited outside for him from 3:00 am onward for several days in a row. Still, she'd failed to even get close to him, let alone speak to him. "Mr. Sawyer just called us. If you show up here again tomorrow, you'll have to pay!" one of the bodyguards warned. Melody looked back at them and pleaded, "Can you please just let me see Mr. Ford? I only have a few things to say to himβit'll only take five minutes! It's about something important, I swear. This has to do with someone's life!" Chapter 4 "Every woman who wants to see Mr. Ford says they need him to save lives! He's not interested in you, okay? There's no point throwing yourself at him," one bodyguard snapped. "Get lost! Don't come here anymore!" another said. They looked like they would resort to violence if Melody refused to leave. She had no choice but to get up and trudge down the mountain, looking glum. "It's rare to see such a gorgeous woman. I'm sure she'd be set for life if she were to go after some other rich kid. Too bad she's greedyβdoesn't she realize where she is? Even Phoebe Shaw, that award-winning actress, isn't worthy of shining Mr. Ford's shoes, let alone her!" one bodyguard said. "You're right about her not knowing her place, but I have to say that she's a lot prettier than Phoebe Shaw," the other said. They continued chatting as they headed into the villa. β¦ It was already the afternoon by the time Melody returned to the hospital. She saw Clive Zimmerman's attending physician, Tom Filbert, come out of the hospital room before Clive's. She hurried over to him. "Dr. Filbert, how has Clive been recently?" "Oh, Mrs. Zimmerman. I've already made your husband's condition clear to youβwe need to find a matching donor as soon as possible for the bone marrow transplant. Otherwiseβ¦" Tom shook his head. Melody paled. Tom continued, "The hospital's been searching for a matching donor, but your husband's condition is deteriorating too quickly. He's running out of time. "As his family, you need to work with us. Try to think of any relatives he might have and bring them to the hospital so we can check their bone marrow. Maybe one of them might be a matchβ¦" Melody paled even more. Tom continued talking, but she couldn't really hear him anymore. She asked with difficulty, "How long does he still have if we can't find a donor?" Tom shook his head. "The bone marrow transplant has to be done within a month. Otherwise, he'll only have three to five months at most." Melody clenched her jaw; her expression became resolute. "I've already found a bone marrow that matches Clive's, but the person hasn't agreed to become a donor yet. I'll find a way to persuade him! "Please make the necessary arrangements for the transplant, Dr. Filbert. I'll bring the donor over before the surgery!" "That's great! I'll arrange for the transplant to be done in ten days, then. Remember to bring the donor over as soon as possibleβhe needs to be checked before the surgery." "Alright." Melody nodded. But once Tom was gone, she slumped against the wall weakly. What was she going to do? The surgery was in ten days, but she'd made zero progress. She hadn't even gotten close to Ethan, let alone persuaded him to donate his bone marrow to Clive. Ethan was the wealthiest man in Emperia, after all. A hair on his head was worth more than most other individuals' lives. Even if she did manage to speak to him, how was she going to get him to agree to help Clive? What was she going to do? Melody approached Clive's hospital room. Before she opened the door, she heard her children, Jacob and Jamie Swanson, singing. They were singing an Enolian song that had been dedicated to the singer's father. Melody peeped inside through the window on the door. Jacob and Jamie wore identical uniforms as they stood hand-in-hand before the window. The sunlight shone down on them, and they swayed on the spot while singing. Clive sat up in bed, also basking in the sunlight as he clapped his hands to the beat of the song. The hospital gown he had on looked too big for him because of the weight he'd lost, and he looked rather haggard. It didn't take away from his good looks, though. There was a gentle smile on his face. He didn't look like a patient who was on the brink of death. Instead, he looked like a patron of the artsβone who was enjoying a grand musical. Melody's eyes turned red. She turned away to dry her tears. Chapter 5 Five years ago, Melody had been kicked out of her home without a penny. At the time, she'd already carried Jacob and Jamie. When she'd been backed into a corner, Clive had taken her in. Not only had he helped her quit school, but he'd also taken care of her the whole time. Later, he'd even offered to marry her so that Jacob and Jamie wouldn't end up becoming illegitimate children. He'd helped her too many times to count over the yearsβshe had to repay him. His parents and relatives were all dead, and he now had serious disease. If she were to give up on him, he could only wait for death to take him. He was still so young and outstanding; this wasn't the end he deserved! No matter what, Melody had to convince Ethan to donate his bone marrow to Clive. She didn't care how difficult it would be! β¦ That night, Melody hid in a storage room at Privo Country Club, Tottenstone's most exclusive club. An auction was being held there that night, and it had taken her some time to find out that Ethan would be in attendance. Anyone who could get an invitation to the auction had to be a bigwig in Emperia's business world or an influential politician; Melody was neither, so she didn't have an invitation. Fortunately, she'd heard about the organizers of the auction holding something of a show for young women at the very end of the auction. It was supposed to be a show, but it was more like the young women were auctioning off their first time. Like regular auctions, the highest bidder would get. As long as Melody could blend in with them, she would have the chance to get to Ethan. At the moment, the young women who were being auctioned were standing by in the waiting room opposite the storage room. Melody was waiting for a chance to sneak in when she suddenly heard a muffled conversation outside. "Come with me!" "Listen to me, Ned. I came here willinglyβas long as someone bids on me tonight, we'll have money for your mother's medical bills. It's worth giving up my cherry to save her life!" "I don't need you to sacrifice yourself for me like this, Elaine! I love you! I've managed to get the money, so let's go!" "Really?" "Yeah!" "That's great! Let's go!" The footsteps faded into the distance. Melody came out of the storage room. She picked up the clothes and name tag that read "Elaine Johnson" from the floor and smiled as she looked down the corridor. She wished the couple all the best and also thanked them for this opportunity. An hour later, Melody stood barefoot on the marble floor, wearing only a bikini as she waited for her turn. "Next, let's welcome the beautiful Ms. Elaine Johnson, our eighth participant of the night! She's still a college student, everyone." The host's voice rang out on the other side of the curtain. Suddenly, Melody hesitated. She'd never worn anything so revealing in public before. "Get in there! What are you doing?" When an employee saw her standing there dazedly, he pushed her. She was caught off guard and stumbled onto the stage. The blinding spotlight landed on her; she could sense countless men staring at her. Melody stood there stiffly, so helpless that she was unable to move. Ethan wasn't the slightest bit interested in these things. He'd intended to leave immediately after the auction was over, but Wayne Smith of Ditham Corporation had approached him for a chat. He'd answered him perfunctorily while glancing at the stage. Then, he saw Melody. He narrowed his eyes and sat up, the laziness he'd earlier displayed fading from sight. The lights reflected off Melody's fair skin; they made her look like she was almost glowing. She didn't strut and show her stuff like those women before her. Instead, she stood there with her head bowed so no one could see what she looked like. All they could see was her silky smooth hair. But to Ethan, the sight of her was enough to arouse him. It was like a fire had started burning in him. On stage, Melody remained silent, feeling pierced by the men's gazes. They made her feel like she was standing there in her birthday suit. Chapter 6 Melody knew she couldn't act like this. She was here to look for Ethan; she had to save Clive's life! She couldn't act like this! She clenched her jaw and raised her head, revealing her innocent yet sensual face to the crowd. After a round of gasps, auction paddles flew into the air. "100,000!" "200,000!" "500,000!" "580,000!" β¦ Melody couldn't hear the sound of the bidding anymoreβshe was too anxious to track Ethan down. He was the wealthiest man in Emperia and the CEO of Regalia International, so he frequently made headlines. She'd long since committed his handsome face to memory. But before she could locate him, she felt a strong sense of oppression coming her way. She instinctively looked at the direction from which it had come. Then, she met a man's gaze. His eyes were cold and calm, yet there seemed to be molten lava buried within them. She could sense his kingly demeanor as his eyes threatened to suck her in. Melody lowered her head. He was terrifying. When Ethan saw her drop her head to avoid his gaze, he smirked. Wayne noticed this and stopped talking to glance at the stage. Then, his eyes lit up, and he chuckled. "She's a gorgeous one, isn't she? Are you interested in her, Mr. Ford?" Ethan didn't answer. Instead, he lifted a hand. James hurried forward to await his instruction. "I want her!" Ethan said. Then, he stood up and strode off. Several people had been bidding on Melody, but they stopped when they saw Ethan stand up. They got to their feet simultaneously to see him off. James hurriedly held up the auction paddle in his hand. He didn't even need to call out a priceβno one else would dare bid on Melody. Who would dare to do so now that they knew Ethan was interested in her? They'd be getting themselves a one-way ticket to bankruptcy if they were to try to fight him for her. On stage, the host cried excitedly, "Oh! Mr. Ford's won the auction for our lovely Ms. Johnson! Looks like someone's in luck!" Melody didn't know how she was led off stage. She followed the employees dazedly and asked them incredulously, "Is Mr. Ford really the one who bid on me? Mr. Ethan Ford? The CEO of Regalia International?" The employees could totally understand why she was acting like this. Anyone would be out of their minds with joy if Ethan were to pick them. "Would there be anyone else with that name? Congratulations, miss. Come with me, please. I'll take you to get your clothes changed. We don't want to keep Mr. Ford waiting." "She's so lucky!" "It's not like she has such a great figure. She's not even that pretty!" "Why didn't he pick me? That was Ethan Ford! I would've paid to be with him!" "Yeah, keep dreaming. You wouldn't be worthy of him even if you were to give up everything you own! Didn't you hear about the granddaughter of some country's leader trying and failing to spend a night with Mr. Ford? She offered to pay him a hefty sum, too!" β¦ As Melody followed the employees away, she heard the other women participating in the auction whispering among themselves about her. None of their words registered, though. She was still in disbelief that she'd succeeded just like that. Things had gone so smoothly! How was she going to beg him to agree to donate his bone marrow? Would he be moved if she were to get on her knees before him? Ten minutes later, Melody had changed into a white strappy minidress and a matching pair of 4-inch heels. She was brought to the 28th floor. | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715324400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879723 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410713 | 1723321852 | 995 | 478272224667453 | 1 | 9.8867341249763E+14 | 1715497200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120208322655090240 | beokn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πRead the next chaptersπ | https://beokn.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=11222&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715247646 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441959051_459948103069197_1403971259308613209_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=1TSfEhiF8D4Q7kNvgEsEyd9&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCPNRByqeAZCHU6FMOpZDTMDfP5mY-xNTPdLThPIEzSTA&oe=6672B59C | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441520392_1857443494727194_4363879934185925189_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=QPeoCanp0RMQ7kNvgGSYpS5&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAiCFpH1dTSMHzenkisoYvpFPTfZKxTYULLfGfWMJ5I7Q&oe=6672A42A | 0 | 3 | Melody Swanson had her cell phone's torch turned on to light the path to a white cottage amidst the lavenders. The night breeze was chilly, but all she had on was a white, sleeveless nightgown and lounge slippers. Her expression lifted when she saw she was getting close to the cottage. But the next second, someone reached out from the bushes beside her and gripped her right shoulder tightly. She yelped in shock, dropping her phone onto the ground. The faint light disappeared. The next thing she knew, she was dragged into a hot embrace. "I'll give you a million for one night!" The man's voice rang out behind her. It was deep and smooth. Melody's heart raced at this plot twist. Before she knew it, she'd been flipped onto her front and pinned to the ground amidst the sea of flowers. She widened her eyes and flailed, trying to escape. "No, wait! You've got the wrong person!" "Stop moving, sweetheart. Or are you that desperate for it?" the man rasped. "Let me go!" Melody struggled harder, but the man's tall and toned figure held her in place as he flipped her onto her back. She started feeling scared. She widened her eyes even more, but all she could see were the stars in the sky behind the man's head. There was barely enough light for her to see the man's chiseled featuresβthe desire burning in his eyes was clear as day, though. It was almost as bright as the stars above. Melody tried her best to escape but to no avail. Pain shot through her; the man leaned down to kiss her and swallow her cries. After a long while, he spoke again. His voice was alluring and hoarse. "You're so sweet, darling. I'll give you a million for another round. How about that?" "You're a monster!" Melody's voice was also hoarse from her crying. How could he do something like this to her in such a saintly place? The wind lifted her dress, stained purple by the lavenders they'd crushed underneath them. The scent was oddly intoxicating. They were in Violetville, which was famous for its sea of lavenders. It was so picturesque that many film companies had been attracted to film there. It gradually turned into a filming base. Recently, John Wales, an internationally renowned director, brought a crew of award-winning actors and actresses to Violetville to film a huge production. He'd happened to catch sight of Melody, who was home from college for the holidays. He'd invited her to play the role of an important side character. Melody hadn't expected her sister, Queenie Swanson, to trick her out of the house in the middle of the night upon hearing the news. Queenie had locked the door and refused to open it no matter how she pleaded. Their parents heard everything but did nothing to stop Queenie. The words Queenie had said not too long ago were still reverberating in Melody's mind. "You were capable of catching that director's eye, weren't you? Is it because you've already slept with him? What are you still doing here, then? Go sleep in his hotel room! I won't open the door for you, so get lost!" With no place to go, Melody had no choice but to take shelter in the white cottage amidst the sea of flowers, which was only meant for sightseeing. She hadn't expected to experience something like this, though. Her family's betrayal and the man's advances made her tears flow. They wet the flowers crushed underneath her body. Melody didn't know how long it would take for the man to be sated; it was as if he would never tire. When the sky started turning bright, he finally stopped. He released her hands, which he'd kept pinned in place. Melody immediately grabbed the nearest object and smashed it over the man's head. He'd been saying, "Tell me your name, sweetβ" Melody smashed a rock on his head before he could finish. He didn't manage to dodge itβperhaps he was too relaxed after having had his fill of her. Chapter 2 The man swayed on the spot from the impact. Melody pushed him away; he lay there, looking up at her blearily. She lifted the rock, intending to strike him again. This was self-defense! But the words echoed hollowly in her mindβshe couldn't do itβshe couldn't take his life. Even of a monster, it would stain her forever. Ultimately, she threw the bloodied rock aside and staggered to her feet. She took a step and happened to kick her phone. Melody picked it up and pulled out the cash tucked underneath her phone case. It was the change she'd gotten after doing some grocery shopping. She threw it at the man and snarled, "Listen upβI bought your services for one night, and that's your fee. Keep the change! And don't think it's too little. That's all you're worth!" With that, she turned and stumbled out of the sea of lavenders. The man's vision was already starting to blur. The blood trickled down his forehead and over his eyes. It dyed his vision red as he watched Melody walk away from him. The color of the flowers' stains on her nightgown seemed to mix with the blood in his eyes, giving him the impression that the flowers were blossoming. He was reminded of the night they'd just had together. "Don't goβ¦" he mumbled, reaching for her. But the darkness overtook him. The luxury watch on his wrist gleamed as his hand fell to the ground limply. β¦ Two months later, there was an uproar at the Swanson residence. "You're expecting a baby before marriage! You're a disgrace to the Swanson family! Get out of here!" Horace Swanson shoved Melody away furiously. "This is a small town, and the people here are all good, honest people. How could you pick up all these bad habits from those celebrities whose private lives are so messed up? Leave now! I'll just act like I never gave birth to you!" Susan Lett waved a hand, looking utterly disappointed. "You should leave, Melody. If the neighbors hear about this, how do you expect Mom and Dad to continue living here? I'm not married yet, you know. I don't want you to affect my reputation." Queenie stabbed an apple slice with a toothpick and ate it. She sat on the couch, looking like she was enjoying the show. Melody pointed at her. "Queenie's the one who locked me out of the house that night because she wanted to get the chance to be in that film! That's why I ended up getting assaulted. Why do you guys refuse to believe me?" Horace stood up and stormed over to her, giving her a hard slap. "Shut up, you imbecile! You're the one who did something so shameless, yet you're still trying to push the blame onto your sister! Don't ever step foot in here again!" "I raised your sister myself, so I know how kind and loving she is. How can you say that about her?" Susan pulled Queenie, who looked aggrieved, into her arms. She gave Melody, who'd fallen to the floor from Horace's slap, a reproachful look. "Is it really like Madam Williams said, Mom? Am I not your daughter? Is that why you won't believe me?" Melody didn't want to cry, but the tears refused to stay in her eyes. They streamed down her face. "Youβ¦ Of course you're my daughter! That's why I know what a bad apple you are! How dare you try to blame me when your misbehavior? Leave! Now!" "Fine! I'll go!" Melody staggered to her feet and walked out the door, looking resolute and lonely. β¦ Five years passed in the blink of an eye. Ford Manor was located among a cluster of villas halfway up a mountain in Tottenstone. Ethan Ford was having the same dream again. The woman in his dream wore a white dress, as usual. She had a long, silky smooth hair. He couldn't see her face, though. She didn't seem to enjoy his ministrationsβshe cried and pleaded with him to let her go, but he couldn't stop himself from sinking deeper. He held her close. In the next second, he opened his eyes and woke up from the dream. Chapter 3 It was this dream again. Ethan had experienced it almost every night for the past five years. No other woman had managed to arouse him since that incidentβonly the woman in his dreams could. He'd had the same dream for 1,826 days, including today. Even if he was already used to it, Ethan was still irritated. He wiped the sweat from his face; even his hair was damp. He got out of bed. His perfect figure was like a model's, but his face was more handsome than any model could ever have. His demeanor was cold, regal, and domineering. Ethan took a moment to compose himself. He strode to the bathroom after pushing the steamy images out of his mind. The butler, Bill Jones, heard this and came into the room. He quickly changed the soiled sheets. He'd just finished when Ethan came out of the bathroom with nothing but a towel around his waist. As soon as he graced the room with his toned figure, the atmosphere turned somewhat sensual. Bill stood there with his head bowed. When he saw Ethan head to the wardrobe, he said, "Ms. Wendy Nielson called to invite you out for dinner, Mr. Ford. Should I make arrangements? It's high time you let loose and have some fun, sir." Wendy was the daughter of a politician and one of the most well-known socialites in the region. She'd invited Ethan out countless times since running into him at a banquet a year ago. Ethan grabbed a black shirt and put it on, his back muscles rolling as he did so. He didn't even turn back as he said, "You're too noisy." Bill knew this meant Ethan was turning down the invitation. He didn't dare say anything else. 40 minutes later, Ethan strode out of the villa. His assistant, James Sawyer, hurriedly opened the door to a luxury car parked outside. Ethan got into the car elegantly. As the car drove past the main gates, Ethan glanced at the rearview mirror to see two bodyguards stop a woman in a cap and tracksuit. She tried to run after the car; her ponytail swung with her actions. Ethan retracted his gaze and said to James, "Tell the bodyguards they're out of jobs if I see any strangers as soon as I leave the house again." Sweat beaded on James' forehead. "Yes, sir." "Have you found anything on that woman from five years ago?" Ethan tugged on his tie, his eyes cold. He didn't even need to look at anyone to make them shudder. James stuttered, "N-Not yet, sir." "I'll give you another month. If you can't find anything, you can get lost, too!" Unbeknownst to Ethan, the woman he was searching for was behind him. Her figure became smaller and smaller in the rearview mirror. "Mr. Ford, don't go!" Melody finally liberated herself from the bodyguards, but she wasn't in time to catch up with the car. She wanted to run after it, but the bodyguards stopped her again. Amidst the tussle, she fell to the floor and landed on her arm. Pain shot through her. She raised her head to look at the car, but it was long gone. Oh no! It had already been a monthβshe'd staked out every place that Ethan could possibly be at, but someone had stopped her every time. She couldn't even get close to him. It had taken all her connections to get Ethan's address; she'd waited outside for him from 3:00 am onward for several days in a row. Still, she'd failed to even get close to him, let alone speak to him. "Mr. Sawyer just called us. If you show up here again tomorrow, you'll have to pay!" one of the bodyguards warned. Melody looked back at them and pleaded, "Can you please just let me see Mr. Ford? I only have a few things to say to himβit'll only take five minutes! It's about something important, I swear. This has to do with someone's life!" Chapter 4 "Every woman who wants to see Mr. Ford says they need him to save lives! He's not interested in you, okay? There's no point throwing yourself at him," one bodyguard snapped. "Get lost! Don't come here anymore!" another said. They looked like they would resort to violence if Melody refused to leave. She had no choice but to get up and trudge down the mountain, looking glum. "It's rare to see such a gorgeous woman. I'm sure she'd be set for life if she were to go after some other rich kid. Too bad she's greedyβdoesn't she realize where she is? Even Phoebe Shaw, that award-winning actress, isn't worthy of shining Mr. Ford's shoes, let alone her!" one bodyguard said. "You're right about her not knowing her place, but I have to say that she's a lot prettier than Phoebe Shaw," the other said. They continued chatting as they headed into the villa. β¦ It was already the afternoon by the time Melody returned to the hospital. She saw Clive Zimmerman's attending physician, Tom Filbert, come out of the hospital room before Clive's. She hurried over to him. "Dr. Filbert, how has Clive been recently?" "Oh, Mrs. Zimmerman. I've already made your husband's condition clear to youβwe need to find a matching donor as soon as possible for the bone marrow transplant. Otherwiseβ¦" Tom shook his head. Melody paled. Tom continued, "The hospital's been searching for a matching donor, but your husband's condition is deteriorating too quickly. He's running out of time. "As his family, you need to work with us. Try to think of any relatives he might have and bring them to the hospital so we can check their bone marrow. Maybe one of them might be a matchβ¦" Melody paled even more. Tom continued talking, but she couldn't really hear him anymore. She asked with difficulty, "How long does he still have if we can't find a donor?" Tom shook his head. "The bone marrow transplant has to be done within a month. Otherwise, he'll only have three to five months at most." Melody clenched her jaw; her expression became resolute. "I've already found a bone marrow that matches Clive's, but the person hasn't agreed to become a donor yet. I'll find a way to persuade him! "Please make the necessary arrangements for the transplant, Dr. Filbert. I'll bring the donor over before the surgery!" "That's great! I'll arrange for the transplant to be done in ten days, then. Remember to bring the donor over as soon as possibleβhe needs to be checked before the surgery." "Alright." Melody nodded. But once Tom was gone, she slumped against the wall weakly. What was she going to do? The surgery was in ten days, but she'd made zero progress. She hadn't even gotten close to Ethan, let alone persuaded him to donate his bone marrow to Clive. Ethan was the wealthiest man in Emperia, after all. A hair on his head was worth more than most other individuals' lives. Even if she did manage to speak to him, how was she going to get him to agree to help Clive? What was she going to do? Melody approached Clive's hospital room. Before she opened the door, she heard her children, Jacob and Jamie Swanson, singing. They were singing an Enolian song that had been dedicated to the singer's father. Melody peeped inside through the window on the door. Jacob and Jamie wore identical uniforms as they stood hand-in-hand before the window. The sunlight shone down on them, and they swayed on the spot while singing. Clive sat up in bed, also basking in the sunlight as he clapped his hands to the beat of the song. The hospital gown he had on looked too big for him because of the weight he'd lost, and he looked rather haggard. It didn't take away from his good looks, though. There was a gentle smile on his face. He didn't look like a patient who was on the brink of death. Instead, he looked like a patron of the artsβone who was enjoying a grand musical. Melody's eyes turned red. She turned away to dry her tears. Chapter 5 Five years ago, Melody had been kicked out of her home without a penny. At the time, she'd already carried Jacob and Jamie. When she'd been backed into a corner, Clive had taken her in. Not only had he helped her quit school, but he'd also taken care of her the whole time. Later, he'd even offered to marry her so that Jacob and Jamie wouldn't end up becoming illegitimate children. He'd helped her too many times to count over the yearsβshe had to repay him. His parents and relatives were all dead, and he now had serious disease. If she were to give up on him, he could only wait for death to take him. He was still so young and outstanding; this wasn't the end he deserved! No matter what, Melody had to convince Ethan to donate his bone marrow to Clive. She didn't care how difficult it would be! β¦ That night, Melody hid in a storage room at Privo Country Club, Tottenstone's most exclusive club. An auction was being held there that night, and it had taken her some time to find out that Ethan would be in attendance. Anyone who could get an invitation to the auction had to be a bigwig in Emperia's business world or an influential politician; Melody was neither, so she didn't have an invitation. Fortunately, she'd heard about the organizers of the auction holding something of a show for young women at the very end of the auction. It was supposed to be a show, but it was more like the young women were auctioning off their first time. Like regular auctions, the highest bidder would get. As long as Melody could blend in with them, she would have the chance to get to Ethan. At the moment, the young women who were being auctioned were standing by in the waiting room opposite the storage room. Melody was waiting for a chance to sneak in when she suddenly heard a muffled conversation outside. "Come with me!" "Listen to me, Ned. I came here willinglyβas long as someone bids on me tonight, we'll have money for your mother's medical bills. It's worth giving up my cherry to save her life!" "I don't need you to sacrifice yourself for me like this, Elaine! I love you! I've managed to get the money, so let's go!" "Really?" "Yeah!" "That's great! Let's go!" The footsteps faded into the distance. Melody came out of the storage room. She picked up the clothes and name tag that read "Elaine Johnson" from the floor and smiled as she looked down the corridor. She wished the couple all the best and also thanked them for this opportunity. An hour later, Melody stood barefoot on the marble floor, wearing only a bikini as she waited for her turn. "Next, let's welcome the beautiful Ms. Elaine Johnson, our eighth participant of the night! She's still a college student, everyone." The host's voice rang out on the other side of the curtain. Suddenly, Melody hesitated. She'd never worn anything so revealing in public before. "Get in there! What are you doing?" When an employee saw her standing there dazedly, he pushed her. She was caught off guard and stumbled onto the stage. The blinding spotlight landed on her; she could sense countless men staring at her. Melody stood there stiffly, so helpless that she was unable to move. Ethan wasn't the slightest bit interested in these things. He'd intended to leave immediately after the auction was over, but Wayne Smith of Ditham Corporation had approached him for a chat. He'd answered him perfunctorily while glancing at the stage. Then, he saw Melody. He narrowed his eyes and sat up, the laziness he'd earlier displayed fading from sight. The lights reflected off Melody's fair skin; they made her look like she was almost glowing. She didn't strut and show her stuff like those women before her. Instead, she stood there with her head bowed so no one could see what she looked like. All they could see was her silky smooth hair. But to Ethan, the sight of her was enough to arouse him. It was like a fire had started burning in him. On stage, Melody remained silent, feeling pierced by the men's gazes. They made her feel like she was standing there in her birthday suit. Chapter 6 Melody knew she couldn't act like this. She was here to look for Ethan; she had to save Clive's life! She couldn't act like this! She clenched her jaw and raised her head, revealing her innocent yet sensual face to the crowd. After a round of gasps, auction paddles flew into the air. "100,000!" "200,000!" "500,000!" "580,000!" β¦ Melody couldn't hear the sound of the bidding anymoreβshe was too anxious to track Ethan down. He was the wealthiest man in Emperia and the CEO of Regalia International, so he frequently made headlines. She'd long since committed his handsome face to memory. But before she could locate him, she felt a strong sense of oppression coming her way. She instinctively looked at the direction from which it had come. Then, she met a man's gaze. His eyes were cold and calm, yet there seemed to be molten lava buried within them. She could sense his kingly demeanor as his eyes threatened to suck her in. Melody lowered her head. He was terrifying. When Ethan saw her drop her head to avoid his gaze, he smirked. Wayne noticed this and stopped talking to glance at the stage. Then, his eyes lit up, and he chuckled. "She's a gorgeous one, isn't she? Are you interested in her, Mr. Ford?" Ethan didn't answer. Instead, he lifted a hand. James hurried forward to await his instruction. "I want her!" Ethan said. Then, he stood up and strode off. Several people had been bidding on Melody, but they stopped when they saw Ethan stand up. They got to their feet simultaneously to see him off. James hurriedly held up the auction paddle in his hand. He didn't even need to call out a priceβno one else would dare bid on Melody. Who would dare to do so now that they knew Ethan was interested in her? They'd be getting themselves a one-way ticket to bankruptcy if they were to try to fight him for her. On stage, the host cried excitedly, "Oh! Mr. Ford's won the auction for our lovely Ms. Johnson! Looks like someone's in luck!" Melody didn't know how she was led off stage. She followed the employees dazedly and asked them incredulously, "Is Mr. Ford really the one who bid on me? Mr. Ethan Ford? The CEO of Regalia International?" The employees could totally understand why she was acting like this. Anyone would be out of their minds with joy if Ethan were to pick them. "Would there be anyone else with that name? Congratulations, miss. Come with me, please. I'll take you to get your clothes changed. We don't want to keep Mr. Ford waiting." "She's so lucky!" "It's not like she has such a great figure. She's not even that pretty!" "Why didn't he pick me? That was Ethan Ford! I would've paid to be with him!" "Yeah, keep dreaming. You wouldn't be worthy of him even if you were to give up everything you own! Didn't you hear about the granddaughter of some country's leader trying and failing to spend a night with Mr. Ford? She offered to pay him a hefty sum, too!" β¦ As Melody followed the employees away, she heard the other women participating in the auction whispering among themselves about her. None of their words registered, though. She was still in disbelief that she'd succeeded just like that. Things had gone so smoothly! How was she going to beg him to agree to donate his bone marrow? Would he be moved if she were to get on her knees before him? Ten minutes later, Melody had changed into a white strappy minidress and a matching pair of 4-inch heels. She was brought to the 28th floor. | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715324400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879724 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410713 | 1723321852 | 995 | 478272224667453 | 1 | 9.8867341249763E+14 | 1715497200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120208322655090240 | beokn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πRead the next chaptersπ | https://beokn.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=11222&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715247646 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441959051_459948103069197_1403971259308613209_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=1TSfEhiF8D4Q7kNvgEsEyd9&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCPNRByqeAZCHU6FMOpZDTMDfP5mY-xNTPdLThPIEzSTA&oe=6672B59C | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441520392_1857443494727194_4363879934185925189_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=QPeoCanp0RMQ7kNvgGSYpS5&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAiCFpH1dTSMHzenkisoYvpFPTfZKxTYULLfGfWMJ5I7Q&oe=6672A42A | 0 | 3 | Melody Swanson had her cell phone's torch turned on to light the path to a white cottage amidst the lavenders. The night breeze was chilly, but all she had on was a white, sleeveless nightgown and lounge slippers. Her expression lifted when she saw she was getting close to the cottage. But the next second, someone reached out from the bushes beside her and gripped her right shoulder tightly. She yelped in shock, dropping her phone onto the ground. The faint light disappeared. The next thing she knew, she was dragged into a hot embrace. "I'll give you a million for one night!" The man's voice rang out behind her. It was deep and smooth. Melody's heart raced at this plot twist. Before she knew it, she'd been flipped onto her front and pinned to the ground amidst the sea of flowers. She widened her eyes and flailed, trying to escape. "No, wait! You've got the wrong person!" "Stop moving, sweetheart. Or are you that desperate for it?" the man rasped. "Let me go!" Melody struggled harder, but the man's tall and toned figure held her in place as he flipped her onto her back. She started feeling scared. She widened her eyes even more, but all she could see were the stars in the sky behind the man's head. There was barely enough light for her to see the man's chiseled featuresβthe desire burning in his eyes was clear as day, though. It was almost as bright as the stars above. Melody tried her best to escape but to no avail. Pain shot through her; the man leaned down to kiss her and swallow her cries. After a long while, he spoke again. His voice was alluring and hoarse. "You're so sweet, darling. I'll give you a million for another round. How about that?" "You're a monster!" Melody's voice was also hoarse from her crying. How could he do something like this to her in such a saintly place? The wind lifted her dress, stained purple by the lavenders they'd crushed underneath them. The scent was oddly intoxicating. They were in Violetville, which was famous for its sea of lavenders. It was so picturesque that many film companies had been attracted to film there. It gradually turned into a filming base. Recently, John Wales, an internationally renowned director, brought a crew of award-winning actors and actresses to Violetville to film a huge production. He'd happened to catch sight of Melody, who was home from college for the holidays. He'd invited her to play the role of an important side character. Melody hadn't expected her sister, Queenie Swanson, to trick her out of the house in the middle of the night upon hearing the news. Queenie had locked the door and refused to open it no matter how she pleaded. Their parents heard everything but did nothing to stop Queenie. The words Queenie had said not too long ago were still reverberating in Melody's mind. "You were capable of catching that director's eye, weren't you? Is it because you've already slept with him? What are you still doing here, then? Go sleep in his hotel room! I won't open the door for you, so get lost!" With no place to go, Melody had no choice but to take shelter in the white cottage amidst the sea of flowers, which was only meant for sightseeing. She hadn't expected to experience something like this, though. Her family's betrayal and the man's advances made her tears flow. They wet the flowers crushed underneath her body. Melody didn't know how long it would take for the man to be sated; it was as if he would never tire. When the sky started turning bright, he finally stopped. He released her hands, which he'd kept pinned in place. Melody immediately grabbed the nearest object and smashed it over the man's head. He'd been saying, "Tell me your name, sweetβ" Melody smashed a rock on his head before he could finish. He didn't manage to dodge itβperhaps he was too relaxed after having had his fill of her. Chapter 2 The man swayed on the spot from the impact. Melody pushed him away; he lay there, looking up at her blearily. She lifted the rock, intending to strike him again. This was self-defense! But the words echoed hollowly in her mindβshe couldn't do itβshe couldn't take his life. Even of a monster, it would stain her forever. Ultimately, she threw the bloodied rock aside and staggered to her feet. She took a step and happened to kick her phone. Melody picked it up and pulled out the cash tucked underneath her phone case. It was the change she'd gotten after doing some grocery shopping. She threw it at the man and snarled, "Listen upβI bought your services for one night, and that's your fee. Keep the change! And don't think it's too little. That's all you're worth!" With that, she turned and stumbled out of the sea of lavenders. The man's vision was already starting to blur. The blood trickled down his forehead and over his eyes. It dyed his vision red as he watched Melody walk away from him. The color of the flowers' stains on her nightgown seemed to mix with the blood in his eyes, giving him the impression that the flowers were blossoming. He was reminded of the night they'd just had together. "Don't goβ¦" he mumbled, reaching for her. But the darkness overtook him. The luxury watch on his wrist gleamed as his hand fell to the ground limply. β¦ Two months later, there was an uproar at the Swanson residence. "You're expecting a baby before marriage! You're a disgrace to the Swanson family! Get out of here!" Horace Swanson shoved Melody away furiously. "This is a small town, and the people here are all good, honest people. How could you pick up all these bad habits from those celebrities whose private lives are so messed up? Leave now! I'll just act like I never gave birth to you!" Susan Lett waved a hand, looking utterly disappointed. "You should leave, Melody. If the neighbors hear about this, how do you expect Mom and Dad to continue living here? I'm not married yet, you know. I don't want you to affect my reputation." Queenie stabbed an apple slice with a toothpick and ate it. She sat on the couch, looking like she was enjoying the show. Melody pointed at her. "Queenie's the one who locked me out of the house that night because she wanted to get the chance to be in that film! That's why I ended up getting assaulted. Why do you guys refuse to believe me?" Horace stood up and stormed over to her, giving her a hard slap. "Shut up, you imbecile! You're the one who did something so shameless, yet you're still trying to push the blame onto your sister! Don't ever step foot in here again!" "I raised your sister myself, so I know how kind and loving she is. How can you say that about her?" Susan pulled Queenie, who looked aggrieved, into her arms. She gave Melody, who'd fallen to the floor from Horace's slap, a reproachful look. "Is it really like Madam Williams said, Mom? Am I not your daughter? Is that why you won't believe me?" Melody didn't want to cry, but the tears refused to stay in her eyes. They streamed down her face. "Youβ¦ Of course you're my daughter! That's why I know what a bad apple you are! How dare you try to blame me when your misbehavior? Leave! Now!" "Fine! I'll go!" Melody staggered to her feet and walked out the door, looking resolute and lonely. β¦ Five years passed in the blink of an eye. Ford Manor was located among a cluster of villas halfway up a mountain in Tottenstone. Ethan Ford was having the same dream again. The woman in his dream wore a white dress, as usual. She had a long, silky smooth hair. He couldn't see her face, though. She didn't seem to enjoy his ministrationsβshe cried and pleaded with him to let her go, but he couldn't stop himself from sinking deeper. He held her close. In the next second, he opened his eyes and woke up from the dream. Chapter 3 It was this dream again. Ethan had experienced it almost every night for the past five years. No other woman had managed to arouse him since that incidentβonly the woman in his dreams could. He'd had the same dream for 1,826 days, including today. Even if he was already used to it, Ethan was still irritated. He wiped the sweat from his face; even his hair was damp. He got out of bed. His perfect figure was like a model's, but his face was more handsome than any model could ever have. His demeanor was cold, regal, and domineering. Ethan took a moment to compose himself. He strode to the bathroom after pushing the steamy images out of his mind. The butler, Bill Jones, heard this and came into the room. He quickly changed the soiled sheets. He'd just finished when Ethan came out of the bathroom with nothing but a towel around his waist. As soon as he graced the room with his toned figure, the atmosphere turned somewhat sensual. Bill stood there with his head bowed. When he saw Ethan head to the wardrobe, he said, "Ms. Wendy Nielson called to invite you out for dinner, Mr. Ford. Should I make arrangements? It's high time you let loose and have some fun, sir." Wendy was the daughter of a politician and one of the most well-known socialites in the region. She'd invited Ethan out countless times since running into him at a banquet a year ago. Ethan grabbed a black shirt and put it on, his back muscles rolling as he did so. He didn't even turn back as he said, "You're too noisy." Bill knew this meant Ethan was turning down the invitation. He didn't dare say anything else. 40 minutes later, Ethan strode out of the villa. His assistant, James Sawyer, hurriedly opened the door to a luxury car parked outside. Ethan got into the car elegantly. As the car drove past the main gates, Ethan glanced at the rearview mirror to see two bodyguards stop a woman in a cap and tracksuit. She tried to run after the car; her ponytail swung with her actions. Ethan retracted his gaze and said to James, "Tell the bodyguards they're out of jobs if I see any strangers as soon as I leave the house again." Sweat beaded on James' forehead. "Yes, sir." "Have you found anything on that woman from five years ago?" Ethan tugged on his tie, his eyes cold. He didn't even need to look at anyone to make them shudder. James stuttered, "N-Not yet, sir." "I'll give you another month. If you can't find anything, you can get lost, too!" Unbeknownst to Ethan, the woman he was searching for was behind him. Her figure became smaller and smaller in the rearview mirror. "Mr. Ford, don't go!" Melody finally liberated herself from the bodyguards, but she wasn't in time to catch up with the car. She wanted to run after it, but the bodyguards stopped her again. Amidst the tussle, she fell to the floor and landed on her arm. Pain shot through her. She raised her head to look at the car, but it was long gone. Oh no! It had already been a monthβshe'd staked out every place that Ethan could possibly be at, but someone had stopped her every time. She couldn't even get close to him. It had taken all her connections to get Ethan's address; she'd waited outside for him from 3:00 am onward for several days in a row. Still, she'd failed to even get close to him, let alone speak to him. "Mr. Sawyer just called us. If you show up here again tomorrow, you'll have to pay!" one of the bodyguards warned. Melody looked back at them and pleaded, "Can you please just let me see Mr. Ford? I only have a few things to say to himβit'll only take five minutes! It's about something important, I swear. This has to do with someone's life!" Chapter 4 "Every woman who wants to see Mr. Ford says they need him to save lives! He's not interested in you, okay? There's no point throwing yourself at him," one bodyguard snapped. "Get lost! Don't come here anymore!" another said. They looked like they would resort to violence if Melody refused to leave. She had no choice but to get up and trudge down the mountain, looking glum. "It's rare to see such a gorgeous woman. I'm sure she'd be set for life if she were to go after some other rich kid. Too bad she's greedyβdoesn't she realize where she is? Even Phoebe Shaw, that award-winning actress, isn't worthy of shining Mr. Ford's shoes, let alone her!" one bodyguard said. "You're right about her not knowing her place, but I have to say that she's a lot prettier than Phoebe Shaw," the other said. They continued chatting as they headed into the villa. β¦ It was already the afternoon by the time Melody returned to the hospital. She saw Clive Zimmerman's attending physician, Tom Filbert, come out of the hospital room before Clive's. She hurried over to him. "Dr. Filbert, how has Clive been recently?" "Oh, Mrs. Zimmerman. I've already made your husband's condition clear to youβwe need to find a matching donor as soon as possible for the bone marrow transplant. Otherwiseβ¦" Tom shook his head. Melody paled. Tom continued, "The hospital's been searching for a matching donor, but your husband's condition is deteriorating too quickly. He's running out of time. "As his family, you need to work with us. Try to think of any relatives he might have and bring them to the hospital so we can check their bone marrow. Maybe one of them might be a matchβ¦" Melody paled even more. Tom continued talking, but she couldn't really hear him anymore. She asked with difficulty, "How long does he still have if we can't find a donor?" Tom shook his head. "The bone marrow transplant has to be done within a month. Otherwise, he'll only have three to five months at most." Melody clenched her jaw; her expression became resolute. "I've already found a bone marrow that matches Clive's, but the person hasn't agreed to become a donor yet. I'll find a way to persuade him! "Please make the necessary arrangements for the transplant, Dr. Filbert. I'll bring the donor over before the surgery!" "That's great! I'll arrange for the transplant to be done in ten days, then. Remember to bring the donor over as soon as possibleβhe needs to be checked before the surgery." "Alright." Melody nodded. But once Tom was gone, she slumped against the wall weakly. What was she going to do? The surgery was in ten days, but she'd made zero progress. She hadn't even gotten close to Ethan, let alone persuaded him to donate his bone marrow to Clive. Ethan was the wealthiest man in Emperia, after all. A hair on his head was worth more than most other individuals' lives. Even if she did manage to speak to him, how was she going to get him to agree to help Clive? What was she going to do? Melody approached Clive's hospital room. Before she opened the door, she heard her children, Jacob and Jamie Swanson, singing. They were singing an Enolian song that had been dedicated to the singer's father. Melody peeped inside through the window on the door. Jacob and Jamie wore identical uniforms as they stood hand-in-hand before the window. The sunlight shone down on them, and they swayed on the spot while singing. Clive sat up in bed, also basking in the sunlight as he clapped his hands to the beat of the song. The hospital gown he had on looked too big for him because of the weight he'd lost, and he looked rather haggard. It didn't take away from his good looks, though. There was a gentle smile on his face. He didn't look like a patient who was on the brink of death. Instead, he looked like a patron of the artsβone who was enjoying a grand musical. Melody's eyes turned red. She turned away to dry her tears. Chapter 5 Five years ago, Melody had been kicked out of her home without a penny. At the time, she'd already carried Jacob and Jamie. When she'd been backed into a corner, Clive had taken her in. Not only had he helped her quit school, but he'd also taken care of her the whole time. Later, he'd even offered to marry her so that Jacob and Jamie wouldn't end up becoming illegitimate children. He'd helped her too many times to count over the yearsβshe had to repay him. His parents and relatives were all dead, and he now had serious disease. If she were to give up on him, he could only wait for death to take him. He was still so young and outstanding; this wasn't the end he deserved! No matter what, Melody had to convince Ethan to donate his bone marrow to Clive. She didn't care how difficult it would be! β¦ That night, Melody hid in a storage room at Privo Country Club, Tottenstone's most exclusive club. An auction was being held there that night, and it had taken her some time to find out that Ethan would be in attendance. Anyone who could get an invitation to the auction had to be a bigwig in Emperia's business world or an influential politician; Melody was neither, so she didn't have an invitation. Fortunately, she'd heard about the organizers of the auction holding something of a show for young women at the very end of the auction. It was supposed to be a show, but it was more like the young women were auctioning off their first time. Like regular auctions, the highest bidder would get. As long as Melody could blend in with them, she would have the chance to get to Ethan. At the moment, the young women who were being auctioned were standing by in the waiting room opposite the storage room. Melody was waiting for a chance to sneak in when she suddenly heard a muffled conversation outside. "Come with me!" "Listen to me, Ned. I came here willinglyβas long as someone bids on me tonight, we'll have money for your mother's medical bills. It's worth giving up my cherry to save her life!" "I don't need you to sacrifice yourself for me like this, Elaine! I love you! I've managed to get the money, so let's go!" "Really?" "Yeah!" "That's great! Let's go!" The footsteps faded into the distance. Melody came out of the storage room. She picked up the clothes and name tag that read "Elaine Johnson" from the floor and smiled as she looked down the corridor. She wished the couple all the best and also thanked them for this opportunity. An hour later, Melody stood barefoot on the marble floor, wearing only a bikini as she waited for her turn. "Next, let's welcome the beautiful Ms. Elaine Johnson, our eighth participant of the night! She's still a college student, everyone." The host's voice rang out on the other side of the curtain. Suddenly, Melody hesitated. She'd never worn anything so revealing in public before. "Get in there! What are you doing?" When an employee saw her standing there dazedly, he pushed her. She was caught off guard and stumbled onto the stage. The blinding spotlight landed on her; she could sense countless men staring at her. Melody stood there stiffly, so helpless that she was unable to move. Ethan wasn't the slightest bit interested in these things. He'd intended to leave immediately after the auction was over, but Wayne Smith of Ditham Corporation had approached him for a chat. He'd answered him perfunctorily while glancing at the stage. Then, he saw Melody. He narrowed his eyes and sat up, the laziness he'd earlier displayed fading from sight. The lights reflected off Melody's fair skin; they made her look like she was almost glowing. She didn't strut and show her stuff like those women before her. Instead, she stood there with her head bowed so no one could see what she looked like. All they could see was her silky smooth hair. But to Ethan, the sight of her was enough to arouse him. It was like a fire had started burning in him. On stage, Melody remained silent, feeling pierced by the men's gazes. They made her feel like she was standing there in her birthday suit. Chapter 6 Melody knew she couldn't act like this. She was here to look for Ethan; she had to save Clive's life! She couldn't act like this! She clenched her jaw and raised her head, revealing her innocent yet sensual face to the crowd. After a round of gasps, auction paddles flew into the air. "100,000!" "200,000!" "500,000!" "580,000!" β¦ Melody couldn't hear the sound of the bidding anymoreβshe was too anxious to track Ethan down. He was the wealthiest man in Emperia and the CEO of Regalia International, so he frequently made headlines. She'd long since committed his handsome face to memory. But before she could locate him, she felt a strong sense of oppression coming her way. She instinctively looked at the direction from which it had come. Then, she met a man's gaze. His eyes were cold and calm, yet there seemed to be molten lava buried within them. She could sense his kingly demeanor as his eyes threatened to suck her in. Melody lowered her head. He was terrifying. When Ethan saw her drop her head to avoid his gaze, he smirked. Wayne noticed this and stopped talking to glance at the stage. Then, his eyes lit up, and he chuckled. "She's a gorgeous one, isn't she? Are you interested in her, Mr. Ford?" Ethan didn't answer. Instead, he lifted a hand. James hurried forward to await his instruction. "I want her!" Ethan said. Then, he stood up and strode off. Several people had been bidding on Melody, but they stopped when they saw Ethan stand up. They got to their feet simultaneously to see him off. James hurriedly held up the auction paddle in his hand. He didn't even need to call out a priceβno one else would dare bid on Melody. Who would dare to do so now that they knew Ethan was interested in her? They'd be getting themselves a one-way ticket to bankruptcy if they were to try to fight him for her. On stage, the host cried excitedly, "Oh! Mr. Ford's won the auction for our lovely Ms. Johnson! Looks like someone's in luck!" Melody didn't know how she was led off stage. She followed the employees dazedly and asked them incredulously, "Is Mr. Ford really the one who bid on me? Mr. Ethan Ford? The CEO of Regalia International?" The employees could totally understand why she was acting like this. Anyone would be out of their minds with joy if Ethan were to pick them. "Would there be anyone else with that name? Congratulations, miss. Come with me, please. I'll take you to get your clothes changed. We don't want to keep Mr. Ford waiting." "She's so lucky!" "It's not like she has such a great figure. She's not even that pretty!" "Why didn't he pick me? That was Ethan Ford! I would've paid to be with him!" "Yeah, keep dreaming. You wouldn't be worthy of him even if you were to give up everything you own! Didn't you hear about the granddaughter of some country's leader trying and failing to spend a night with Mr. Ford? She offered to pay him a hefty sum, too!" β¦ As Melody followed the employees away, she heard the other women participating in the auction whispering among themselves about her. None of their words registered, though. She was still in disbelief that she'd succeeded just like that. Things had gone so smoothly! How was she going to beg him to agree to donate his bone marrow? Would he be moved if she were to get on her knees before him? Ten minutes later, Melody had changed into a white strappy minidress and a matching pair of 4-inch heels. She was brought to the 28th floor. | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715324400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879725 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410713 | 1723321852 | 995 | 478272224667453 | 1 | 9.8867341249763E+14 | 1715497200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120208322655090240 | beokn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πRead the next chaptersπ | https://beokn.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=11222&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715247646 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441959051_459948103069197_1403971259308613209_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=1TSfEhiF8D4Q7kNvgEsEyd9&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCPNRByqeAZCHU6FMOpZDTMDfP5mY-xNTPdLThPIEzSTA&oe=6672B59C | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441520392_1857443494727194_4363879934185925189_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=QPeoCanp0RMQ7kNvgGSYpS5&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAiCFpH1dTSMHzenkisoYvpFPTfZKxTYULLfGfWMJ5I7Q&oe=6672A42A | 0 | 3 | Melody Swanson had her cell phone's torch turned on to light the path to a white cottage amidst the lavenders. The night breeze was chilly, but all she had on was a white, sleeveless nightgown and lounge slippers. Her expression lifted when she saw she was getting close to the cottage. But the next second, someone reached out from the bushes beside her and gripped her right shoulder tightly. She yelped in shock, dropping her phone onto the ground. The faint light disappeared. The next thing she knew, she was dragged into a hot embrace. "I'll give you a million for one night!" The man's voice rang out behind her. It was deep and smooth. Melody's heart raced at this plot twist. Before she knew it, she'd been flipped onto her front and pinned to the ground amidst the sea of flowers. She widened her eyes and flailed, trying to escape. "No, wait! You've got the wrong person!" "Stop moving, sweetheart. Or are you that desperate for it?" the man rasped. "Let me go!" Melody struggled harder, but the man's tall and toned figure held her in place as he flipped her onto her back. She started feeling scared. She widened her eyes even more, but all she could see were the stars in the sky behind the man's head. There was barely enough light for her to see the man's chiseled featuresβthe desire burning in his eyes was clear as day, though. It was almost as bright as the stars above. Melody tried her best to escape but to no avail. Pain shot through her; the man leaned down to kiss her and swallow her cries. After a long while, he spoke again. His voice was alluring and hoarse. "You're so sweet, darling. I'll give you a million for another round. How about that?" "You're a monster!" Melody's voice was also hoarse from her crying. How could he do something like this to her in such a saintly place? The wind lifted her dress, stained purple by the lavenders they'd crushed underneath them. The scent was oddly intoxicating. They were in Violetville, which was famous for its sea of lavenders. It was so picturesque that many film companies had been attracted to film there. It gradually turned into a filming base. Recently, John Wales, an internationally renowned director, brought a crew of award-winning actors and actresses to Violetville to film a huge production. He'd happened to catch sight of Melody, who was home from college for the holidays. He'd invited her to play the role of an important side character. Melody hadn't expected her sister, Queenie Swanson, to trick her out of the house in the middle of the night upon hearing the news. Queenie had locked the door and refused to open it no matter how she pleaded. Their parents heard everything but did nothing to stop Queenie. The words Queenie had said not too long ago were still reverberating in Melody's mind. "You were capable of catching that director's eye, weren't you? Is it because you've already slept with him? What are you still doing here, then? Go sleep in his hotel room! I won't open the door for you, so get lost!" With no place to go, Melody had no choice but to take shelter in the white cottage amidst the sea of flowers, which was only meant for sightseeing. She hadn't expected to experience something like this, though. Her family's betrayal and the man's advances made her tears flow. They wet the flowers crushed underneath her body. Melody didn't know how long it would take for the man to be sated; it was as if he would never tire. When the sky started turning bright, he finally stopped. He released her hands, which he'd kept pinned in place. Melody immediately grabbed the nearest object and smashed it over the man's head. He'd been saying, "Tell me your name, sweetβ" Melody smashed a rock on his head before he could finish. He didn't manage to dodge itβperhaps he was too relaxed after having had his fill of her. Chapter 2 The man swayed on the spot from the impact. Melody pushed him away; he lay there, looking up at her blearily. She lifted the rock, intending to strike him again. This was self-defense! But the words echoed hollowly in her mindβshe couldn't do itβshe couldn't take his life. Even of a monster, it would stain her forever. Ultimately, she threw the bloodied rock aside and staggered to her feet. She took a step and happened to kick her phone. Melody picked it up and pulled out the cash tucked underneath her phone case. It was the change she'd gotten after doing some grocery shopping. She threw it at the man and snarled, "Listen upβI bought your services for one night, and that's your fee. Keep the change! And don't think it's too little. That's all you're worth!" With that, she turned and stumbled out of the sea of lavenders. The man's vision was already starting to blur. The blood trickled down his forehead and over his eyes. It dyed his vision red as he watched Melody walk away from him. The color of the flowers' stains on her nightgown seemed to mix with the blood in his eyes, giving him the impression that the flowers were blossoming. He was reminded of the night they'd just had together. "Don't goβ¦" he mumbled, reaching for her. But the darkness overtook him. The luxury watch on his wrist gleamed as his hand fell to the ground limply. β¦ Two months later, there was an uproar at the Swanson residence. "You're expecting a baby before marriage! You're a disgrace to the Swanson family! Get out of here!" Horace Swanson shoved Melody away furiously. "This is a small town, and the people here are all good, honest people. How could you pick up all these bad habits from those celebrities whose private lives are so messed up? Leave now! I'll just act like I never gave birth to you!" Susan Lett waved a hand, looking utterly disappointed. "You should leave, Melody. If the neighbors hear about this, how do you expect Mom and Dad to continue living here? I'm not married yet, you know. I don't want you to affect my reputation." Queenie stabbed an apple slice with a toothpick and ate it. She sat on the couch, looking like she was enjoying the show. Melody pointed at her. "Queenie's the one who locked me out of the house that night because she wanted to get the chance to be in that film! That's why I ended up getting assaulted. Why do you guys refuse to believe me?" Horace stood up and stormed over to her, giving her a hard slap. "Shut up, you imbecile! You're the one who did something so shameless, yet you're still trying to push the blame onto your sister! Don't ever step foot in here again!" "I raised your sister myself, so I know how kind and loving she is. How can you say that about her?" Susan pulled Queenie, who looked aggrieved, into her arms. She gave Melody, who'd fallen to the floor from Horace's slap, a reproachful look. "Is it really like Madam Williams said, Mom? Am I not your daughter? Is that why you won't believe me?" Melody didn't want to cry, but the tears refused to stay in her eyes. They streamed down her face. "Youβ¦ Of course you're my daughter! That's why I know what a bad apple you are! How dare you try to blame me when your misbehavior? Leave! Now!" "Fine! I'll go!" Melody staggered to her feet and walked out the door, looking resolute and lonely. β¦ Five years passed in the blink of an eye. Ford Manor was located among a cluster of villas halfway up a mountain in Tottenstone. Ethan Ford was having the same dream again. The woman in his dream wore a white dress, as usual. She had a long, silky smooth hair. He couldn't see her face, though. She didn't seem to enjoy his ministrationsβshe cried and pleaded with him to let her go, but he couldn't stop himself from sinking deeper. He held her close. In the next second, he opened his eyes and woke up from the dream. Chapter 3 It was this dream again. Ethan had experienced it almost every night for the past five years. No other woman had managed to arouse him since that incidentβonly the woman in his dreams could. He'd had the same dream for 1,826 days, including today. Even if he was already used to it, Ethan was still irritated. He wiped the sweat from his face; even his hair was damp. He got out of bed. His perfect figure was like a model's, but his face was more handsome than any model could ever have. His demeanor was cold, regal, and domineering. Ethan took a moment to compose himself. He strode to the bathroom after pushing the steamy images out of his mind. The butler, Bill Jones, heard this and came into the room. He quickly changed the soiled sheets. He'd just finished when Ethan came out of the bathroom with nothing but a towel around his waist. As soon as he graced the room with his toned figure, the atmosphere turned somewhat sensual. Bill stood there with his head bowed. When he saw Ethan head to the wardrobe, he said, "Ms. Wendy Nielson called to invite you out for dinner, Mr. Ford. Should I make arrangements? It's high time you let loose and have some fun, sir." Wendy was the daughter of a politician and one of the most well-known socialites in the region. She'd invited Ethan out countless times since running into him at a banquet a year ago. Ethan grabbed a black shirt and put it on, his back muscles rolling as he did so. He didn't even turn back as he said, "You're too noisy." Bill knew this meant Ethan was turning down the invitation. He didn't dare say anything else. 40 minutes later, Ethan strode out of the villa. His assistant, James Sawyer, hurriedly opened the door to a luxury car parked outside. Ethan got into the car elegantly. As the car drove past the main gates, Ethan glanced at the rearview mirror to see two bodyguards stop a woman in a cap and tracksuit. She tried to run after the car; her ponytail swung with her actions. Ethan retracted his gaze and said to James, "Tell the bodyguards they're out of jobs if I see any strangers as soon as I leave the house again." Sweat beaded on James' forehead. "Yes, sir." "Have you found anything on that woman from five years ago?" Ethan tugged on his tie, his eyes cold. He didn't even need to look at anyone to make them shudder. James stuttered, "N-Not yet, sir." "I'll give you another month. If you can't find anything, you can get lost, too!" Unbeknownst to Ethan, the woman he was searching for was behind him. Her figure became smaller and smaller in the rearview mirror. "Mr. Ford, don't go!" Melody finally liberated herself from the bodyguards, but she wasn't in time to catch up with the car. She wanted to run after it, but the bodyguards stopped her again. Amidst the tussle, she fell to the floor and landed on her arm. Pain shot through her. She raised her head to look at the car, but it was long gone. Oh no! It had already been a monthβshe'd staked out every place that Ethan could possibly be at, but someone had stopped her every time. She couldn't even get close to him. It had taken all her connections to get Ethan's address; she'd waited outside for him from 3:00 am onward for several days in a row. Still, she'd failed to even get close to him, let alone speak to him. "Mr. Sawyer just called us. If you show up here again tomorrow, you'll have to pay!" one of the bodyguards warned. Melody looked back at them and pleaded, "Can you please just let me see Mr. Ford? I only have a few things to say to himβit'll only take five minutes! It's about something important, I swear. This has to do with someone's life!" Chapter 4 "Every woman who wants to see Mr. Ford says they need him to save lives! He's not interested in you, okay? There's no point throwing yourself at him," one bodyguard snapped. "Get lost! Don't come here anymore!" another said. They looked like they would resort to violence if Melody refused to leave. She had no choice but to get up and trudge down the mountain, looking glum. "It's rare to see such a gorgeous woman. I'm sure she'd be set for life if she were to go after some other rich kid. Too bad she's greedyβdoesn't she realize where she is? Even Phoebe Shaw, that award-winning actress, isn't worthy of shining Mr. Ford's shoes, let alone her!" one bodyguard said. "You're right about her not knowing her place, but I have to say that she's a lot prettier than Phoebe Shaw," the other said. They continued chatting as they headed into the villa. β¦ It was already the afternoon by the time Melody returned to the hospital. She saw Clive Zimmerman's attending physician, Tom Filbert, come out of the hospital room before Clive's. She hurried over to him. "Dr. Filbert, how has Clive been recently?" "Oh, Mrs. Zimmerman. I've already made your husband's condition clear to youβwe need to find a matching donor as soon as possible for the bone marrow transplant. Otherwiseβ¦" Tom shook his head. Melody paled. Tom continued, "The hospital's been searching for a matching donor, but your husband's condition is deteriorating too quickly. He's running out of time. "As his family, you need to work with us. Try to think of any relatives he might have and bring them to the hospital so we can check their bone marrow. Maybe one of them might be a matchβ¦" Melody paled even more. Tom continued talking, but she couldn't really hear him anymore. She asked with difficulty, "How long does he still have if we can't find a donor?" Tom shook his head. "The bone marrow transplant has to be done within a month. Otherwise, he'll only have three to five months at most." Melody clenched her jaw; her expression became resolute. "I've already found a bone marrow that matches Clive's, but the person hasn't agreed to become a donor yet. I'll find a way to persuade him! "Please make the necessary arrangements for the transplant, Dr. Filbert. I'll bring the donor over before the surgery!" "That's great! I'll arrange for the transplant to be done in ten days, then. Remember to bring the donor over as soon as possibleβhe needs to be checked before the surgery." "Alright." Melody nodded. But once Tom was gone, she slumped against the wall weakly. What was she going to do? The surgery was in ten days, but she'd made zero progress. She hadn't even gotten close to Ethan, let alone persuaded him to donate his bone marrow to Clive. Ethan was the wealthiest man in Emperia, after all. A hair on his head was worth more than most other individuals' lives. Even if she did manage to speak to him, how was she going to get him to agree to help Clive? What was she going to do? Melody approached Clive's hospital room. Before she opened the door, she heard her children, Jacob and Jamie Swanson, singing. They were singing an Enolian song that had been dedicated to the singer's father. Melody peeped inside through the window on the door. Jacob and Jamie wore identical uniforms as they stood hand-in-hand before the window. The sunlight shone down on them, and they swayed on the spot while singing. Clive sat up in bed, also basking in the sunlight as he clapped his hands to the beat of the song. The hospital gown he had on looked too big for him because of the weight he'd lost, and he looked rather haggard. It didn't take away from his good looks, though. There was a gentle smile on his face. He didn't look like a patient who was on the brink of death. Instead, he looked like a patron of the artsβone who was enjoying a grand musical. Melody's eyes turned red. She turned away to dry her tears. Chapter 5 Five years ago, Melody had been kicked out of her home without a penny. At the time, she'd already carried Jacob and Jamie. When she'd been backed into a corner, Clive had taken her in. Not only had he helped her quit school, but he'd also taken care of her the whole time. Later, he'd even offered to marry her so that Jacob and Jamie wouldn't end up becoming illegitimate children. He'd helped her too many times to count over the yearsβshe had to repay him. His parents and relatives were all dead, and he now had serious disease. If she were to give up on him, he could only wait for death to take him. He was still so young and outstanding; this wasn't the end he deserved! No matter what, Melody had to convince Ethan to donate his bone marrow to Clive. She didn't care how difficult it would be! β¦ That night, Melody hid in a storage room at Privo Country Club, Tottenstone's most exclusive club. An auction was being held there that night, and it had taken her some time to find out that Ethan would be in attendance. Anyone who could get an invitation to the auction had to be a bigwig in Emperia's business world or an influential politician; Melody was neither, so she didn't have an invitation. Fortunately, she'd heard about the organizers of the auction holding something of a show for young women at the very end of the auction. It was supposed to be a show, but it was more like the young women were auctioning off their first time. Like regular auctions, the highest bidder would get. As long as Melody could blend in with them, she would have the chance to get to Ethan. At the moment, the young women who were being auctioned were standing by in the waiting room opposite the storage room. Melody was waiting for a chance to sneak in when she suddenly heard a muffled conversation outside. "Come with me!" "Listen to me, Ned. I came here willinglyβas long as someone bids on me tonight, we'll have money for your mother's medical bills. It's worth giving up my cherry to save her life!" "I don't need you to sacrifice yourself for me like this, Elaine! I love you! I've managed to get the money, so let's go!" "Really?" "Yeah!" "That's great! Let's go!" The footsteps faded into the distance. Melody came out of the storage room. She picked up the clothes and name tag that read "Elaine Johnson" from the floor and smiled as she looked down the corridor. She wished the couple all the best and also thanked them for this opportunity. An hour later, Melody stood barefoot on the marble floor, wearing only a bikini as she waited for her turn. "Next, let's welcome the beautiful Ms. Elaine Johnson, our eighth participant of the night! She's still a college student, everyone." The host's voice rang out on the other side of the curtain. Suddenly, Melody hesitated. She'd never worn anything so revealing in public before. "Get in there! What are you doing?" When an employee saw her standing there dazedly, he pushed her. She was caught off guard and stumbled onto the stage. The blinding spotlight landed on her; she could sense countless men staring at her. Melody stood there stiffly, so helpless that she was unable to move. Ethan wasn't the slightest bit interested in these things. He'd intended to leave immediately after the auction was over, but Wayne Smith of Ditham Corporation had approached him for a chat. He'd answered him perfunctorily while glancing at the stage. Then, he saw Melody. He narrowed his eyes and sat up, the laziness he'd earlier displayed fading from sight. The lights reflected off Melody's fair skin; they made her look like she was almost glowing. She didn't strut and show her stuff like those women before her. Instead, she stood there with her head bowed so no one could see what she looked like. All they could see was her silky smooth hair. But to Ethan, the sight of her was enough to arouse him. It was like a fire had started burning in him. On stage, Melody remained silent, feeling pierced by the men's gazes. They made her feel like she was standing there in her birthday suit. Chapter 6 Melody knew she couldn't act like this. She was here to look for Ethan; she had to save Clive's life! She couldn't act like this! She clenched her jaw and raised her head, revealing her innocent yet sensual face to the crowd. After a round of gasps, auction paddles flew into the air. "100,000!" "200,000!" "500,000!" "580,000!" β¦ Melody couldn't hear the sound of the bidding anymoreβshe was too anxious to track Ethan down. He was the wealthiest man in Emperia and the CEO of Regalia International, so he frequently made headlines. She'd long since committed his handsome face to memory. But before she could locate him, she felt a strong sense of oppression coming her way. She instinctively looked at the direction from which it had come. Then, she met a man's gaze. His eyes were cold and calm, yet there seemed to be molten lava buried within them. She could sense his kingly demeanor as his eyes threatened to suck her in. Melody lowered her head. He was terrifying. When Ethan saw her drop her head to avoid his gaze, he smirked. Wayne noticed this and stopped talking to glance at the stage. Then, his eyes lit up, and he chuckled. "She's a gorgeous one, isn't she? Are you interested in her, Mr. Ford?" Ethan didn't answer. Instead, he lifted a hand. James hurried forward to await his instruction. "I want her!" Ethan said. Then, he stood up and strode off. Several people had been bidding on Melody, but they stopped when they saw Ethan stand up. They got to their feet simultaneously to see him off. James hurriedly held up the auction paddle in his hand. He didn't even need to call out a priceβno one else would dare bid on Melody. Who would dare to do so now that they knew Ethan was interested in her? They'd be getting themselves a one-way ticket to bankruptcy if they were to try to fight him for her. On stage, the host cried excitedly, "Oh! Mr. Ford's won the auction for our lovely Ms. Johnson! Looks like someone's in luck!" Melody didn't know how she was led off stage. She followed the employees dazedly and asked them incredulously, "Is Mr. Ford really the one who bid on me? Mr. Ethan Ford? The CEO of Regalia International?" The employees could totally understand why she was acting like this. Anyone would be out of their minds with joy if Ethan were to pick them. "Would there be anyone else with that name? Congratulations, miss. Come with me, please. I'll take you to get your clothes changed. We don't want to keep Mr. Ford waiting." "She's so lucky!" "It's not like she has such a great figure. She's not even that pretty!" "Why didn't he pick me? That was Ethan Ford! I would've paid to be with him!" "Yeah, keep dreaming. You wouldn't be worthy of him even if you were to give up everything you own! Didn't you hear about the granddaughter of some country's leader trying and failing to spend a night with Mr. Ford? She offered to pay him a hefty sum, too!" β¦ As Melody followed the employees away, she heard the other women participating in the auction whispering among themselves about her. None of their words registered, though. She was still in disbelief that she'd succeeded just like that. Things had gone so smoothly! How was she going to beg him to agree to donate his bone marrow? Would he be moved if she were to get on her knees before him? Ten minutes later, Melody had changed into a white strappy minidress and a matching pair of 4-inch heels. She was brought to the 28th floor. | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715324400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879726 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410713 | 1723321852 | 995 | 478272224667453 | 1 | 9.8867341249763E+14 | 1715497200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120208322655090240 | beokn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πRead the next chaptersπ | https://beokn.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=11222&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715247646 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441959051_459948103069197_1403971259308613209_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=1TSfEhiF8D4Q7kNvgEsEyd9&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCPNRByqeAZCHU6FMOpZDTMDfP5mY-xNTPdLThPIEzSTA&oe=6672B59C | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441520392_1857443494727194_4363879934185925189_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=QPeoCanp0RMQ7kNvgGSYpS5&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAiCFpH1dTSMHzenkisoYvpFPTfZKxTYULLfGfWMJ5I7Q&oe=6672A42A | 0 | 3 | Melody Swanson had her cell phone's torch turned on to light the path to a white cottage amidst the lavenders. The night breeze was chilly, but all she had on was a white, sleeveless nightgown and lounge slippers. Her expression lifted when she saw she was getting close to the cottage. But the next second, someone reached out from the bushes beside her and gripped her right shoulder tightly. She yelped in shock, dropping her phone onto the ground. The faint light disappeared. The next thing she knew, she was dragged into a hot embrace. "I'll give you a million for one night!" The man's voice rang out behind her. It was deep and smooth. Melody's heart raced at this plot twist. Before she knew it, she'd been flipped onto her front and pinned to the ground amidst the sea of flowers. She widened her eyes and flailed, trying to escape. "No, wait! You've got the wrong person!" "Stop moving, sweetheart. Or are you that desperate for it?" the man rasped. "Let me go!" Melody struggled harder, but the man's tall and toned figure held her in place as he flipped her onto her back. She started feeling scared. She widened her eyes even more, but all she could see were the stars in the sky behind the man's head. There was barely enough light for her to see the man's chiseled featuresβthe desire burning in his eyes was clear as day, though. It was almost as bright as the stars above. Melody tried her best to escape but to no avail. Pain shot through her; the man leaned down to kiss her and swallow her cries. After a long while, he spoke again. His voice was alluring and hoarse. "You're so sweet, darling. I'll give you a million for another round. How about that?" "You're a monster!" Melody's voice was also hoarse from her crying. How could he do something like this to her in such a saintly place? The wind lifted her dress, stained purple by the lavenders they'd crushed underneath them. The scent was oddly intoxicating. They were in Violetville, which was famous for its sea of lavenders. It was so picturesque that many film companies had been attracted to film there. It gradually turned into a filming base. Recently, John Wales, an internationally renowned director, brought a crew of award-winning actors and actresses to Violetville to film a huge production. He'd happened to catch sight of Melody, who was home from college for the holidays. He'd invited her to play the role of an important side character. Melody hadn't expected her sister, Queenie Swanson, to trick her out of the house in the middle of the night upon hearing the news. Queenie had locked the door and refused to open it no matter how she pleaded. Their parents heard everything but did nothing to stop Queenie. The words Queenie had said not too long ago were still reverberating in Melody's mind. "You were capable of catching that director's eye, weren't you? Is it because you've already slept with him? What are you still doing here, then? Go sleep in his hotel room! I won't open the door for you, so get lost!" With no place to go, Melody had no choice but to take shelter in the white cottage amidst the sea of flowers, which was only meant for sightseeing. She hadn't expected to experience something like this, though. Her family's betrayal and the man's advances made her tears flow. They wet the flowers crushed underneath her body. Melody didn't know how long it would take for the man to be sated; it was as if he would never tire. When the sky started turning bright, he finally stopped. He released her hands, which he'd kept pinned in place. Melody immediately grabbed the nearest object and smashed it over the man's head. He'd been saying, "Tell me your name, sweetβ" Melody smashed a rock on his head before he could finish. He didn't manage to dodge itβperhaps he was too relaxed after having had his fill of her. Chapter 2 The man swayed on the spot from the impact. Melody pushed him away; he lay there, looking up at her blearily. She lifted the rock, intending to strike him again. This was self-defense! But the words echoed hollowly in her mindβshe couldn't do itβshe couldn't take his life. Even of a monster, it would stain her forever. Ultimately, she threw the bloodied rock aside and staggered to her feet. She took a step and happened to kick her phone. Melody picked it up and pulled out the cash tucked underneath her phone case. It was the change she'd gotten after doing some grocery shopping. She threw it at the man and snarled, "Listen upβI bought your services for one night, and that's your fee. Keep the change! And don't think it's too little. That's all you're worth!" With that, she turned and stumbled out of the sea of lavenders. The man's vision was already starting to blur. The blood trickled down his forehead and over his eyes. It dyed his vision red as he watched Melody walk away from him. The color of the flowers' stains on her nightgown seemed to mix with the blood in his eyes, giving him the impression that the flowers were blossoming. He was reminded of the night they'd just had together. "Don't goβ¦" he mumbled, reaching for her. But the darkness overtook him. The luxury watch on his wrist gleamed as his hand fell to the ground limply. β¦ Two months later, there was an uproar at the Swanson residence. "You're expecting a baby before marriage! You're a disgrace to the Swanson family! Get out of here!" Horace Swanson shoved Melody away furiously. "This is a small town, and the people here are all good, honest people. How could you pick up all these bad habits from those celebrities whose private lives are so messed up? Leave now! I'll just act like I never gave birth to you!" Susan Lett waved a hand, looking utterly disappointed. "You should leave, Melody. If the neighbors hear about this, how do you expect Mom and Dad to continue living here? I'm not married yet, you know. I don't want you to affect my reputation." Queenie stabbed an apple slice with a toothpick and ate it. She sat on the couch, looking like she was enjoying the show. Melody pointed at her. "Queenie's the one who locked me out of the house that night because she wanted to get the chance to be in that film! That's why I ended up getting assaulted. Why do you guys refuse to believe me?" Horace stood up and stormed over to her, giving her a hard slap. "Shut up, you imbecile! You're the one who did something so shameless, yet you're still trying to push the blame onto your sister! Don't ever step foot in here again!" "I raised your sister myself, so I know how kind and loving she is. How can you say that about her?" Susan pulled Queenie, who looked aggrieved, into her arms. She gave Melody, who'd fallen to the floor from Horace's slap, a reproachful look. "Is it really like Madam Williams said, Mom? Am I not your daughter? Is that why you won't believe me?" Melody didn't want to cry, but the tears refused to stay in her eyes. They streamed down her face. "Youβ¦ Of course you're my daughter! That's why I know what a bad apple you are! How dare you try to blame me when your misbehavior? Leave! Now!" "Fine! I'll go!" Melody staggered to her feet and walked out the door, looking resolute and lonely. β¦ Five years passed in the blink of an eye. Ford Manor was located among a cluster of villas halfway up a mountain in Tottenstone. Ethan Ford was having the same dream again. The woman in his dream wore a white dress, as usual. She had a long, silky smooth hair. He couldn't see her face, though. She didn't seem to enjoy his ministrationsβshe cried and pleaded with him to let her go, but he couldn't stop himself from sinking deeper. He held her close. In the next second, he opened his eyes and woke up from the dream. Chapter 3 It was this dream again. Ethan had experienced it almost every night for the past five years. No other woman had managed to arouse him since that incidentβonly the woman in his dreams could. He'd had the same dream for 1,826 days, including today. Even if he was already used to it, Ethan was still irritated. He wiped the sweat from his face; even his hair was damp. He got out of bed. His perfect figure was like a model's, but his face was more handsome than any model could ever have. His demeanor was cold, regal, and domineering. Ethan took a moment to compose himself. He strode to the bathroom after pushing the steamy images out of his mind. The butler, Bill Jones, heard this and came into the room. He quickly changed the soiled sheets. He'd just finished when Ethan came out of the bathroom with nothing but a towel around his waist. As soon as he graced the room with his toned figure, the atmosphere turned somewhat sensual. Bill stood there with his head bowed. When he saw Ethan head to the wardrobe, he said, "Ms. Wendy Nielson called to invite you out for dinner, Mr. Ford. Should I make arrangements? It's high time you let loose and have some fun, sir." Wendy was the daughter of a politician and one of the most well-known socialites in the region. She'd invited Ethan out countless times since running into him at a banquet a year ago. Ethan grabbed a black shirt and put it on, his back muscles rolling as he did so. He didn't even turn back as he said, "You're too noisy." Bill knew this meant Ethan was turning down the invitation. He didn't dare say anything else. 40 minutes later, Ethan strode out of the villa. His assistant, James Sawyer, hurriedly opened the door to a luxury car parked outside. Ethan got into the car elegantly. As the car drove past the main gates, Ethan glanced at the rearview mirror to see two bodyguards stop a woman in a cap and tracksuit. She tried to run after the car; her ponytail swung with her actions. Ethan retracted his gaze and said to James, "Tell the bodyguards they're out of jobs if I see any strangers as soon as I leave the house again." Sweat beaded on James' forehead. "Yes, sir." "Have you found anything on that woman from five years ago?" Ethan tugged on his tie, his eyes cold. He didn't even need to look at anyone to make them shudder. James stuttered, "N-Not yet, sir." "I'll give you another month. If you can't find anything, you can get lost, too!" Unbeknownst to Ethan, the woman he was searching for was behind him. Her figure became smaller and smaller in the rearview mirror. "Mr. Ford, don't go!" Melody finally liberated herself from the bodyguards, but she wasn't in time to catch up with the car. She wanted to run after it, but the bodyguards stopped her again. Amidst the tussle, she fell to the floor and landed on her arm. Pain shot through her. She raised her head to look at the car, but it was long gone. Oh no! It had already been a monthβshe'd staked out every place that Ethan could possibly be at, but someone had stopped her every time. She couldn't even get close to him. It had taken all her connections to get Ethan's address; she'd waited outside for him from 3:00 am onward for several days in a row. Still, she'd failed to even get close to him, let alone speak to him. "Mr. Sawyer just called us. If you show up here again tomorrow, you'll have to pay!" one of the bodyguards warned. Melody looked back at them and pleaded, "Can you please just let me see Mr. Ford? I only have a few things to say to himβit'll only take five minutes! It's about something important, I swear. This has to do with someone's life!" Chapter 4 "Every woman who wants to see Mr. Ford says they need him to save lives! He's not interested in you, okay? There's no point throwing yourself at him," one bodyguard snapped. "Get lost! Don't come here anymore!" another said. They looked like they would resort to violence if Melody refused to leave. She had no choice but to get up and trudge down the mountain, looking glum. "It's rare to see such a gorgeous woman. I'm sure she'd be set for life if she were to go after some other rich kid. Too bad she's greedyβdoesn't she realize where she is? Even Phoebe Shaw, that award-winning actress, isn't worthy of shining Mr. Ford's shoes, let alone her!" one bodyguard said. "You're right about her not knowing her place, but I have to say that she's a lot prettier than Phoebe Shaw," the other said. They continued chatting as they headed into the villa. β¦ It was already the afternoon by the time Melody returned to the hospital. She saw Clive Zimmerman's attending physician, Tom Filbert, come out of the hospital room before Clive's. She hurried over to him. "Dr. Filbert, how has Clive been recently?" "Oh, Mrs. Zimmerman. I've already made your husband's condition clear to youβwe need to find a matching donor as soon as possible for the bone marrow transplant. Otherwiseβ¦" Tom shook his head. Melody paled. Tom continued, "The hospital's been searching for a matching donor, but your husband's condition is deteriorating too quickly. He's running out of time. "As his family, you need to work with us. Try to think of any relatives he might have and bring them to the hospital so we can check their bone marrow. Maybe one of them might be a matchβ¦" Melody paled even more. Tom continued talking, but she couldn't really hear him anymore. She asked with difficulty, "How long does he still have if we can't find a donor?" Tom shook his head. "The bone marrow transplant has to be done within a month. Otherwise, he'll only have three to five months at most." Melody clenched her jaw; her expression became resolute. "I've already found a bone marrow that matches Clive's, but the person hasn't agreed to become a donor yet. I'll find a way to persuade him! "Please make the necessary arrangements for the transplant, Dr. Filbert. I'll bring the donor over before the surgery!" "That's great! I'll arrange for the transplant to be done in ten days, then. Remember to bring the donor over as soon as possibleβhe needs to be checked before the surgery." "Alright." Melody nodded. But once Tom was gone, she slumped against the wall weakly. What was she going to do? The surgery was in ten days, but she'd made zero progress. She hadn't even gotten close to Ethan, let alone persuaded him to donate his bone marrow to Clive. Ethan was the wealthiest man in Emperia, after all. A hair on his head was worth more than most other individuals' lives. Even if she did manage to speak to him, how was she going to get him to agree to help Clive? What was she going to do? Melody approached Clive's hospital room. Before she opened the door, she heard her children, Jacob and Jamie Swanson, singing. They were singing an Enolian song that had been dedicated to the singer's father. Melody peeped inside through the window on the door. Jacob and Jamie wore identical uniforms as they stood hand-in-hand before the window. The sunlight shone down on them, and they swayed on the spot while singing. Clive sat up in bed, also basking in the sunlight as he clapped his hands to the beat of the song. The hospital gown he had on looked too big for him because of the weight he'd lost, and he looked rather haggard. It didn't take away from his good looks, though. There was a gentle smile on his face. He didn't look like a patient who was on the brink of death. Instead, he looked like a patron of the artsβone who was enjoying a grand musical. Melody's eyes turned red. She turned away to dry her tears. Chapter 5 Five years ago, Melody had been kicked out of her home without a penny. At the time, she'd already carried Jacob and Jamie. When she'd been backed into a corner, Clive had taken her in. Not only had he helped her quit school, but he'd also taken care of her the whole time. Later, he'd even offered to marry her so that Jacob and Jamie wouldn't end up becoming illegitimate children. He'd helped her too many times to count over the yearsβshe had to repay him. His parents and relatives were all dead, and he now had serious disease. If she were to give up on him, he could only wait for death to take him. He was still so young and outstanding; this wasn't the end he deserved! No matter what, Melody had to convince Ethan to donate his bone marrow to Clive. She didn't care how difficult it would be! β¦ That night, Melody hid in a storage room at Privo Country Club, Tottenstone's most exclusive club. An auction was being held there that night, and it had taken her some time to find out that Ethan would be in attendance. Anyone who could get an invitation to the auction had to be a bigwig in Emperia's business world or an influential politician; Melody was neither, so she didn't have an invitation. Fortunately, she'd heard about the organizers of the auction holding something of a show for young women at the very end of the auction. It was supposed to be a show, but it was more like the young women were auctioning off their first time. Like regular auctions, the highest bidder would get. As long as Melody could blend in with them, she would have the chance to get to Ethan. At the moment, the young women who were being auctioned were standing by in the waiting room opposite the storage room. Melody was waiting for a chance to sneak in when she suddenly heard a muffled conversation outside. "Come with me!" "Listen to me, Ned. I came here willinglyβas long as someone bids on me tonight, we'll have money for your mother's medical bills. It's worth giving up my cherry to save her life!" "I don't need you to sacrifice yourself for me like this, Elaine! I love you! I've managed to get the money, so let's go!" "Really?" "Yeah!" "That's great! Let's go!" The footsteps faded into the distance. Melody came out of the storage room. She picked up the clothes and name tag that read "Elaine Johnson" from the floor and smiled as she looked down the corridor. She wished the couple all the best and also thanked them for this opportunity. An hour later, Melody stood barefoot on the marble floor, wearing only a bikini as she waited for her turn. "Next, let's welcome the beautiful Ms. Elaine Johnson, our eighth participant of the night! She's still a college student, everyone." The host's voice rang out on the other side of the curtain. Suddenly, Melody hesitated. She'd never worn anything so revealing in public before. "Get in there! What are you doing?" When an employee saw her standing there dazedly, he pushed her. She was caught off guard and stumbled onto the stage. The blinding spotlight landed on her; she could sense countless men staring at her. Melody stood there stiffly, so helpless that she was unable to move. Ethan wasn't the slightest bit interested in these things. He'd intended to leave immediately after the auction was over, but Wayne Smith of Ditham Corporation had approached him for a chat. He'd answered him perfunctorily while glancing at the stage. Then, he saw Melody. He narrowed his eyes and sat up, the laziness he'd earlier displayed fading from sight. The lights reflected off Melody's fair skin; they made her look like she was almost glowing. She didn't strut and show her stuff like those women before her. Instead, she stood there with her head bowed so no one could see what she looked like. All they could see was her silky smooth hair. But to Ethan, the sight of her was enough to arouse him. It was like a fire had started burning in him. On stage, Melody remained silent, feeling pierced by the men's gazes. They made her feel like she was standing there in her birthday suit. Chapter 6 Melody knew she couldn't act like this. She was here to look for Ethan; she had to save Clive's life! She couldn't act like this! She clenched her jaw and raised her head, revealing her innocent yet sensual face to the crowd. After a round of gasps, auction paddles flew into the air. "100,000!" "200,000!" "500,000!" "580,000!" β¦ Melody couldn't hear the sound of the bidding anymoreβshe was too anxious to track Ethan down. He was the wealthiest man in Emperia and the CEO of Regalia International, so he frequently made headlines. She'd long since committed his handsome face to memory. But before she could locate him, she felt a strong sense of oppression coming her way. She instinctively looked at the direction from which it had come. Then, she met a man's gaze. His eyes were cold and calm, yet there seemed to be molten lava buried within them. She could sense his kingly demeanor as his eyes threatened to suck her in. Melody lowered her head. He was terrifying. When Ethan saw her drop her head to avoid his gaze, he smirked. Wayne noticed this and stopped talking to glance at the stage. Then, his eyes lit up, and he chuckled. "She's a gorgeous one, isn't she? Are you interested in her, Mr. Ford?" Ethan didn't answer. Instead, he lifted a hand. James hurried forward to await his instruction. "I want her!" Ethan said. Then, he stood up and strode off. Several people had been bidding on Melody, but they stopped when they saw Ethan stand up. They got to their feet simultaneously to see him off. James hurriedly held up the auction paddle in his hand. He didn't even need to call out a priceβno one else would dare bid on Melody. Who would dare to do so now that they knew Ethan was interested in her? They'd be getting themselves a one-way ticket to bankruptcy if they were to try to fight him for her. On stage, the host cried excitedly, "Oh! Mr. Ford's won the auction for our lovely Ms. Johnson! Looks like someone's in luck!" Melody didn't know how she was led off stage. She followed the employees dazedly and asked them incredulously, "Is Mr. Ford really the one who bid on me? Mr. Ethan Ford? The CEO of Regalia International?" The employees could totally understand why she was acting like this. Anyone would be out of their minds with joy if Ethan were to pick them. "Would there be anyone else with that name? Congratulations, miss. Come with me, please. I'll take you to get your clothes changed. We don't want to keep Mr. Ford waiting." "She's so lucky!" "It's not like she has such a great figure. She's not even that pretty!" "Why didn't he pick me? That was Ethan Ford! I would've paid to be with him!" "Yeah, keep dreaming. You wouldn't be worthy of him even if you were to give up everything you own! Didn't you hear about the granddaughter of some country's leader trying and failing to spend a night with Mr. Ford? She offered to pay him a hefty sum, too!" β¦ As Melody followed the employees away, she heard the other women participating in the auction whispering among themselves about her. None of their words registered, though. She was still in disbelief that she'd succeeded just like that. Things had gone so smoothly! How was she going to beg him to agree to donate his bone marrow? Would he be moved if she were to get on her knees before him? Ten minutes later, Melody had changed into a white strappy minidress and a matching pair of 4-inch heels. She was brought to the 28th floor. | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715324400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879729 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410714 | 1723321852 | 995 | 949279386902962 | 7 | 1.4895026953017E+15 | 1716188400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120211846693390779 | qweasdzxconline.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πRead the next chaptersπ | https://qweasdzxconline.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11090&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715085862 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438129100_1146045226739178_2601865360875538189_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pgaM6op9EH4Q7kNvgFvStUz&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAnzNXAdVZ3R4dAiEpauXywjYljw4eXW7quZ6rvyHSXBw&oe=6672A490 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440747644_315502774915635_6353252339687881796_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YicSkuGzOiMQ7kNvgEoi2bQ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAN9i2X9Y9MK7cgBix3paDsplYdUdBGGi_LOwLoSJKKaQ&oe=6672CB97 | 0 | 3 | π"Ned Fletcher, with how you're treating Angie right now, aren't you worried that you're going to regret it when you finally regain your memories one day? You loved her so much before and you two got married for love! Despite you forgetting your feelings about her, how could you post so many indecent photos of her on social media?" Ned spoke nonchalantly, saying, "Why are you still holding me hostage with morals and principles? She was the one who framed me by lowly methods. I was just warning her. If Ingrid hadn't asked me to stop, I'd have gone even further! By the way, show your respect to Ingrid. Sheβs not a new girl but my only one forever and never!" Angeline Emmerson heard the talk standing outside the door. She used to be treated ever so lovingly by Ned in the past. Angeline felt her eyes reddening and filling with tears. The Ned she knew had died in the car accident that happened four years ago. The one inside was merely a stranger! Angeline inhaled deeply. Then, she pushed the door open. Ned looked up and saw her entering. "Who brought you here?" Angeline stared at Ned and said, "I've already made a police report regarding your spiked drink at the event and your spreading of my photos for revenge." Hearing this, everyone's reactions differed from one another. Angeline continued, "Ned Fletcher, it's true that I wanted to try rekindling our relationship, but I would never have stooped so low as to do those disgusting things to you. I didn't want to let go of this relationship because I was worried that the Ned I knew would return someday and blame me for giving up on him so easily," Angeline placed the divorce agreement she'd been hugging onto the table. "I tried my best, but I'm tired now. Ned Fletcher, I'm giving up on you. I don't want you anymore." Ned's eyes traveled from the divorce agreement to Angeline's face. There was a hint of surprise in his cold eyes. "Let's finalize the divorce after the police have cleared my name and you have publicly apologized to me." | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716015600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879730 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410714 | 1723321853 | 995 | 949279386902962 | 7 | 1.4895026953017E+15 | 1716188400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120211846693390779 | qweasdzxconline.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πRead the next chaptersπ | https://qweasdzxconline.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11090&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715085862 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438129100_1146045226739178_2601865360875538189_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pgaM6op9EH4Q7kNvgFvStUz&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAnzNXAdVZ3R4dAiEpauXywjYljw4eXW7quZ6rvyHSXBw&oe=6672A490 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440747644_315502774915635_6353252339687881796_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YicSkuGzOiMQ7kNvgEoi2bQ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAN9i2X9Y9MK7cgBix3paDsplYdUdBGGi_LOwLoSJKKaQ&oe=6672CB97 | 0 | 3 | π"Ned Fletcher, with how you're treating Angie right now, aren't you worried that you're going to regret it when you finally regain your memories one day? You loved her so much before and you two got married for love! Despite you forgetting your feelings about her, how could you post so many indecent photos of her on social media?" Ned spoke nonchalantly, saying, "Why are you still holding me hostage with morals and principles? She was the one who framed me by lowly methods. I was just warning her. If Ingrid hadn't asked me to stop, I'd have gone even further! By the way, show your respect to Ingrid. Sheβs not a new girl but my only one forever and never!" Angeline Emmerson heard the talk standing outside the door. She used to be treated ever so lovingly by Ned in the past. Angeline felt her eyes reddening and filling with tears. The Ned she knew had died in the car accident that happened four years ago. The one inside was merely a stranger! Angeline inhaled deeply. Then, she pushed the door open. Ned looked up and saw her entering. "Who brought you here?" Angeline stared at Ned and said, "I've already made a police report regarding your spiked drink at the event and your spreading of my photos for revenge." Hearing this, everyone's reactions differed from one another. Angeline continued, "Ned Fletcher, it's true that I wanted to try rekindling our relationship, but I would never have stooped so low as to do those disgusting things to you. I didn't want to let go of this relationship because I was worried that the Ned I knew would return someday and blame me for giving up on him so easily," Angeline placed the divorce agreement she'd been hugging onto the table. "I tried my best, but I'm tired now. Ned Fletcher, I'm giving up on you. I don't want you anymore." Ned's eyes traveled from the divorce agreement to Angeline's face. There was a hint of surprise in his cold eyes. "Let's finalize the divorce after the police have cleared my name and you have publicly apologized to me." | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716015600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879731 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410714 | 1723321853 | 995 | 949279386902962 | 7 | 1.4895026953017E+15 | 1716188400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120211846693390779 | qweasdzxconline.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πRead the next chaptersπ | https://qweasdzxconline.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11090&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715085862 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438129100_1146045226739178_2601865360875538189_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pgaM6op9EH4Q7kNvgFvStUz&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAnzNXAdVZ3R4dAiEpauXywjYljw4eXW7quZ6rvyHSXBw&oe=6672A490 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440747644_315502774915635_6353252339687881796_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YicSkuGzOiMQ7kNvgEoi2bQ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAN9i2X9Y9MK7cgBix3paDsplYdUdBGGi_LOwLoSJKKaQ&oe=6672CB97 | 0 | 3 | π"Ned Fletcher, with how you're treating Angie right now, aren't you worried that you're going to regret it when you finally regain your memories one day? You loved her so much before and you two got married for love! Despite you forgetting your feelings about her, how could you post so many indecent photos of her on social media?" Ned spoke nonchalantly, saying, "Why are you still holding me hostage with morals and principles? She was the one who framed me by lowly methods. I was just warning her. If Ingrid hadn't asked me to stop, I'd have gone even further! By the way, show your respect to Ingrid. Sheβs not a new girl but my only one forever and never!" Angeline Emmerson heard the talk standing outside the door. She used to be treated ever so lovingly by Ned in the past. Angeline felt her eyes reddening and filling with tears. The Ned she knew had died in the car accident that happened four years ago. The one inside was merely a stranger! Angeline inhaled deeply. Then, she pushed the door open. Ned looked up and saw her entering. "Who brought you here?" Angeline stared at Ned and said, "I've already made a police report regarding your spiked drink at the event and your spreading of my photos for revenge." Hearing this, everyone's reactions differed from one another. Angeline continued, "Ned Fletcher, it's true that I wanted to try rekindling our relationship, but I would never have stooped so low as to do those disgusting things to you. I didn't want to let go of this relationship because I was worried that the Ned I knew would return someday and blame me for giving up on him so easily," Angeline placed the divorce agreement she'd been hugging onto the table. "I tried my best, but I'm tired now. Ned Fletcher, I'm giving up on you. I don't want you anymore." Ned's eyes traveled from the divorce agreement to Angeline's face. There was a hint of surprise in his cold eyes. "Let's finalize the divorce after the police have cleared my name and you have publicly apologized to me." | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716015600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879732 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410714 | 1723321853 | 995 | 949279386902962 | 7 | 1.4895026953017E+15 | 1716188400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120211846693390779 | qweasdzxconline.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πRead the next chaptersπ | https://qweasdzxconline.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11090&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715085862 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438129100_1146045226739178_2601865360875538189_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pgaM6op9EH4Q7kNvgFvStUz&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAnzNXAdVZ3R4dAiEpauXywjYljw4eXW7quZ6rvyHSXBw&oe=6672A490 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440747644_315502774915635_6353252339687881796_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YicSkuGzOiMQ7kNvgEoi2bQ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAN9i2X9Y9MK7cgBix3paDsplYdUdBGGi_LOwLoSJKKaQ&oe=6672CB97 | 0 | 3 | π"Ned Fletcher, with how you're treating Angie right now, aren't you worried that you're going to regret it when you finally regain your memories one day? You loved her so much before and you two got married for love! Despite you forgetting your feelings about her, how could you post so many indecent photos of her on social media?" Ned spoke nonchalantly, saying, "Why are you still holding me hostage with morals and principles? She was the one who framed me by lowly methods. I was just warning her. If Ingrid hadn't asked me to stop, I'd have gone even further! By the way, show your respect to Ingrid. Sheβs not a new girl but my only one forever and never!" Angeline Emmerson heard the talk standing outside the door. She used to be treated ever so lovingly by Ned in the past. Angeline felt her eyes reddening and filling with tears. The Ned she knew had died in the car accident that happened four years ago. The one inside was merely a stranger! Angeline inhaled deeply. Then, she pushed the door open. Ned looked up and saw her entering. "Who brought you here?" Angeline stared at Ned and said, "I've already made a police report regarding your spiked drink at the event and your spreading of my photos for revenge." Hearing this, everyone's reactions differed from one another. Angeline continued, "Ned Fletcher, it's true that I wanted to try rekindling our relationship, but I would never have stooped so low as to do those disgusting things to you. I didn't want to let go of this relationship because I was worried that the Ned I knew would return someday and blame me for giving up on him so easily," Angeline placed the divorce agreement she'd been hugging onto the table. "I tried my best, but I'm tired now. Ned Fletcher, I'm giving up on you. I don't want you anymore." Ned's eyes traveled from the divorce agreement to Angeline's face. There was a hint of surprise in his cold eyes. "Let's finalize the divorce after the police have cleared my name and you have publicly apologized to me." | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716015600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879734 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410715 | 1723321853 | 995 | 949279386902962 | 7 | 1.4895026953017E+15 | 1716188400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120211846693390779 | qweasdzxconline.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πRead the next chaptersπ | https://qweasdzxconline.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11090&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715085862 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438129100_1146045226739178_2601865360875538189_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pgaM6op9EH4Q7kNvgFvStUz&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAnzNXAdVZ3R4dAiEpauXywjYljw4eXW7quZ6rvyHSXBw&oe=6672A490 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440747644_315502774915635_6353252339687881796_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YicSkuGzOiMQ7kNvgEoi2bQ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAN9i2X9Y9MK7cgBix3paDsplYdUdBGGi_LOwLoSJKKaQ&oe=6672CB97 | 0 | 3 | π"Ned Fletcher, with how you're treating Angie right now, aren't you worried that you're going to regret it when you finally regain your memories one day? You loved her so much before and you two got married for love! Despite you forgetting your feelings about her, how could you post so many indecent photos of her on social media?" Ned spoke nonchalantly, saying, "Why are you still holding me hostage with morals and principles? She was the one who framed me by lowly methods. I was just warning her. If Ingrid hadn't asked me to stop, I'd have gone even further! By the way, show your respect to Ingrid. Sheβs not a new girl but my only one forever and never!" Angeline Emmerson heard the talk standing outside the door. She used to be treated ever so lovingly by Ned in the past. Angeline felt her eyes reddening and filling with tears. The Ned she knew had died in the car accident that happened four years ago. The one inside was merely a stranger! Angeline inhaled deeply. Then, she pushed the door open. Ned looked up and saw her entering. "Who brought you here?" Angeline stared at Ned and said, "I've already made a police report regarding your spiked drink at the event and your spreading of my photos for revenge." Hearing this, everyone's reactions differed from one another. Angeline continued, "Ned Fletcher, it's true that I wanted to try rekindling our relationship, but I would never have stooped so low as to do those disgusting things to you. I didn't want to let go of this relationship because I was worried that the Ned I knew would return someday and blame me for giving up on him so easily," Angeline placed the divorce agreement she'd been hugging onto the table. "I tried my best, but I'm tired now. Ned Fletcher, I'm giving up on you. I don't want you anymore." Ned's eyes traveled from the divorce agreement to Angeline's face. There was a hint of surprise in his cold eyes. "Let's finalize the divorce after the police have cleared my name and you have publicly apologized to me." | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716015600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879735 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410715 | 1723321853 | 995 | 949279386902962 | 7 | 1.4895026953017E+15 | 1716188400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120211846693390779 | qweasdzxconline.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πRead the next chaptersπ | https://qweasdzxconline.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11090&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715085862 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438129100_1146045226739178_2601865360875538189_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pgaM6op9EH4Q7kNvgFvStUz&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAnzNXAdVZ3R4dAiEpauXywjYljw4eXW7quZ6rvyHSXBw&oe=6672A490 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440747644_315502774915635_6353252339687881796_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YicSkuGzOiMQ7kNvgEoi2bQ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAN9i2X9Y9MK7cgBix3paDsplYdUdBGGi_LOwLoSJKKaQ&oe=6672CB97 | 0 | 3 | π"Ned Fletcher, with how you're treating Angie right now, aren't you worried that you're going to regret it when you finally regain your memories one day? You loved her so much before and you two got married for love! Despite you forgetting your feelings about her, how could you post so many indecent photos of her on social media?" Ned spoke nonchalantly, saying, "Why are you still holding me hostage with morals and principles? She was the one who framed me by lowly methods. I was just warning her. If Ingrid hadn't asked me to stop, I'd have gone even further! By the way, show your respect to Ingrid. Sheβs not a new girl but my only one forever and never!" Angeline Emmerson heard the talk standing outside the door. She used to be treated ever so lovingly by Ned in the past. Angeline felt her eyes reddening and filling with tears. The Ned she knew had died in the car accident that happened four years ago. The one inside was merely a stranger! Angeline inhaled deeply. Then, she pushed the door open. Ned looked up and saw her entering. "Who brought you here?" Angeline stared at Ned and said, "I've already made a police report regarding your spiked drink at the event and your spreading of my photos for revenge." Hearing this, everyone's reactions differed from one another. Angeline continued, "Ned Fletcher, it's true that I wanted to try rekindling our relationship, but I would never have stooped so low as to do those disgusting things to you. I didn't want to let go of this relationship because I was worried that the Ned I knew would return someday and blame me for giving up on him so easily," Angeline placed the divorce agreement she'd been hugging onto the table. "I tried my best, but I'm tired now. Ned Fletcher, I'm giving up on you. I don't want you anymore." Ned's eyes traveled from the divorce agreement to Angeline's face. There was a hint of surprise in his cold eyes. "Let's finalize the divorce after the police have cleared my name and you have publicly apologized to me." | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716015600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879738 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410716 | 1723321853 | 995 | 949279386902962 | 7 | 1.4895026953017E+15 | 1716188400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120211846693390779 | qweasdzxconline.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πRead the next chaptersπ | https://qweasdzxconline.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11090&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715085862 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438129100_1146045226739178_2601865360875538189_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pgaM6op9EH4Q7kNvgFvStUz&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAnzNXAdVZ3R4dAiEpauXywjYljw4eXW7quZ6rvyHSXBw&oe=6672A490 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440747644_315502774915635_6353252339687881796_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YicSkuGzOiMQ7kNvgEoi2bQ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAN9i2X9Y9MK7cgBix3paDsplYdUdBGGi_LOwLoSJKKaQ&oe=6672CB97 | 0 | 3 | π"Ned Fletcher, with how you're treating Angie right now, aren't you worried that you're going to regret it when you finally regain your memories one day? You loved her so much before and you two got married for love! Despite you forgetting your feelings about her, how could you post so many indecent photos of her on social media?" Ned spoke nonchalantly, saying, "Why are you still holding me hostage with morals and principles? She was the one who framed me by lowly methods. I was just warning her. If Ingrid hadn't asked me to stop, I'd have gone even further! By the way, show your respect to Ingrid. Sheβs not a new girl but my only one forever and never!" Angeline Emmerson heard the talk standing outside the door. She used to be treated ever so lovingly by Ned in the past. Angeline felt her eyes reddening and filling with tears. The Ned she knew had died in the car accident that happened four years ago. The one inside was merely a stranger! Angeline inhaled deeply. Then, she pushed the door open. Ned looked up and saw her entering. "Who brought you here?" Angeline stared at Ned and said, "I've already made a police report regarding your spiked drink at the event and your spreading of my photos for revenge." Hearing this, everyone's reactions differed from one another. Angeline continued, "Ned Fletcher, it's true that I wanted to try rekindling our relationship, but I would never have stooped so low as to do those disgusting things to you. I didn't want to let go of this relationship because I was worried that the Ned I knew would return someday and blame me for giving up on him so easily," Angeline placed the divorce agreement she'd been hugging onto the table. "I tried my best, but I'm tired now. Ned Fletcher, I'm giving up on you. I don't want you anymore." Ned's eyes traveled from the divorce agreement to Angeline's face. There was a hint of surprise in his cold eyes. "Let's finalize the divorce after the police have cleared my name and you have publicly apologized to me." | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716015600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879742 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410716 | 1723321853 | 995 | 1192109398592306 | 1 | 4.0292955941254E+14 | 1718175600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 273913162469522 | 0 | New world publications | 120212168974220747 | beokn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | π₯π₯Click to read the next chapter for freeπ | https://beokn.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=11845&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717848761 | 2.7391316246952E+14 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447489360_1570538763510112_7450994158117535812_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=sG-1DGY2qhoQ7kNvgE3wzaL&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCLpuG9GkwmWkdjtbiBo9PWbZ_jmEtG3YPpqyR8JPBJAQ&oe=6672B0CC | person_profile | 0 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447282104_397151349972868_7799700873941453060_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Fr2zviCh3VsQ7kNvgE67yn1&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBn4Y1l5PBBEfgguAwnIgmVCeZqjCZUcEpioQh8P6e-5g&oe=6672BE82 | 0 | 3 | Lexi could sense the man was staring at her swollen right cheek. It didn't seem like he would take his eyes off her anytime. "I know I'm so pretty that people can't help but gawk at me." Claude's lips curved up. "You look very familiar." Lexi's eyes remained on the climbing numbers on the elevator's digital display. "That's a tacky way to hit on someone." "I've never needed to hit on anyone." Claude flashed a reticent smile. "I'm only stating the truth. There was a laziness and silkiness to his voice. Lexi looked ahead at the elevator's mirrored walls and took in Claude, who stood to her left. She didn't recall ever interacting with him, much less meeting him. To her surprise, Claude suddenly approached her. His intimidating presence overwhelmed her so much that she took a few steps back. "Can I help you?" she questioned with a stiff voice. Lexi held her breath. They were so close to each other that she could smell the faint pine scent from his body. "Do you really not recognize me?" Claude asked. "I don't." Claude straightened his back and peered down at her. When the elevator door opened on the tenth floor, he stepped aside. Doubt gnawed at her heart. She could have sworn she didn't know the man, but why did he seem to know her? β¦ That night, Lexi had a dream. She dreamt of the night from two months ago. The wild night left her all sweaty. Zachary held her waist and tried out several positions with her. It left Lexi limp with barely any energy left. Not to mention, she was so drunk that she was in a daze. When Lexi woke, she massaged her forehead. The dream she had turned out to be a tad frightening. The man she slept with two months ago was Zachary. Yet, for some reason, he got replaced by the man from the elevator in her dream. | New world publications | 9 | https://facebook.com/61557831245498 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717916400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879743 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410716 | 1723321854 | 995 | 1192109398592306 | 1 | 4.0292955941254E+14 | 1718175600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 273913162469522 | 0 | New world publications | 120212168974220747 | beokn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | π₯π₯Click to read the next chapter for freeπ | https://beokn.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=11845&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717848761 | 2.7391316246952E+14 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447489360_1570538763510112_7450994158117535812_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=sG-1DGY2qhoQ7kNvgE3wzaL&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCLpuG9GkwmWkdjtbiBo9PWbZ_jmEtG3YPpqyR8JPBJAQ&oe=6672B0CC | person_profile | 0 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447282104_397151349972868_7799700873941453060_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Fr2zviCh3VsQ7kNvgE67yn1&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBn4Y1l5PBBEfgguAwnIgmVCeZqjCZUcEpioQh8P6e-5g&oe=6672BE82 | 0 | 3 | Lexi could sense the man was staring at her swollen right cheek. It didn't seem like he would take his eyes off her anytime. "I know I'm so pretty that people can't help but gawk at me." Claude's lips curved up. "You look very familiar." Lexi's eyes remained on the climbing numbers on the elevator's digital display. "That's a tacky way to hit on someone." "I've never needed to hit on anyone." Claude flashed a reticent smile. "I'm only stating the truth. There was a laziness and silkiness to his voice. Lexi looked ahead at the elevator's mirrored walls and took in Claude, who stood to her left. She didn't recall ever interacting with him, much less meeting him. To her surprise, Claude suddenly approached her. His intimidating presence overwhelmed her so much that she took a few steps back. "Can I help you?" she questioned with a stiff voice. Lexi held her breath. They were so close to each other that she could smell the faint pine scent from his body. "Do you really not recognize me?" Claude asked. "I don't." Claude straightened his back and peered down at her. When the elevator door opened on the tenth floor, he stepped aside. Doubt gnawed at her heart. She could have sworn she didn't know the man, but why did he seem to know her? β¦ That night, Lexi had a dream. She dreamt of the night from two months ago. The wild night left her all sweaty. Zachary held her waist and tried out several positions with her. It left Lexi limp with barely any energy left. Not to mention, she was so drunk that she was in a daze. When Lexi woke, she massaged her forehead. The dream she had turned out to be a tad frightening. The man she slept with two months ago was Zachary. Yet, for some reason, he got replaced by the man from the elevator in her dream. | New world publications | 9 | https://facebook.com/61557831245498 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717916400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879744 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410716 | 1723321854 | 995 | 1192109398592306 | 1 | 4.0292955941254E+14 | 1718175600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 273913162469522 | 0 | New world publications | 120212168974220747 | beokn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | π₯π₯Click to read the next chapter for freeπ | https://beokn.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=11845&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717848761 | 2.7391316246952E+14 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447489360_1570538763510112_7450994158117535812_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=sG-1DGY2qhoQ7kNvgE3wzaL&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCLpuG9GkwmWkdjtbiBo9PWbZ_jmEtG3YPpqyR8JPBJAQ&oe=6672B0CC | person_profile | 0 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447282104_397151349972868_7799700873941453060_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Fr2zviCh3VsQ7kNvgE67yn1&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBn4Y1l5PBBEfgguAwnIgmVCeZqjCZUcEpioQh8P6e-5g&oe=6672BE82 | 0 | 3 | Lexi could sense the man was staring at her swollen right cheek. It didn't seem like he would take his eyes off her anytime. "I know I'm so pretty that people can't help but gawk at me." Claude's lips curved up. "You look very familiar." Lexi's eyes remained on the climbing numbers on the elevator's digital display. "That's a tacky way to hit on someone." "I've never needed to hit on anyone." Claude flashed a reticent smile. "I'm only stating the truth. There was a laziness and silkiness to his voice. Lexi looked ahead at the elevator's mirrored walls and took in Claude, who stood to her left. She didn't recall ever interacting with him, much less meeting him. To her surprise, Claude suddenly approached her. His intimidating presence overwhelmed her so much that she took a few steps back. "Can I help you?" she questioned with a stiff voice. Lexi held her breath. They were so close to each other that she could smell the faint pine scent from his body. "Do you really not recognize me?" Claude asked. "I don't." Claude straightened his back and peered down at her. When the elevator door opened on the tenth floor, he stepped aside. Doubt gnawed at her heart. She could have sworn she didn't know the man, but why did he seem to know her? β¦ That night, Lexi had a dream. She dreamt of the night from two months ago. The wild night left her all sweaty. Zachary held her waist and tried out several positions with her. It left Lexi limp with barely any energy left. Not to mention, she was so drunk that she was in a daze. When Lexi woke, she massaged her forehead. The dream she had turned out to be a tad frightening. The man she slept with two months ago was Zachary. Yet, for some reason, he got replaced by the man from the elevator in her dream. | New world publications | 9 | https://facebook.com/61557831245498 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717916400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879745 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410716 | 1723321854 | 995 | 1687081411831650 | 7 | 1.0777107900007E+15 | 1714892400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 108401345691237 | 0 | JoyReels | 120207768284090738 | play.google.com | Watch more | NONE | video | πΉThis series is so incredible! I can't stop watching! Next episode is amazing! | https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.joyreels.video | 1714468439 | 1.0840134569124E+14 | JoyReels | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440403555_1634058157338919_9031291769942722988_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=uwwSmJ5jiGwQ7kNvgFT7WE3&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBkNUv7hS4z7wQ5TGHiT4O0yQY9OgF6_-7TiRXHfo5OTQ&oe=6672BB1B | person_profile | 0 | JoyReels | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440466030_2282054168654469_2910559909362688042_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=v7no-ZWZDRoQ7kNvgGSeOqv&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAdMQI1x3q1u8rF-Mow42payiJy29iIK3tX_dExBBIliA&oe=6672A58A | 0 | 3 | ππAfter humiliated by his bride-to-be on the wedding rehearsal but Adam was soon told his true identity as the heir of the richest family in the US. On the journey of returning as a CEO, taking over his familyβs business, our true heir gradually finds out his true love, who has been by his side from the very beginningβ¦ | JoyReels | 2321 | https://facebook.com/JoyReels02 | 0 | WATCH_MORE | 1714806000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879747 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410716 | 1723321854 | 995 | 400334022830841 | 171 | 8.6820382531992E+14 | 1717916400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 108401345691237 | 0 | JoyReels | 120206471638060590 | play.google.com | Watch more | NONE | video | Watch the whole series NOW! | https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.joyreels.video | 1714048904 | 1.0840134569124E+14 | JoyReels | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438725622_3353819338253931_3291281500528851549_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ij-_aej6d0UQ7kNvgGlS09H&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAJBQvPFeUkxlOkH-ijS5PD9LU1L0hH-_YGgRs1hnIObQ&oe=6672A91C | person_profile | 0 | JoyReels | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438741466_1465480227412097_3694157891414847844_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=-3XZn_twHAEQ7kNvgH9TQwb&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCLJARr59zEjbEEzNwt3-0_CH9oAKaief0_O497WcTHnw&oe=6672987A | 0 | 3 | After humiliated by his bride-to-be on the wedding rehearsal but Adam was soon told his true identity as the heir of the richest family in the US. On the journey of returning as a CEO, taking over his familyβs business, our true heir gradually finds out his true love, who has been by his side from the very beginningβ¦ | JoyReels | 2321 | https://facebook.com/JoyReels02 | 0 | WATCH_MORE | 1714201200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879748 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410716 | 1723321854 | 995 | 1647538179348259 | 2 | 9.748784076486E+14 | 1716620400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 250753834794512 | 0 | Read freely | 120211565986950196 | redtgb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | β€οΈπWhat happens nextπClick Here to read onπ | https://redtgb.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=11204&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1714661788 | 2.5075383479451E+14 | Read freely | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441255115_1177880883571742_5075201022874715379_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=lqVPf_9YhC8Q7kNvgE4Fc9J&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYB3a2XBY2D07vo6RW7haoBeWxXXT0Ek9W736f-GS_RPGg&oe=66729CF3 | person_profile | 0 | Read freely | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441055224_676099334622461_3142011906559831658_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=O7GQ8aQRSUAQ7kNvgFiePIh&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDkKJnM5mjBlemqtMjVzrkcIdDh62yC7XlsEmD3F_NPJw&oe=6672AB39 | 0 | 3 | My husband and boss Adam, is laughing at every joke that leaves the lips of his first love while I watch them through the glass doors that separates his office from mine. I had been dutifully preparing some documents that needed his signature and also setting up his meetings for the day like I have done for 7 years as his secretary but since Sophiaβs arrival, I have been unable to get any work done. I feel a pang in my chast every time Adam laughs, almost tearing up at the thought that he has never laughed like that around me. I stare at her slender frame, her lush black hair that bounces back into place even when she throws her head back in laughter and the grace in every of her movements. Sophia is an epitome of feminine grace and every of her features is proof of why Adam has been hung up over her even though they separated years ago. Even though he married me. The dark binds of his office are brought down abruptly, blocking my view of them both and now all I can see is black. It is as if Adam is trying to prevent me from prying even though I am his wife and privacy shouldnβt be a thing between us, especially when it comes to a woman he used to love so much. I still remember how shocked I was when she walked up to me earlier, heels clicking ever so sophisticatedly on the office tiles. I saw the feet cladded in shiny red heels before I raised my head to look at her. βAria, I didnβt know you still worked here! I canβt believe Adam is still making you work even after you both got married. That man is something, isnβt he?β She said, smiling sweetly with blood red lips that would look horrifying on me if I dared to try that shade of lipstick. I couldnβt speak, caught in the shock of staring face to face with her after all these years, especially as she still had the same aura of wealth and confidence that I have always known her to possess. For a split second, she made me feel insecure in my gray office wear and my tight bun hair and the fact that I wore little to no makeup. βSophia!β Adamβs voice was what broke me out of that trance I was stuck in as he stepped out of his office and there, right in front of me, he hugged her ever so tightly like an old time friend before he led her back into his office without sparing me as little as a glance. Now, they are alone together in his office, the blinds of his office pulled shut so that I canβt see them but can only hear their muffled voices and his own laughter every now and then. I squirm in my seat uncomfortably each time they laugh, gripping the edges of my table tightly and too destabilized to get any work done while they are both holed up in there. I stare at the calendar on my table. Todayβs date is marked with a red marker and I sigh deeply. Does he even know today is our third wedding anniversary? Every year, it seems like I am the only one who remembers it and now with Sophiaβs appearance, I can already tell that today will pass by like itβs just another day. I knew she was coming today. Being his secretary is the only reason why I knew the things Adam would rather keep from me. He already briefed me about a new business partner that just returned to the country two months ago and will be at the office at any time. What I didnβt know or should I say, what he purposely kept from me was that the so-called business partner was Sophia Bradley and perhaps the reason why he has been more cold and indifferent than usual, ever since her return. My heart aches at the realization but it aches even more because there is nothing I can do about it. I have never had a place in Adamβs heart but he has been the only one in mine. I loved him from the very moment he saved my life years ago but I can say the same for him. He always reminds me even without speaking, that our marriage is nothing but an attempt at fulfilling his grandfatherβs wishes and I knew if he had gotten his way, he would have never looked at me twice, not to talk of getting married to me. Grandfatherβs love for me is perhaps the only reason I am still sane in this loveless marriage. The old man never ceases to show how much he cherishes me but when has that ever been enough? I am married to Adam and not his family. The clock ticks endlessly, yet Adam remains in there with her. Their laughter dies down all of a sudden and I can barely hear a word they are saying. Unable to hold back anymore, I stand before the restlessness kil ls me. I am his wife and I deserve to know what is going on. To look natural, I quickly make two cups of coffee. After all, I am his secretary and this is a part of my job. Nervous sweat breaks out on my forehead as I make my way to his office with unsure steps. Inhaling sharply, I open the door and step in. My heart clenches at the sight of them both, relaxed in each otherβs company as they sit so close to each other on one of the couches in his office. I swallow hard and try to walk over to the table with the best confidence I could muster. βI made coffee.β I say but they donβt even acknowledge my presence, lost in each other and whatever they were discussing. I study Sophia for a moment, watching as she twirls her cherry blonde hair with a finger while seated with one leg crossed over the other to reveal a prov0cative amount of thi9hs, smiling so brightly that I canβt tell if sheβs faking it. I want to turn around and leave but my feet fail to move. I canβt just leave like this. For how long will I keep quiet and svck it up? βSir,β I call, looking directly at Adam. We are married but he never fails to remind me that I address him as my boss at work. Adam doesnβt even make a move to look at me and anger rises inside of me, slowly boiling. βSir,β I call again and that is when he finally regards me with a cold look that almost deters me but I remain firm under his gaze. βThere is something I need to talk to you about, itβs important.β I lie right through my teeth. I can feel Sophiaβs gaze burning through me but I try not to look at her, for the fear that my confidence would slip away if I do. Adam just waves me off. βIt can wait. As you can see, I have a guest.β βIt canβt wait.β I say, even more firmly but he is already back to smiling and listening to Sophia speak like a lovesick teenage boy. I call him a few more times and unable to hold back any longer, I call him by his name instead. βAdam!β They both look up at me with a mix of expressions. That of Adam is pure anger while Sophia is obviously irritated. I know she has never liked me and back when I was just his secretary and she was his girlfriend, she complained about every single thing I did. βAdam, what is this? Is this how you let your employees disrespect you?β She says it with absolute disgust and disrespect. I am stunned at her words, so stunned that I scoff. Employee? She dares to talk down on me like that even when she knows fully well that I am not just an employee. Adam stands, his tall frame causing his shadow to sweep over me while I grip the tray of coffee tightly in my hands. βAria, out. Now.β He commands and I am filled with so much hurt that my hands shake and my lips quiver. βWhy should I? I have every reason to be in this room and I have every right to speak for you to listen to me.β Sophia stands at once. βIt seems as though your wife has a bone to pick with me and I will not sit here and take such insults.β She begins to walk away and of course, Adam follows her. I try to move out of her way but my attempt fails when her shoulder heavily bumps into mine in a way that is too fierce to be considered unintentional. I lose grip of the tray and stagger forward and just like that, the hot coffee spills all over her very expensive looking dress and mine. She shrieks, backing away from me only to glare at me the next second. βWhat the hel is wrong with you?β She yells. Adam rushes to her side in less than a minute, fussing over her stained dress and even offering her his handkerchief while I stand there, drenched in coffee as my husband takes care of another woman. I feel the tears prickling at the corner of my eyes but what does crying in front of this woman make me? βI canβt believe you! What did I ever do to you? Go ahead and dislike me all you want but there is a limit to how far you can go and you just crossed that.β She says again, seething in uncontained anger. Adam turns to me, eyes dark with rage. It makes me shiver. Makes me feel unimaginable pain to know he is mad at me because of another woman. βApologise right now!β He commands and I scoff. How can he stand there and take her side when I did nothing wrong? βWhy should I do that? I have done nothing wrong. She bumped into me!β I defend myself, my voice breaking. Lips quivering. βI did no such thing!β Sophia says defensively but her eyes tell a different story. βYou heard me, Aria. Apologize to her right now.β Adam says again, still intently looking at me. I almost laugh at the fact that the only time he is looking me directly in the eyes after three years of marriage is when another woman is involved. I shake my head, finding all of this hard to believe. βSo you believe her over me? You take her words for it but mine does not matter? I am your wife.β βA wife I never wanted to marry!β He yells back and shatters what is left of my broken heart. Chapter 2 I am speechless for the next few seconds as his words hit me like a freight train. I wait. I wait for his hard eyes to soften with remorse at the harsh words he threw at me but that doesnβt happen. He is glowering at me, nose flaring angrily. βAdam, howβ¦how could you say that to me?β I say, my eyes crossing over to Sophia who is now hiding her own frame behind his tall, muscular one, βIn front of her?β βBecause itβs the truth!β He yells again, startling me into making a small helpless sound. Adam has never yelled at me. And even though it hurts me to admit that he is truly saying the truth, he has never said it to my face and I never really thought he would. I have always known it yet it hurts to hear it come from him. It feels like a thousand needles are pricking my heart and making me bleed out with so much pain. He runs his fingers through his hair, seeming frustrated. Like he would rather not have this conversation with me. And just when I think it is over, he continues to speak, breaking me even further. βYou were nothing but a mere secretary who wormed her way into my life. If you hadnβt forced yourself on me that night, none of this would have happened! This marriage would have never happened and you know it.β He brings up the past. Our past. The night that meant everything to me but clearly means nothing to him. I swallow over and over again till my throat and mouth become dry. I canβt cry. No, I canβt appear weak. Not in front of Adam and definitely not in front of Sophia so I keep my tears at bay, urging them to return before they spill down my cheeks. βI never forced myself on you, Adam. Why wonβt you believe me?β I manage to say but he raises a hand to tell me to stop talking and I clamp my lips shut. βDo not stand there and try to look innocent, Aria because that is far from who you are. I simply said the truth and I do not care if you cannot take it.β He says and stares at me intently. βDo not let what happened today repeat itself again. Know your place and I will not have any reason to talk to you like this. Do you understand?β He lays emphasis on every word of warning he is giving me and turns his back against me before I can even open my mouth to speak again. βAre you okay?β I canβt believe how his voice goes from hard to soft in the next second as he fusses over Sophia. Sophia makes a face that has me balling my fingers into a fist. A face that clearly says she is not okay. βThe coffee was hot and I think I might have to visit the hospital to prevent the burn from leaving a scar.β She says in a quiet voice. I look down at my own body that is also drenched in the same coffee. The coffee wasnβt hot enough to cause a burn but Adam believes her instantly. He pulls her into a hug and embarrassment washes over me like a bucket of ice. βIβll drive. Wait here, I will get my keys.β he says as he pulls away, rushing to his office table to grab his car keys before coming back to her side. He takes her purse from her and leads her out. They both seem so lost in each other that they forget my existence totally, leaving me to stand alone in the middle of the room. Silence falls over me and I am left with my thoughts, licking the wound that his words caused. I have never been able to convince Adam that I didnβt force myself on him yet till this very day, he still believes I drugged him into sleeping with him on the night we were having dinner with his family three years ago. I can never forget the pure look of disgust and shock on his face when we both woke up in each otherβs arms the next morning. I knew since then that Adam would never love me, yet I was hopeful. As the years go by, the hope keeps dwindling with his grandfather, being the only support system in everything. Sighing, I return to my office and pick up my phone. My eyes widens when I see that a number has called my phone repeatedly all the time I was in Adamβs office. The dread that fills me stems from the fact that I recognise the number as the hospitalβs number. I call back instantly, my heart racing. They pick up on the second ring. βMrs Miller, we have been trying to reach you all afternoon!β A female voice says. βWhy? Is something wrong? Is my grandmother okay?β I ask, rushing my words as I am filled with dread and panic. βYou need to be at the hospital, your grandmotherββ I donβt wait to hear the rest of her words. I race out of the room and call on a taxi to drive me to the hospital. I go straight to her hospital room but the sheets and blankets are already being neatly arranged and the bed is empty. More panic. More dread. βWhere is my grandmother?β I ask, βWhere is she?β The nurse cleaning the room gives me a look of pity that nauseates me. βI am sorry, Mrs Miller but your grandmother died ten minutes ago and has been moved to the hospitalβs mortuary. I am sorry.β She says. The world around me stops and I donβt know how I am able to walk on my two feet to the mortuary where the Nurse leads me. She stops at the door and points to my grandmother laying on a table in the room, her body covered in a white sheet from head to toe. I walk to the bedside with shaky legs and the moment I take the sheet off and set my eyes on her pale face, I burst out into a loud sob, wishing I could go back to a month ago so I can prevent that accident that made her this way. The accident that took my only living family away from me. βGrandmaβ¦β I call in a broken voice as I reach for her hand. They are too cold, so lifeless and the tears begin to leave my eyes in torrents as I remember how warm these hands used to be when they held my face. βIβm sorryβ¦Iβm so sorry.β I cry, holding tightly unto her and hating myself for not being there in her last moments. I should have been there with her but I was too busy worrying about my place in my husbandβs life. The nurse comes into the room and says, βShe asked us to give you this.β I wipe my tears, sniffling as I take what seems to be a key chain from her. I couldnβt think of a reason why grandmotherβs parting gift to me would be a key chain but I canβt seem to care. Her cold hands slammed me into the reality of what had happened. Grandmother is dead. I fall to my knees by the bed and weep, muttering and calling for her to return to me. βAria.β Adamβs voice calls from behind me. I am both surprised and relieved to find him there. He must have been contacted by the hospital as well and stopped by since he already came here with Sophia anyway. Sophia is standing in the room with us but I ignore her. I focus on Adam because I need him. I need someone to hold me and tell me everything will be fine. βAdam.β I cry as I walk over to him and hug him without a second thought, my tears gathering and falling again. His body stiffens at my touch but I donβt let go. I need his warmth. I need him because he is really all that I have left and I canβt bear to lose him too. I expect him to push me away but he doesnβt. He doesnβt hug me back too but I canβt find it in me to care as I sob uncontrollably. My tears subside and I sniffle repeatedly and slowly let go of him. He clears his throat and takes out his phone, saying; βIβll place a call to start making preparations for her funeral.β He turns around to leave with Sophia also following him but I canβt bear the sight of him turning his back to me and leaving. I grab his hand. βStay.β I sound so weak and helpless but I do not give a damm, βPlease, donβt go. Stay with me.β I beg. Adam opens his mouth to say something but a sharp cry stuns us both. We spin around at the same time to the source of the cry and she is crouching, holding her stomach with an expression of pain. Adam rushes to Sophiaβs side in a heartbeat and my heart sinks further down my stomach. βSophia, are you okay?β He asks with concern ringing high in his voice. She shakes her head, βThere is something Iβve been wanting to tell you but didnβt know how.β She says, holding her stomach as she looks directly at me. βWhat is it?β Adam asks, still very much concerned. βAdamβ¦Iβ¦I am pre9nant.β Chapter 3 Grandmotherβs funeral is being held on a gloomy day, much to my displeasure. I listened to the weather forecast so I could choose the perfect day for the funeral, and according to the forecast, the day is supposed to be sunny and bright just like Grandmother. I feel duped standing by grandmotherβs grave with the sky covered in clouds that only worsen the dark and depressing feeling that has settled in my guts since her death. I have cried so much that I have no tears left to shed at grandmotherβs grave and now have to wear dark sunglasses to hide how red and puffy my eyes are rather than to complement my black dress. There are a few people hanging around the other graves in the cemetery to pay their last respects to their loved ones and at each grave, there are at least two people; couples holding each other, families comforting each other and even church processions. I am alone, with no one to comfort me since no one else bothered to attend my grandmother's funeral. With her gone, I realize how lonely I actually am and the thought deals another blow to my already damaged heart. I try hard to get the heartbreaking events of the past few days off my mind and when I finally succeed, I turn my focus back to my grandmother. Sheβs smiling in the framed picture placed by her tombstone and I force a smile as well as a fond memory of her slips into my mind. βAria, my child, you canβt frown like that everytime or youβll get wrinkles like me before you are even my age!β She would say and then go ahead to spread my lips into a smile with her fingers. Grandmother was a cheerful soul who would tell me stories, mostly the ones about my birth and how she knew from the very first day that she set her eyes on me that I was going to be a really beautiful and amazing child. I shared everything with her and talking to her about my marriage was one of the things that made it bearable. I donβt know what Iβd do without Grandmother. Tears start to gather in my eyes again and I take off the sunglasses to wipe them off before they start to fall. I already promised myself not to cry anymore; Grandmother wouldnβt want that. Sniffling, I begin to place the things I brought with me by her grave; Tulips, which were her favorite flowers; Peaches, her favorite fruit and finally some sweets because grandmother had a really sweet tooth and never listened to me whenever I told her they were bad for her age. βThere are no sweets in heaven, Aria. Itβs only right that I take as much as I can down here before the big guy calls me up there.β She would say at the same she unwraps another candy and tosses it into her mouth. She would talk on and on about βThe big guyβ and βUp thereβ like she was always prepared for the day she would die. I canβt help it anymore, I burst into tears, falling on my knees by her grave as it dawns on me fully that she is really gone. βI should have let you have all the candies in the world. I should have been there with you at your dying moment. I should have held your hands and told you itβs gonna be okay. Iββ My voice breaks, the deep regret and tears choking me and making me lose my train of thoughts. I canβt think of a thing to say anymore and so I just cry, sobbing so hard my body shakes. I hear confident footsteps approaching me and feel a presence behind me that causes my sobs to come to a pause. My heart races and hope swells inside of me when the person puts a hand on my shoulder. I whip my head around, expecting to see Adam but my hope quickly shatters when I see that it is Adam uncle, Regis. βRegis.β I say, sniffing and wiping my tears in a rush. βHere,β He hands me his handkerchief, stuffing it in my hand and closing my palm around it before I can even refuse. I say a barely audible thank you before I dab at the tears with the hanky that smelt like him. βI came as soon as I heard, Iβm sorry about your Grandmother, Aria.β He says in a sincere and kind voice. Regis has always been kind to me even when I was just a secretary. Whenever he came to visit his nephew at the office, he would stop to say hi and hand me a canned coffee with a smile on his face. However, he left the country to study a few days before our wedding and only returned not too long ago. This is the first time seeing him since his return and the kind look in his eyes assures me that if he had been around, I would have had another person rooting for me just like Adamβs grandfather. βYou didnβt have to.β I say quietly, trying to downplay how much it actually means to me that at least, one person cares enough to be here with me. Regis looks around as if searching for something and then he frowns when our eyes meet again. βYouβre alone? Where the hel is Adam?β He asks, his voice a little hard. My cheeks redden in embarrassment. Regis has only just returned and probably doesnβt know anything yet. I am not willing to talk either. I force a smile and begin to pack the excess things I bought for my grandmother's funeral. Regis joins me wordlessly and I sigh in silent appreciation of how he doesnβt ask anymore questions. He takes everything from my hands even before I can protest. βDid you drive here?β He asks and I shake my head. I came here in a Taxi. βCβmon, weβll take my car.β He says and walks in front of me. I have no choice but to follow him. We have just gotten outside of the cemetery when a car drives into the parking space right beside Regisβ car. The car is familiar and I keep doubting who it belongs to until Adam steps out of the car, eyes trained on me as he walks over. The first thing I notice is his Royal Blue suit and I feel the slow brewing of anger inside of me. How could he show up wearing that? It is like a blatant disrespect of my Grandmother and I canβt stand to watch her get disrespected even in her death. It is clear that he came from the office; little surprise there and it would have been better if he didnβt come at all as I now realize how looking at him only infuriates me. He had managed to avoid me in the past three days since the hospital incident. Three days since Sophia announced that she was pre9nant and shook my world. I didnβt need anyone to tell me who the baby belonged to as he walks towards me now, I feel nothing but resentment for him. βIs it over? Crap, I must have lost track of time.β He says before turning to his uncle and giving him a tight smile of appreciation that I find nauseating. βThank you for being here with her, uncle.β Regis merely crosses his arms, staring back at his nephew, βCare to explain why you are only just coming?β Regis thows the question at him and I face Adam too, crossing my arms. βYes, Adam. Tell me what was more important than being at my grandmotherβs funeral.β I already know the answer but I still wait to hear him say it so I can have a reason to hate him even more. βI really wanted to be here, Aria but you knowβ¦β He trails off, running a hand through his hair, βI had to be with Sophia.β The sound of her name is what does it for me; the same woman who is the reason I wasnβt around to witness grandmotherβs dying moments. βDid you really come all the way here to tell me you were with another woman you slept with and impregnated?β βWhat?β Regis is the one who speaks, his voice echoing his shock as he looks from me to Adam. Adamβs usual blank look remains as if he is unaffected by my words and the pain he has caused me. βLetβs not do this here, Aria. You know I canβt just leave her.β I scoff. βI never stopped you. You know what? You should have never come here. You should have stayed with her since that is where your loyalties lie now and I am no longer in the picture.β Adam frowns, moving closer and intimidating me just a little with his height and muscular frame, βWhat does that mean? You are my wife.β βEx-wife,β I say the words without even thinking. I didnβt think any of this through but I donβt care because my entire being seems to agree that this is whatβs best for me, βI want a divorce, Adam.β His eyes grow wide, unable to contain the shock at my words and I am proud of myself that I finally got a reaction that isnβt anger or coldness from him. βBoth the divorce papers and my resignation will find their way to you soon.β I add before he can get over his shock and I donβt wait for him to reply as I turn to an equally stunned Regis. βTake me home, Regis.β Chapter 4 Adamβs POV I want a divorce. The words circle around my head non-stop. Of all the shets I have had the pleasure of hearingβand trust me, I hear a lot of crap as a CEOβAria asking for a divorce out of nowhere has to be the worst. I am a man who takes pride in my strength and ability to handle situations no matter how unexpected they are. It comes with the job, yet for some reason, I am unable to utter a single word or move my feet until she gets into the car with my uncle. When I finally come to my senses, she is long gone, leaving me to drown in the pool of shock she created. I am shocked at her audacity; the way she looked me in the eyes as she hit me with those words. Ariaβs cold hazel eyes totally betrayed the meek and timid trait that I have only ever known her for. I am equally shocked at myself for actually being affected by it when I shouldn't have batted an eyelash, after all, I never wanted to marry her. The three years of living with Aria felt like I was in bonda9e created by her own deceit and my grandfatherβs overbearing attitude. I never cared about Aria yet the sound of divorce numbed me completely that I am unable to think straight until the door to my car opens and reminds me that I am still standing still in front of the cemetery. My personal assistant steps out of the car and speaks. βSir, your appointment with the Taylor Enterprises is thirty minutes from now. Itβs more than an hourβs drive from here, we should leave now ifββ βCancel it,β I say, heading back to the car, not quite in the right mind to process anything, not even a meeting whose outcome was worth millions of dollars. My assistant follows behind me in a hurry, obviously confused. βBut sir, that isnβt the only appointment for the day. You also haveβ¦β He starts to read out my packed schedule for the day as I finally get into the car. βCancel them all!β I say, settling into the leather seats of the car and loosening my tie at the same time as it feels like I am slowly losing the ability to breathe, βGet in and turn the dann AC on.β I command him, unable to prevent my anger and irritation from reflecting in my voice. Finally noticing the negative emotions rolling out of me in waves, he mutters his response before getting into the driverβs seat and pulling the car out of the cemeteryβs parking lot. We get to the highway, air is emitting from not only the AC in the car yet I feel heat rising from inside of me and not even loosening a few buttons on my shirt helped. All I can think about is Aria and the dammed divorce. My shock is long gone and I am now stewing in nothing but anger, bordering on rage. Who the hel does she think she is? What gives her the boldness to think she makes the call for divorce? If anyone should be asking for a divorce, It should be me. I am the one who married her against my will. Sheβs the one who found me so irresistible that she went as far as dru9ging me just to have me. If anyone deserves to slam divorce papers in her face, it is me but the thought never crossed my mind. Sheβs a good secretary, dutiful, efficient and always at my beck and call. She also doubles as a good wife, never getting in my way or needy for attention. Aria takes whatever I give her; the little time, the irregular sax and the little communication, all that I deemed appropriate for our kind of relationship. The sudden switch has me racking my brain, thinking of different possibilities and all the things that could have gone wrong. A thought crosses my mind and it intensifies my anger in a way that I canβt even understand. βFind out if Aria has been meeting anyone lately. Men in particular.β I say. My assistant meets my eyes through the rearview mirror. His eyes fail to hide his surprise that I am asking him to look into my wife and the possibility that sheβs been seeing other men. I canβt rule out all the possibilities and if Aria has really been cheating on me, I swear to Godβ My phone vibrates beside me on the leather seats. Sophiaβs name pops up on the screen in a message notification. Sheβs asking me when next I would be available for an appointment at the doctorβs office. Seeing Sophiaβs message douses my anger but leaves me with a far more disturbing emotion. I thought of all the reasons why my quiet wife is suddenly asking for a divorce but it never crossed my mind that impregnating the woman I once loved could be the reason. I think back to that day two months ago when yet again, I let drinking lead me into making the worst decisions. All I had to do was pick Sophia up at the airport, drive her to her hotel and return home. Instead, I took the invite to have a drink in her hotel room; for old timeβs sake, she called it. We did more than just have a drink that night and the outcome is the baby growing inside of Sophia. I canβt call it a mistake yet deep down, I know it should have never happened. I should have never let myself get tempted by the thought of how being inside of Sophia will feel after three years. I want the child. Itβs my baby and I donβt plan on losing it but it comes at a price that I never thought would be a problem which is the divorce with Aria. I canβt let Aria divorce me. I need her. At the office and in my home. Sheβs been my secretary for seven years and no one can do her job like her. I also pay her well and make sure she doesnβt need anything as my wife. How does she plan to survive without me anyway? Does she think that by asking for divorce, she has put herself on a higher level than me? What game is she playing with me now? Ha! Women thinking that they can live without a man and his support. As I think deeply about these things, I also think of a way to remedy them. I just need to do something to appeal to her. βWhat do women like?β I asked my assistant. He hesitates at first, surprised by the sudden question before he clears his throat and answers, βErm, designer bags I guess and oh, flowers.β I am already scrolling through an online store on my phone, clicking away at every expensive bag that catches my eyes until I have already ordered a number to last her an entire year. Then we make a stop at the flower shop on the way home. Turns out there are more than a hundred thousand flowers and I canβt even decide which one to get for Aria because apparently, women have favorites when it comes to things as trivial as flowers as well. In the end, I pick Lilies because the attendant at the flowershop claims itβs most womenβs favorite. I head home after that with only one single thought at the back of my mind; I wonβt let Aria divorce me. Chapter 5 Iβm thankful that Regis doesnβt ask any questions as he drives me back home. He offers to drive me into the compound but I turn him down and wait till he drives off before I sigh and walk into the house. The house is brimming with maids who rush over to me the instant they hear the door open but I raise a hand to stop them all from coming close to me. I am no longer the mistress of the house. I walk past them all to get to my room. Adam and I only share a room when he is looking to satisfy his saxual urges. He crawls into my bed and peppers kisses all over my body till I give in and that is the only time I ever feel wanted by him. As I walk into the room, I refrain from staring at the bed for longer than I should, afraid that the memories of us tangled up in sheets with him buried deep inside of me will break my resolve. And right now, I have only one resolveβto leave Adam for good. I begin to pack while that resolve is still strong, not even stopping for one moment to think about the fact that I have nowhere to go. I canβt bear to stay one more day under the same roof with Adam, knowing how deeply his betrayal cut. I only pack a few things that are important, assuring myself that I will come back for the rest of my things later when the divorce is finalized. I am only halfway through packing when I hear the sound of a familiar voice that never fails to send chills down my spine and even right this moment, I can already feel the chilling crawl of dread and it makes me stop packing immediately. Adamβs mother, Elodie and his sister Eva are here. I exhale sharply, trying to keep my breathing under control and to also keep the terrible memories of them from flushing into the forefront of my mind. A few more deep exhales and I finally get a hold of myself, resuming packing my things. Once I finish packing, I haul the heavy suitcase out of the room and walk into the living room where Elodie and Eva are seated on one of the couches, legs crossed over one another like they owned the place. Elodie has her signature scowl on her face that doesnβt fade even when I bow to greet her. βWhy are you here?β Elodie asks, standing. I am confused by her question and my inability to give an answer makes her scoff, her face contorting into the ugliest form annoyance can take. βI almost forgot how dumb you are.β Elodie says again. Dumb. Her favorite word to throw at me the way she pleases and of course, it doesnβt hurt less today. In fact, it is even more painful now that I realize that besides having to live with Adamβs indifference, I have also had to deal with his motherβs hatred and utter disrespect for me and all along, my response has either been silence or an apology that she never deserved. βWhy are you here instead of the office, huh?β She sneers and continues, βMy son works tirelessly day and night just to make money for someone like you to leech off him, all he asks of you is to do your job as his secretary and yet you canβt even do that one thing? Do you think you are entitled to his money just because you are his wife?β Her words are like hard blows to the chast, every single word that strung her sentences together hitting nerves and breaking right through them. I feel something rising inside of me. It has always been there but I have always managed to control it. To top it all, Eva, Adamβs snobbish sister had to chip in, βSheβs a trickster who duped my poor innocent brother and I wonder why isnβt she at the office! Such a lazy bumm! I donβt even know how Grandpa accepted such a penniless betch to be part of our elite family!β βI had to be at my grandmotherβs funeral.β I respond simply, hoping the scowl on her face will disappear but it gets even more profound and she adds a scoff for good measure. Did Elodie and Eva not know that my grandmother died? βIs she dead for real? Or is it just an act?!β Eva has the guts to ask me and I glare at her. Elodie continues, βOf course, thatβs your excuse for being a lazy gold digger. Tell me, did that grandmother of yours teach you to go after other peopleβs money instead of working for your own?β That very thing that has been rising inside me since I saw Adamβs mother reaches its peak. Itβs anger. It is red, pure and fiery and controls my whole being that I can not even bring myself to care about anything other than keeping my grandmotherβs name from being soiled. βDo not talk about my grandmother like that!β I yell and she jumps slightly, startled by my outburst. βDid you just yell at me?β she says, taking a step forward but I donβt flinch as I stare back into her eyes. Eva approaches me and she lashes out, βDid you just shout at my mother?!!!β Eva has always tried to demean me and every possible way at every chance presented to her. She grabs my arm, presses it harshly, making me wince in pain. Elodie smiles and as usually, she is greatly entertained. I push Eva with the other hand and she tumbles on the sofa. She remains shocked for I have always allowed them to bully me and this time, I retaliate. βDid you forget your place? You are nothing but aββ βGold digger who married your son for his money, yes, I get it!β I snap at her, having had enough of the name calling every damm time, βBut you donβt have to worry about that anymore because I already filed for a divorce. I am leaving your son so you can go ahead and swallow all of his money for all I care.β I turn around to leave, huffing as I drag the heavy suitcase with me but then Elodie clamps her hand down on the suitcase to stop me. She looks at the suitcase in amusement. βYou are really leaving!β Elodie canβt even hide the joy in her tone. βYes, so please just stop and let me go.β She shakes her head, βNot so fast! You canβt just leave.β And then she signals to two of the maids who have been standing, watching the whole exchange. βSearch her!β She orders when they come forward. They hesitate and she glares at them. βDid you not hear her? She is no longer the mistress of the house. Search her right now.β I am too stunned to react when the maids finally snatch my suitcase from me. Eva tries to hold me preventing me from snatching back my bag from the maids. βWhat do you think youβre doing?β I say, my voice shaky. βI canβt just let you leave. Who knows what valuables you have stolen from my son inside that germ ridden bag of yours.β My mouth opens and closes several times at her words as I canβt even come up with a single string of sentences to say to her. I just watch as my things come tumbling to the ground in the rough search. Tears of humiliation burned at the back of my eyes. I donβt struggle any more from Evaβs grip and she stares at me triumphantly. βWhat is that? Hand it over.β Adamβs mother says when one of the maids found a gold bracelet I had lodged into my case. Grandmotherβs bracelet, the only thing I have left of her. βNo!β I rush forward to stop her from handing it over but I am too late. Adamβs mother is already holding and inspecting the bracelet. βOh, wow! Mom, you finally found something she stole from Adam!β Eva exclaimed enthusiastically. Upon saying those words, she drags me and throws me onto the marble. I hit my nose. As I touch it, blood is coming out. I wipe it quickly and spring up to my feet. βI knew it! You took something. Did my son buy this for you? What gives you the right to think you can walk away with something he got for you after filing for a divorce?β Elodie snaps. βThat doesnβt belong to your son! It is mine and I will appreciate it if you give it back.β She does the exact opposite and only continues to accuse me of being a thief until the door opens and Adam walks in. I donβt feel relief at his presence like I usually do when his mother treats me this way, instead, I feel nothing but resentment for him. I want to scream how much I hate him to his face. His face twists into confusion when he sees the situation. βWhat is going on here?β He asks, walking further into the house and looking from his mother to me. βThank goodness you arrived, son. This leech was about to leave with something that clearly doesnβt belong to her.β His mother responds. βAnd she hit me!!!β Eva adds, almost in tears, complaining to Adam. This time, Adam is too shocked to ask me why I hit his dear sister. I thought,as he did in the past, he would force me to apologize, but this time, he did nothing. I wonder why. My eyes are starting to water for some reason and I am confused as to why Adamβs appearance suddenly triggered them yet I smile through the tears. βAdam, will you please tell your mother that I have never gotten a gift from you?β Adam falters, seemingly speechless for a second as he stares at his hands. I also look down at his hands and I finally understand why my eyes sting with tears and why I am sniffling in preparation of a sneeze that rocks my entire body. Lilies. I am all ergic to them. Despite the tears rolling down my cheeks, I start to laugh. I laugh so hard, ignoring the burning gazes of everyone present in the room who probably think I have gone crazy. I sneeze in between laughs, yet I donβt stop laughing as I turn to Adamβs mother. βI have been married to your son for three years and he doesnβt even know I am all ergic to lilies, yet you think he is capable of getting me a bracelet?β I shake my head at my sad reality. Chapter 6 Adam hands the flowers over to one of the maids, asking her to put it in a vase or whatever. He clears his throat, trying and failing miserably to hide his embarrassment in front of his mother, his sister and the maids. βThe flowers werenβt for you.β He says, voice hard as he stares at me for a brief second. I barely even feel anything when he says that because I genuinely donβt care anymore, I just want to get the hel out of this house and never return. I donβt even care about the rest of my things which I am yet to pack, I just want to turn my back on this horrible life already. I hear Eva sniggers. Adam seems like he wants to say something to me but then he decides against it and turns to his mother instead. βMum, please return the bracelet to her.β She snorts and shakes her head stubbornly, βI am not letting her leave with it.β Adam grunts, a sign that he is slowly losing his patience, β I have never seen that bracelet mother, it belongs to Aria. Please, give it back.β Adamβs mother doesnβt immediately move to do as she is told but the moment she does, it is with an annoyed huff as she tosses the bracelet at me. I catch it in my palms while she heads back to sit in the same position as earlier when I first walked into the living room. I fall to my knees by the mess the maids made out of my clothes and then I begin to arrange them again, rushing through the process so I can get out of here fast to stop the repeated sting of humiliation. Adam standing there and just watching me clean up his motherβs mess without as much as an apology from either of them only adds to the rising level of humiliation. Once done, I stand and face Adam squarely, taking in the same clothes he wore to the cemetery earlier and getting reminded of all the reasons why I am making the best decision of my life. βAs I said before, it is over between us. The divorce papers and my resignation letter will find their way to you soon.β I say, ignoring the way his face twisted, βGoodbye, Adam.β I turn around before I can even hear his response. I donβt want to look at Adam, not anymore. I walk away from him, going straight for the door and turning its knob for what I hope is the very last time. I have barely taken a step outside the door when Adamβs strong hand grabs my upper arm and twists me around to look at him. I have worked with him for seven years, four of which I was just his secretary and that was enough for me to know the kind of man Adam Miller is. He is usually composed with a blank expression that shows how in control he is. Right now, Adam is neither composed nor in control. He seems like he has lost grip of it and the meaning of those words donβt even matter to him anymore as he holds my arm in a tight grip. I struggle to break free of his hold. βLet me go.β I snap at him but Adam only narrows his eyes at me, his anger burning past his blue eyes. βYou canβt just leave, Aria.β He growls. βYou canβt tell me what to do, Adam. At least not anymore. Let me go!β βDoes this even make any sense to you!β He yells in my face as he lets go of my hand to run his hand through his hair, β You canβt just spring this kind of shet on me.β βItβs not springing if we have both had it coming from the very moment we shared our vows which you have already broken. We both know this marriage should have never happened so cut the crap and let me leave.β I say, practically fuming before turning around in another attempt to leave. βWhat about grandfather? You are taking such a big step without talking to the old man who set it all up anyway. The man who has been nothing but good to you.β I turn back to face Adam, hating his attempt at making me feel guilty. My thoughts go to his grandfather momentarily and I try to imagine the old manβs reaction to me filing for a divorce when he cares about me so much. However, I donβt waver. I refuse to let those thoughts come between me and my freedom. I refuse to put the wish of another over my own happiness. βI will talk to grandfather. Believe me, you have nothing to worry about.β I say and make another attempt to leave but of course, Adam doesnβt give up as he speaks again. βI wonβt sign it Aria, I wonβt sign the goddamm papers!β βWhat the hel is wrong with you?β I yell out my frustration, βWhy wonβt you just let me go?β He stares me down, eyes burning stubbornly, βI wonβt sign the papers and I wonβt accept your resignation either. The company has rules you have to follow and you canβt just decide to resign without prior notice especially when there is a lot of work at the office which I pay you to do!β I scoff, unable to believe his nerve. Unable to get over his selfish thinking and absolute lack of remorse for the things he has done. βYou have Sophia, donβt you?β I shoot at him and his brows furrow. βWhat does that even mean?β βEveryone adores Sophia. She is smart, beautiful and can get your work done for you and oh, donβt forget the fact that she is also pre9nant with your child! How perfect is that?β Adamβs mother springs up, surprise evident in her features. Clearly, she is just learning about her coming grandson. βAdam, is what she says true? You have a child on the way?β Eva asked excitedly. Adamβs expression donβt give anything away and he doesnβt even spare his mother or sister a glance. He is still looking straight at me. βAria, what happened between Sophia and I wasnβt intentional, it justββ βDonβt you dare make excuses for her! Who cares what she thinks? Sophia is who you have always deserved. The only woman who actually deserves to be my daughter-in-law.β Adamβs mother cut in while making sure to give me a nasty look that doesnβt even surprise me anymore. I shrug at Adam, a way to show him that I was right. Everyone wants Sophia, including him and he canβt even bring himself to deny it. He continues to ignore his mother. βAria, it was an accident.β He says again and I nod, like I am agreeing to his words. βThree years ago, you didnβt think the same way. You didnβt think you accidentally slept with me but instead believed I had gone as far as dru9ging you to sleep with you. What changed, Adam? Because all I see right now is a bloody hypocrite and a coward who would rather blame others for his mistakes.β When I turn my back to him this time, I donβt stop walking. I donβt turn around. βAria! Aria, get back here while I am still being nice. Aria, I swear to God if you walk out that door, I wonβt take you back even if you go on your knees. You need me, Aria. You canβt survive without me!β Adam yells after me but I donβt stop walking as his arrogant words only fueled my desire to get away from him as fast as I can. I block out the rest of his words as I open the door and welcome my peace and freedom. I am never going back to that sad reality. | Read freely | 18 | https://facebook.com/61557986570531 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716534000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879749 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410717 | 1723321855 | 995 | 1647538179348259 | 2 | 9.748784076486E+14 | 1716620400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 250753834794512 | 0 | Read freely | 120211565986950196 | redtgb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | β€οΈπWhat happens nextπClick Here to read onπ | https://redtgb.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=11204&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1714661788 | 2.5075383479451E+14 | Read freely | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441255115_1177880883571742_5075201022874715379_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=lqVPf_9YhC8Q7kNvgE4Fc9J&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYB3a2XBY2D07vo6RW7haoBeWxXXT0Ek9W736f-GS_RPGg&oe=66729CF3 | person_profile | 0 | Read freely | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441055224_676099334622461_3142011906559831658_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=O7GQ8aQRSUAQ7kNvgFiePIh&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDkKJnM5mjBlemqtMjVzrkcIdDh62yC7XlsEmD3F_NPJw&oe=6672AB39 | 0 | 3 | My husband and boss Adam, is laughing at every joke that leaves the lips of his first love while I watch them through the glass doors that separates his office from mine. I had been dutifully preparing some documents that needed his signature and also setting up his meetings for the day like I have done for 7 years as his secretary but since Sophiaβs arrival, I have been unable to get any work done. I feel a pang in my chast every time Adam laughs, almost tearing up at the thought that he has never laughed like that around me. I stare at her slender frame, her lush black hair that bounces back into place even when she throws her head back in laughter and the grace in every of her movements. Sophia is an epitome of feminine grace and every of her features is proof of why Adam has been hung up over her even though they separated years ago. Even though he married me. The dark binds of his office are brought down abruptly, blocking my view of them both and now all I can see is black. It is as if Adam is trying to prevent me from prying even though I am his wife and privacy shouldnβt be a thing between us, especially when it comes to a woman he used to love so much. I still remember how shocked I was when she walked up to me earlier, heels clicking ever so sophisticatedly on the office tiles. I saw the feet cladded in shiny red heels before I raised my head to look at her. βAria, I didnβt know you still worked here! I canβt believe Adam is still making you work even after you both got married. That man is something, isnβt he?β She said, smiling sweetly with blood red lips that would look horrifying on me if I dared to try that shade of lipstick. I couldnβt speak, caught in the shock of staring face to face with her after all these years, especially as she still had the same aura of wealth and confidence that I have always known her to possess. For a split second, she made me feel insecure in my gray office wear and my tight bun hair and the fact that I wore little to no makeup. βSophia!β Adamβs voice was what broke me out of that trance I was stuck in as he stepped out of his office and there, right in front of me, he hugged her ever so tightly like an old time friend before he led her back into his office without sparing me as little as a glance. Now, they are alone together in his office, the blinds of his office pulled shut so that I canβt see them but can only hear their muffled voices and his own laughter every now and then. I squirm in my seat uncomfortably each time they laugh, gripping the edges of my table tightly and too destabilized to get any work done while they are both holed up in there. I stare at the calendar on my table. Todayβs date is marked with a red marker and I sigh deeply. Does he even know today is our third wedding anniversary? Every year, it seems like I am the only one who remembers it and now with Sophiaβs appearance, I can already tell that today will pass by like itβs just another day. I knew she was coming today. Being his secretary is the only reason why I knew the things Adam would rather keep from me. He already briefed me about a new business partner that just returned to the country two months ago and will be at the office at any time. What I didnβt know or should I say, what he purposely kept from me was that the so-called business partner was Sophia Bradley and perhaps the reason why he has been more cold and indifferent than usual, ever since her return. My heart aches at the realization but it aches even more because there is nothing I can do about it. I have never had a place in Adamβs heart but he has been the only one in mine. I loved him from the very moment he saved my life years ago but I can say the same for him. He always reminds me even without speaking, that our marriage is nothing but an attempt at fulfilling his grandfatherβs wishes and I knew if he had gotten his way, he would have never looked at me twice, not to talk of getting married to me. Grandfatherβs love for me is perhaps the only reason I am still sane in this loveless marriage. The old man never ceases to show how much he cherishes me but when has that ever been enough? I am married to Adam and not his family. The clock ticks endlessly, yet Adam remains in there with her. Their laughter dies down all of a sudden and I can barely hear a word they are saying. Unable to hold back anymore, I stand before the restlessness kil ls me. I am his wife and I deserve to know what is going on. To look natural, I quickly make two cups of coffee. After all, I am his secretary and this is a part of my job. Nervous sweat breaks out on my forehead as I make my way to his office with unsure steps. Inhaling sharply, I open the door and step in. My heart clenches at the sight of them both, relaxed in each otherβs company as they sit so close to each other on one of the couches in his office. I swallow hard and try to walk over to the table with the best confidence I could muster. βI made coffee.β I say but they donβt even acknowledge my presence, lost in each other and whatever they were discussing. I study Sophia for a moment, watching as she twirls her cherry blonde hair with a finger while seated with one leg crossed over the other to reveal a prov0cative amount of thi9hs, smiling so brightly that I canβt tell if sheβs faking it. I want to turn around and leave but my feet fail to move. I canβt just leave like this. For how long will I keep quiet and svck it up? βSir,β I call, looking directly at Adam. We are married but he never fails to remind me that I address him as my boss at work. Adam doesnβt even make a move to look at me and anger rises inside of me, slowly boiling. βSir,β I call again and that is when he finally regards me with a cold look that almost deters me but I remain firm under his gaze. βThere is something I need to talk to you about, itβs important.β I lie right through my teeth. I can feel Sophiaβs gaze burning through me but I try not to look at her, for the fear that my confidence would slip away if I do. Adam just waves me off. βIt can wait. As you can see, I have a guest.β βIt canβt wait.β I say, even more firmly but he is already back to smiling and listening to Sophia speak like a lovesick teenage boy. I call him a few more times and unable to hold back any longer, I call him by his name instead. βAdam!β They both look up at me with a mix of expressions. That of Adam is pure anger while Sophia is obviously irritated. I know she has never liked me and back when I was just his secretary and she was his girlfriend, she complained about every single thing I did. βAdam, what is this? Is this how you let your employees disrespect you?β She says it with absolute disgust and disrespect. I am stunned at her words, so stunned that I scoff. Employee? She dares to talk down on me like that even when she knows fully well that I am not just an employee. Adam stands, his tall frame causing his shadow to sweep over me while I grip the tray of coffee tightly in my hands. βAria, out. Now.β He commands and I am filled with so much hurt that my hands shake and my lips quiver. βWhy should I? I have every reason to be in this room and I have every right to speak for you to listen to me.β Sophia stands at once. βIt seems as though your wife has a bone to pick with me and I will not sit here and take such insults.β She begins to walk away and of course, Adam follows her. I try to move out of her way but my attempt fails when her shoulder heavily bumps into mine in a way that is too fierce to be considered unintentional. I lose grip of the tray and stagger forward and just like that, the hot coffee spills all over her very expensive looking dress and mine. She shrieks, backing away from me only to glare at me the next second. βWhat the hel is wrong with you?β She yells. Adam rushes to her side in less than a minute, fussing over her stained dress and even offering her his handkerchief while I stand there, drenched in coffee as my husband takes care of another woman. I feel the tears prickling at the corner of my eyes but what does crying in front of this woman make me? βI canβt believe you! What did I ever do to you? Go ahead and dislike me all you want but there is a limit to how far you can go and you just crossed that.β She says again, seething in uncontained anger. Adam turns to me, eyes dark with rage. It makes me shiver. Makes me feel unimaginable pain to know he is mad at me because of another woman. βApologise right now!β He commands and I scoff. How can he stand there and take her side when I did nothing wrong? βWhy should I do that? I have done nothing wrong. She bumped into me!β I defend myself, my voice breaking. Lips quivering. βI did no such thing!β Sophia says defensively but her eyes tell a different story. βYou heard me, Aria. Apologize to her right now.β Adam says again, still intently looking at me. I almost laugh at the fact that the only time he is looking me directly in the eyes after three years of marriage is when another woman is involved. I shake my head, finding all of this hard to believe. βSo you believe her over me? You take her words for it but mine does not matter? I am your wife.β βA wife I never wanted to marry!β He yells back and shatters what is left of my broken heart. Chapter 2 I am speechless for the next few seconds as his words hit me like a freight train. I wait. I wait for his hard eyes to soften with remorse at the harsh words he threw at me but that doesnβt happen. He is glowering at me, nose flaring angrily. βAdam, howβ¦how could you say that to me?β I say, my eyes crossing over to Sophia who is now hiding her own frame behind his tall, muscular one, βIn front of her?β βBecause itβs the truth!β He yells again, startling me into making a small helpless sound. Adam has never yelled at me. And even though it hurts me to admit that he is truly saying the truth, he has never said it to my face and I never really thought he would. I have always known it yet it hurts to hear it come from him. It feels like a thousand needles are pricking my heart and making me bleed out with so much pain. He runs his fingers through his hair, seeming frustrated. Like he would rather not have this conversation with me. And just when I think it is over, he continues to speak, breaking me even further. βYou were nothing but a mere secretary who wormed her way into my life. If you hadnβt forced yourself on me that night, none of this would have happened! This marriage would have never happened and you know it.β He brings up the past. Our past. The night that meant everything to me but clearly means nothing to him. I swallow over and over again till my throat and mouth become dry. I canβt cry. No, I canβt appear weak. Not in front of Adam and definitely not in front of Sophia so I keep my tears at bay, urging them to return before they spill down my cheeks. βI never forced myself on you, Adam. Why wonβt you believe me?β I manage to say but he raises a hand to tell me to stop talking and I clamp my lips shut. βDo not stand there and try to look innocent, Aria because that is far from who you are. I simply said the truth and I do not care if you cannot take it.β He says and stares at me intently. βDo not let what happened today repeat itself again. Know your place and I will not have any reason to talk to you like this. Do you understand?β He lays emphasis on every word of warning he is giving me and turns his back against me before I can even open my mouth to speak again. βAre you okay?β I canβt believe how his voice goes from hard to soft in the next second as he fusses over Sophia. Sophia makes a face that has me balling my fingers into a fist. A face that clearly says she is not okay. βThe coffee was hot and I think I might have to visit the hospital to prevent the burn from leaving a scar.β She says in a quiet voice. I look down at my own body that is also drenched in the same coffee. The coffee wasnβt hot enough to cause a burn but Adam believes her instantly. He pulls her into a hug and embarrassment washes over me like a bucket of ice. βIβll drive. Wait here, I will get my keys.β he says as he pulls away, rushing to his office table to grab his car keys before coming back to her side. He takes her purse from her and leads her out. They both seem so lost in each other that they forget my existence totally, leaving me to stand alone in the middle of the room. Silence falls over me and I am left with my thoughts, licking the wound that his words caused. I have never been able to convince Adam that I didnβt force myself on him yet till this very day, he still believes I drugged him into sleeping with him on the night we were having dinner with his family three years ago. I can never forget the pure look of disgust and shock on his face when we both woke up in each otherβs arms the next morning. I knew since then that Adam would never love me, yet I was hopeful. As the years go by, the hope keeps dwindling with his grandfather, being the only support system in everything. Sighing, I return to my office and pick up my phone. My eyes widens when I see that a number has called my phone repeatedly all the time I was in Adamβs office. The dread that fills me stems from the fact that I recognise the number as the hospitalβs number. I call back instantly, my heart racing. They pick up on the second ring. βMrs Miller, we have been trying to reach you all afternoon!β A female voice says. βWhy? Is something wrong? Is my grandmother okay?β I ask, rushing my words as I am filled with dread and panic. βYou need to be at the hospital, your grandmotherββ I donβt wait to hear the rest of her words. I race out of the room and call on a taxi to drive me to the hospital. I go straight to her hospital room but the sheets and blankets are already being neatly arranged and the bed is empty. More panic. More dread. βWhere is my grandmother?β I ask, βWhere is she?β The nurse cleaning the room gives me a look of pity that nauseates me. βI am sorry, Mrs Miller but your grandmother died ten minutes ago and has been moved to the hospitalβs mortuary. I am sorry.β She says. The world around me stops and I donβt know how I am able to walk on my two feet to the mortuary where the Nurse leads me. She stops at the door and points to my grandmother laying on a table in the room, her body covered in a white sheet from head to toe. I walk to the bedside with shaky legs and the moment I take the sheet off and set my eyes on her pale face, I burst out into a loud sob, wishing I could go back to a month ago so I can prevent that accident that made her this way. The accident that took my only living family away from me. βGrandmaβ¦β I call in a broken voice as I reach for her hand. They are too cold, so lifeless and the tears begin to leave my eyes in torrents as I remember how warm these hands used to be when they held my face. βIβm sorryβ¦Iβm so sorry.β I cry, holding tightly unto her and hating myself for not being there in her last moments. I should have been there with her but I was too busy worrying about my place in my husbandβs life. The nurse comes into the room and says, βShe asked us to give you this.β I wipe my tears, sniffling as I take what seems to be a key chain from her. I couldnβt think of a reason why grandmotherβs parting gift to me would be a key chain but I canβt seem to care. Her cold hands slammed me into the reality of what had happened. Grandmother is dead. I fall to my knees by the bed and weep, muttering and calling for her to return to me. βAria.β Adamβs voice calls from behind me. I am both surprised and relieved to find him there. He must have been contacted by the hospital as well and stopped by since he already came here with Sophia anyway. Sophia is standing in the room with us but I ignore her. I focus on Adam because I need him. I need someone to hold me and tell me everything will be fine. βAdam.β I cry as I walk over to him and hug him without a second thought, my tears gathering and falling again. His body stiffens at my touch but I donβt let go. I need his warmth. I need him because he is really all that I have left and I canβt bear to lose him too. I expect him to push me away but he doesnβt. He doesnβt hug me back too but I canβt find it in me to care as I sob uncontrollably. My tears subside and I sniffle repeatedly and slowly let go of him. He clears his throat and takes out his phone, saying; βIβll place a call to start making preparations for her funeral.β He turns around to leave with Sophia also following him but I canβt bear the sight of him turning his back to me and leaving. I grab his hand. βStay.β I sound so weak and helpless but I do not give a damm, βPlease, donβt go. Stay with me.β I beg. Adam opens his mouth to say something but a sharp cry stuns us both. We spin around at the same time to the source of the cry and she is crouching, holding her stomach with an expression of pain. Adam rushes to Sophiaβs side in a heartbeat and my heart sinks further down my stomach. βSophia, are you okay?β He asks with concern ringing high in his voice. She shakes her head, βThere is something Iβve been wanting to tell you but didnβt know how.β She says, holding her stomach as she looks directly at me. βWhat is it?β Adam asks, still very much concerned. βAdamβ¦Iβ¦I am pre9nant.β Chapter 3 Grandmotherβs funeral is being held on a gloomy day, much to my displeasure. I listened to the weather forecast so I could choose the perfect day for the funeral, and according to the forecast, the day is supposed to be sunny and bright just like Grandmother. I feel duped standing by grandmotherβs grave with the sky covered in clouds that only worsen the dark and depressing feeling that has settled in my guts since her death. I have cried so much that I have no tears left to shed at grandmotherβs grave and now have to wear dark sunglasses to hide how red and puffy my eyes are rather than to complement my black dress. There are a few people hanging around the other graves in the cemetery to pay their last respects to their loved ones and at each grave, there are at least two people; couples holding each other, families comforting each other and even church processions. I am alone, with no one to comfort me since no one else bothered to attend my grandmother's funeral. With her gone, I realize how lonely I actually am and the thought deals another blow to my already damaged heart. I try hard to get the heartbreaking events of the past few days off my mind and when I finally succeed, I turn my focus back to my grandmother. Sheβs smiling in the framed picture placed by her tombstone and I force a smile as well as a fond memory of her slips into my mind. βAria, my child, you canβt frown like that everytime or youβll get wrinkles like me before you are even my age!β She would say and then go ahead to spread my lips into a smile with her fingers. Grandmother was a cheerful soul who would tell me stories, mostly the ones about my birth and how she knew from the very first day that she set her eyes on me that I was going to be a really beautiful and amazing child. I shared everything with her and talking to her about my marriage was one of the things that made it bearable. I donβt know what Iβd do without Grandmother. Tears start to gather in my eyes again and I take off the sunglasses to wipe them off before they start to fall. I already promised myself not to cry anymore; Grandmother wouldnβt want that. Sniffling, I begin to place the things I brought with me by her grave; Tulips, which were her favorite flowers; Peaches, her favorite fruit and finally some sweets because grandmother had a really sweet tooth and never listened to me whenever I told her they were bad for her age. βThere are no sweets in heaven, Aria. Itβs only right that I take as much as I can down here before the big guy calls me up there.β She would say at the same she unwraps another candy and tosses it into her mouth. She would talk on and on about βThe big guyβ and βUp thereβ like she was always prepared for the day she would die. I canβt help it anymore, I burst into tears, falling on my knees by her grave as it dawns on me fully that she is really gone. βI should have let you have all the candies in the world. I should have been there with you at your dying moment. I should have held your hands and told you itβs gonna be okay. Iββ My voice breaks, the deep regret and tears choking me and making me lose my train of thoughts. I canβt think of a thing to say anymore and so I just cry, sobbing so hard my body shakes. I hear confident footsteps approaching me and feel a presence behind me that causes my sobs to come to a pause. My heart races and hope swells inside of me when the person puts a hand on my shoulder. I whip my head around, expecting to see Adam but my hope quickly shatters when I see that it is Adam uncle, Regis. βRegis.β I say, sniffing and wiping my tears in a rush. βHere,β He hands me his handkerchief, stuffing it in my hand and closing my palm around it before I can even refuse. I say a barely audible thank you before I dab at the tears with the hanky that smelt like him. βI came as soon as I heard, Iβm sorry about your Grandmother, Aria.β He says in a sincere and kind voice. Regis has always been kind to me even when I was just a secretary. Whenever he came to visit his nephew at the office, he would stop to say hi and hand me a canned coffee with a smile on his face. However, he left the country to study a few days before our wedding and only returned not too long ago. This is the first time seeing him since his return and the kind look in his eyes assures me that if he had been around, I would have had another person rooting for me just like Adamβs grandfather. βYou didnβt have to.β I say quietly, trying to downplay how much it actually means to me that at least, one person cares enough to be here with me. Regis looks around as if searching for something and then he frowns when our eyes meet again. βYouβre alone? Where the hel is Adam?β He asks, his voice a little hard. My cheeks redden in embarrassment. Regis has only just returned and probably doesnβt know anything yet. I am not willing to talk either. I force a smile and begin to pack the excess things I bought for my grandmother's funeral. Regis joins me wordlessly and I sigh in silent appreciation of how he doesnβt ask anymore questions. He takes everything from my hands even before I can protest. βDid you drive here?β He asks and I shake my head. I came here in a Taxi. βCβmon, weβll take my car.β He says and walks in front of me. I have no choice but to follow him. We have just gotten outside of the cemetery when a car drives into the parking space right beside Regisβ car. The car is familiar and I keep doubting who it belongs to until Adam steps out of the car, eyes trained on me as he walks over. The first thing I notice is his Royal Blue suit and I feel the slow brewing of anger inside of me. How could he show up wearing that? It is like a blatant disrespect of my Grandmother and I canβt stand to watch her get disrespected even in her death. It is clear that he came from the office; little surprise there and it would have been better if he didnβt come at all as I now realize how looking at him only infuriates me. He had managed to avoid me in the past three days since the hospital incident. Three days since Sophia announced that she was pre9nant and shook my world. I didnβt need anyone to tell me who the baby belonged to as he walks towards me now, I feel nothing but resentment for him. βIs it over? Crap, I must have lost track of time.β He says before turning to his uncle and giving him a tight smile of appreciation that I find nauseating. βThank you for being here with her, uncle.β Regis merely crosses his arms, staring back at his nephew, βCare to explain why you are only just coming?β Regis thows the question at him and I face Adam too, crossing my arms. βYes, Adam. Tell me what was more important than being at my grandmotherβs funeral.β I already know the answer but I still wait to hear him say it so I can have a reason to hate him even more. βI really wanted to be here, Aria but you knowβ¦β He trails off, running a hand through his hair, βI had to be with Sophia.β The sound of her name is what does it for me; the same woman who is the reason I wasnβt around to witness grandmotherβs dying moments. βDid you really come all the way here to tell me you were with another woman you slept with and impregnated?β βWhat?β Regis is the one who speaks, his voice echoing his shock as he looks from me to Adam. Adamβs usual blank look remains as if he is unaffected by my words and the pain he has caused me. βLetβs not do this here, Aria. You know I canβt just leave her.β I scoff. βI never stopped you. You know what? You should have never come here. You should have stayed with her since that is where your loyalties lie now and I am no longer in the picture.β Adam frowns, moving closer and intimidating me just a little with his height and muscular frame, βWhat does that mean? You are my wife.β βEx-wife,β I say the words without even thinking. I didnβt think any of this through but I donβt care because my entire being seems to agree that this is whatβs best for me, βI want a divorce, Adam.β His eyes grow wide, unable to contain the shock at my words and I am proud of myself that I finally got a reaction that isnβt anger or coldness from him. βBoth the divorce papers and my resignation will find their way to you soon.β I add before he can get over his shock and I donβt wait for him to reply as I turn to an equally stunned Regis. βTake me home, Regis.β Chapter 4 Adamβs POV I want a divorce. The words circle around my head non-stop. Of all the shets I have had the pleasure of hearingβand trust me, I hear a lot of crap as a CEOβAria asking for a divorce out of nowhere has to be the worst. I am a man who takes pride in my strength and ability to handle situations no matter how unexpected they are. It comes with the job, yet for some reason, I am unable to utter a single word or move my feet until she gets into the car with my uncle. When I finally come to my senses, she is long gone, leaving me to drown in the pool of shock she created. I am shocked at her audacity; the way she looked me in the eyes as she hit me with those words. Ariaβs cold hazel eyes totally betrayed the meek and timid trait that I have only ever known her for. I am equally shocked at myself for actually being affected by it when I shouldn't have batted an eyelash, after all, I never wanted to marry her. The three years of living with Aria felt like I was in bonda9e created by her own deceit and my grandfatherβs overbearing attitude. I never cared about Aria yet the sound of divorce numbed me completely that I am unable to think straight until the door to my car opens and reminds me that I am still standing still in front of the cemetery. My personal assistant steps out of the car and speaks. βSir, your appointment with the Taylor Enterprises is thirty minutes from now. Itβs more than an hourβs drive from here, we should leave now ifββ βCancel it,β I say, heading back to the car, not quite in the right mind to process anything, not even a meeting whose outcome was worth millions of dollars. My assistant follows behind me in a hurry, obviously confused. βBut sir, that isnβt the only appointment for the day. You also haveβ¦β He starts to read out my packed schedule for the day as I finally get into the car. βCancel them all!β I say, settling into the leather seats of the car and loosening my tie at the same time as it feels like I am slowly losing the ability to breathe, βGet in and turn the dann AC on.β I command him, unable to prevent my anger and irritation from reflecting in my voice. Finally noticing the negative emotions rolling out of me in waves, he mutters his response before getting into the driverβs seat and pulling the car out of the cemeteryβs parking lot. We get to the highway, air is emitting from not only the AC in the car yet I feel heat rising from inside of me and not even loosening a few buttons on my shirt helped. All I can think about is Aria and the dammed divorce. My shock is long gone and I am now stewing in nothing but anger, bordering on rage. Who the hel does she think she is? What gives her the boldness to think she makes the call for divorce? If anyone should be asking for a divorce, It should be me. I am the one who married her against my will. Sheβs the one who found me so irresistible that she went as far as dru9ging me just to have me. If anyone deserves to slam divorce papers in her face, it is me but the thought never crossed my mind. Sheβs a good secretary, dutiful, efficient and always at my beck and call. She also doubles as a good wife, never getting in my way or needy for attention. Aria takes whatever I give her; the little time, the irregular sax and the little communication, all that I deemed appropriate for our kind of relationship. The sudden switch has me racking my brain, thinking of different possibilities and all the things that could have gone wrong. A thought crosses my mind and it intensifies my anger in a way that I canβt even understand. βFind out if Aria has been meeting anyone lately. Men in particular.β I say. My assistant meets my eyes through the rearview mirror. His eyes fail to hide his surprise that I am asking him to look into my wife and the possibility that sheβs been seeing other men. I canβt rule out all the possibilities and if Aria has really been cheating on me, I swear to Godβ My phone vibrates beside me on the leather seats. Sophiaβs name pops up on the screen in a message notification. Sheβs asking me when next I would be available for an appointment at the doctorβs office. Seeing Sophiaβs message douses my anger but leaves me with a far more disturbing emotion. I thought of all the reasons why my quiet wife is suddenly asking for a divorce but it never crossed my mind that impregnating the woman I once loved could be the reason. I think back to that day two months ago when yet again, I let drinking lead me into making the worst decisions. All I had to do was pick Sophia up at the airport, drive her to her hotel and return home. Instead, I took the invite to have a drink in her hotel room; for old timeβs sake, she called it. We did more than just have a drink that night and the outcome is the baby growing inside of Sophia. I canβt call it a mistake yet deep down, I know it should have never happened. I should have never let myself get tempted by the thought of how being inside of Sophia will feel after three years. I want the child. Itβs my baby and I donβt plan on losing it but it comes at a price that I never thought would be a problem which is the divorce with Aria. I canβt let Aria divorce me. I need her. At the office and in my home. Sheβs been my secretary for seven years and no one can do her job like her. I also pay her well and make sure she doesnβt need anything as my wife. How does she plan to survive without me anyway? Does she think that by asking for divorce, she has put herself on a higher level than me? What game is she playing with me now? Ha! Women thinking that they can live without a man and his support. As I think deeply about these things, I also think of a way to remedy them. I just need to do something to appeal to her. βWhat do women like?β I asked my assistant. He hesitates at first, surprised by the sudden question before he clears his throat and answers, βErm, designer bags I guess and oh, flowers.β I am already scrolling through an online store on my phone, clicking away at every expensive bag that catches my eyes until I have already ordered a number to last her an entire year. Then we make a stop at the flower shop on the way home. Turns out there are more than a hundred thousand flowers and I canβt even decide which one to get for Aria because apparently, women have favorites when it comes to things as trivial as flowers as well. In the end, I pick Lilies because the attendant at the flowershop claims itβs most womenβs favorite. I head home after that with only one single thought at the back of my mind; I wonβt let Aria divorce me. Chapter 5 Iβm thankful that Regis doesnβt ask any questions as he drives me back home. He offers to drive me into the compound but I turn him down and wait till he drives off before I sigh and walk into the house. The house is brimming with maids who rush over to me the instant they hear the door open but I raise a hand to stop them all from coming close to me. I am no longer the mistress of the house. I walk past them all to get to my room. Adam and I only share a room when he is looking to satisfy his saxual urges. He crawls into my bed and peppers kisses all over my body till I give in and that is the only time I ever feel wanted by him. As I walk into the room, I refrain from staring at the bed for longer than I should, afraid that the memories of us tangled up in sheets with him buried deep inside of me will break my resolve. And right now, I have only one resolveβto leave Adam for good. I begin to pack while that resolve is still strong, not even stopping for one moment to think about the fact that I have nowhere to go. I canβt bear to stay one more day under the same roof with Adam, knowing how deeply his betrayal cut. I only pack a few things that are important, assuring myself that I will come back for the rest of my things later when the divorce is finalized. I am only halfway through packing when I hear the sound of a familiar voice that never fails to send chills down my spine and even right this moment, I can already feel the chilling crawl of dread and it makes me stop packing immediately. Adamβs mother, Elodie and his sister Eva are here. I exhale sharply, trying to keep my breathing under control and to also keep the terrible memories of them from flushing into the forefront of my mind. A few more deep exhales and I finally get a hold of myself, resuming packing my things. Once I finish packing, I haul the heavy suitcase out of the room and walk into the living room where Elodie and Eva are seated on one of the couches, legs crossed over one another like they owned the place. Elodie has her signature scowl on her face that doesnβt fade even when I bow to greet her. βWhy are you here?β Elodie asks, standing. I am confused by her question and my inability to give an answer makes her scoff, her face contorting into the ugliest form annoyance can take. βI almost forgot how dumb you are.β Elodie says again. Dumb. Her favorite word to throw at me the way she pleases and of course, it doesnβt hurt less today. In fact, it is even more painful now that I realize that besides having to live with Adamβs indifference, I have also had to deal with his motherβs hatred and utter disrespect for me and all along, my response has either been silence or an apology that she never deserved. βWhy are you here instead of the office, huh?β She sneers and continues, βMy son works tirelessly day and night just to make money for someone like you to leech off him, all he asks of you is to do your job as his secretary and yet you canβt even do that one thing? Do you think you are entitled to his money just because you are his wife?β Her words are like hard blows to the chast, every single word that strung her sentences together hitting nerves and breaking right through them. I feel something rising inside of me. It has always been there but I have always managed to control it. To top it all, Eva, Adamβs snobbish sister had to chip in, βSheβs a trickster who duped my poor innocent brother and I wonder why isnβt she at the office! Such a lazy bumm! I donβt even know how Grandpa accepted such a penniless betch to be part of our elite family!β βI had to be at my grandmotherβs funeral.β I respond simply, hoping the scowl on her face will disappear but it gets even more profound and she adds a scoff for good measure. Did Elodie and Eva not know that my grandmother died? βIs she dead for real? Or is it just an act?!β Eva has the guts to ask me and I glare at her. Elodie continues, βOf course, thatβs your excuse for being a lazy gold digger. Tell me, did that grandmother of yours teach you to go after other peopleβs money instead of working for your own?β That very thing that has been rising inside me since I saw Adamβs mother reaches its peak. Itβs anger. It is red, pure and fiery and controls my whole being that I can not even bring myself to care about anything other than keeping my grandmotherβs name from being soiled. βDo not talk about my grandmother like that!β I yell and she jumps slightly, startled by my outburst. βDid you just yell at me?β she says, taking a step forward but I donβt flinch as I stare back into her eyes. Eva approaches me and she lashes out, βDid you just shout at my mother?!!!β Eva has always tried to demean me and every possible way at every chance presented to her. She grabs my arm, presses it harshly, making me wince in pain. Elodie smiles and as usually, she is greatly entertained. I push Eva with the other hand and she tumbles on the sofa. She remains shocked for I have always allowed them to bully me and this time, I retaliate. βDid you forget your place? You are nothing but aββ βGold digger who married your son for his money, yes, I get it!β I snap at her, having had enough of the name calling every damm time, βBut you donβt have to worry about that anymore because I already filed for a divorce. I am leaving your son so you can go ahead and swallow all of his money for all I care.β I turn around to leave, huffing as I drag the heavy suitcase with me but then Elodie clamps her hand down on the suitcase to stop me. She looks at the suitcase in amusement. βYou are really leaving!β Elodie canβt even hide the joy in her tone. βYes, so please just stop and let me go.β She shakes her head, βNot so fast! You canβt just leave.β And then she signals to two of the maids who have been standing, watching the whole exchange. βSearch her!β She orders when they come forward. They hesitate and she glares at them. βDid you not hear her? She is no longer the mistress of the house. Search her right now.β I am too stunned to react when the maids finally snatch my suitcase from me. Eva tries to hold me preventing me from snatching back my bag from the maids. βWhat do you think youβre doing?β I say, my voice shaky. βI canβt just let you leave. Who knows what valuables you have stolen from my son inside that germ ridden bag of yours.β My mouth opens and closes several times at her words as I canβt even come up with a single string of sentences to say to her. I just watch as my things come tumbling to the ground in the rough search. Tears of humiliation burned at the back of my eyes. I donβt struggle any more from Evaβs grip and she stares at me triumphantly. βWhat is that? Hand it over.β Adamβs mother says when one of the maids found a gold bracelet I had lodged into my case. Grandmotherβs bracelet, the only thing I have left of her. βNo!β I rush forward to stop her from handing it over but I am too late. Adamβs mother is already holding and inspecting the bracelet. βOh, wow! Mom, you finally found something she stole from Adam!β Eva exclaimed enthusiastically. Upon saying those words, she drags me and throws me onto the marble. I hit my nose. As I touch it, blood is coming out. I wipe it quickly and spring up to my feet. βI knew it! You took something. Did my son buy this for you? What gives you the right to think you can walk away with something he got for you after filing for a divorce?β Elodie snaps. βThat doesnβt belong to your son! It is mine and I will appreciate it if you give it back.β She does the exact opposite and only continues to accuse me of being a thief until the door opens and Adam walks in. I donβt feel relief at his presence like I usually do when his mother treats me this way, instead, I feel nothing but resentment for him. I want to scream how much I hate him to his face. His face twists into confusion when he sees the situation. βWhat is going on here?β He asks, walking further into the house and looking from his mother to me. βThank goodness you arrived, son. This leech was about to leave with something that clearly doesnβt belong to her.β His mother responds. βAnd she hit me!!!β Eva adds, almost in tears, complaining to Adam. This time, Adam is too shocked to ask me why I hit his dear sister. I thought,as he did in the past, he would force me to apologize, but this time, he did nothing. I wonder why. My eyes are starting to water for some reason and I am confused as to why Adamβs appearance suddenly triggered them yet I smile through the tears. βAdam, will you please tell your mother that I have never gotten a gift from you?β Adam falters, seemingly speechless for a second as he stares at his hands. I also look down at his hands and I finally understand why my eyes sting with tears and why I am sniffling in preparation of a sneeze that rocks my entire body. Lilies. I am all ergic to them. Despite the tears rolling down my cheeks, I start to laugh. I laugh so hard, ignoring the burning gazes of everyone present in the room who probably think I have gone crazy. I sneeze in between laughs, yet I donβt stop laughing as I turn to Adamβs mother. βI have been married to your son for three years and he doesnβt even know I am all ergic to lilies, yet you think he is capable of getting me a bracelet?β I shake my head at my sad reality. Chapter 6 Adam hands the flowers over to one of the maids, asking her to put it in a vase or whatever. He clears his throat, trying and failing miserably to hide his embarrassment in front of his mother, his sister and the maids. βThe flowers werenβt for you.β He says, voice hard as he stares at me for a brief second. I barely even feel anything when he says that because I genuinely donβt care anymore, I just want to get the hel out of this house and never return. I donβt even care about the rest of my things which I am yet to pack, I just want to turn my back on this horrible life already. I hear Eva sniggers. Adam seems like he wants to say something to me but then he decides against it and turns to his mother instead. βMum, please return the bracelet to her.β She snorts and shakes her head stubbornly, βI am not letting her leave with it.β Adam grunts, a sign that he is slowly losing his patience, β I have never seen that bracelet mother, it belongs to Aria. Please, give it back.β Adamβs mother doesnβt immediately move to do as she is told but the moment she does, it is with an annoyed huff as she tosses the bracelet at me. I catch it in my palms while she heads back to sit in the same position as earlier when I first walked into the living room. I fall to my knees by the mess the maids made out of my clothes and then I begin to arrange them again, rushing through the process so I can get out of here fast to stop the repeated sting of humiliation. Adam standing there and just watching me clean up his motherβs mess without as much as an apology from either of them only adds to the rising level of humiliation. Once done, I stand and face Adam squarely, taking in the same clothes he wore to the cemetery earlier and getting reminded of all the reasons why I am making the best decision of my life. βAs I said before, it is over between us. The divorce papers and my resignation letter will find their way to you soon.β I say, ignoring the way his face twisted, βGoodbye, Adam.β I turn around before I can even hear his response. I donβt want to look at Adam, not anymore. I walk away from him, going straight for the door and turning its knob for what I hope is the very last time. I have barely taken a step outside the door when Adamβs strong hand grabs my upper arm and twists me around to look at him. I have worked with him for seven years, four of which I was just his secretary and that was enough for me to know the kind of man Adam Miller is. He is usually composed with a blank expression that shows how in control he is. Right now, Adam is neither composed nor in control. He seems like he has lost grip of it and the meaning of those words donβt even matter to him anymore as he holds my arm in a tight grip. I struggle to break free of his hold. βLet me go.β I snap at him but Adam only narrows his eyes at me, his anger burning past his blue eyes. βYou canβt just leave, Aria.β He growls. βYou canβt tell me what to do, Adam. At least not anymore. Let me go!β βDoes this even make any sense to you!β He yells in my face as he lets go of my hand to run his hand through his hair, β You canβt just spring this kind of shet on me.β βItβs not springing if we have both had it coming from the very moment we shared our vows which you have already broken. We both know this marriage should have never happened so cut the crap and let me leave.β I say, practically fuming before turning around in another attempt to leave. βWhat about grandfather? You are taking such a big step without talking to the old man who set it all up anyway. The man who has been nothing but good to you.β I turn back to face Adam, hating his attempt at making me feel guilty. My thoughts go to his grandfather momentarily and I try to imagine the old manβs reaction to me filing for a divorce when he cares about me so much. However, I donβt waver. I refuse to let those thoughts come between me and my freedom. I refuse to put the wish of another over my own happiness. βI will talk to grandfather. Believe me, you have nothing to worry about.β I say and make another attempt to leave but of course, Adam doesnβt give up as he speaks again. βI wonβt sign it Aria, I wonβt sign the goddamm papers!β βWhat the hel is wrong with you?β I yell out my frustration, βWhy wonβt you just let me go?β He stares me down, eyes burning stubbornly, βI wonβt sign the papers and I wonβt accept your resignation either. The company has rules you have to follow and you canβt just decide to resign without prior notice especially when there is a lot of work at the office which I pay you to do!β I scoff, unable to believe his nerve. Unable to get over his selfish thinking and absolute lack of remorse for the things he has done. βYou have Sophia, donβt you?β I shoot at him and his brows furrow. βWhat does that even mean?β βEveryone adores Sophia. She is smart, beautiful and can get your work done for you and oh, donβt forget the fact that she is also pre9nant with your child! How perfect is that?β Adamβs mother springs up, surprise evident in her features. Clearly, she is just learning about her coming grandson. βAdam, is what she says true? You have a child on the way?β Eva asked excitedly. Adamβs expression donβt give anything away and he doesnβt even spare his mother or sister a glance. He is still looking straight at me. βAria, what happened between Sophia and I wasnβt intentional, it justββ βDonβt you dare make excuses for her! Who cares what she thinks? Sophia is who you have always deserved. The only woman who actually deserves to be my daughter-in-law.β Adamβs mother cut in while making sure to give me a nasty look that doesnβt even surprise me anymore. I shrug at Adam, a way to show him that I was right. Everyone wants Sophia, including him and he canβt even bring himself to deny it. He continues to ignore his mother. βAria, it was an accident.β He says again and I nod, like I am agreeing to his words. βThree years ago, you didnβt think the same way. You didnβt think you accidentally slept with me but instead believed I had gone as far as dru9ging you to sleep with you. What changed, Adam? Because all I see right now is a bloody hypocrite and a coward who would rather blame others for his mistakes.β When I turn my back to him this time, I donβt stop walking. I donβt turn around. βAria! Aria, get back here while I am still being nice. Aria, I swear to God if you walk out that door, I wonβt take you back even if you go on your knees. You need me, Aria. You canβt survive without me!β Adam yells after me but I donβt stop walking as his arrogant words only fueled my desire to get away from him as fast as I can. I block out the rest of his words as I open the door and welcome my peace and freedom. I am never going back to that sad reality. | Read freely | 18 | https://facebook.com/61557986570531 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716534000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879750 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410717 | 1723321855 | 995 | 1647538179348259 | 2 | 9.748784076486E+14 | 1716620400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 250753834794512 | 0 | Read freely | 120211565986950196 | redtgb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | β€οΈπWhat happens nextπClick Here to read onπ | https://redtgb.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=11204&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1714661788 | 2.5075383479451E+14 | Read freely | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441255115_1177880883571742_5075201022874715379_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=lqVPf_9YhC8Q7kNvgE4Fc9J&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYB3a2XBY2D07vo6RW7haoBeWxXXT0Ek9W736f-GS_RPGg&oe=66729CF3 | person_profile | 0 | Read freely | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441055224_676099334622461_3142011906559831658_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=O7GQ8aQRSUAQ7kNvgFiePIh&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDkKJnM5mjBlemqtMjVzrkcIdDh62yC7XlsEmD3F_NPJw&oe=6672AB39 | 0 | 3 | My husband and boss Adam, is laughing at every joke that leaves the lips of his first love while I watch them through the glass doors that separates his office from mine. I had been dutifully preparing some documents that needed his signature and also setting up his meetings for the day like I have done for 7 years as his secretary but since Sophiaβs arrival, I have been unable to get any work done. I feel a pang in my chast every time Adam laughs, almost tearing up at the thought that he has never laughed like that around me. I stare at her slender frame, her lush black hair that bounces back into place even when she throws her head back in laughter and the grace in every of her movements. Sophia is an epitome of feminine grace and every of her features is proof of why Adam has been hung up over her even though they separated years ago. Even though he married me. The dark binds of his office are brought down abruptly, blocking my view of them both and now all I can see is black. It is as if Adam is trying to prevent me from prying even though I am his wife and privacy shouldnβt be a thing between us, especially when it comes to a woman he used to love so much. I still remember how shocked I was when she walked up to me earlier, heels clicking ever so sophisticatedly on the office tiles. I saw the feet cladded in shiny red heels before I raised my head to look at her. βAria, I didnβt know you still worked here! I canβt believe Adam is still making you work even after you both got married. That man is something, isnβt he?β She said, smiling sweetly with blood red lips that would look horrifying on me if I dared to try that shade of lipstick. I couldnβt speak, caught in the shock of staring face to face with her after all these years, especially as she still had the same aura of wealth and confidence that I have always known her to possess. For a split second, she made me feel insecure in my gray office wear and my tight bun hair and the fact that I wore little to no makeup. βSophia!β Adamβs voice was what broke me out of that trance I was stuck in as he stepped out of his office and there, right in front of me, he hugged her ever so tightly like an old time friend before he led her back into his office without sparing me as little as a glance. Now, they are alone together in his office, the blinds of his office pulled shut so that I canβt see them but can only hear their muffled voices and his own laughter every now and then. I squirm in my seat uncomfortably each time they laugh, gripping the edges of my table tightly and too destabilized to get any work done while they are both holed up in there. I stare at the calendar on my table. Todayβs date is marked with a red marker and I sigh deeply. Does he even know today is our third wedding anniversary? Every year, it seems like I am the only one who remembers it and now with Sophiaβs appearance, I can already tell that today will pass by like itβs just another day. I knew she was coming today. Being his secretary is the only reason why I knew the things Adam would rather keep from me. He already briefed me about a new business partner that just returned to the country two months ago and will be at the office at any time. What I didnβt know or should I say, what he purposely kept from me was that the so-called business partner was Sophia Bradley and perhaps the reason why he has been more cold and indifferent than usual, ever since her return. My heart aches at the realization but it aches even more because there is nothing I can do about it. I have never had a place in Adamβs heart but he has been the only one in mine. I loved him from the very moment he saved my life years ago but I can say the same for him. He always reminds me even without speaking, that our marriage is nothing but an attempt at fulfilling his grandfatherβs wishes and I knew if he had gotten his way, he would have never looked at me twice, not to talk of getting married to me. Grandfatherβs love for me is perhaps the only reason I am still sane in this loveless marriage. The old man never ceases to show how much he cherishes me but when has that ever been enough? I am married to Adam and not his family. The clock ticks endlessly, yet Adam remains in there with her. Their laughter dies down all of a sudden and I can barely hear a word they are saying. Unable to hold back anymore, I stand before the restlessness kil ls me. I am his wife and I deserve to know what is going on. To look natural, I quickly make two cups of coffee. After all, I am his secretary and this is a part of my job. Nervous sweat breaks out on my forehead as I make my way to his office with unsure steps. Inhaling sharply, I open the door and step in. My heart clenches at the sight of them both, relaxed in each otherβs company as they sit so close to each other on one of the couches in his office. I swallow hard and try to walk over to the table with the best confidence I could muster. βI made coffee.β I say but they donβt even acknowledge my presence, lost in each other and whatever they were discussing. I study Sophia for a moment, watching as she twirls her cherry blonde hair with a finger while seated with one leg crossed over the other to reveal a prov0cative amount of thi9hs, smiling so brightly that I canβt tell if sheβs faking it. I want to turn around and leave but my feet fail to move. I canβt just leave like this. For how long will I keep quiet and svck it up? βSir,β I call, looking directly at Adam. We are married but he never fails to remind me that I address him as my boss at work. Adam doesnβt even make a move to look at me and anger rises inside of me, slowly boiling. βSir,β I call again and that is when he finally regards me with a cold look that almost deters me but I remain firm under his gaze. βThere is something I need to talk to you about, itβs important.β I lie right through my teeth. I can feel Sophiaβs gaze burning through me but I try not to look at her, for the fear that my confidence would slip away if I do. Adam just waves me off. βIt can wait. As you can see, I have a guest.β βIt canβt wait.β I say, even more firmly but he is already back to smiling and listening to Sophia speak like a lovesick teenage boy. I call him a few more times and unable to hold back any longer, I call him by his name instead. βAdam!β They both look up at me with a mix of expressions. That of Adam is pure anger while Sophia is obviously irritated. I know she has never liked me and back when I was just his secretary and she was his girlfriend, she complained about every single thing I did. βAdam, what is this? Is this how you let your employees disrespect you?β She says it with absolute disgust and disrespect. I am stunned at her words, so stunned that I scoff. Employee? She dares to talk down on me like that even when she knows fully well that I am not just an employee. Adam stands, his tall frame causing his shadow to sweep over me while I grip the tray of coffee tightly in my hands. βAria, out. Now.β He commands and I am filled with so much hurt that my hands shake and my lips quiver. βWhy should I? I have every reason to be in this room and I have every right to speak for you to listen to me.β Sophia stands at once. βIt seems as though your wife has a bone to pick with me and I will not sit here and take such insults.β She begins to walk away and of course, Adam follows her. I try to move out of her way but my attempt fails when her shoulder heavily bumps into mine in a way that is too fierce to be considered unintentional. I lose grip of the tray and stagger forward and just like that, the hot coffee spills all over her very expensive looking dress and mine. She shrieks, backing away from me only to glare at me the next second. βWhat the hel is wrong with you?β She yells. Adam rushes to her side in less than a minute, fussing over her stained dress and even offering her his handkerchief while I stand there, drenched in coffee as my husband takes care of another woman. I feel the tears prickling at the corner of my eyes but what does crying in front of this woman make me? βI canβt believe you! What did I ever do to you? Go ahead and dislike me all you want but there is a limit to how far you can go and you just crossed that.β She says again, seething in uncontained anger. Adam turns to me, eyes dark with rage. It makes me shiver. Makes me feel unimaginable pain to know he is mad at me because of another woman. βApologise right now!β He commands and I scoff. How can he stand there and take her side when I did nothing wrong? βWhy should I do that? I have done nothing wrong. She bumped into me!β I defend myself, my voice breaking. Lips quivering. βI did no such thing!β Sophia says defensively but her eyes tell a different story. βYou heard me, Aria. Apologize to her right now.β Adam says again, still intently looking at me. I almost laugh at the fact that the only time he is looking me directly in the eyes after three years of marriage is when another woman is involved. I shake my head, finding all of this hard to believe. βSo you believe her over me? You take her words for it but mine does not matter? I am your wife.β βA wife I never wanted to marry!β He yells back and shatters what is left of my broken heart. Chapter 2 I am speechless for the next few seconds as his words hit me like a freight train. I wait. I wait for his hard eyes to soften with remorse at the harsh words he threw at me but that doesnβt happen. He is glowering at me, nose flaring angrily. βAdam, howβ¦how could you say that to me?β I say, my eyes crossing over to Sophia who is now hiding her own frame behind his tall, muscular one, βIn front of her?β βBecause itβs the truth!β He yells again, startling me into making a small helpless sound. Adam has never yelled at me. And even though it hurts me to admit that he is truly saying the truth, he has never said it to my face and I never really thought he would. I have always known it yet it hurts to hear it come from him. It feels like a thousand needles are pricking my heart and making me bleed out with so much pain. He runs his fingers through his hair, seeming frustrated. Like he would rather not have this conversation with me. And just when I think it is over, he continues to speak, breaking me even further. βYou were nothing but a mere secretary who wormed her way into my life. If you hadnβt forced yourself on me that night, none of this would have happened! This marriage would have never happened and you know it.β He brings up the past. Our past. The night that meant everything to me but clearly means nothing to him. I swallow over and over again till my throat and mouth become dry. I canβt cry. No, I canβt appear weak. Not in front of Adam and definitely not in front of Sophia so I keep my tears at bay, urging them to return before they spill down my cheeks. βI never forced myself on you, Adam. Why wonβt you believe me?β I manage to say but he raises a hand to tell me to stop talking and I clamp my lips shut. βDo not stand there and try to look innocent, Aria because that is far from who you are. I simply said the truth and I do not care if you cannot take it.β He says and stares at me intently. βDo not let what happened today repeat itself again. Know your place and I will not have any reason to talk to you like this. Do you understand?β He lays emphasis on every word of warning he is giving me and turns his back against me before I can even open my mouth to speak again. βAre you okay?β I canβt believe how his voice goes from hard to soft in the next second as he fusses over Sophia. Sophia makes a face that has me balling my fingers into a fist. A face that clearly says she is not okay. βThe coffee was hot and I think I might have to visit the hospital to prevent the burn from leaving a scar.β She says in a quiet voice. I look down at my own body that is also drenched in the same coffee. The coffee wasnβt hot enough to cause a burn but Adam believes her instantly. He pulls her into a hug and embarrassment washes over me like a bucket of ice. βIβll drive. Wait here, I will get my keys.β he says as he pulls away, rushing to his office table to grab his car keys before coming back to her side. He takes her purse from her and leads her out. They both seem so lost in each other that they forget my existence totally, leaving me to stand alone in the middle of the room. Silence falls over me and I am left with my thoughts, licking the wound that his words caused. I have never been able to convince Adam that I didnβt force myself on him yet till this very day, he still believes I drugged him into sleeping with him on the night we were having dinner with his family three years ago. I can never forget the pure look of disgust and shock on his face when we both woke up in each otherβs arms the next morning. I knew since then that Adam would never love me, yet I was hopeful. As the years go by, the hope keeps dwindling with his grandfather, being the only support system in everything. Sighing, I return to my office and pick up my phone. My eyes widens when I see that a number has called my phone repeatedly all the time I was in Adamβs office. The dread that fills me stems from the fact that I recognise the number as the hospitalβs number. I call back instantly, my heart racing. They pick up on the second ring. βMrs Miller, we have been trying to reach you all afternoon!β A female voice says. βWhy? Is something wrong? Is my grandmother okay?β I ask, rushing my words as I am filled with dread and panic. βYou need to be at the hospital, your grandmotherββ I donβt wait to hear the rest of her words. I race out of the room and call on a taxi to drive me to the hospital. I go straight to her hospital room but the sheets and blankets are already being neatly arranged and the bed is empty. More panic. More dread. βWhere is my grandmother?β I ask, βWhere is she?β The nurse cleaning the room gives me a look of pity that nauseates me. βI am sorry, Mrs Miller but your grandmother died ten minutes ago and has been moved to the hospitalβs mortuary. I am sorry.β She says. The world around me stops and I donβt know how I am able to walk on my two feet to the mortuary where the Nurse leads me. She stops at the door and points to my grandmother laying on a table in the room, her body covered in a white sheet from head to toe. I walk to the bedside with shaky legs and the moment I take the sheet off and set my eyes on her pale face, I burst out into a loud sob, wishing I could go back to a month ago so I can prevent that accident that made her this way. The accident that took my only living family away from me. βGrandmaβ¦β I call in a broken voice as I reach for her hand. They are too cold, so lifeless and the tears begin to leave my eyes in torrents as I remember how warm these hands used to be when they held my face. βIβm sorryβ¦Iβm so sorry.β I cry, holding tightly unto her and hating myself for not being there in her last moments. I should have been there with her but I was too busy worrying about my place in my husbandβs life. The nurse comes into the room and says, βShe asked us to give you this.β I wipe my tears, sniffling as I take what seems to be a key chain from her. I couldnβt think of a reason why grandmotherβs parting gift to me would be a key chain but I canβt seem to care. Her cold hands slammed me into the reality of what had happened. Grandmother is dead. I fall to my knees by the bed and weep, muttering and calling for her to return to me. βAria.β Adamβs voice calls from behind me. I am both surprised and relieved to find him there. He must have been contacted by the hospital as well and stopped by since he already came here with Sophia anyway. Sophia is standing in the room with us but I ignore her. I focus on Adam because I need him. I need someone to hold me and tell me everything will be fine. βAdam.β I cry as I walk over to him and hug him without a second thought, my tears gathering and falling again. His body stiffens at my touch but I donβt let go. I need his warmth. I need him because he is really all that I have left and I canβt bear to lose him too. I expect him to push me away but he doesnβt. He doesnβt hug me back too but I canβt find it in me to care as I sob uncontrollably. My tears subside and I sniffle repeatedly and slowly let go of him. He clears his throat and takes out his phone, saying; βIβll place a call to start making preparations for her funeral.β He turns around to leave with Sophia also following him but I canβt bear the sight of him turning his back to me and leaving. I grab his hand. βStay.β I sound so weak and helpless but I do not give a damm, βPlease, donβt go. Stay with me.β I beg. Adam opens his mouth to say something but a sharp cry stuns us both. We spin around at the same time to the source of the cry and she is crouching, holding her stomach with an expression of pain. Adam rushes to Sophiaβs side in a heartbeat and my heart sinks further down my stomach. βSophia, are you okay?β He asks with concern ringing high in his voice. She shakes her head, βThere is something Iβve been wanting to tell you but didnβt know how.β She says, holding her stomach as she looks directly at me. βWhat is it?β Adam asks, still very much concerned. βAdamβ¦Iβ¦I am pre9nant.β Chapter 3 Grandmotherβs funeral is being held on a gloomy day, much to my displeasure. I listened to the weather forecast so I could choose the perfect day for the funeral, and according to the forecast, the day is supposed to be sunny and bright just like Grandmother. I feel duped standing by grandmotherβs grave with the sky covered in clouds that only worsen the dark and depressing feeling that has settled in my guts since her death. I have cried so much that I have no tears left to shed at grandmotherβs grave and now have to wear dark sunglasses to hide how red and puffy my eyes are rather than to complement my black dress. There are a few people hanging around the other graves in the cemetery to pay their last respects to their loved ones and at each grave, there are at least two people; couples holding each other, families comforting each other and even church processions. I am alone, with no one to comfort me since no one else bothered to attend my grandmother's funeral. With her gone, I realize how lonely I actually am and the thought deals another blow to my already damaged heart. I try hard to get the heartbreaking events of the past few days off my mind and when I finally succeed, I turn my focus back to my grandmother. Sheβs smiling in the framed picture placed by her tombstone and I force a smile as well as a fond memory of her slips into my mind. βAria, my child, you canβt frown like that everytime or youβll get wrinkles like me before you are even my age!β She would say and then go ahead to spread my lips into a smile with her fingers. Grandmother was a cheerful soul who would tell me stories, mostly the ones about my birth and how she knew from the very first day that she set her eyes on me that I was going to be a really beautiful and amazing child. I shared everything with her and talking to her about my marriage was one of the things that made it bearable. I donβt know what Iβd do without Grandmother. Tears start to gather in my eyes again and I take off the sunglasses to wipe them off before they start to fall. I already promised myself not to cry anymore; Grandmother wouldnβt want that. Sniffling, I begin to place the things I brought with me by her grave; Tulips, which were her favorite flowers; Peaches, her favorite fruit and finally some sweets because grandmother had a really sweet tooth and never listened to me whenever I told her they were bad for her age. βThere are no sweets in heaven, Aria. Itβs only right that I take as much as I can down here before the big guy calls me up there.β She would say at the same she unwraps another candy and tosses it into her mouth. She would talk on and on about βThe big guyβ and βUp thereβ like she was always prepared for the day she would die. I canβt help it anymore, I burst into tears, falling on my knees by her grave as it dawns on me fully that she is really gone. βI should have let you have all the candies in the world. I should have been there with you at your dying moment. I should have held your hands and told you itβs gonna be okay. Iββ My voice breaks, the deep regret and tears choking me and making me lose my train of thoughts. I canβt think of a thing to say anymore and so I just cry, sobbing so hard my body shakes. I hear confident footsteps approaching me and feel a presence behind me that causes my sobs to come to a pause. My heart races and hope swells inside of me when the person puts a hand on my shoulder. I whip my head around, expecting to see Adam but my hope quickly shatters when I see that it is Adam uncle, Regis. βRegis.β I say, sniffing and wiping my tears in a rush. βHere,β He hands me his handkerchief, stuffing it in my hand and closing my palm around it before I can even refuse. I say a barely audible thank you before I dab at the tears with the hanky that smelt like him. βI came as soon as I heard, Iβm sorry about your Grandmother, Aria.β He says in a sincere and kind voice. Regis has always been kind to me even when I was just a secretary. Whenever he came to visit his nephew at the office, he would stop to say hi and hand me a canned coffee with a smile on his face. However, he left the country to study a few days before our wedding and only returned not too long ago. This is the first time seeing him since his return and the kind look in his eyes assures me that if he had been around, I would have had another person rooting for me just like Adamβs grandfather. βYou didnβt have to.β I say quietly, trying to downplay how much it actually means to me that at least, one person cares enough to be here with me. Regis looks around as if searching for something and then he frowns when our eyes meet again. βYouβre alone? Where the hel is Adam?β He asks, his voice a little hard. My cheeks redden in embarrassment. Regis has only just returned and probably doesnβt know anything yet. I am not willing to talk either. I force a smile and begin to pack the excess things I bought for my grandmother's funeral. Regis joins me wordlessly and I sigh in silent appreciation of how he doesnβt ask anymore questions. He takes everything from my hands even before I can protest. βDid you drive here?β He asks and I shake my head. I came here in a Taxi. βCβmon, weβll take my car.β He says and walks in front of me. I have no choice but to follow him. We have just gotten outside of the cemetery when a car drives into the parking space right beside Regisβ car. The car is familiar and I keep doubting who it belongs to until Adam steps out of the car, eyes trained on me as he walks over. The first thing I notice is his Royal Blue suit and I feel the slow brewing of anger inside of me. How could he show up wearing that? It is like a blatant disrespect of my Grandmother and I canβt stand to watch her get disrespected even in her death. It is clear that he came from the office; little surprise there and it would have been better if he didnβt come at all as I now realize how looking at him only infuriates me. He had managed to avoid me in the past three days since the hospital incident. Three days since Sophia announced that she was pre9nant and shook my world. I didnβt need anyone to tell me who the baby belonged to as he walks towards me now, I feel nothing but resentment for him. βIs it over? Crap, I must have lost track of time.β He says before turning to his uncle and giving him a tight smile of appreciation that I find nauseating. βThank you for being here with her, uncle.β Regis merely crosses his arms, staring back at his nephew, βCare to explain why you are only just coming?β Regis thows the question at him and I face Adam too, crossing my arms. βYes, Adam. Tell me what was more important than being at my grandmotherβs funeral.β I already know the answer but I still wait to hear him say it so I can have a reason to hate him even more. βI really wanted to be here, Aria but you knowβ¦β He trails off, running a hand through his hair, βI had to be with Sophia.β The sound of her name is what does it for me; the same woman who is the reason I wasnβt around to witness grandmotherβs dying moments. βDid you really come all the way here to tell me you were with another woman you slept with and impregnated?β βWhat?β Regis is the one who speaks, his voice echoing his shock as he looks from me to Adam. Adamβs usual blank look remains as if he is unaffected by my words and the pain he has caused me. βLetβs not do this here, Aria. You know I canβt just leave her.β I scoff. βI never stopped you. You know what? You should have never come here. You should have stayed with her since that is where your loyalties lie now and I am no longer in the picture.β Adam frowns, moving closer and intimidating me just a little with his height and muscular frame, βWhat does that mean? You are my wife.β βEx-wife,β I say the words without even thinking. I didnβt think any of this through but I donβt care because my entire being seems to agree that this is whatβs best for me, βI want a divorce, Adam.β His eyes grow wide, unable to contain the shock at my words and I am proud of myself that I finally got a reaction that isnβt anger or coldness from him. βBoth the divorce papers and my resignation will find their way to you soon.β I add before he can get over his shock and I donβt wait for him to reply as I turn to an equally stunned Regis. βTake me home, Regis.β Chapter 4 Adamβs POV I want a divorce. The words circle around my head non-stop. Of all the shets I have had the pleasure of hearingβand trust me, I hear a lot of crap as a CEOβAria asking for a divorce out of nowhere has to be the worst. I am a man who takes pride in my strength and ability to handle situations no matter how unexpected they are. It comes with the job, yet for some reason, I am unable to utter a single word or move my feet until she gets into the car with my uncle. When I finally come to my senses, she is long gone, leaving me to drown in the pool of shock she created. I am shocked at her audacity; the way she looked me in the eyes as she hit me with those words. Ariaβs cold hazel eyes totally betrayed the meek and timid trait that I have only ever known her for. I am equally shocked at myself for actually being affected by it when I shouldn't have batted an eyelash, after all, I never wanted to marry her. The three years of living with Aria felt like I was in bonda9e created by her own deceit and my grandfatherβs overbearing attitude. I never cared about Aria yet the sound of divorce numbed me completely that I am unable to think straight until the door to my car opens and reminds me that I am still standing still in front of the cemetery. My personal assistant steps out of the car and speaks. βSir, your appointment with the Taylor Enterprises is thirty minutes from now. Itβs more than an hourβs drive from here, we should leave now ifββ βCancel it,β I say, heading back to the car, not quite in the right mind to process anything, not even a meeting whose outcome was worth millions of dollars. My assistant follows behind me in a hurry, obviously confused. βBut sir, that isnβt the only appointment for the day. You also haveβ¦β He starts to read out my packed schedule for the day as I finally get into the car. βCancel them all!β I say, settling into the leather seats of the car and loosening my tie at the same time as it feels like I am slowly losing the ability to breathe, βGet in and turn the dann AC on.β I command him, unable to prevent my anger and irritation from reflecting in my voice. Finally noticing the negative emotions rolling out of me in waves, he mutters his response before getting into the driverβs seat and pulling the car out of the cemeteryβs parking lot. We get to the highway, air is emitting from not only the AC in the car yet I feel heat rising from inside of me and not even loosening a few buttons on my shirt helped. All I can think about is Aria and the dammed divorce. My shock is long gone and I am now stewing in nothing but anger, bordering on rage. Who the hel does she think she is? What gives her the boldness to think she makes the call for divorce? If anyone should be asking for a divorce, It should be me. I am the one who married her against my will. Sheβs the one who found me so irresistible that she went as far as dru9ging me just to have me. If anyone deserves to slam divorce papers in her face, it is me but the thought never crossed my mind. Sheβs a good secretary, dutiful, efficient and always at my beck and call. She also doubles as a good wife, never getting in my way or needy for attention. Aria takes whatever I give her; the little time, the irregular sax and the little communication, all that I deemed appropriate for our kind of relationship. The sudden switch has me racking my brain, thinking of different possibilities and all the things that could have gone wrong. A thought crosses my mind and it intensifies my anger in a way that I canβt even understand. βFind out if Aria has been meeting anyone lately. Men in particular.β I say. My assistant meets my eyes through the rearview mirror. His eyes fail to hide his surprise that I am asking him to look into my wife and the possibility that sheβs been seeing other men. I canβt rule out all the possibilities and if Aria has really been cheating on me, I swear to Godβ My phone vibrates beside me on the leather seats. Sophiaβs name pops up on the screen in a message notification. Sheβs asking me when next I would be available for an appointment at the doctorβs office. Seeing Sophiaβs message douses my anger but leaves me with a far more disturbing emotion. I thought of all the reasons why my quiet wife is suddenly asking for a divorce but it never crossed my mind that impregnating the woman I once loved could be the reason. I think back to that day two months ago when yet again, I let drinking lead me into making the worst decisions. All I had to do was pick Sophia up at the airport, drive her to her hotel and return home. Instead, I took the invite to have a drink in her hotel room; for old timeβs sake, she called it. We did more than just have a drink that night and the outcome is the baby growing inside of Sophia. I canβt call it a mistake yet deep down, I know it should have never happened. I should have never let myself get tempted by the thought of how being inside of Sophia will feel after three years. I want the child. Itβs my baby and I donβt plan on losing it but it comes at a price that I never thought would be a problem which is the divorce with Aria. I canβt let Aria divorce me. I need her. At the office and in my home. Sheβs been my secretary for seven years and no one can do her job like her. I also pay her well and make sure she doesnβt need anything as my wife. How does she plan to survive without me anyway? Does she think that by asking for divorce, she has put herself on a higher level than me? What game is she playing with me now? Ha! Women thinking that they can live without a man and his support. As I think deeply about these things, I also think of a way to remedy them. I just need to do something to appeal to her. βWhat do women like?β I asked my assistant. He hesitates at first, surprised by the sudden question before he clears his throat and answers, βErm, designer bags I guess and oh, flowers.β I am already scrolling through an online store on my phone, clicking away at every expensive bag that catches my eyes until I have already ordered a number to last her an entire year. Then we make a stop at the flower shop on the way home. Turns out there are more than a hundred thousand flowers and I canβt even decide which one to get for Aria because apparently, women have favorites when it comes to things as trivial as flowers as well. In the end, I pick Lilies because the attendant at the flowershop claims itβs most womenβs favorite. I head home after that with only one single thought at the back of my mind; I wonβt let Aria divorce me. Chapter 5 Iβm thankful that Regis doesnβt ask any questions as he drives me back home. He offers to drive me into the compound but I turn him down and wait till he drives off before I sigh and walk into the house. The house is brimming with maids who rush over to me the instant they hear the door open but I raise a hand to stop them all from coming close to me. I am no longer the mistress of the house. I walk past them all to get to my room. Adam and I only share a room when he is looking to satisfy his saxual urges. He crawls into my bed and peppers kisses all over my body till I give in and that is the only time I ever feel wanted by him. As I walk into the room, I refrain from staring at the bed for longer than I should, afraid that the memories of us tangled up in sheets with him buried deep inside of me will break my resolve. And right now, I have only one resolveβto leave Adam for good. I begin to pack while that resolve is still strong, not even stopping for one moment to think about the fact that I have nowhere to go. I canβt bear to stay one more day under the same roof with Adam, knowing how deeply his betrayal cut. I only pack a few things that are important, assuring myself that I will come back for the rest of my things later when the divorce is finalized. I am only halfway through packing when I hear the sound of a familiar voice that never fails to send chills down my spine and even right this moment, I can already feel the chilling crawl of dread and it makes me stop packing immediately. Adamβs mother, Elodie and his sister Eva are here. I exhale sharply, trying to keep my breathing under control and to also keep the terrible memories of them from flushing into the forefront of my mind. A few more deep exhales and I finally get a hold of myself, resuming packing my things. Once I finish packing, I haul the heavy suitcase out of the room and walk into the living room where Elodie and Eva are seated on one of the couches, legs crossed over one another like they owned the place. Elodie has her signature scowl on her face that doesnβt fade even when I bow to greet her. βWhy are you here?β Elodie asks, standing. I am confused by her question and my inability to give an answer makes her scoff, her face contorting into the ugliest form annoyance can take. βI almost forgot how dumb you are.β Elodie says again. Dumb. Her favorite word to throw at me the way she pleases and of course, it doesnβt hurt less today. In fact, it is even more painful now that I realize that besides having to live with Adamβs indifference, I have also had to deal with his motherβs hatred and utter disrespect for me and all along, my response has either been silence or an apology that she never deserved. βWhy are you here instead of the office, huh?β She sneers and continues, βMy son works tirelessly day and night just to make money for someone like you to leech off him, all he asks of you is to do your job as his secretary and yet you canβt even do that one thing? Do you think you are entitled to his money just because you are his wife?β Her words are like hard blows to the chast, every single word that strung her sentences together hitting nerves and breaking right through them. I feel something rising inside of me. It has always been there but I have always managed to control it. To top it all, Eva, Adamβs snobbish sister had to chip in, βSheβs a trickster who duped my poor innocent brother and I wonder why isnβt she at the office! Such a lazy bumm! I donβt even know how Grandpa accepted such a penniless betch to be part of our elite family!β βI had to be at my grandmotherβs funeral.β I respond simply, hoping the scowl on her face will disappear but it gets even more profound and she adds a scoff for good measure. Did Elodie and Eva not know that my grandmother died? βIs she dead for real? Or is it just an act?!β Eva has the guts to ask me and I glare at her. Elodie continues, βOf course, thatβs your excuse for being a lazy gold digger. Tell me, did that grandmother of yours teach you to go after other peopleβs money instead of working for your own?β That very thing that has been rising inside me since I saw Adamβs mother reaches its peak. Itβs anger. It is red, pure and fiery and controls my whole being that I can not even bring myself to care about anything other than keeping my grandmotherβs name from being soiled. βDo not talk about my grandmother like that!β I yell and she jumps slightly, startled by my outburst. βDid you just yell at me?β she says, taking a step forward but I donβt flinch as I stare back into her eyes. Eva approaches me and she lashes out, βDid you just shout at my mother?!!!β Eva has always tried to demean me and every possible way at every chance presented to her. She grabs my arm, presses it harshly, making me wince in pain. Elodie smiles and as usually, she is greatly entertained. I push Eva with the other hand and she tumbles on the sofa. She remains shocked for I have always allowed them to bully me and this time, I retaliate. βDid you forget your place? You are nothing but aββ βGold digger who married your son for his money, yes, I get it!β I snap at her, having had enough of the name calling every damm time, βBut you donβt have to worry about that anymore because I already filed for a divorce. I am leaving your son so you can go ahead and swallow all of his money for all I care.β I turn around to leave, huffing as I drag the heavy suitcase with me but then Elodie clamps her hand down on the suitcase to stop me. She looks at the suitcase in amusement. βYou are really leaving!β Elodie canβt even hide the joy in her tone. βYes, so please just stop and let me go.β She shakes her head, βNot so fast! You canβt just leave.β And then she signals to two of the maids who have been standing, watching the whole exchange. βSearch her!β She orders when they come forward. They hesitate and she glares at them. βDid you not hear her? She is no longer the mistress of the house. Search her right now.β I am too stunned to react when the maids finally snatch my suitcase from me. Eva tries to hold me preventing me from snatching back my bag from the maids. βWhat do you think youβre doing?β I say, my voice shaky. βI canβt just let you leave. Who knows what valuables you have stolen from my son inside that germ ridden bag of yours.β My mouth opens and closes several times at her words as I canβt even come up with a single string of sentences to say to her. I just watch as my things come tumbling to the ground in the rough search. Tears of humiliation burned at the back of my eyes. I donβt struggle any more from Evaβs grip and she stares at me triumphantly. βWhat is that? Hand it over.β Adamβs mother says when one of the maids found a gold bracelet I had lodged into my case. Grandmotherβs bracelet, the only thing I have left of her. βNo!β I rush forward to stop her from handing it over but I am too late. Adamβs mother is already holding and inspecting the bracelet. βOh, wow! Mom, you finally found something she stole from Adam!β Eva exclaimed enthusiastically. Upon saying those words, she drags me and throws me onto the marble. I hit my nose. As I touch it, blood is coming out. I wipe it quickly and spring up to my feet. βI knew it! You took something. Did my son buy this for you? What gives you the right to think you can walk away with something he got for you after filing for a divorce?β Elodie snaps. βThat doesnβt belong to your son! It is mine and I will appreciate it if you give it back.β She does the exact opposite and only continues to accuse me of being a thief until the door opens and Adam walks in. I donβt feel relief at his presence like I usually do when his mother treats me this way, instead, I feel nothing but resentment for him. I want to scream how much I hate him to his face. His face twists into confusion when he sees the situation. βWhat is going on here?β He asks, walking further into the house and looking from his mother to me. βThank goodness you arrived, son. This leech was about to leave with something that clearly doesnβt belong to her.β His mother responds. βAnd she hit me!!!β Eva adds, almost in tears, complaining to Adam. This time, Adam is too shocked to ask me why I hit his dear sister. I thought,as he did in the past, he would force me to apologize, but this time, he did nothing. I wonder why. My eyes are starting to water for some reason and I am confused as to why Adamβs appearance suddenly triggered them yet I smile through the tears. βAdam, will you please tell your mother that I have never gotten a gift from you?β Adam falters, seemingly speechless for a second as he stares at his hands. I also look down at his hands and I finally understand why my eyes sting with tears and why I am sniffling in preparation of a sneeze that rocks my entire body. Lilies. I am all ergic to them. Despite the tears rolling down my cheeks, I start to laugh. I laugh so hard, ignoring the burning gazes of everyone present in the room who probably think I have gone crazy. I sneeze in between laughs, yet I donβt stop laughing as I turn to Adamβs mother. βI have been married to your son for three years and he doesnβt even know I am all ergic to lilies, yet you think he is capable of getting me a bracelet?β I shake my head at my sad reality. Chapter 6 Adam hands the flowers over to one of the maids, asking her to put it in a vase or whatever. He clears his throat, trying and failing miserably to hide his embarrassment in front of his mother, his sister and the maids. βThe flowers werenβt for you.β He says, voice hard as he stares at me for a brief second. I barely even feel anything when he says that because I genuinely donβt care anymore, I just want to get the hel out of this house and never return. I donβt even care about the rest of my things which I am yet to pack, I just want to turn my back on this horrible life already. I hear Eva sniggers. Adam seems like he wants to say something to me but then he decides against it and turns to his mother instead. βMum, please return the bracelet to her.β She snorts and shakes her head stubbornly, βI am not letting her leave with it.β Adam grunts, a sign that he is slowly losing his patience, β I have never seen that bracelet mother, it belongs to Aria. Please, give it back.β Adamβs mother doesnβt immediately move to do as she is told but the moment she does, it is with an annoyed huff as she tosses the bracelet at me. I catch it in my palms while she heads back to sit in the same position as earlier when I first walked into the living room. I fall to my knees by the mess the maids made out of my clothes and then I begin to arrange them again, rushing through the process so I can get out of here fast to stop the repeated sting of humiliation. Adam standing there and just watching me clean up his motherβs mess without as much as an apology from either of them only adds to the rising level of humiliation. Once done, I stand and face Adam squarely, taking in the same clothes he wore to the cemetery earlier and getting reminded of all the reasons why I am making the best decision of my life. βAs I said before, it is over between us. The divorce papers and my resignation letter will find their way to you soon.β I say, ignoring the way his face twisted, βGoodbye, Adam.β I turn around before I can even hear his response. I donβt want to look at Adam, not anymore. I walk away from him, going straight for the door and turning its knob for what I hope is the very last time. I have barely taken a step outside the door when Adamβs strong hand grabs my upper arm and twists me around to look at him. I have worked with him for seven years, four of which I was just his secretary and that was enough for me to know the kind of man Adam Miller is. He is usually composed with a blank expression that shows how in control he is. Right now, Adam is neither composed nor in control. He seems like he has lost grip of it and the meaning of those words donβt even matter to him anymore as he holds my arm in a tight grip. I struggle to break free of his hold. βLet me go.β I snap at him but Adam only narrows his eyes at me, his anger burning past his blue eyes. βYou canβt just leave, Aria.β He growls. βYou canβt tell me what to do, Adam. At least not anymore. Let me go!β βDoes this even make any sense to you!β He yells in my face as he lets go of my hand to run his hand through his hair, β You canβt just spring this kind of shet on me.β βItβs not springing if we have both had it coming from the very moment we shared our vows which you have already broken. We both know this marriage should have never happened so cut the crap and let me leave.β I say, practically fuming before turning around in another attempt to leave. βWhat about grandfather? You are taking such a big step without talking to the old man who set it all up anyway. The man who has been nothing but good to you.β I turn back to face Adam, hating his attempt at making me feel guilty. My thoughts go to his grandfather momentarily and I try to imagine the old manβs reaction to me filing for a divorce when he cares about me so much. However, I donβt waver. I refuse to let those thoughts come between me and my freedom. I refuse to put the wish of another over my own happiness. βI will talk to grandfather. Believe me, you have nothing to worry about.β I say and make another attempt to leave but of course, Adam doesnβt give up as he speaks again. βI wonβt sign it Aria, I wonβt sign the goddamm papers!β βWhat the hel is wrong with you?β I yell out my frustration, βWhy wonβt you just let me go?β He stares me down, eyes burning stubbornly, βI wonβt sign the papers and I wonβt accept your resignation either. The company has rules you have to follow and you canβt just decide to resign without prior notice especially when there is a lot of work at the office which I pay you to do!β I scoff, unable to believe his nerve. Unable to get over his selfish thinking and absolute lack of remorse for the things he has done. βYou have Sophia, donβt you?β I shoot at him and his brows furrow. βWhat does that even mean?β βEveryone adores Sophia. She is smart, beautiful and can get your work done for you and oh, donβt forget the fact that she is also pre9nant with your child! How perfect is that?β Adamβs mother springs up, surprise evident in her features. Clearly, she is just learning about her coming grandson. βAdam, is what she says true? You have a child on the way?β Eva asked excitedly. Adamβs expression donβt give anything away and he doesnβt even spare his mother or sister a glance. He is still looking straight at me. βAria, what happened between Sophia and I wasnβt intentional, it justββ βDonβt you dare make excuses for her! Who cares what she thinks? Sophia is who you have always deserved. The only woman who actually deserves to be my daughter-in-law.β Adamβs mother cut in while making sure to give me a nasty look that doesnβt even surprise me anymore. I shrug at Adam, a way to show him that I was right. Everyone wants Sophia, including him and he canβt even bring himself to deny it. He continues to ignore his mother. βAria, it was an accident.β He says again and I nod, like I am agreeing to his words. βThree years ago, you didnβt think the same way. You didnβt think you accidentally slept with me but instead believed I had gone as far as dru9ging you to sleep with you. What changed, Adam? Because all I see right now is a bloody hypocrite and a coward who would rather blame others for his mistakes.β When I turn my back to him this time, I donβt stop walking. I donβt turn around. βAria! Aria, get back here while I am still being nice. Aria, I swear to God if you walk out that door, I wonβt take you back even if you go on your knees. You need me, Aria. You canβt survive without me!β Adam yells after me but I donβt stop walking as his arrogant words only fueled my desire to get away from him as fast as I can. I block out the rest of his words as I open the door and welcome my peace and freedom. I am never going back to that sad reality. | Read freely | 18 | https://facebook.com/61557986570531 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716534000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879751 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410718 | 1723321855 | 995 | 1647538179348259 | 2 | 9.748784076486E+14 | 1716620400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 250753834794512 | 0 | Read freely | 120211565986950196 | redtgb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | β€οΈπWhat happens nextπClick Here to read onπ | https://redtgb.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=11204&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1714661788 | 2.5075383479451E+14 | Read freely | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441255115_1177880883571742_5075201022874715379_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=lqVPf_9YhC8Q7kNvgE4Fc9J&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYB3a2XBY2D07vo6RW7haoBeWxXXT0Ek9W736f-GS_RPGg&oe=66729CF3 | person_profile | 0 | Read freely | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441055224_676099334622461_3142011906559831658_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=O7GQ8aQRSUAQ7kNvgFiePIh&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDkKJnM5mjBlemqtMjVzrkcIdDh62yC7XlsEmD3F_NPJw&oe=6672AB39 | 0 | 3 | My husband and boss Adam, is laughing at every joke that leaves the lips of his first love while I watch them through the glass doors that separates his office from mine. I had been dutifully preparing some documents that needed his signature and also setting up his meetings for the day like I have done for 7 years as his secretary but since Sophiaβs arrival, I have been unable to get any work done. I feel a pang in my chast every time Adam laughs, almost tearing up at the thought that he has never laughed like that around me. I stare at her slender frame, her lush black hair that bounces back into place even when she throws her head back in laughter and the grace in every of her movements. Sophia is an epitome of feminine grace and every of her features is proof of why Adam has been hung up over her even though they separated years ago. Even though he married me. The dark binds of his office are brought down abruptly, blocking my view of them both and now all I can see is black. It is as if Adam is trying to prevent me from prying even though I am his wife and privacy shouldnβt be a thing between us, especially when it comes to a woman he used to love so much. I still remember how shocked I was when she walked up to me earlier, heels clicking ever so sophisticatedly on the office tiles. I saw the feet cladded in shiny red heels before I raised my head to look at her. βAria, I didnβt know you still worked here! I canβt believe Adam is still making you work even after you both got married. That man is something, isnβt he?β She said, smiling sweetly with blood red lips that would look horrifying on me if I dared to try that shade of lipstick. I couldnβt speak, caught in the shock of staring face to face with her after all these years, especially as she still had the same aura of wealth and confidence that I have always known her to possess. For a split second, she made me feel insecure in my gray office wear and my tight bun hair and the fact that I wore little to no makeup. βSophia!β Adamβs voice was what broke me out of that trance I was stuck in as he stepped out of his office and there, right in front of me, he hugged her ever so tightly like an old time friend before he led her back into his office without sparing me as little as a glance. Now, they are alone together in his office, the blinds of his office pulled shut so that I canβt see them but can only hear their muffled voices and his own laughter every now and then. I squirm in my seat uncomfortably each time they laugh, gripping the edges of my table tightly and too destabilized to get any work done while they are both holed up in there. I stare at the calendar on my table. Todayβs date is marked with a red marker and I sigh deeply. Does he even know today is our third wedding anniversary? Every year, it seems like I am the only one who remembers it and now with Sophiaβs appearance, I can already tell that today will pass by like itβs just another day. I knew she was coming today. Being his secretary is the only reason why I knew the things Adam would rather keep from me. He already briefed me about a new business partner that just returned to the country two months ago and will be at the office at any time. What I didnβt know or should I say, what he purposely kept from me was that the so-called business partner was Sophia Bradley and perhaps the reason why he has been more cold and indifferent than usual, ever since her return. My heart aches at the realization but it aches even more because there is nothing I can do about it. I have never had a place in Adamβs heart but he has been the only one in mine. I loved him from the very moment he saved my life years ago but I can say the same for him. He always reminds me even without speaking, that our marriage is nothing but an attempt at fulfilling his grandfatherβs wishes and I knew if he had gotten his way, he would have never looked at me twice, not to talk of getting married to me. Grandfatherβs love for me is perhaps the only reason I am still sane in this loveless marriage. The old man never ceases to show how much he cherishes me but when has that ever been enough? I am married to Adam and not his family. The clock ticks endlessly, yet Adam remains in there with her. Their laughter dies down all of a sudden and I can barely hear a word they are saying. Unable to hold back anymore, I stand before the restlessness kil ls me. I am his wife and I deserve to know what is going on. To look natural, I quickly make two cups of coffee. After all, I am his secretary and this is a part of my job. Nervous sweat breaks out on my forehead as I make my way to his office with unsure steps. Inhaling sharply, I open the door and step in. My heart clenches at the sight of them both, relaxed in each otherβs company as they sit so close to each other on one of the couches in his office. I swallow hard and try to walk over to the table with the best confidence I could muster. βI made coffee.β I say but they donβt even acknowledge my presence, lost in each other and whatever they were discussing. I study Sophia for a moment, watching as she twirls her cherry blonde hair with a finger while seated with one leg crossed over the other to reveal a prov0cative amount of thi9hs, smiling so brightly that I canβt tell if sheβs faking it. I want to turn around and leave but my feet fail to move. I canβt just leave like this. For how long will I keep quiet and svck it up? βSir,β I call, looking directly at Adam. We are married but he never fails to remind me that I address him as my boss at work. Adam doesnβt even make a move to look at me and anger rises inside of me, slowly boiling. βSir,β I call again and that is when he finally regards me with a cold look that almost deters me but I remain firm under his gaze. βThere is something I need to talk to you about, itβs important.β I lie right through my teeth. I can feel Sophiaβs gaze burning through me but I try not to look at her, for the fear that my confidence would slip away if I do. Adam just waves me off. βIt can wait. As you can see, I have a guest.β βIt canβt wait.β I say, even more firmly but he is already back to smiling and listening to Sophia speak like a lovesick teenage boy. I call him a few more times and unable to hold back any longer, I call him by his name instead. βAdam!β They both look up at me with a mix of expressions. That of Adam is pure anger while Sophia is obviously irritated. I know she has never liked me and back when I was just his secretary and she was his girlfriend, she complained about every single thing I did. βAdam, what is this? Is this how you let your employees disrespect you?β She says it with absolute disgust and disrespect. I am stunned at her words, so stunned that I scoff. Employee? She dares to talk down on me like that even when she knows fully well that I am not just an employee. Adam stands, his tall frame causing his shadow to sweep over me while I grip the tray of coffee tightly in my hands. βAria, out. Now.β He commands and I am filled with so much hurt that my hands shake and my lips quiver. βWhy should I? I have every reason to be in this room and I have every right to speak for you to listen to me.β Sophia stands at once. βIt seems as though your wife has a bone to pick with me and I will not sit here and take such insults.β She begins to walk away and of course, Adam follows her. I try to move out of her way but my attempt fails when her shoulder heavily bumps into mine in a way that is too fierce to be considered unintentional. I lose grip of the tray and stagger forward and just like that, the hot coffee spills all over her very expensive looking dress and mine. She shrieks, backing away from me only to glare at me the next second. βWhat the hel is wrong with you?β She yells. Adam rushes to her side in less than a minute, fussing over her stained dress and even offering her his handkerchief while I stand there, drenched in coffee as my husband takes care of another woman. I feel the tears prickling at the corner of my eyes but what does crying in front of this woman make me? βI canβt believe you! What did I ever do to you? Go ahead and dislike me all you want but there is a limit to how far you can go and you just crossed that.β She says again, seething in uncontained anger. Adam turns to me, eyes dark with rage. It makes me shiver. Makes me feel unimaginable pain to know he is mad at me because of another woman. βApologise right now!β He commands and I scoff. How can he stand there and take her side when I did nothing wrong? βWhy should I do that? I have done nothing wrong. She bumped into me!β I defend myself, my voice breaking. Lips quivering. βI did no such thing!β Sophia says defensively but her eyes tell a different story. βYou heard me, Aria. Apologize to her right now.β Adam says again, still intently looking at me. I almost laugh at the fact that the only time he is looking me directly in the eyes after three years of marriage is when another woman is involved. I shake my head, finding all of this hard to believe. βSo you believe her over me? You take her words for it but mine does not matter? I am your wife.β βA wife I never wanted to marry!β He yells back and shatters what is left of my broken heart. Chapter 2 I am speechless for the next few seconds as his words hit me like a freight train. I wait. I wait for his hard eyes to soften with remorse at the harsh words he threw at me but that doesnβt happen. He is glowering at me, nose flaring angrily. βAdam, howβ¦how could you say that to me?β I say, my eyes crossing over to Sophia who is now hiding her own frame behind his tall, muscular one, βIn front of her?β βBecause itβs the truth!β He yells again, startling me into making a small helpless sound. Adam has never yelled at me. And even though it hurts me to admit that he is truly saying the truth, he has never said it to my face and I never really thought he would. I have always known it yet it hurts to hear it come from him. It feels like a thousand needles are pricking my heart and making me bleed out with so much pain. He runs his fingers through his hair, seeming frustrated. Like he would rather not have this conversation with me. And just when I think it is over, he continues to speak, breaking me even further. βYou were nothing but a mere secretary who wormed her way into my life. If you hadnβt forced yourself on me that night, none of this would have happened! This marriage would have never happened and you know it.β He brings up the past. Our past. The night that meant everything to me but clearly means nothing to him. I swallow over and over again till my throat and mouth become dry. I canβt cry. No, I canβt appear weak. Not in front of Adam and definitely not in front of Sophia so I keep my tears at bay, urging them to return before they spill down my cheeks. βI never forced myself on you, Adam. Why wonβt you believe me?β I manage to say but he raises a hand to tell me to stop talking and I clamp my lips shut. βDo not stand there and try to look innocent, Aria because that is far from who you are. I simply said the truth and I do not care if you cannot take it.β He says and stares at me intently. βDo not let what happened today repeat itself again. Know your place and I will not have any reason to talk to you like this. Do you understand?β He lays emphasis on every word of warning he is giving me and turns his back against me before I can even open my mouth to speak again. βAre you okay?β I canβt believe how his voice goes from hard to soft in the next second as he fusses over Sophia. Sophia makes a face that has me balling my fingers into a fist. A face that clearly says she is not okay. βThe coffee was hot and I think I might have to visit the hospital to prevent the burn from leaving a scar.β She says in a quiet voice. I look down at my own body that is also drenched in the same coffee. The coffee wasnβt hot enough to cause a burn but Adam believes her instantly. He pulls her into a hug and embarrassment washes over me like a bucket of ice. βIβll drive. Wait here, I will get my keys.β he says as he pulls away, rushing to his office table to grab his car keys before coming back to her side. He takes her purse from her and leads her out. They both seem so lost in each other that they forget my existence totally, leaving me to stand alone in the middle of the room. Silence falls over me and I am left with my thoughts, licking the wound that his words caused. I have never been able to convince Adam that I didnβt force myself on him yet till this very day, he still believes I drugged him into sleeping with him on the night we were having dinner with his family three years ago. I can never forget the pure look of disgust and shock on his face when we both woke up in each otherβs arms the next morning. I knew since then that Adam would never love me, yet I was hopeful. As the years go by, the hope keeps dwindling with his grandfather, being the only support system in everything. Sighing, I return to my office and pick up my phone. My eyes widens when I see that a number has called my phone repeatedly all the time I was in Adamβs office. The dread that fills me stems from the fact that I recognise the number as the hospitalβs number. I call back instantly, my heart racing. They pick up on the second ring. βMrs Miller, we have been trying to reach you all afternoon!β A female voice says. βWhy? Is something wrong? Is my grandmother okay?β I ask, rushing my words as I am filled with dread and panic. βYou need to be at the hospital, your grandmotherββ I donβt wait to hear the rest of her words. I race out of the room and call on a taxi to drive me to the hospital. I go straight to her hospital room but the sheets and blankets are already being neatly arranged and the bed is empty. More panic. More dread. βWhere is my grandmother?β I ask, βWhere is she?β The nurse cleaning the room gives me a look of pity that nauseates me. βI am sorry, Mrs Miller but your grandmother died ten minutes ago and has been moved to the hospitalβs mortuary. I am sorry.β She says. The world around me stops and I donβt know how I am able to walk on my two feet to the mortuary where the Nurse leads me. She stops at the door and points to my grandmother laying on a table in the room, her body covered in a white sheet from head to toe. I walk to the bedside with shaky legs and the moment I take the sheet off and set my eyes on her pale face, I burst out into a loud sob, wishing I could go back to a month ago so I can prevent that accident that made her this way. The accident that took my only living family away from me. βGrandmaβ¦β I call in a broken voice as I reach for her hand. They are too cold, so lifeless and the tears begin to leave my eyes in torrents as I remember how warm these hands used to be when they held my face. βIβm sorryβ¦Iβm so sorry.β I cry, holding tightly unto her and hating myself for not being there in her last moments. I should have been there with her but I was too busy worrying about my place in my husbandβs life. The nurse comes into the room and says, βShe asked us to give you this.β I wipe my tears, sniffling as I take what seems to be a key chain from her. I couldnβt think of a reason why grandmotherβs parting gift to me would be a key chain but I canβt seem to care. Her cold hands slammed me into the reality of what had happened. Grandmother is dead. I fall to my knees by the bed and weep, muttering and calling for her to return to me. βAria.β Adamβs voice calls from behind me. I am both surprised and relieved to find him there. He must have been contacted by the hospital as well and stopped by since he already came here with Sophia anyway. Sophia is standing in the room with us but I ignore her. I focus on Adam because I need him. I need someone to hold me and tell me everything will be fine. βAdam.β I cry as I walk over to him and hug him without a second thought, my tears gathering and falling again. His body stiffens at my touch but I donβt let go. I need his warmth. I need him because he is really all that I have left and I canβt bear to lose him too. I expect him to push me away but he doesnβt. He doesnβt hug me back too but I canβt find it in me to care as I sob uncontrollably. My tears subside and I sniffle repeatedly and slowly let go of him. He clears his throat and takes out his phone, saying; βIβll place a call to start making preparations for her funeral.β He turns around to leave with Sophia also following him but I canβt bear the sight of him turning his back to me and leaving. I grab his hand. βStay.β I sound so weak and helpless but I do not give a damm, βPlease, donβt go. Stay with me.β I beg. Adam opens his mouth to say something but a sharp cry stuns us both. We spin around at the same time to the source of the cry and she is crouching, holding her stomach with an expression of pain. Adam rushes to Sophiaβs side in a heartbeat and my heart sinks further down my stomach. βSophia, are you okay?β He asks with concern ringing high in his voice. She shakes her head, βThere is something Iβve been wanting to tell you but didnβt know how.β She says, holding her stomach as she looks directly at me. βWhat is it?β Adam asks, still very much concerned. βAdamβ¦Iβ¦I am pre9nant.β Chapter 3 Grandmotherβs funeral is being held on a gloomy day, much to my displeasure. I listened to the weather forecast so I could choose the perfect day for the funeral, and according to the forecast, the day is supposed to be sunny and bright just like Grandmother. I feel duped standing by grandmotherβs grave with the sky covered in clouds that only worsen the dark and depressing feeling that has settled in my guts since her death. I have cried so much that I have no tears left to shed at grandmotherβs grave and now have to wear dark sunglasses to hide how red and puffy my eyes are rather than to complement my black dress. There are a few people hanging around the other graves in the cemetery to pay their last respects to their loved ones and at each grave, there are at least two people; couples holding each other, families comforting each other and even church processions. I am alone, with no one to comfort me since no one else bothered to attend my grandmother's funeral. With her gone, I realize how lonely I actually am and the thought deals another blow to my already damaged heart. I try hard to get the heartbreaking events of the past few days off my mind and when I finally succeed, I turn my focus back to my grandmother. Sheβs smiling in the framed picture placed by her tombstone and I force a smile as well as a fond memory of her slips into my mind. βAria, my child, you canβt frown like that everytime or youβll get wrinkles like me before you are even my age!β She would say and then go ahead to spread my lips into a smile with her fingers. Grandmother was a cheerful soul who would tell me stories, mostly the ones about my birth and how she knew from the very first day that she set her eyes on me that I was going to be a really beautiful and amazing child. I shared everything with her and talking to her about my marriage was one of the things that made it bearable. I donβt know what Iβd do without Grandmother. Tears start to gather in my eyes again and I take off the sunglasses to wipe them off before they start to fall. I already promised myself not to cry anymore; Grandmother wouldnβt want that. Sniffling, I begin to place the things I brought with me by her grave; Tulips, which were her favorite flowers; Peaches, her favorite fruit and finally some sweets because grandmother had a really sweet tooth and never listened to me whenever I told her they were bad for her age. βThere are no sweets in heaven, Aria. Itβs only right that I take as much as I can down here before the big guy calls me up there.β She would say at the same she unwraps another candy and tosses it into her mouth. She would talk on and on about βThe big guyβ and βUp thereβ like she was always prepared for the day she would die. I canβt help it anymore, I burst into tears, falling on my knees by her grave as it dawns on me fully that she is really gone. βI should have let you have all the candies in the world. I should have been there with you at your dying moment. I should have held your hands and told you itβs gonna be okay. Iββ My voice breaks, the deep regret and tears choking me and making me lose my train of thoughts. I canβt think of a thing to say anymore and so I just cry, sobbing so hard my body shakes. I hear confident footsteps approaching me and feel a presence behind me that causes my sobs to come to a pause. My heart races and hope swells inside of me when the person puts a hand on my shoulder. I whip my head around, expecting to see Adam but my hope quickly shatters when I see that it is Adam uncle, Regis. βRegis.β I say, sniffing and wiping my tears in a rush. βHere,β He hands me his handkerchief, stuffing it in my hand and closing my palm around it before I can even refuse. I say a barely audible thank you before I dab at the tears with the hanky that smelt like him. βI came as soon as I heard, Iβm sorry about your Grandmother, Aria.β He says in a sincere and kind voice. Regis has always been kind to me even when I was just a secretary. Whenever he came to visit his nephew at the office, he would stop to say hi and hand me a canned coffee with a smile on his face. However, he left the country to study a few days before our wedding and only returned not too long ago. This is the first time seeing him since his return and the kind look in his eyes assures me that if he had been around, I would have had another person rooting for me just like Adamβs grandfather. βYou didnβt have to.β I say quietly, trying to downplay how much it actually means to me that at least, one person cares enough to be here with me. Regis looks around as if searching for something and then he frowns when our eyes meet again. βYouβre alone? Where the hel is Adam?β He asks, his voice a little hard. My cheeks redden in embarrassment. Regis has only just returned and probably doesnβt know anything yet. I am not willing to talk either. I force a smile and begin to pack the excess things I bought for my grandmother's funeral. Regis joins me wordlessly and I sigh in silent appreciation of how he doesnβt ask anymore questions. He takes everything from my hands even before I can protest. βDid you drive here?β He asks and I shake my head. I came here in a Taxi. βCβmon, weβll take my car.β He says and walks in front of me. I have no choice but to follow him. We have just gotten outside of the cemetery when a car drives into the parking space right beside Regisβ car. The car is familiar and I keep doubting who it belongs to until Adam steps out of the car, eyes trained on me as he walks over. The first thing I notice is his Royal Blue suit and I feel the slow brewing of anger inside of me. How could he show up wearing that? It is like a blatant disrespect of my Grandmother and I canβt stand to watch her get disrespected even in her death. It is clear that he came from the office; little surprise there and it would have been better if he didnβt come at all as I now realize how looking at him only infuriates me. He had managed to avoid me in the past three days since the hospital incident. Three days since Sophia announced that she was pre9nant and shook my world. I didnβt need anyone to tell me who the baby belonged to as he walks towards me now, I feel nothing but resentment for him. βIs it over? Crap, I must have lost track of time.β He says before turning to his uncle and giving him a tight smile of appreciation that I find nauseating. βThank you for being here with her, uncle.β Regis merely crosses his arms, staring back at his nephew, βCare to explain why you are only just coming?β Regis thows the question at him and I face Adam too, crossing my arms. βYes, Adam. Tell me what was more important than being at my grandmotherβs funeral.β I already know the answer but I still wait to hear him say it so I can have a reason to hate him even more. βI really wanted to be here, Aria but you knowβ¦β He trails off, running a hand through his hair, βI had to be with Sophia.β The sound of her name is what does it for me; the same woman who is the reason I wasnβt around to witness grandmotherβs dying moments. βDid you really come all the way here to tell me you were with another woman you slept with and impregnated?β βWhat?β Regis is the one who speaks, his voice echoing his shock as he looks from me to Adam. Adamβs usual blank look remains as if he is unaffected by my words and the pain he has caused me. βLetβs not do this here, Aria. You know I canβt just leave her.β I scoff. βI never stopped you. You know what? You should have never come here. You should have stayed with her since that is where your loyalties lie now and I am no longer in the picture.β Adam frowns, moving closer and intimidating me just a little with his height and muscular frame, βWhat does that mean? You are my wife.β βEx-wife,β I say the words without even thinking. I didnβt think any of this through but I donβt care because my entire being seems to agree that this is whatβs best for me, βI want a divorce, Adam.β His eyes grow wide, unable to contain the shock at my words and I am proud of myself that I finally got a reaction that isnβt anger or coldness from him. βBoth the divorce papers and my resignation will find their way to you soon.β I add before he can get over his shock and I donβt wait for him to reply as I turn to an equally stunned Regis. βTake me home, Regis.β Chapter 4 Adamβs POV I want a divorce. The words circle around my head non-stop. Of all the shets I have had the pleasure of hearingβand trust me, I hear a lot of crap as a CEOβAria asking for a divorce out of nowhere has to be the worst. I am a man who takes pride in my strength and ability to handle situations no matter how unexpected they are. It comes with the job, yet for some reason, I am unable to utter a single word or move my feet until she gets into the car with my uncle. When I finally come to my senses, she is long gone, leaving me to drown in the pool of shock she created. I am shocked at her audacity; the way she looked me in the eyes as she hit me with those words. Ariaβs cold hazel eyes totally betrayed the meek and timid trait that I have only ever known her for. I am equally shocked at myself for actually being affected by it when I shouldn't have batted an eyelash, after all, I never wanted to marry her. The three years of living with Aria felt like I was in bonda9e created by her own deceit and my grandfatherβs overbearing attitude. I never cared about Aria yet the sound of divorce numbed me completely that I am unable to think straight until the door to my car opens and reminds me that I am still standing still in front of the cemetery. My personal assistant steps out of the car and speaks. βSir, your appointment with the Taylor Enterprises is thirty minutes from now. Itβs more than an hourβs drive from here, we should leave now ifββ βCancel it,β I say, heading back to the car, not quite in the right mind to process anything, not even a meeting whose outcome was worth millions of dollars. My assistant follows behind me in a hurry, obviously confused. βBut sir, that isnβt the only appointment for the day. You also haveβ¦β He starts to read out my packed schedule for the day as I finally get into the car. βCancel them all!β I say, settling into the leather seats of the car and loosening my tie at the same time as it feels like I am slowly losing the ability to breathe, βGet in and turn the dann AC on.β I command him, unable to prevent my anger and irritation from reflecting in my voice. Finally noticing the negative emotions rolling out of me in waves, he mutters his response before getting into the driverβs seat and pulling the car out of the cemeteryβs parking lot. We get to the highway, air is emitting from not only the AC in the car yet I feel heat rising from inside of me and not even loosening a few buttons on my shirt helped. All I can think about is Aria and the dammed divorce. My shock is long gone and I am now stewing in nothing but anger, bordering on rage. Who the hel does she think she is? What gives her the boldness to think she makes the call for divorce? If anyone should be asking for a divorce, It should be me. I am the one who married her against my will. Sheβs the one who found me so irresistible that she went as far as dru9ging me just to have me. If anyone deserves to slam divorce papers in her face, it is me but the thought never crossed my mind. Sheβs a good secretary, dutiful, efficient and always at my beck and call. She also doubles as a good wife, never getting in my way or needy for attention. Aria takes whatever I give her; the little time, the irregular sax and the little communication, all that I deemed appropriate for our kind of relationship. The sudden switch has me racking my brain, thinking of different possibilities and all the things that could have gone wrong. A thought crosses my mind and it intensifies my anger in a way that I canβt even understand. βFind out if Aria has been meeting anyone lately. Men in particular.β I say. My assistant meets my eyes through the rearview mirror. His eyes fail to hide his surprise that I am asking him to look into my wife and the possibility that sheβs been seeing other men. I canβt rule out all the possibilities and if Aria has really been cheating on me, I swear to Godβ My phone vibrates beside me on the leather seats. Sophiaβs name pops up on the screen in a message notification. Sheβs asking me when next I would be available for an appointment at the doctorβs office. Seeing Sophiaβs message douses my anger but leaves me with a far more disturbing emotion. I thought of all the reasons why my quiet wife is suddenly asking for a divorce but it never crossed my mind that impregnating the woman I once loved could be the reason. I think back to that day two months ago when yet again, I let drinking lead me into making the worst decisions. All I had to do was pick Sophia up at the airport, drive her to her hotel and return home. Instead, I took the invite to have a drink in her hotel room; for old timeβs sake, she called it. We did more than just have a drink that night and the outcome is the baby growing inside of Sophia. I canβt call it a mistake yet deep down, I know it should have never happened. I should have never let myself get tempted by the thought of how being inside of Sophia will feel after three years. I want the child. Itβs my baby and I donβt plan on losing it but it comes at a price that I never thought would be a problem which is the divorce with Aria. I canβt let Aria divorce me. I need her. At the office and in my home. Sheβs been my secretary for seven years and no one can do her job like her. I also pay her well and make sure she doesnβt need anything as my wife. How does she plan to survive without me anyway? Does she think that by asking for divorce, she has put herself on a higher level than me? What game is she playing with me now? Ha! Women thinking that they can live without a man and his support. As I think deeply about these things, I also think of a way to remedy them. I just need to do something to appeal to her. βWhat do women like?β I asked my assistant. He hesitates at first, surprised by the sudden question before he clears his throat and answers, βErm, designer bags I guess and oh, flowers.β I am already scrolling through an online store on my phone, clicking away at every expensive bag that catches my eyes until I have already ordered a number to last her an entire year. Then we make a stop at the flower shop on the way home. Turns out there are more than a hundred thousand flowers and I canβt even decide which one to get for Aria because apparently, women have favorites when it comes to things as trivial as flowers as well. In the end, I pick Lilies because the attendant at the flowershop claims itβs most womenβs favorite. I head home after that with only one single thought at the back of my mind; I wonβt let Aria divorce me. Chapter 5 Iβm thankful that Regis doesnβt ask any questions as he drives me back home. He offers to drive me into the compound but I turn him down and wait till he drives off before I sigh and walk into the house. The house is brimming with maids who rush over to me the instant they hear the door open but I raise a hand to stop them all from coming close to me. I am no longer the mistress of the house. I walk past them all to get to my room. Adam and I only share a room when he is looking to satisfy his saxual urges. He crawls into my bed and peppers kisses all over my body till I give in and that is the only time I ever feel wanted by him. As I walk into the room, I refrain from staring at the bed for longer than I should, afraid that the memories of us tangled up in sheets with him buried deep inside of me will break my resolve. And right now, I have only one resolveβto leave Adam for good. I begin to pack while that resolve is still strong, not even stopping for one moment to think about the fact that I have nowhere to go. I canβt bear to stay one more day under the same roof with Adam, knowing how deeply his betrayal cut. I only pack a few things that are important, assuring myself that I will come back for the rest of my things later when the divorce is finalized. I am only halfway through packing when I hear the sound of a familiar voice that never fails to send chills down my spine and even right this moment, I can already feel the chilling crawl of dread and it makes me stop packing immediately. Adamβs mother, Elodie and his sister Eva are here. I exhale sharply, trying to keep my breathing under control and to also keep the terrible memories of them from flushing into the forefront of my mind. A few more deep exhales and I finally get a hold of myself, resuming packing my things. Once I finish packing, I haul the heavy suitcase out of the room and walk into the living room where Elodie and Eva are seated on one of the couches, legs crossed over one another like they owned the place. Elodie has her signature scowl on her face that doesnβt fade even when I bow to greet her. βWhy are you here?β Elodie asks, standing. I am confused by her question and my inability to give an answer makes her scoff, her face contorting into the ugliest form annoyance can take. βI almost forgot how dumb you are.β Elodie says again. Dumb. Her favorite word to throw at me the way she pleases and of course, it doesnβt hurt less today. In fact, it is even more painful now that I realize that besides having to live with Adamβs indifference, I have also had to deal with his motherβs hatred and utter disrespect for me and all along, my response has either been silence or an apology that she never deserved. βWhy are you here instead of the office, huh?β She sneers and continues, βMy son works tirelessly day and night just to make money for someone like you to leech off him, all he asks of you is to do your job as his secretary and yet you canβt even do that one thing? Do you think you are entitled to his money just because you are his wife?β Her words are like hard blows to the chast, every single word that strung her sentences together hitting nerves and breaking right through them. I feel something rising inside of me. It has always been there but I have always managed to control it. To top it all, Eva, Adamβs snobbish sister had to chip in, βSheβs a trickster who duped my poor innocent brother and I wonder why isnβt she at the office! Such a lazy bumm! I donβt even know how Grandpa accepted such a penniless betch to be part of our elite family!β βI had to be at my grandmotherβs funeral.β I respond simply, hoping the scowl on her face will disappear but it gets even more profound and she adds a scoff for good measure. Did Elodie and Eva not know that my grandmother died? βIs she dead for real? Or is it just an act?!β Eva has the guts to ask me and I glare at her. Elodie continues, βOf course, thatβs your excuse for being a lazy gold digger. Tell me, did that grandmother of yours teach you to go after other peopleβs money instead of working for your own?β That very thing that has been rising inside me since I saw Adamβs mother reaches its peak. Itβs anger. It is red, pure and fiery and controls my whole being that I can not even bring myself to care about anything other than keeping my grandmotherβs name from being soiled. βDo not talk about my grandmother like that!β I yell and she jumps slightly, startled by my outburst. βDid you just yell at me?β she says, taking a step forward but I donβt flinch as I stare back into her eyes. Eva approaches me and she lashes out, βDid you just shout at my mother?!!!β Eva has always tried to demean me and every possible way at every chance presented to her. She grabs my arm, presses it harshly, making me wince in pain. Elodie smiles and as usually, she is greatly entertained. I push Eva with the other hand and she tumbles on the sofa. She remains shocked for I have always allowed them to bully me and this time, I retaliate. βDid you forget your place? You are nothing but aββ βGold digger who married your son for his money, yes, I get it!β I snap at her, having had enough of the name calling every damm time, βBut you donβt have to worry about that anymore because I already filed for a divorce. I am leaving your son so you can go ahead and swallow all of his money for all I care.β I turn around to leave, huffing as I drag the heavy suitcase with me but then Elodie clamps her hand down on the suitcase to stop me. She looks at the suitcase in amusement. βYou are really leaving!β Elodie canβt even hide the joy in her tone. βYes, so please just stop and let me go.β She shakes her head, βNot so fast! You canβt just leave.β And then she signals to two of the maids who have been standing, watching the whole exchange. βSearch her!β She orders when they come forward. They hesitate and she glares at them. βDid you not hear her? She is no longer the mistress of the house. Search her right now.β I am too stunned to react when the maids finally snatch my suitcase from me. Eva tries to hold me preventing me from snatching back my bag from the maids. βWhat do you think youβre doing?β I say, my voice shaky. βI canβt just let you leave. Who knows what valuables you have stolen from my son inside that germ ridden bag of yours.β My mouth opens and closes several times at her words as I canβt even come up with a single string of sentences to say to her. I just watch as my things come tumbling to the ground in the rough search. Tears of humiliation burned at the back of my eyes. I donβt struggle any more from Evaβs grip and she stares at me triumphantly. βWhat is that? Hand it over.β Adamβs mother says when one of the maids found a gold bracelet I had lodged into my case. Grandmotherβs bracelet, the only thing I have left of her. βNo!β I rush forward to stop her from handing it over but I am too late. Adamβs mother is already holding and inspecting the bracelet. βOh, wow! Mom, you finally found something she stole from Adam!β Eva exclaimed enthusiastically. Upon saying those words, she drags me and throws me onto the marble. I hit my nose. As I touch it, blood is coming out. I wipe it quickly and spring up to my feet. βI knew it! You took something. Did my son buy this for you? What gives you the right to think you can walk away with something he got for you after filing for a divorce?β Elodie snaps. βThat doesnβt belong to your son! It is mine and I will appreciate it if you give it back.β She does the exact opposite and only continues to accuse me of being a thief until the door opens and Adam walks in. I donβt feel relief at his presence like I usually do when his mother treats me this way, instead, I feel nothing but resentment for him. I want to scream how much I hate him to his face. His face twists into confusion when he sees the situation. βWhat is going on here?β He asks, walking further into the house and looking from his mother to me. βThank goodness you arrived, son. This leech was about to leave with something that clearly doesnβt belong to her.β His mother responds. βAnd she hit me!!!β Eva adds, almost in tears, complaining to Adam. This time, Adam is too shocked to ask me why I hit his dear sister. I thought,as he did in the past, he would force me to apologize, but this time, he did nothing. I wonder why. My eyes are starting to water for some reason and I am confused as to why Adamβs appearance suddenly triggered them yet I smile through the tears. βAdam, will you please tell your mother that I have never gotten a gift from you?β Adam falters, seemingly speechless for a second as he stares at his hands. I also look down at his hands and I finally understand why my eyes sting with tears and why I am sniffling in preparation of a sneeze that rocks my entire body. Lilies. I am all ergic to them. Despite the tears rolling down my cheeks, I start to laugh. I laugh so hard, ignoring the burning gazes of everyone present in the room who probably think I have gone crazy. I sneeze in between laughs, yet I donβt stop laughing as I turn to Adamβs mother. βI have been married to your son for three years and he doesnβt even know I am all ergic to lilies, yet you think he is capable of getting me a bracelet?β I shake my head at my sad reality. Chapter 6 Adam hands the flowers over to one of the maids, asking her to put it in a vase or whatever. He clears his throat, trying and failing miserably to hide his embarrassment in front of his mother, his sister and the maids. βThe flowers werenβt for you.β He says, voice hard as he stares at me for a brief second. I barely even feel anything when he says that because I genuinely donβt care anymore, I just want to get the hel out of this house and never return. I donβt even care about the rest of my things which I am yet to pack, I just want to turn my back on this horrible life already. I hear Eva sniggers. Adam seems like he wants to say something to me but then he decides against it and turns to his mother instead. βMum, please return the bracelet to her.β She snorts and shakes her head stubbornly, βI am not letting her leave with it.β Adam grunts, a sign that he is slowly losing his patience, β I have never seen that bracelet mother, it belongs to Aria. Please, give it back.β Adamβs mother doesnβt immediately move to do as she is told but the moment she does, it is with an annoyed huff as she tosses the bracelet at me. I catch it in my palms while she heads back to sit in the same position as earlier when I first walked into the living room. I fall to my knees by the mess the maids made out of my clothes and then I begin to arrange them again, rushing through the process so I can get out of here fast to stop the repeated sting of humiliation. Adam standing there and just watching me clean up his motherβs mess without as much as an apology from either of them only adds to the rising level of humiliation. Once done, I stand and face Adam squarely, taking in the same clothes he wore to the cemetery earlier and getting reminded of all the reasons why I am making the best decision of my life. βAs I said before, it is over between us. The divorce papers and my resignation letter will find their way to you soon.β I say, ignoring the way his face twisted, βGoodbye, Adam.β I turn around before I can even hear his response. I donβt want to look at Adam, not anymore. I walk away from him, going straight for the door and turning its knob for what I hope is the very last time. I have barely taken a step outside the door when Adamβs strong hand grabs my upper arm and twists me around to look at him. I have worked with him for seven years, four of which I was just his secretary and that was enough for me to know the kind of man Adam Miller is. He is usually composed with a blank expression that shows how in control he is. Right now, Adam is neither composed nor in control. He seems like he has lost grip of it and the meaning of those words donβt even matter to him anymore as he holds my arm in a tight grip. I struggle to break free of his hold. βLet me go.β I snap at him but Adam only narrows his eyes at me, his anger burning past his blue eyes. βYou canβt just leave, Aria.β He growls. βYou canβt tell me what to do, Adam. At least not anymore. Let me go!β βDoes this even make any sense to you!β He yells in my face as he lets go of my hand to run his hand through his hair, β You canβt just spring this kind of shet on me.β βItβs not springing if we have both had it coming from the very moment we shared our vows which you have already broken. We both know this marriage should have never happened so cut the crap and let me leave.β I say, practically fuming before turning around in another attempt to leave. βWhat about grandfather? You are taking such a big step without talking to the old man who set it all up anyway. The man who has been nothing but good to you.β I turn back to face Adam, hating his attempt at making me feel guilty. My thoughts go to his grandfather momentarily and I try to imagine the old manβs reaction to me filing for a divorce when he cares about me so much. However, I donβt waver. I refuse to let those thoughts come between me and my freedom. I refuse to put the wish of another over my own happiness. βI will talk to grandfather. Believe me, you have nothing to worry about.β I say and make another attempt to leave but of course, Adam doesnβt give up as he speaks again. βI wonβt sign it Aria, I wonβt sign the goddamm papers!β βWhat the hel is wrong with you?β I yell out my frustration, βWhy wonβt you just let me go?β He stares me down, eyes burning stubbornly, βI wonβt sign the papers and I wonβt accept your resignation either. The company has rules you have to follow and you canβt just decide to resign without prior notice especially when there is a lot of work at the office which I pay you to do!β I scoff, unable to believe his nerve. Unable to get over his selfish thinking and absolute lack of remorse for the things he has done. βYou have Sophia, donβt you?β I shoot at him and his brows furrow. βWhat does that even mean?β βEveryone adores Sophia. She is smart, beautiful and can get your work done for you and oh, donβt forget the fact that she is also pre9nant with your child! How perfect is that?β Adamβs mother springs up, surprise evident in her features. Clearly, she is just learning about her coming grandson. βAdam, is what she says true? You have a child on the way?β Eva asked excitedly. Adamβs expression donβt give anything away and he doesnβt even spare his mother or sister a glance. He is still looking straight at me. βAria, what happened between Sophia and I wasnβt intentional, it justββ βDonβt you dare make excuses for her! Who cares what she thinks? Sophia is who you have always deserved. The only woman who actually deserves to be my daughter-in-law.β Adamβs mother cut in while making sure to give me a nasty look that doesnβt even surprise me anymore. I shrug at Adam, a way to show him that I was right. Everyone wants Sophia, including him and he canβt even bring himself to deny it. He continues to ignore his mother. βAria, it was an accident.β He says again and I nod, like I am agreeing to his words. βThree years ago, you didnβt think the same way. You didnβt think you accidentally slept with me but instead believed I had gone as far as dru9ging you to sleep with you. What changed, Adam? Because all I see right now is a bloody hypocrite and a coward who would rather blame others for his mistakes.β When I turn my back to him this time, I donβt stop walking. I donβt turn around. βAria! Aria, get back here while I am still being nice. Aria, I swear to God if you walk out that door, I wonβt take you back even if you go on your knees. You need me, Aria. You canβt survive without me!β Adam yells after me but I donβt stop walking as his arrogant words only fueled my desire to get away from him as fast as I can. I block out the rest of his words as I open the door and welcome my peace and freedom. I am never going back to that sad reality. | Read freely | 18 | https://facebook.com/61557986570531 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716534000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879752 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410718 | 1723321855 | 995 | 1647538179348259 | 2 | 9.748784076486E+14 | 1716620400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 250753834794512 | 0 | Read freely | 120211565986950196 | redtgb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | β€οΈπWhat happens nextπClick Here to read onπ | https://redtgb.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=11204&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1714661788 | 2.5075383479451E+14 | Read freely | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441255115_1177880883571742_5075201022874715379_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=lqVPf_9YhC8Q7kNvgE4Fc9J&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYB3a2XBY2D07vo6RW7haoBeWxXXT0Ek9W736f-GS_RPGg&oe=66729CF3 | person_profile | 0 | Read freely | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441055224_676099334622461_3142011906559831658_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=O7GQ8aQRSUAQ7kNvgFiePIh&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDkKJnM5mjBlemqtMjVzrkcIdDh62yC7XlsEmD3F_NPJw&oe=6672AB39 | 0 | 3 | My husband and boss Adam, is laughing at every joke that leaves the lips of his first love while I watch them through the glass doors that separates his office from mine. I had been dutifully preparing some documents that needed his signature and also setting up his meetings for the day like I have done for 7 years as his secretary but since Sophiaβs arrival, I have been unable to get any work done. I feel a pang in my chast every time Adam laughs, almost tearing up at the thought that he has never laughed like that around me. I stare at her slender frame, her lush black hair that bounces back into place even when she throws her head back in laughter and the grace in every of her movements. Sophia is an epitome of feminine grace and every of her features is proof of why Adam has been hung up over her even though they separated years ago. Even though he married me. The dark binds of his office are brought down abruptly, blocking my view of them both and now all I can see is black. It is as if Adam is trying to prevent me from prying even though I am his wife and privacy shouldnβt be a thing between us, especially when it comes to a woman he used to love so much. I still remember how shocked I was when she walked up to me earlier, heels clicking ever so sophisticatedly on the office tiles. I saw the feet cladded in shiny red heels before I raised my head to look at her. βAria, I didnβt know you still worked here! I canβt believe Adam is still making you work even after you both got married. That man is something, isnβt he?β She said, smiling sweetly with blood red lips that would look horrifying on me if I dared to try that shade of lipstick. I couldnβt speak, caught in the shock of staring face to face with her after all these years, especially as she still had the same aura of wealth and confidence that I have always known her to possess. For a split second, she made me feel insecure in my gray office wear and my tight bun hair and the fact that I wore little to no makeup. βSophia!β Adamβs voice was what broke me out of that trance I was stuck in as he stepped out of his office and there, right in front of me, he hugged her ever so tightly like an old time friend before he led her back into his office without sparing me as little as a glance. Now, they are alone together in his office, the blinds of his office pulled shut so that I canβt see them but can only hear their muffled voices and his own laughter every now and then. I squirm in my seat uncomfortably each time they laugh, gripping the edges of my table tightly and too destabilized to get any work done while they are both holed up in there. I stare at the calendar on my table. Todayβs date is marked with a red marker and I sigh deeply. Does he even know today is our third wedding anniversary? Every year, it seems like I am the only one who remembers it and now with Sophiaβs appearance, I can already tell that today will pass by like itβs just another day. I knew she was coming today. Being his secretary is the only reason why I knew the things Adam would rather keep from me. He already briefed me about a new business partner that just returned to the country two months ago and will be at the office at any time. What I didnβt know or should I say, what he purposely kept from me was that the so-called business partner was Sophia Bradley and perhaps the reason why he has been more cold and indifferent than usual, ever since her return. My heart aches at the realization but it aches even more because there is nothing I can do about it. I have never had a place in Adamβs heart but he has been the only one in mine. I loved him from the very moment he saved my life years ago but I can say the same for him. He always reminds me even without speaking, that our marriage is nothing but an attempt at fulfilling his grandfatherβs wishes and I knew if he had gotten his way, he would have never looked at me twice, not to talk of getting married to me. Grandfatherβs love for me is perhaps the only reason I am still sane in this loveless marriage. The old man never ceases to show how much he cherishes me but when has that ever been enough? I am married to Adam and not his family. The clock ticks endlessly, yet Adam remains in there with her. Their laughter dies down all of a sudden and I can barely hear a word they are saying. Unable to hold back anymore, I stand before the restlessness kil ls me. I am his wife and I deserve to know what is going on. To look natural, I quickly make two cups of coffee. After all, I am his secretary and this is a part of my job. Nervous sweat breaks out on my forehead as I make my way to his office with unsure steps. Inhaling sharply, I open the door and step in. My heart clenches at the sight of them both, relaxed in each otherβs company as they sit so close to each other on one of the couches in his office. I swallow hard and try to walk over to the table with the best confidence I could muster. βI made coffee.β I say but they donβt even acknowledge my presence, lost in each other and whatever they were discussing. I study Sophia for a moment, watching as she twirls her cherry blonde hair with a finger while seated with one leg crossed over the other to reveal a prov0cative amount of thi9hs, smiling so brightly that I canβt tell if sheβs faking it. I want to turn around and leave but my feet fail to move. I canβt just leave like this. For how long will I keep quiet and svck it up? βSir,β I call, looking directly at Adam. We are married but he never fails to remind me that I address him as my boss at work. Adam doesnβt even make a move to look at me and anger rises inside of me, slowly boiling. βSir,β I call again and that is when he finally regards me with a cold look that almost deters me but I remain firm under his gaze. βThere is something I need to talk to you about, itβs important.β I lie right through my teeth. I can feel Sophiaβs gaze burning through me but I try not to look at her, for the fear that my confidence would slip away if I do. Adam just waves me off. βIt can wait. As you can see, I have a guest.β βIt canβt wait.β I say, even more firmly but he is already back to smiling and listening to Sophia speak like a lovesick teenage boy. I call him a few more times and unable to hold back any longer, I call him by his name instead. βAdam!β They both look up at me with a mix of expressions. That of Adam is pure anger while Sophia is obviously irritated. I know she has never liked me and back when I was just his secretary and she was his girlfriend, she complained about every single thing I did. βAdam, what is this? Is this how you let your employees disrespect you?β She says it with absolute disgust and disrespect. I am stunned at her words, so stunned that I scoff. Employee? She dares to talk down on me like that even when she knows fully well that I am not just an employee. Adam stands, his tall frame causing his shadow to sweep over me while I grip the tray of coffee tightly in my hands. βAria, out. Now.β He commands and I am filled with so much hurt that my hands shake and my lips quiver. βWhy should I? I have every reason to be in this room and I have every right to speak for you to listen to me.β Sophia stands at once. βIt seems as though your wife has a bone to pick with me and I will not sit here and take such insults.β She begins to walk away and of course, Adam follows her. I try to move out of her way but my attempt fails when her shoulder heavily bumps into mine in a way that is too fierce to be considered unintentional. I lose grip of the tray and stagger forward and just like that, the hot coffee spills all over her very expensive looking dress and mine. She shrieks, backing away from me only to glare at me the next second. βWhat the hel is wrong with you?β She yells. Adam rushes to her side in less than a minute, fussing over her stained dress and even offering her his handkerchief while I stand there, drenched in coffee as my husband takes care of another woman. I feel the tears prickling at the corner of my eyes but what does crying in front of this woman make me? βI canβt believe you! What did I ever do to you? Go ahead and dislike me all you want but there is a limit to how far you can go and you just crossed that.β She says again, seething in uncontained anger. Adam turns to me, eyes dark with rage. It makes me shiver. Makes me feel unimaginable pain to know he is mad at me because of another woman. βApologise right now!β He commands and I scoff. How can he stand there and take her side when I did nothing wrong? βWhy should I do that? I have done nothing wrong. She bumped into me!β I defend myself, my voice breaking. Lips quivering. βI did no such thing!β Sophia says defensively but her eyes tell a different story. βYou heard me, Aria. Apologize to her right now.β Adam says again, still intently looking at me. I almost laugh at the fact that the only time he is looking me directly in the eyes after three years of marriage is when another woman is involved. I shake my head, finding all of this hard to believe. βSo you believe her over me? You take her words for it but mine does not matter? I am your wife.β βA wife I never wanted to marry!β He yells back and shatters what is left of my broken heart. Chapter 2 I am speechless for the next few seconds as his words hit me like a freight train. I wait. I wait for his hard eyes to soften with remorse at the harsh words he threw at me but that doesnβt happen. He is glowering at me, nose flaring angrily. βAdam, howβ¦how could you say that to me?β I say, my eyes crossing over to Sophia who is now hiding her own frame behind his tall, muscular one, βIn front of her?β βBecause itβs the truth!β He yells again, startling me into making a small helpless sound. Adam has never yelled at me. And even though it hurts me to admit that he is truly saying the truth, he has never said it to my face and I never really thought he would. I have always known it yet it hurts to hear it come from him. It feels like a thousand needles are pricking my heart and making me bleed out with so much pain. He runs his fingers through his hair, seeming frustrated. Like he would rather not have this conversation with me. And just when I think it is over, he continues to speak, breaking me even further. βYou were nothing but a mere secretary who wormed her way into my life. If you hadnβt forced yourself on me that night, none of this would have happened! This marriage would have never happened and you know it.β He brings up the past. Our past. The night that meant everything to me but clearly means nothing to him. I swallow over and over again till my throat and mouth become dry. I canβt cry. No, I canβt appear weak. Not in front of Adam and definitely not in front of Sophia so I keep my tears at bay, urging them to return before they spill down my cheeks. βI never forced myself on you, Adam. Why wonβt you believe me?β I manage to say but he raises a hand to tell me to stop talking and I clamp my lips shut. βDo not stand there and try to look innocent, Aria because that is far from who you are. I simply said the truth and I do not care if you cannot take it.β He says and stares at me intently. βDo not let what happened today repeat itself again. Know your place and I will not have any reason to talk to you like this. Do you understand?β He lays emphasis on every word of warning he is giving me and turns his back against me before I can even open my mouth to speak again. βAre you okay?β I canβt believe how his voice goes from hard to soft in the next second as he fusses over Sophia. Sophia makes a face that has me balling my fingers into a fist. A face that clearly says she is not okay. βThe coffee was hot and I think I might have to visit the hospital to prevent the burn from leaving a scar.β She says in a quiet voice. I look down at my own body that is also drenched in the same coffee. The coffee wasnβt hot enough to cause a burn but Adam believes her instantly. He pulls her into a hug and embarrassment washes over me like a bucket of ice. βIβll drive. Wait here, I will get my keys.β he says as he pulls away, rushing to his office table to grab his car keys before coming back to her side. He takes her purse from her and leads her out. They both seem so lost in each other that they forget my existence totally, leaving me to stand alone in the middle of the room. Silence falls over me and I am left with my thoughts, licking the wound that his words caused. I have never been able to convince Adam that I didnβt force myself on him yet till this very day, he still believes I drugged him into sleeping with him on the night we were having dinner with his family three years ago. I can never forget the pure look of disgust and shock on his face when we both woke up in each otherβs arms the next morning. I knew since then that Adam would never love me, yet I was hopeful. As the years go by, the hope keeps dwindling with his grandfather, being the only support system in everything. Sighing, I return to my office and pick up my phone. My eyes widens when I see that a number has called my phone repeatedly all the time I was in Adamβs office. The dread that fills me stems from the fact that I recognise the number as the hospitalβs number. I call back instantly, my heart racing. They pick up on the second ring. βMrs Miller, we have been trying to reach you all afternoon!β A female voice says. βWhy? Is something wrong? Is my grandmother okay?β I ask, rushing my words as I am filled with dread and panic. βYou need to be at the hospital, your grandmotherββ I donβt wait to hear the rest of her words. I race out of the room and call on a taxi to drive me to the hospital. I go straight to her hospital room but the sheets and blankets are already being neatly arranged and the bed is empty. More panic. More dread. βWhere is my grandmother?β I ask, βWhere is she?β The nurse cleaning the room gives me a look of pity that nauseates me. βI am sorry, Mrs Miller but your grandmother died ten minutes ago and has been moved to the hospitalβs mortuary. I am sorry.β She says. The world around me stops and I donβt know how I am able to walk on my two feet to the mortuary where the Nurse leads me. She stops at the door and points to my grandmother laying on a table in the room, her body covered in a white sheet from head to toe. I walk to the bedside with shaky legs and the moment I take the sheet off and set my eyes on her pale face, I burst out into a loud sob, wishing I could go back to a month ago so I can prevent that accident that made her this way. The accident that took my only living family away from me. βGrandmaβ¦β I call in a broken voice as I reach for her hand. They are too cold, so lifeless and the tears begin to leave my eyes in torrents as I remember how warm these hands used to be when they held my face. βIβm sorryβ¦Iβm so sorry.β I cry, holding tightly unto her and hating myself for not being there in her last moments. I should have been there with her but I was too busy worrying about my place in my husbandβs life. The nurse comes into the room and says, βShe asked us to give you this.β I wipe my tears, sniffling as I take what seems to be a key chain from her. I couldnβt think of a reason why grandmotherβs parting gift to me would be a key chain but I canβt seem to care. Her cold hands slammed me into the reality of what had happened. Grandmother is dead. I fall to my knees by the bed and weep, muttering and calling for her to return to me. βAria.β Adamβs voice calls from behind me. I am both surprised and relieved to find him there. He must have been contacted by the hospital as well and stopped by since he already came here with Sophia anyway. Sophia is standing in the room with us but I ignore her. I focus on Adam because I need him. I need someone to hold me and tell me everything will be fine. βAdam.β I cry as I walk over to him and hug him without a second thought, my tears gathering and falling again. His body stiffens at my touch but I donβt let go. I need his warmth. I need him because he is really all that I have left and I canβt bear to lose him too. I expect him to push me away but he doesnβt. He doesnβt hug me back too but I canβt find it in me to care as I sob uncontrollably. My tears subside and I sniffle repeatedly and slowly let go of him. He clears his throat and takes out his phone, saying; βIβll place a call to start making preparations for her funeral.β He turns around to leave with Sophia also following him but I canβt bear the sight of him turning his back to me and leaving. I grab his hand. βStay.β I sound so weak and helpless but I do not give a damm, βPlease, donβt go. Stay with me.β I beg. Adam opens his mouth to say something but a sharp cry stuns us both. We spin around at the same time to the source of the cry and she is crouching, holding her stomach with an expression of pain. Adam rushes to Sophiaβs side in a heartbeat and my heart sinks further down my stomach. βSophia, are you okay?β He asks with concern ringing high in his voice. She shakes her head, βThere is something Iβve been wanting to tell you but didnβt know how.β She says, holding her stomach as she looks directly at me. βWhat is it?β Adam asks, still very much concerned. βAdamβ¦Iβ¦I am pre9nant.β Chapter 3 Grandmotherβs funeral is being held on a gloomy day, much to my displeasure. I listened to the weather forecast so I could choose the perfect day for the funeral, and according to the forecast, the day is supposed to be sunny and bright just like Grandmother. I feel duped standing by grandmotherβs grave with the sky covered in clouds that only worsen the dark and depressing feeling that has settled in my guts since her death. I have cried so much that I have no tears left to shed at grandmotherβs grave and now have to wear dark sunglasses to hide how red and puffy my eyes are rather than to complement my black dress. There are a few people hanging around the other graves in the cemetery to pay their last respects to their loved ones and at each grave, there are at least two people; couples holding each other, families comforting each other and even church processions. I am alone, with no one to comfort me since no one else bothered to attend my grandmother's funeral. With her gone, I realize how lonely I actually am and the thought deals another blow to my already damaged heart. I try hard to get the heartbreaking events of the past few days off my mind and when I finally succeed, I turn my focus back to my grandmother. Sheβs smiling in the framed picture placed by her tombstone and I force a smile as well as a fond memory of her slips into my mind. βAria, my child, you canβt frown like that everytime or youβll get wrinkles like me before you are even my age!β She would say and then go ahead to spread my lips into a smile with her fingers. Grandmother was a cheerful soul who would tell me stories, mostly the ones about my birth and how she knew from the very first day that she set her eyes on me that I was going to be a really beautiful and amazing child. I shared everything with her and talking to her about my marriage was one of the things that made it bearable. I donβt know what Iβd do without Grandmother. Tears start to gather in my eyes again and I take off the sunglasses to wipe them off before they start to fall. I already promised myself not to cry anymore; Grandmother wouldnβt want that. Sniffling, I begin to place the things I brought with me by her grave; Tulips, which were her favorite flowers; Peaches, her favorite fruit and finally some sweets because grandmother had a really sweet tooth and never listened to me whenever I told her they were bad for her age. βThere are no sweets in heaven, Aria. Itβs only right that I take as much as I can down here before the big guy calls me up there.β She would say at the same she unwraps another candy and tosses it into her mouth. She would talk on and on about βThe big guyβ and βUp thereβ like she was always prepared for the day she would die. I canβt help it anymore, I burst into tears, falling on my knees by her grave as it dawns on me fully that she is really gone. βI should have let you have all the candies in the world. I should have been there with you at your dying moment. I should have held your hands and told you itβs gonna be okay. Iββ My voice breaks, the deep regret and tears choking me and making me lose my train of thoughts. I canβt think of a thing to say anymore and so I just cry, sobbing so hard my body shakes. I hear confident footsteps approaching me and feel a presence behind me that causes my sobs to come to a pause. My heart races and hope swells inside of me when the person puts a hand on my shoulder. I whip my head around, expecting to see Adam but my hope quickly shatters when I see that it is Adam uncle, Regis. βRegis.β I say, sniffing and wiping my tears in a rush. βHere,β He hands me his handkerchief, stuffing it in my hand and closing my palm around it before I can even refuse. I say a barely audible thank you before I dab at the tears with the hanky that smelt like him. βI came as soon as I heard, Iβm sorry about your Grandmother, Aria.β He says in a sincere and kind voice. Regis has always been kind to me even when I was just a secretary. Whenever he came to visit his nephew at the office, he would stop to say hi and hand me a canned coffee with a smile on his face. However, he left the country to study a few days before our wedding and only returned not too long ago. This is the first time seeing him since his return and the kind look in his eyes assures me that if he had been around, I would have had another person rooting for me just like Adamβs grandfather. βYou didnβt have to.β I say quietly, trying to downplay how much it actually means to me that at least, one person cares enough to be here with me. Regis looks around as if searching for something and then he frowns when our eyes meet again. βYouβre alone? Where the hel is Adam?β He asks, his voice a little hard. My cheeks redden in embarrassment. Regis has only just returned and probably doesnβt know anything yet. I am not willing to talk either. I force a smile and begin to pack the excess things I bought for my grandmother's funeral. Regis joins me wordlessly and I sigh in silent appreciation of how he doesnβt ask anymore questions. He takes everything from my hands even before I can protest. βDid you drive here?β He asks and I shake my head. I came here in a Taxi. βCβmon, weβll take my car.β He says and walks in front of me. I have no choice but to follow him. We have just gotten outside of the cemetery when a car drives into the parking space right beside Regisβ car. The car is familiar and I keep doubting who it belongs to until Adam steps out of the car, eyes trained on me as he walks over. The first thing I notice is his Royal Blue suit and I feel the slow brewing of anger inside of me. How could he show up wearing that? It is like a blatant disrespect of my Grandmother and I canβt stand to watch her get disrespected even in her death. It is clear that he came from the office; little surprise there and it would have been better if he didnβt come at all as I now realize how looking at him only infuriates me. He had managed to avoid me in the past three days since the hospital incident. Three days since Sophia announced that she was pre9nant and shook my world. I didnβt need anyone to tell me who the baby belonged to as he walks towards me now, I feel nothing but resentment for him. βIs it over? Crap, I must have lost track of time.β He says before turning to his uncle and giving him a tight smile of appreciation that I find nauseating. βThank you for being here with her, uncle.β Regis merely crosses his arms, staring back at his nephew, βCare to explain why you are only just coming?β Regis thows the question at him and I face Adam too, crossing my arms. βYes, Adam. Tell me what was more important than being at my grandmotherβs funeral.β I already know the answer but I still wait to hear him say it so I can have a reason to hate him even more. βI really wanted to be here, Aria but you knowβ¦β He trails off, running a hand through his hair, βI had to be with Sophia.β The sound of her name is what does it for me; the same woman who is the reason I wasnβt around to witness grandmotherβs dying moments. βDid you really come all the way here to tell me you were with another woman you slept with and impregnated?β βWhat?β Regis is the one who speaks, his voice echoing his shock as he looks from me to Adam. Adamβs usual blank look remains as if he is unaffected by my words and the pain he has caused me. βLetβs not do this here, Aria. You know I canβt just leave her.β I scoff. βI never stopped you. You know what? You should have never come here. You should have stayed with her since that is where your loyalties lie now and I am no longer in the picture.β Adam frowns, moving closer and intimidating me just a little with his height and muscular frame, βWhat does that mean? You are my wife.β βEx-wife,β I say the words without even thinking. I didnβt think any of this through but I donβt care because my entire being seems to agree that this is whatβs best for me, βI want a divorce, Adam.β His eyes grow wide, unable to contain the shock at my words and I am proud of myself that I finally got a reaction that isnβt anger or coldness from him. βBoth the divorce papers and my resignation will find their way to you soon.β I add before he can get over his shock and I donβt wait for him to reply as I turn to an equally stunned Regis. βTake me home, Regis.β Chapter 4 Adamβs POV I want a divorce. The words circle around my head non-stop. Of all the shets I have had the pleasure of hearingβand trust me, I hear a lot of crap as a CEOβAria asking for a divorce out of nowhere has to be the worst. I am a man who takes pride in my strength and ability to handle situations no matter how unexpected they are. It comes with the job, yet for some reason, I am unable to utter a single word or move my feet until she gets into the car with my uncle. When I finally come to my senses, she is long gone, leaving me to drown in the pool of shock she created. I am shocked at her audacity; the way she looked me in the eyes as she hit me with those words. Ariaβs cold hazel eyes totally betrayed the meek and timid trait that I have only ever known her for. I am equally shocked at myself for actually being affected by it when I shouldn't have batted an eyelash, after all, I never wanted to marry her. The three years of living with Aria felt like I was in bonda9e created by her own deceit and my grandfatherβs overbearing attitude. I never cared about Aria yet the sound of divorce numbed me completely that I am unable to think straight until the door to my car opens and reminds me that I am still standing still in front of the cemetery. My personal assistant steps out of the car and speaks. βSir, your appointment with the Taylor Enterprises is thirty minutes from now. Itβs more than an hourβs drive from here, we should leave now ifββ βCancel it,β I say, heading back to the car, not quite in the right mind to process anything, not even a meeting whose outcome was worth millions of dollars. My assistant follows behind me in a hurry, obviously confused. βBut sir, that isnβt the only appointment for the day. You also haveβ¦β He starts to read out my packed schedule for the day as I finally get into the car. βCancel them all!β I say, settling into the leather seats of the car and loosening my tie at the same time as it feels like I am slowly losing the ability to breathe, βGet in and turn the dann AC on.β I command him, unable to prevent my anger and irritation from reflecting in my voice. Finally noticing the negative emotions rolling out of me in waves, he mutters his response before getting into the driverβs seat and pulling the car out of the cemeteryβs parking lot. We get to the highway, air is emitting from not only the AC in the car yet I feel heat rising from inside of me and not even loosening a few buttons on my shirt helped. All I can think about is Aria and the dammed divorce. My shock is long gone and I am now stewing in nothing but anger, bordering on rage. Who the hel does she think she is? What gives her the boldness to think she makes the call for divorce? If anyone should be asking for a divorce, It should be me. I am the one who married her against my will. Sheβs the one who found me so irresistible that she went as far as dru9ging me just to have me. If anyone deserves to slam divorce papers in her face, it is me but the thought never crossed my mind. Sheβs a good secretary, dutiful, efficient and always at my beck and call. She also doubles as a good wife, never getting in my way or needy for attention. Aria takes whatever I give her; the little time, the irregular sax and the little communication, all that I deemed appropriate for our kind of relationship. The sudden switch has me racking my brain, thinking of different possibilities and all the things that could have gone wrong. A thought crosses my mind and it intensifies my anger in a way that I canβt even understand. βFind out if Aria has been meeting anyone lately. Men in particular.β I say. My assistant meets my eyes through the rearview mirror. His eyes fail to hide his surprise that I am asking him to look into my wife and the possibility that sheβs been seeing other men. I canβt rule out all the possibilities and if Aria has really been cheating on me, I swear to Godβ My phone vibrates beside me on the leather seats. Sophiaβs name pops up on the screen in a message notification. Sheβs asking me when next I would be available for an appointment at the doctorβs office. Seeing Sophiaβs message douses my anger but leaves me with a far more disturbing emotion. I thought of all the reasons why my quiet wife is suddenly asking for a divorce but it never crossed my mind that impregnating the woman I once loved could be the reason. I think back to that day two months ago when yet again, I let drinking lead me into making the worst decisions. All I had to do was pick Sophia up at the airport, drive her to her hotel and return home. Instead, I took the invite to have a drink in her hotel room; for old timeβs sake, she called it. We did more than just have a drink that night and the outcome is the baby growing inside of Sophia. I canβt call it a mistake yet deep down, I know it should have never happened. I should have never let myself get tempted by the thought of how being inside of Sophia will feel after three years. I want the child. Itβs my baby and I donβt plan on losing it but it comes at a price that I never thought would be a problem which is the divorce with Aria. I canβt let Aria divorce me. I need her. At the office and in my home. Sheβs been my secretary for seven years and no one can do her job like her. I also pay her well and make sure she doesnβt need anything as my wife. How does she plan to survive without me anyway? Does she think that by asking for divorce, she has put herself on a higher level than me? What game is she playing with me now? Ha! Women thinking that they can live without a man and his support. As I think deeply about these things, I also think of a way to remedy them. I just need to do something to appeal to her. βWhat do women like?β I asked my assistant. He hesitates at first, surprised by the sudden question before he clears his throat and answers, βErm, designer bags I guess and oh, flowers.β I am already scrolling through an online store on my phone, clicking away at every expensive bag that catches my eyes until I have already ordered a number to last her an entire year. Then we make a stop at the flower shop on the way home. Turns out there are more than a hundred thousand flowers and I canβt even decide which one to get for Aria because apparently, women have favorites when it comes to things as trivial as flowers as well. In the end, I pick Lilies because the attendant at the flowershop claims itβs most womenβs favorite. I head home after that with only one single thought at the back of my mind; I wonβt let Aria divorce me. Chapter 5 Iβm thankful that Regis doesnβt ask any questions as he drives me back home. He offers to drive me into the compound but I turn him down and wait till he drives off before I sigh and walk into the house. The house is brimming with maids who rush over to me the instant they hear the door open but I raise a hand to stop them all from coming close to me. I am no longer the mistress of the house. I walk past them all to get to my room. Adam and I only share a room when he is looking to satisfy his saxual urges. He crawls into my bed and peppers kisses all over my body till I give in and that is the only time I ever feel wanted by him. As I walk into the room, I refrain from staring at the bed for longer than I should, afraid that the memories of us tangled up in sheets with him buried deep inside of me will break my resolve. And right now, I have only one resolveβto leave Adam for good. I begin to pack while that resolve is still strong, not even stopping for one moment to think about the fact that I have nowhere to go. I canβt bear to stay one more day under the same roof with Adam, knowing how deeply his betrayal cut. I only pack a few things that are important, assuring myself that I will come back for the rest of my things later when the divorce is finalized. I am only halfway through packing when I hear the sound of a familiar voice that never fails to send chills down my spine and even right this moment, I can already feel the chilling crawl of dread and it makes me stop packing immediately. Adamβs mother, Elodie and his sister Eva are here. I exhale sharply, trying to keep my breathing under control and to also keep the terrible memories of them from flushing into the forefront of my mind. A few more deep exhales and I finally get a hold of myself, resuming packing my things. Once I finish packing, I haul the heavy suitcase out of the room and walk into the living room where Elodie and Eva are seated on one of the couches, legs crossed over one another like they owned the place. Elodie has her signature scowl on her face that doesnβt fade even when I bow to greet her. βWhy are you here?β Elodie asks, standing. I am confused by her question and my inability to give an answer makes her scoff, her face contorting into the ugliest form annoyance can take. βI almost forgot how dumb you are.β Elodie says again. Dumb. Her favorite word to throw at me the way she pleases and of course, it doesnβt hurt less today. In fact, it is even more painful now that I realize that besides having to live with Adamβs indifference, I have also had to deal with his motherβs hatred and utter disrespect for me and all along, my response has either been silence or an apology that she never deserved. βWhy are you here instead of the office, huh?β She sneers and continues, βMy son works tirelessly day and night just to make money for someone like you to leech off him, all he asks of you is to do your job as his secretary and yet you canβt even do that one thing? Do you think you are entitled to his money just because you are his wife?β Her words are like hard blows to the chast, every single word that strung her sentences together hitting nerves and breaking right through them. I feel something rising inside of me. It has always been there but I have always managed to control it. To top it all, Eva, Adamβs snobbish sister had to chip in, βSheβs a trickster who duped my poor innocent brother and I wonder why isnβt she at the office! Such a lazy bumm! I donβt even know how Grandpa accepted such a penniless betch to be part of our elite family!β βI had to be at my grandmotherβs funeral.β I respond simply, hoping the scowl on her face will disappear but it gets even more profound and she adds a scoff for good measure. Did Elodie and Eva not know that my grandmother died? βIs she dead for real? Or is it just an act?!β Eva has the guts to ask me and I glare at her. Elodie continues, βOf course, thatβs your excuse for being a lazy gold digger. Tell me, did that grandmother of yours teach you to go after other peopleβs money instead of working for your own?β That very thing that has been rising inside me since I saw Adamβs mother reaches its peak. Itβs anger. It is red, pure and fiery and controls my whole being that I can not even bring myself to care about anything other than keeping my grandmotherβs name from being soiled. βDo not talk about my grandmother like that!β I yell and she jumps slightly, startled by my outburst. βDid you just yell at me?β she says, taking a step forward but I donβt flinch as I stare back into her eyes. Eva approaches me and she lashes out, βDid you just shout at my mother?!!!β Eva has always tried to demean me and every possible way at every chance presented to her. She grabs my arm, presses it harshly, making me wince in pain. Elodie smiles and as usually, she is greatly entertained. I push Eva with the other hand and she tumbles on the sofa. She remains shocked for I have always allowed them to bully me and this time, I retaliate. βDid you forget your place? You are nothing but aββ βGold digger who married your son for his money, yes, I get it!β I snap at her, having had enough of the name calling every damm time, βBut you donβt have to worry about that anymore because I already filed for a divorce. I am leaving your son so you can go ahead and swallow all of his money for all I care.β I turn around to leave, huffing as I drag the heavy suitcase with me but then Elodie clamps her hand down on the suitcase to stop me. She looks at the suitcase in amusement. βYou are really leaving!β Elodie canβt even hide the joy in her tone. βYes, so please just stop and let me go.β She shakes her head, βNot so fast! You canβt just leave.β And then she signals to two of the maids who have been standing, watching the whole exchange. βSearch her!β She orders when they come forward. They hesitate and she glares at them. βDid you not hear her? She is no longer the mistress of the house. Search her right now.β I am too stunned to react when the maids finally snatch my suitcase from me. Eva tries to hold me preventing me from snatching back my bag from the maids. βWhat do you think youβre doing?β I say, my voice shaky. βI canβt just let you leave. Who knows what valuables you have stolen from my son inside that germ ridden bag of yours.β My mouth opens and closes several times at her words as I canβt even come up with a single string of sentences to say to her. I just watch as my things come tumbling to the ground in the rough search. Tears of humiliation burned at the back of my eyes. I donβt struggle any more from Evaβs grip and she stares at me triumphantly. βWhat is that? Hand it over.β Adamβs mother says when one of the maids found a gold bracelet I had lodged into my case. Grandmotherβs bracelet, the only thing I have left of her. βNo!β I rush forward to stop her from handing it over but I am too late. Adamβs mother is already holding and inspecting the bracelet. βOh, wow! Mom, you finally found something she stole from Adam!β Eva exclaimed enthusiastically. Upon saying those words, she drags me and throws me onto the marble. I hit my nose. As I touch it, blood is coming out. I wipe it quickly and spring up to my feet. βI knew it! You took something. Did my son buy this for you? What gives you the right to think you can walk away with something he got for you after filing for a divorce?β Elodie snaps. βThat doesnβt belong to your son! It is mine and I will appreciate it if you give it back.β She does the exact opposite and only continues to accuse me of being a thief until the door opens and Adam walks in. I donβt feel relief at his presence like I usually do when his mother treats me this way, instead, I feel nothing but resentment for him. I want to scream how much I hate him to his face. His face twists into confusion when he sees the situation. βWhat is going on here?β He asks, walking further into the house and looking from his mother to me. βThank goodness you arrived, son. This leech was about to leave with something that clearly doesnβt belong to her.β His mother responds. βAnd she hit me!!!β Eva adds, almost in tears, complaining to Adam. This time, Adam is too shocked to ask me why I hit his dear sister. I thought,as he did in the past, he would force me to apologize, but this time, he did nothing. I wonder why. My eyes are starting to water for some reason and I am confused as to why Adamβs appearance suddenly triggered them yet I smile through the tears. βAdam, will you please tell your mother that I have never gotten a gift from you?β Adam falters, seemingly speechless for a second as he stares at his hands. I also look down at his hands and I finally understand why my eyes sting with tears and why I am sniffling in preparation of a sneeze that rocks my entire body. Lilies. I am all ergic to them. Despite the tears rolling down my cheeks, I start to laugh. I laugh so hard, ignoring the burning gazes of everyone present in the room who probably think I have gone crazy. I sneeze in between laughs, yet I donβt stop laughing as I turn to Adamβs mother. βI have been married to your son for three years and he doesnβt even know I am all ergic to lilies, yet you think he is capable of getting me a bracelet?β I shake my head at my sad reality. Chapter 6 Adam hands the flowers over to one of the maids, asking her to put it in a vase or whatever. He clears his throat, trying and failing miserably to hide his embarrassment in front of his mother, his sister and the maids. βThe flowers werenβt for you.β He says, voice hard as he stares at me for a brief second. I barely even feel anything when he says that because I genuinely donβt care anymore, I just want to get the hel out of this house and never return. I donβt even care about the rest of my things which I am yet to pack, I just want to turn my back on this horrible life already. I hear Eva sniggers. Adam seems like he wants to say something to me but then he decides against it and turns to his mother instead. βMum, please return the bracelet to her.β She snorts and shakes her head stubbornly, βI am not letting her leave with it.β Adam grunts, a sign that he is slowly losing his patience, β I have never seen that bracelet mother, it belongs to Aria. Please, give it back.β Adamβs mother doesnβt immediately move to do as she is told but the moment she does, it is with an annoyed huff as she tosses the bracelet at me. I catch it in my palms while she heads back to sit in the same position as earlier when I first walked into the living room. I fall to my knees by the mess the maids made out of my clothes and then I begin to arrange them again, rushing through the process so I can get out of here fast to stop the repeated sting of humiliation. Adam standing there and just watching me clean up his motherβs mess without as much as an apology from either of them only adds to the rising level of humiliation. Once done, I stand and face Adam squarely, taking in the same clothes he wore to the cemetery earlier and getting reminded of all the reasons why I am making the best decision of my life. βAs I said before, it is over between us. The divorce papers and my resignation letter will find their way to you soon.β I say, ignoring the way his face twisted, βGoodbye, Adam.β I turn around before I can even hear his response. I donβt want to look at Adam, not anymore. I walk away from him, going straight for the door and turning its knob for what I hope is the very last time. I have barely taken a step outside the door when Adamβs strong hand grabs my upper arm and twists me around to look at him. I have worked with him for seven years, four of which I was just his secretary and that was enough for me to know the kind of man Adam Miller is. He is usually composed with a blank expression that shows how in control he is. Right now, Adam is neither composed nor in control. He seems like he has lost grip of it and the meaning of those words donβt even matter to him anymore as he holds my arm in a tight grip. I struggle to break free of his hold. βLet me go.β I snap at him but Adam only narrows his eyes at me, his anger burning past his blue eyes. βYou canβt just leave, Aria.β He growls. βYou canβt tell me what to do, Adam. At least not anymore. Let me go!β βDoes this even make any sense to you!β He yells in my face as he lets go of my hand to run his hand through his hair, β You canβt just spring this kind of shet on me.β βItβs not springing if we have both had it coming from the very moment we shared our vows which you have already broken. We both know this marriage should have never happened so cut the crap and let me leave.β I say, practically fuming before turning around in another attempt to leave. βWhat about grandfather? You are taking such a big step without talking to the old man who set it all up anyway. The man who has been nothing but good to you.β I turn back to face Adam, hating his attempt at making me feel guilty. My thoughts go to his grandfather momentarily and I try to imagine the old manβs reaction to me filing for a divorce when he cares about me so much. However, I donβt waver. I refuse to let those thoughts come between me and my freedom. I refuse to put the wish of another over my own happiness. βI will talk to grandfather. Believe me, you have nothing to worry about.β I say and make another attempt to leave but of course, Adam doesnβt give up as he speaks again. βI wonβt sign it Aria, I wonβt sign the goddamm papers!β βWhat the hel is wrong with you?β I yell out my frustration, βWhy wonβt you just let me go?β He stares me down, eyes burning stubbornly, βI wonβt sign the papers and I wonβt accept your resignation either. The company has rules you have to follow and you canβt just decide to resign without prior notice especially when there is a lot of work at the office which I pay you to do!β I scoff, unable to believe his nerve. Unable to get over his selfish thinking and absolute lack of remorse for the things he has done. βYou have Sophia, donβt you?β I shoot at him and his brows furrow. βWhat does that even mean?β βEveryone adores Sophia. She is smart, beautiful and can get your work done for you and oh, donβt forget the fact that she is also pre9nant with your child! How perfect is that?β Adamβs mother springs up, surprise evident in her features. Clearly, she is just learning about her coming grandson. βAdam, is what she says true? You have a child on the way?β Eva asked excitedly. Adamβs expression donβt give anything away and he doesnβt even spare his mother or sister a glance. He is still looking straight at me. βAria, what happened between Sophia and I wasnβt intentional, it justββ βDonβt you dare make excuses for her! Who cares what she thinks? Sophia is who you have always deserved. The only woman who actually deserves to be my daughter-in-law.β Adamβs mother cut in while making sure to give me a nasty look that doesnβt even surprise me anymore. I shrug at Adam, a way to show him that I was right. Everyone wants Sophia, including him and he canβt even bring himself to deny it. He continues to ignore his mother. βAria, it was an accident.β He says again and I nod, like I am agreeing to his words. βThree years ago, you didnβt think the same way. You didnβt think you accidentally slept with me but instead believed I had gone as far as dru9ging you to sleep with you. What changed, Adam? Because all I see right now is a bloody hypocrite and a coward who would rather blame others for his mistakes.β When I turn my back to him this time, I donβt stop walking. I donβt turn around. βAria! Aria, get back here while I am still being nice. Aria, I swear to God if you walk out that door, I wonβt take you back even if you go on your knees. You need me, Aria. You canβt survive without me!β Adam yells after me but I donβt stop walking as his arrogant words only fueled my desire to get away from him as fast as I can. I block out the rest of his words as I open the door and welcome my peace and freedom. I am never going back to that sad reality. | Read freely | 18 | https://facebook.com/61557986570531 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716534000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879753 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410718 | 1723321855 | 995 | 1647538179348259 | 2 | 9.748784076486E+14 | 1716620400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 250753834794512 | 0 | Read freely | 120211565986950196 | redtgb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | β€οΈπWhat happens nextπClick Here to read onπ | https://redtgb.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=11204&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1714661788 | 2.5075383479451E+14 | Read freely | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441255115_1177880883571742_5075201022874715379_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=lqVPf_9YhC8Q7kNvgE4Fc9J&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYB3a2XBY2D07vo6RW7haoBeWxXXT0Ek9W736f-GS_RPGg&oe=66729CF3 | person_profile | 0 | Read freely | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441055224_676099334622461_3142011906559831658_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=O7GQ8aQRSUAQ7kNvgFiePIh&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDkKJnM5mjBlemqtMjVzrkcIdDh62yC7XlsEmD3F_NPJw&oe=6672AB39 | 0 | 3 | My husband and boss Adam, is laughing at every joke that leaves the lips of his first love while I watch them through the glass doors that separates his office from mine. I had been dutifully preparing some documents that needed his signature and also setting up his meetings for the day like I have done for 7 years as his secretary but since Sophiaβs arrival, I have been unable to get any work done. I feel a pang in my chast every time Adam laughs, almost tearing up at the thought that he has never laughed like that around me. I stare at her slender frame, her lush black hair that bounces back into place even when she throws her head back in laughter and the grace in every of her movements. Sophia is an epitome of feminine grace and every of her features is proof of why Adam has been hung up over her even though they separated years ago. Even though he married me. The dark binds of his office are brought down abruptly, blocking my view of them both and now all I can see is black. It is as if Adam is trying to prevent me from prying even though I am his wife and privacy shouldnβt be a thing between us, especially when it comes to a woman he used to love so much. I still remember how shocked I was when she walked up to me earlier, heels clicking ever so sophisticatedly on the office tiles. I saw the feet cladded in shiny red heels before I raised my head to look at her. βAria, I didnβt know you still worked here! I canβt believe Adam is still making you work even after you both got married. That man is something, isnβt he?β She said, smiling sweetly with blood red lips that would look horrifying on me if I dared to try that shade of lipstick. I couldnβt speak, caught in the shock of staring face to face with her after all these years, especially as she still had the same aura of wealth and confidence that I have always known her to possess. For a split second, she made me feel insecure in my gray office wear and my tight bun hair and the fact that I wore little to no makeup. βSophia!β Adamβs voice was what broke me out of that trance I was stuck in as he stepped out of his office and there, right in front of me, he hugged her ever so tightly like an old time friend before he led her back into his office without sparing me as little as a glance. Now, they are alone together in his office, the blinds of his office pulled shut so that I canβt see them but can only hear their muffled voices and his own laughter every now and then. I squirm in my seat uncomfortably each time they laugh, gripping the edges of my table tightly and too destabilized to get any work done while they are both holed up in there. I stare at the calendar on my table. Todayβs date is marked with a red marker and I sigh deeply. Does he even know today is our third wedding anniversary? Every year, it seems like I am the only one who remembers it and now with Sophiaβs appearance, I can already tell that today will pass by like itβs just another day. I knew she was coming today. Being his secretary is the only reason why I knew the things Adam would rather keep from me. He already briefed me about a new business partner that just returned to the country two months ago and will be at the office at any time. What I didnβt know or should I say, what he purposely kept from me was that the so-called business partner was Sophia Bradley and perhaps the reason why he has been more cold and indifferent than usual, ever since her return. My heart aches at the realization but it aches even more because there is nothing I can do about it. I have never had a place in Adamβs heart but he has been the only one in mine. I loved him from the very moment he saved my life years ago but I can say the same for him. He always reminds me even without speaking, that our marriage is nothing but an attempt at fulfilling his grandfatherβs wishes and I knew if he had gotten his way, he would have never looked at me twice, not to talk of getting married to me. Grandfatherβs love for me is perhaps the only reason I am still sane in this loveless marriage. The old man never ceases to show how much he cherishes me but when has that ever been enough? I am married to Adam and not his family. The clock ticks endlessly, yet Adam remains in there with her. Their laughter dies down all of a sudden and I can barely hear a word they are saying. Unable to hold back anymore, I stand before the restlessness kil ls me. I am his wife and I deserve to know what is going on. To look natural, I quickly make two cups of coffee. After all, I am his secretary and this is a part of my job. Nervous sweat breaks out on my forehead as I make my way to his office with unsure steps. Inhaling sharply, I open the door and step in. My heart clenches at the sight of them both, relaxed in each otherβs company as they sit so close to each other on one of the couches in his office. I swallow hard and try to walk over to the table with the best confidence I could muster. βI made coffee.β I say but they donβt even acknowledge my presence, lost in each other and whatever they were discussing. I study Sophia for a moment, watching as she twirls her cherry blonde hair with a finger while seated with one leg crossed over the other to reveal a prov0cative amount of thi9hs, smiling so brightly that I canβt tell if sheβs faking it. I want to turn around and leave but my feet fail to move. I canβt just leave like this. For how long will I keep quiet and svck it up? βSir,β I call, looking directly at Adam. We are married but he never fails to remind me that I address him as my boss at work. Adam doesnβt even make a move to look at me and anger rises inside of me, slowly boiling. βSir,β I call again and that is when he finally regards me with a cold look that almost deters me but I remain firm under his gaze. βThere is something I need to talk to you about, itβs important.β I lie right through my teeth. I can feel Sophiaβs gaze burning through me but I try not to look at her, for the fear that my confidence would slip away if I do. Adam just waves me off. βIt can wait. As you can see, I have a guest.β βIt canβt wait.β I say, even more firmly but he is already back to smiling and listening to Sophia speak like a lovesick teenage boy. I call him a few more times and unable to hold back any longer, I call him by his name instead. βAdam!β They both look up at me with a mix of expressions. That of Adam is pure anger while Sophia is obviously irritated. I know she has never liked me and back when I was just his secretary and she was his girlfriend, she complained about every single thing I did. βAdam, what is this? Is this how you let your employees disrespect you?β She says it with absolute disgust and disrespect. I am stunned at her words, so stunned that I scoff. Employee? She dares to talk down on me like that even when she knows fully well that I am not just an employee. Adam stands, his tall frame causing his shadow to sweep over me while I grip the tray of coffee tightly in my hands. βAria, out. Now.β He commands and I am filled with so much hurt that my hands shake and my lips quiver. βWhy should I? I have every reason to be in this room and I have every right to speak for you to listen to me.β Sophia stands at once. βIt seems as though your wife has a bone to pick with me and I will not sit here and take such insults.β She begins to walk away and of course, Adam follows her. I try to move out of her way but my attempt fails when her shoulder heavily bumps into mine in a way that is too fierce to be considered unintentional. I lose grip of the tray and stagger forward and just like that, the hot coffee spills all over her very expensive looking dress and mine. She shrieks, backing away from me only to glare at me the next second. βWhat the hel is wrong with you?β She yells. Adam rushes to her side in less than a minute, fussing over her stained dress and even offering her his handkerchief while I stand there, drenched in coffee as my husband takes care of another woman. I feel the tears prickling at the corner of my eyes but what does crying in front of this woman make me? βI canβt believe you! What did I ever do to you? Go ahead and dislike me all you want but there is a limit to how far you can go and you just crossed that.β She says again, seething in uncontained anger. Adam turns to me, eyes dark with rage. It makes me shiver. Makes me feel unimaginable pain to know he is mad at me because of another woman. βApologise right now!β He commands and I scoff. How can he stand there and take her side when I did nothing wrong? βWhy should I do that? I have done nothing wrong. She bumped into me!β I defend myself, my voice breaking. Lips quivering. βI did no such thing!β Sophia says defensively but her eyes tell a different story. βYou heard me, Aria. Apologize to her right now.β Adam says again, still intently looking at me. I almost laugh at the fact that the only time he is looking me directly in the eyes after three years of marriage is when another woman is involved. I shake my head, finding all of this hard to believe. βSo you believe her over me? You take her words for it but mine does not matter? I am your wife.β βA wife I never wanted to marry!β He yells back and shatters what is left of my broken heart. Chapter 2 I am speechless for the next few seconds as his words hit me like a freight train. I wait. I wait for his hard eyes to soften with remorse at the harsh words he threw at me but that doesnβt happen. He is glowering at me, nose flaring angrily. βAdam, howβ¦how could you say that to me?β I say, my eyes crossing over to Sophia who is now hiding her own frame behind his tall, muscular one, βIn front of her?β βBecause itβs the truth!β He yells again, startling me into making a small helpless sound. Adam has never yelled at me. And even though it hurts me to admit that he is truly saying the truth, he has never said it to my face and I never really thought he would. I have always known it yet it hurts to hear it come from him. It feels like a thousand needles are pricking my heart and making me bleed out with so much pain. He runs his fingers through his hair, seeming frustrated. Like he would rather not have this conversation with me. And just when I think it is over, he continues to speak, breaking me even further. βYou were nothing but a mere secretary who wormed her way into my life. If you hadnβt forced yourself on me that night, none of this would have happened! This marriage would have never happened and you know it.β He brings up the past. Our past. The night that meant everything to me but clearly means nothing to him. I swallow over and over again till my throat and mouth become dry. I canβt cry. No, I canβt appear weak. Not in front of Adam and definitely not in front of Sophia so I keep my tears at bay, urging them to return before they spill down my cheeks. βI never forced myself on you, Adam. Why wonβt you believe me?β I manage to say but he raises a hand to tell me to stop talking and I clamp my lips shut. βDo not stand there and try to look innocent, Aria because that is far from who you are. I simply said the truth and I do not care if you cannot take it.β He says and stares at me intently. βDo not let what happened today repeat itself again. Know your place and I will not have any reason to talk to you like this. Do you understand?β He lays emphasis on every word of warning he is giving me and turns his back against me before I can even open my mouth to speak again. βAre you okay?β I canβt believe how his voice goes from hard to soft in the next second as he fusses over Sophia. Sophia makes a face that has me balling my fingers into a fist. A face that clearly says she is not okay. βThe coffee was hot and I think I might have to visit the hospital to prevent the burn from leaving a scar.β She says in a quiet voice. I look down at my own body that is also drenched in the same coffee. The coffee wasnβt hot enough to cause a burn but Adam believes her instantly. He pulls her into a hug and embarrassment washes over me like a bucket of ice. βIβll drive. Wait here, I will get my keys.β he says as he pulls away, rushing to his office table to grab his car keys before coming back to her side. He takes her purse from her and leads her out. They both seem so lost in each other that they forget my existence totally, leaving me to stand alone in the middle of the room. Silence falls over me and I am left with my thoughts, licking the wound that his words caused. I have never been able to convince Adam that I didnβt force myself on him yet till this very day, he still believes I drugged him into sleeping with him on the night we were having dinner with his family three years ago. I can never forget the pure look of disgust and shock on his face when we both woke up in each otherβs arms the next morning. I knew since then that Adam would never love me, yet I was hopeful. As the years go by, the hope keeps dwindling with his grandfather, being the only support system in everything. Sighing, I return to my office and pick up my phone. My eyes widens when I see that a number has called my phone repeatedly all the time I was in Adamβs office. The dread that fills me stems from the fact that I recognise the number as the hospitalβs number. I call back instantly, my heart racing. They pick up on the second ring. βMrs Miller, we have been trying to reach you all afternoon!β A female voice says. βWhy? Is something wrong? Is my grandmother okay?β I ask, rushing my words as I am filled with dread and panic. βYou need to be at the hospital, your grandmotherββ I donβt wait to hear the rest of her words. I race out of the room and call on a taxi to drive me to the hospital. I go straight to her hospital room but the sheets and blankets are already being neatly arranged and the bed is empty. More panic. More dread. βWhere is my grandmother?β I ask, βWhere is she?β The nurse cleaning the room gives me a look of pity that nauseates me. βI am sorry, Mrs Miller but your grandmother died ten minutes ago and has been moved to the hospitalβs mortuary. I am sorry.β She says. The world around me stops and I donβt know how I am able to walk on my two feet to the mortuary where the Nurse leads me. She stops at the door and points to my grandmother laying on a table in the room, her body covered in a white sheet from head to toe. I walk to the bedside with shaky legs and the moment I take the sheet off and set my eyes on her pale face, I burst out into a loud sob, wishing I could go back to a month ago so I can prevent that accident that made her this way. The accident that took my only living family away from me. βGrandmaβ¦β I call in a broken voice as I reach for her hand. They are too cold, so lifeless and the tears begin to leave my eyes in torrents as I remember how warm these hands used to be when they held my face. βIβm sorryβ¦Iβm so sorry.β I cry, holding tightly unto her and hating myself for not being there in her last moments. I should have been there with her but I was too busy worrying about my place in my husbandβs life. The nurse comes into the room and says, βShe asked us to give you this.β I wipe my tears, sniffling as I take what seems to be a key chain from her. I couldnβt think of a reason why grandmotherβs parting gift to me would be a key chain but I canβt seem to care. Her cold hands slammed me into the reality of what had happened. Grandmother is dead. I fall to my knees by the bed and weep, muttering and calling for her to return to me. βAria.β Adamβs voice calls from behind me. I am both surprised and relieved to find him there. He must have been contacted by the hospital as well and stopped by since he already came here with Sophia anyway. Sophia is standing in the room with us but I ignore her. I focus on Adam because I need him. I need someone to hold me and tell me everything will be fine. βAdam.β I cry as I walk over to him and hug him without a second thought, my tears gathering and falling again. His body stiffens at my touch but I donβt let go. I need his warmth. I need him because he is really all that I have left and I canβt bear to lose him too. I expect him to push me away but he doesnβt. He doesnβt hug me back too but I canβt find it in me to care as I sob uncontrollably. My tears subside and I sniffle repeatedly and slowly let go of him. He clears his throat and takes out his phone, saying; βIβll place a call to start making preparations for her funeral.β He turns around to leave with Sophia also following him but I canβt bear the sight of him turning his back to me and leaving. I grab his hand. βStay.β I sound so weak and helpless but I do not give a damm, βPlease, donβt go. Stay with me.β I beg. Adam opens his mouth to say something but a sharp cry stuns us both. We spin around at the same time to the source of the cry and she is crouching, holding her stomach with an expression of pain. Adam rushes to Sophiaβs side in a heartbeat and my heart sinks further down my stomach. βSophia, are you okay?β He asks with concern ringing high in his voice. She shakes her head, βThere is something Iβve been wanting to tell you but didnβt know how.β She says, holding her stomach as she looks directly at me. βWhat is it?β Adam asks, still very much concerned. βAdamβ¦Iβ¦I am pre9nant.β Chapter 3 Grandmotherβs funeral is being held on a gloomy day, much to my displeasure. I listened to the weather forecast so I could choose the perfect day for the funeral, and according to the forecast, the day is supposed to be sunny and bright just like Grandmother. I feel duped standing by grandmotherβs grave with the sky covered in clouds that only worsen the dark and depressing feeling that has settled in my guts since her death. I have cried so much that I have no tears left to shed at grandmotherβs grave and now have to wear dark sunglasses to hide how red and puffy my eyes are rather than to complement my black dress. There are a few people hanging around the other graves in the cemetery to pay their last respects to their loved ones and at each grave, there are at least two people; couples holding each other, families comforting each other and even church processions. I am alone, with no one to comfort me since no one else bothered to attend my grandmother's funeral. With her gone, I realize how lonely I actually am and the thought deals another blow to my already damaged heart. I try hard to get the heartbreaking events of the past few days off my mind and when I finally succeed, I turn my focus back to my grandmother. Sheβs smiling in the framed picture placed by her tombstone and I force a smile as well as a fond memory of her slips into my mind. βAria, my child, you canβt frown like that everytime or youβll get wrinkles like me before you are even my age!β She would say and then go ahead to spread my lips into a smile with her fingers. Grandmother was a cheerful soul who would tell me stories, mostly the ones about my birth and how she knew from the very first day that she set her eyes on me that I was going to be a really beautiful and amazing child. I shared everything with her and talking to her about my marriage was one of the things that made it bearable. I donβt know what Iβd do without Grandmother. Tears start to gather in my eyes again and I take off the sunglasses to wipe them off before they start to fall. I already promised myself not to cry anymore; Grandmother wouldnβt want that. Sniffling, I begin to place the things I brought with me by her grave; Tulips, which were her favorite flowers; Peaches, her favorite fruit and finally some sweets because grandmother had a really sweet tooth and never listened to me whenever I told her they were bad for her age. βThere are no sweets in heaven, Aria. Itβs only right that I take as much as I can down here before the big guy calls me up there.β She would say at the same she unwraps another candy and tosses it into her mouth. She would talk on and on about βThe big guyβ and βUp thereβ like she was always prepared for the day she would die. I canβt help it anymore, I burst into tears, falling on my knees by her grave as it dawns on me fully that she is really gone. βI should have let you have all the candies in the world. I should have been there with you at your dying moment. I should have held your hands and told you itβs gonna be okay. Iββ My voice breaks, the deep regret and tears choking me and making me lose my train of thoughts. I canβt think of a thing to say anymore and so I just cry, sobbing so hard my body shakes. I hear confident footsteps approaching me and feel a presence behind me that causes my sobs to come to a pause. My heart races and hope swells inside of me when the person puts a hand on my shoulder. I whip my head around, expecting to see Adam but my hope quickly shatters when I see that it is Adam uncle, Regis. βRegis.β I say, sniffing and wiping my tears in a rush. βHere,β He hands me his handkerchief, stuffing it in my hand and closing my palm around it before I can even refuse. I say a barely audible thank you before I dab at the tears with the hanky that smelt like him. βI came as soon as I heard, Iβm sorry about your Grandmother, Aria.β He says in a sincere and kind voice. Regis has always been kind to me even when I was just a secretary. Whenever he came to visit his nephew at the office, he would stop to say hi and hand me a canned coffee with a smile on his face. However, he left the country to study a few days before our wedding and only returned not too long ago. This is the first time seeing him since his return and the kind look in his eyes assures me that if he had been around, I would have had another person rooting for me just like Adamβs grandfather. βYou didnβt have to.β I say quietly, trying to downplay how much it actually means to me that at least, one person cares enough to be here with me. Regis looks around as if searching for something and then he frowns when our eyes meet again. βYouβre alone? Where the hel is Adam?β He asks, his voice a little hard. My cheeks redden in embarrassment. Regis has only just returned and probably doesnβt know anything yet. I am not willing to talk either. I force a smile and begin to pack the excess things I bought for my grandmother's funeral. Regis joins me wordlessly and I sigh in silent appreciation of how he doesnβt ask anymore questions. He takes everything from my hands even before I can protest. βDid you drive here?β He asks and I shake my head. I came here in a Taxi. βCβmon, weβll take my car.β He says and walks in front of me. I have no choice but to follow him. We have just gotten outside of the cemetery when a car drives into the parking space right beside Regisβ car. The car is familiar and I keep doubting who it belongs to until Adam steps out of the car, eyes trained on me as he walks over. The first thing I notice is his Royal Blue suit and I feel the slow brewing of anger inside of me. How could he show up wearing that? It is like a blatant disrespect of my Grandmother and I canβt stand to watch her get disrespected even in her death. It is clear that he came from the office; little surprise there and it would have been better if he didnβt come at all as I now realize how looking at him only infuriates me. He had managed to avoid me in the past three days since the hospital incident. Three days since Sophia announced that she was pre9nant and shook my world. I didnβt need anyone to tell me who the baby belonged to as he walks towards me now, I feel nothing but resentment for him. βIs it over? Crap, I must have lost track of time.β He says before turning to his uncle and giving him a tight smile of appreciation that I find nauseating. βThank you for being here with her, uncle.β Regis merely crosses his arms, staring back at his nephew, βCare to explain why you are only just coming?β Regis thows the question at him and I face Adam too, crossing my arms. βYes, Adam. Tell me what was more important than being at my grandmotherβs funeral.β I already know the answer but I still wait to hear him say it so I can have a reason to hate him even more. βI really wanted to be here, Aria but you knowβ¦β He trails off, running a hand through his hair, βI had to be with Sophia.β The sound of her name is what does it for me; the same woman who is the reason I wasnβt around to witness grandmotherβs dying moments. βDid you really come all the way here to tell me you were with another woman you slept with and impregnated?β βWhat?β Regis is the one who speaks, his voice echoing his shock as he looks from me to Adam. Adamβs usual blank look remains as if he is unaffected by my words and the pain he has caused me. βLetβs not do this here, Aria. You know I canβt just leave her.β I scoff. βI never stopped you. You know what? You should have never come here. You should have stayed with her since that is where your loyalties lie now and I am no longer in the picture.β Adam frowns, moving closer and intimidating me just a little with his height and muscular frame, βWhat does that mean? You are my wife.β βEx-wife,β I say the words without even thinking. I didnβt think any of this through but I donβt care because my entire being seems to agree that this is whatβs best for me, βI want a divorce, Adam.β His eyes grow wide, unable to contain the shock at my words and I am proud of myself that I finally got a reaction that isnβt anger or coldness from him. βBoth the divorce papers and my resignation will find their way to you soon.β I add before he can get over his shock and I donβt wait for him to reply as I turn to an equally stunned Regis. βTake me home, Regis.β Chapter 4 Adamβs POV I want a divorce. The words circle around my head non-stop. Of all the shets I have had the pleasure of hearingβand trust me, I hear a lot of crap as a CEOβAria asking for a divorce out of nowhere has to be the worst. I am a man who takes pride in my strength and ability to handle situations no matter how unexpected they are. It comes with the job, yet for some reason, I am unable to utter a single word or move my feet until she gets into the car with my uncle. When I finally come to my senses, she is long gone, leaving me to drown in the pool of shock she created. I am shocked at her audacity; the way she looked me in the eyes as she hit me with those words. Ariaβs cold hazel eyes totally betrayed the meek and timid trait that I have only ever known her for. I am equally shocked at myself for actually being affected by it when I shouldn't have batted an eyelash, after all, I never wanted to marry her. The three years of living with Aria felt like I was in bonda9e created by her own deceit and my grandfatherβs overbearing attitude. I never cared about Aria yet the sound of divorce numbed me completely that I am unable to think straight until the door to my car opens and reminds me that I am still standing still in front of the cemetery. My personal assistant steps out of the car and speaks. βSir, your appointment with the Taylor Enterprises is thirty minutes from now. Itβs more than an hourβs drive from here, we should leave now ifββ βCancel it,β I say, heading back to the car, not quite in the right mind to process anything, not even a meeting whose outcome was worth millions of dollars. My assistant follows behind me in a hurry, obviously confused. βBut sir, that isnβt the only appointment for the day. You also haveβ¦β He starts to read out my packed schedule for the day as I finally get into the car. βCancel them all!β I say, settling into the leather seats of the car and loosening my tie at the same time as it feels like I am slowly losing the ability to breathe, βGet in and turn the dann AC on.β I command him, unable to prevent my anger and irritation from reflecting in my voice. Finally noticing the negative emotions rolling out of me in waves, he mutters his response before getting into the driverβs seat and pulling the car out of the cemeteryβs parking lot. We get to the highway, air is emitting from not only the AC in the car yet I feel heat rising from inside of me and not even loosening a few buttons on my shirt helped. All I can think about is Aria and the dammed divorce. My shock is long gone and I am now stewing in nothing but anger, bordering on rage. Who the hel does she think she is? What gives her the boldness to think she makes the call for divorce? If anyone should be asking for a divorce, It should be me. I am the one who married her against my will. Sheβs the one who found me so irresistible that she went as far as dru9ging me just to have me. If anyone deserves to slam divorce papers in her face, it is me but the thought never crossed my mind. Sheβs a good secretary, dutiful, efficient and always at my beck and call. She also doubles as a good wife, never getting in my way or needy for attention. Aria takes whatever I give her; the little time, the irregular sax and the little communication, all that I deemed appropriate for our kind of relationship. The sudden switch has me racking my brain, thinking of different possibilities and all the things that could have gone wrong. A thought crosses my mind and it intensifies my anger in a way that I canβt even understand. βFind out if Aria has been meeting anyone lately. Men in particular.β I say. My assistant meets my eyes through the rearview mirror. His eyes fail to hide his surprise that I am asking him to look into my wife and the possibility that sheβs been seeing other men. I canβt rule out all the possibilities and if Aria has really been cheating on me, I swear to Godβ My phone vibrates beside me on the leather seats. Sophiaβs name pops up on the screen in a message notification. Sheβs asking me when next I would be available for an appointment at the doctorβs office. Seeing Sophiaβs message douses my anger but leaves me with a far more disturbing emotion. I thought of all the reasons why my quiet wife is suddenly asking for a divorce but it never crossed my mind that impregnating the woman I once loved could be the reason. I think back to that day two months ago when yet again, I let drinking lead me into making the worst decisions. All I had to do was pick Sophia up at the airport, drive her to her hotel and return home. Instead, I took the invite to have a drink in her hotel room; for old timeβs sake, she called it. We did more than just have a drink that night and the outcome is the baby growing inside of Sophia. I canβt call it a mistake yet deep down, I know it should have never happened. I should have never let myself get tempted by the thought of how being inside of Sophia will feel after three years. I want the child. Itβs my baby and I donβt plan on losing it but it comes at a price that I never thought would be a problem which is the divorce with Aria. I canβt let Aria divorce me. I need her. At the office and in my home. Sheβs been my secretary for seven years and no one can do her job like her. I also pay her well and make sure she doesnβt need anything as my wife. How does she plan to survive without me anyway? Does she think that by asking for divorce, she has put herself on a higher level than me? What game is she playing with me now? Ha! Women thinking that they can live without a man and his support. As I think deeply about these things, I also think of a way to remedy them. I just need to do something to appeal to her. βWhat do women like?β I asked my assistant. He hesitates at first, surprised by the sudden question before he clears his throat and answers, βErm, designer bags I guess and oh, flowers.β I am already scrolling through an online store on my phone, clicking away at every expensive bag that catches my eyes until I have already ordered a number to last her an entire year. Then we make a stop at the flower shop on the way home. Turns out there are more than a hundred thousand flowers and I canβt even decide which one to get for Aria because apparently, women have favorites when it comes to things as trivial as flowers as well. In the end, I pick Lilies because the attendant at the flowershop claims itβs most womenβs favorite. I head home after that with only one single thought at the back of my mind; I wonβt let Aria divorce me. Chapter 5 Iβm thankful that Regis doesnβt ask any questions as he drives me back home. He offers to drive me into the compound but I turn him down and wait till he drives off before I sigh and walk into the house. The house is brimming with maids who rush over to me the instant they hear the door open but I raise a hand to stop them all from coming close to me. I am no longer the mistress of the house. I walk past them all to get to my room. Adam and I only share a room when he is looking to satisfy his saxual urges. He crawls into my bed and peppers kisses all over my body till I give in and that is the only time I ever feel wanted by him. As I walk into the room, I refrain from staring at the bed for longer than I should, afraid that the memories of us tangled up in sheets with him buried deep inside of me will break my resolve. And right now, I have only one resolveβto leave Adam for good. I begin to pack while that resolve is still strong, not even stopping for one moment to think about the fact that I have nowhere to go. I canβt bear to stay one more day under the same roof with Adam, knowing how deeply his betrayal cut. I only pack a few things that are important, assuring myself that I will come back for the rest of my things later when the divorce is finalized. I am only halfway through packing when I hear the sound of a familiar voice that never fails to send chills down my spine and even right this moment, I can already feel the chilling crawl of dread and it makes me stop packing immediately. Adamβs mother, Elodie and his sister Eva are here. I exhale sharply, trying to keep my breathing under control and to also keep the terrible memories of them from flushing into the forefront of my mind. A few more deep exhales and I finally get a hold of myself, resuming packing my things. Once I finish packing, I haul the heavy suitcase out of the room and walk into the living room where Elodie and Eva are seated on one of the couches, legs crossed over one another like they owned the place. Elodie has her signature scowl on her face that doesnβt fade even when I bow to greet her. βWhy are you here?β Elodie asks, standing. I am confused by her question and my inability to give an answer makes her scoff, her face contorting into the ugliest form annoyance can take. βI almost forgot how dumb you are.β Elodie says again. Dumb. Her favorite word to throw at me the way she pleases and of course, it doesnβt hurt less today. In fact, it is even more painful now that I realize that besides having to live with Adamβs indifference, I have also had to deal with his motherβs hatred and utter disrespect for me and all along, my response has either been silence or an apology that she never deserved. βWhy are you here instead of the office, huh?β She sneers and continues, βMy son works tirelessly day and night just to make money for someone like you to leech off him, all he asks of you is to do your job as his secretary and yet you canβt even do that one thing? Do you think you are entitled to his money just because you are his wife?β Her words are like hard blows to the chast, every single word that strung her sentences together hitting nerves and breaking right through them. I feel something rising inside of me. It has always been there but I have always managed to control it. To top it all, Eva, Adamβs snobbish sister had to chip in, βSheβs a trickster who duped my poor innocent brother and I wonder why isnβt she at the office! Such a lazy bumm! I donβt even know how Grandpa accepted such a penniless betch to be part of our elite family!β βI had to be at my grandmotherβs funeral.β I respond simply, hoping the scowl on her face will disappear but it gets even more profound and she adds a scoff for good measure. Did Elodie and Eva not know that my grandmother died? βIs she dead for real? Or is it just an act?!β Eva has the guts to ask me and I glare at her. Elodie continues, βOf course, thatβs your excuse for being a lazy gold digger. Tell me, did that grandmother of yours teach you to go after other peopleβs money instead of working for your own?β That very thing that has been rising inside me since I saw Adamβs mother reaches its peak. Itβs anger. It is red, pure and fiery and controls my whole being that I can not even bring myself to care about anything other than keeping my grandmotherβs name from being soiled. βDo not talk about my grandmother like that!β I yell and she jumps slightly, startled by my outburst. βDid you just yell at me?β she says, taking a step forward but I donβt flinch as I stare back into her eyes. Eva approaches me and she lashes out, βDid you just shout at my mother?!!!β Eva has always tried to demean me and every possible way at every chance presented to her. She grabs my arm, presses it harshly, making me wince in pain. Elodie smiles and as usually, she is greatly entertained. I push Eva with the other hand and she tumbles on the sofa. She remains shocked for I have always allowed them to bully me and this time, I retaliate. βDid you forget your place? You are nothing but aββ βGold digger who married your son for his money, yes, I get it!β I snap at her, having had enough of the name calling every damm time, βBut you donβt have to worry about that anymore because I already filed for a divorce. I am leaving your son so you can go ahead and swallow all of his money for all I care.β I turn around to leave, huffing as I drag the heavy suitcase with me but then Elodie clamps her hand down on the suitcase to stop me. She looks at the suitcase in amusement. βYou are really leaving!β Elodie canβt even hide the joy in her tone. βYes, so please just stop and let me go.β She shakes her head, βNot so fast! You canβt just leave.β And then she signals to two of the maids who have been standing, watching the whole exchange. βSearch her!β She orders when they come forward. They hesitate and she glares at them. βDid you not hear her? She is no longer the mistress of the house. Search her right now.β I am too stunned to react when the maids finally snatch my suitcase from me. Eva tries to hold me preventing me from snatching back my bag from the maids. βWhat do you think youβre doing?β I say, my voice shaky. βI canβt just let you leave. Who knows what valuables you have stolen from my son inside that germ ridden bag of yours.β My mouth opens and closes several times at her words as I canβt even come up with a single string of sentences to say to her. I just watch as my things come tumbling to the ground in the rough search. Tears of humiliation burned at the back of my eyes. I donβt struggle any more from Evaβs grip and she stares at me triumphantly. βWhat is that? Hand it over.β Adamβs mother says when one of the maids found a gold bracelet I had lodged into my case. Grandmotherβs bracelet, the only thing I have left of her. βNo!β I rush forward to stop her from handing it over but I am too late. Adamβs mother is already holding and inspecting the bracelet. βOh, wow! Mom, you finally found something she stole from Adam!β Eva exclaimed enthusiastically. Upon saying those words, she drags me and throws me onto the marble. I hit my nose. As I touch it, blood is coming out. I wipe it quickly and spring up to my feet. βI knew it! You took something. Did my son buy this for you? What gives you the right to think you can walk away with something he got for you after filing for a divorce?β Elodie snaps. βThat doesnβt belong to your son! It is mine and I will appreciate it if you give it back.β She does the exact opposite and only continues to accuse me of being a thief until the door opens and Adam walks in. I donβt feel relief at his presence like I usually do when his mother treats me this way, instead, I feel nothing but resentment for him. I want to scream how much I hate him to his face. His face twists into confusion when he sees the situation. βWhat is going on here?β He asks, walking further into the house and looking from his mother to me. βThank goodness you arrived, son. This leech was about to leave with something that clearly doesnβt belong to her.β His mother responds. βAnd she hit me!!!β Eva adds, almost in tears, complaining to Adam. This time, Adam is too shocked to ask me why I hit his dear sister. I thought,as he did in the past, he would force me to apologize, but this time, he did nothing. I wonder why. My eyes are starting to water for some reason and I am confused as to why Adamβs appearance suddenly triggered them yet I smile through the tears. βAdam, will you please tell your mother that I have never gotten a gift from you?β Adam falters, seemingly speechless for a second as he stares at his hands. I also look down at his hands and I finally understand why my eyes sting with tears and why I am sniffling in preparation of a sneeze that rocks my entire body. Lilies. I am all ergic to them. Despite the tears rolling down my cheeks, I start to laugh. I laugh so hard, ignoring the burning gazes of everyone present in the room who probably think I have gone crazy. I sneeze in between laughs, yet I donβt stop laughing as I turn to Adamβs mother. βI have been married to your son for three years and he doesnβt even know I am all ergic to lilies, yet you think he is capable of getting me a bracelet?β I shake my head at my sad reality. Chapter 6 Adam hands the flowers over to one of the maids, asking her to put it in a vase or whatever. He clears his throat, trying and failing miserably to hide his embarrassment in front of his mother, his sister and the maids. βThe flowers werenβt for you.β He says, voice hard as he stares at me for a brief second. I barely even feel anything when he says that because I genuinely donβt care anymore, I just want to get the hel out of this house and never return. I donβt even care about the rest of my things which I am yet to pack, I just want to turn my back on this horrible life already. I hear Eva sniggers. Adam seems like he wants to say something to me but then he decides against it and turns to his mother instead. βMum, please return the bracelet to her.β She snorts and shakes her head stubbornly, βI am not letting her leave with it.β Adam grunts, a sign that he is slowly losing his patience, β I have never seen that bracelet mother, it belongs to Aria. Please, give it back.β Adamβs mother doesnβt immediately move to do as she is told but the moment she does, it is with an annoyed huff as she tosses the bracelet at me. I catch it in my palms while she heads back to sit in the same position as earlier when I first walked into the living room. I fall to my knees by the mess the maids made out of my clothes and then I begin to arrange them again, rushing through the process so I can get out of here fast to stop the repeated sting of humiliation. Adam standing there and just watching me clean up his motherβs mess without as much as an apology from either of them only adds to the rising level of humiliation. Once done, I stand and face Adam squarely, taking in the same clothes he wore to the cemetery earlier and getting reminded of all the reasons why I am making the best decision of my life. βAs I said before, it is over between us. The divorce papers and my resignation letter will find their way to you soon.β I say, ignoring the way his face twisted, βGoodbye, Adam.β I turn around before I can even hear his response. I donβt want to look at Adam, not anymore. I walk away from him, going straight for the door and turning its knob for what I hope is the very last time. I have barely taken a step outside the door when Adamβs strong hand grabs my upper arm and twists me around to look at him. I have worked with him for seven years, four of which I was just his secretary and that was enough for me to know the kind of man Adam Miller is. He is usually composed with a blank expression that shows how in control he is. Right now, Adam is neither composed nor in control. He seems like he has lost grip of it and the meaning of those words donβt even matter to him anymore as he holds my arm in a tight grip. I struggle to break free of his hold. βLet me go.β I snap at him but Adam only narrows his eyes at me, his anger burning past his blue eyes. βYou canβt just leave, Aria.β He growls. βYou canβt tell me what to do, Adam. At least not anymore. Let me go!β βDoes this even make any sense to you!β He yells in my face as he lets go of my hand to run his hand through his hair, β You canβt just spring this kind of shet on me.β βItβs not springing if we have both had it coming from the very moment we shared our vows which you have already broken. We both know this marriage should have never happened so cut the crap and let me leave.β I say, practically fuming before turning around in another attempt to leave. βWhat about grandfather? You are taking such a big step without talking to the old man who set it all up anyway. The man who has been nothing but good to you.β I turn back to face Adam, hating his attempt at making me feel guilty. My thoughts go to his grandfather momentarily and I try to imagine the old manβs reaction to me filing for a divorce when he cares about me so much. However, I donβt waver. I refuse to let those thoughts come between me and my freedom. I refuse to put the wish of another over my own happiness. βI will talk to grandfather. Believe me, you have nothing to worry about.β I say and make another attempt to leave but of course, Adam doesnβt give up as he speaks again. βI wonβt sign it Aria, I wonβt sign the goddamm papers!β βWhat the hel is wrong with you?β I yell out my frustration, βWhy wonβt you just let me go?β He stares me down, eyes burning stubbornly, βI wonβt sign the papers and I wonβt accept your resignation either. The company has rules you have to follow and you canβt just decide to resign without prior notice especially when there is a lot of work at the office which I pay you to do!β I scoff, unable to believe his nerve. Unable to get over his selfish thinking and absolute lack of remorse for the things he has done. βYou have Sophia, donβt you?β I shoot at him and his brows furrow. βWhat does that even mean?β βEveryone adores Sophia. She is smart, beautiful and can get your work done for you and oh, donβt forget the fact that she is also pre9nant with your child! How perfect is that?β Adamβs mother springs up, surprise evident in her features. Clearly, she is just learning about her coming grandson. βAdam, is what she says true? You have a child on the way?β Eva asked excitedly. Adamβs expression donβt give anything away and he doesnβt even spare his mother or sister a glance. He is still looking straight at me. βAria, what happened between Sophia and I wasnβt intentional, it justββ βDonβt you dare make excuses for her! Who cares what she thinks? Sophia is who you have always deserved. The only woman who actually deserves to be my daughter-in-law.β Adamβs mother cut in while making sure to give me a nasty look that doesnβt even surprise me anymore. I shrug at Adam, a way to show him that I was right. Everyone wants Sophia, including him and he canβt even bring himself to deny it. He continues to ignore his mother. βAria, it was an accident.β He says again and I nod, like I am agreeing to his words. βThree years ago, you didnβt think the same way. You didnβt think you accidentally slept with me but instead believed I had gone as far as dru9ging you to sleep with you. What changed, Adam? Because all I see right now is a bloody hypocrite and a coward who would rather blame others for his mistakes.β When I turn my back to him this time, I donβt stop walking. I donβt turn around. βAria! Aria, get back here while I am still being nice. Aria, I swear to God if you walk out that door, I wonβt take you back even if you go on your knees. You need me, Aria. You canβt survive without me!β Adam yells after me but I donβt stop walking as his arrogant words only fueled my desire to get away from him as fast as I can. I block out the rest of his words as I open the door and welcome my peace and freedom. I am never going back to that sad reality. | Read freely | 18 | https://facebook.com/61557986570531 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716534000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879754 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410718 | 1723321855 | 995 | 1647538179348259 | 2 | 9.748784076486E+14 | 1716620400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 250753834794512 | 0 | Read freely | 120211565986950196 | redtgb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | β€οΈπWhat happens nextπClick Here to read onπ | https://redtgb.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=11204&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1714661788 | 2.5075383479451E+14 | Read freely | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441255115_1177880883571742_5075201022874715379_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=lqVPf_9YhC8Q7kNvgE4Fc9J&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYB3a2XBY2D07vo6RW7haoBeWxXXT0Ek9W736f-GS_RPGg&oe=66729CF3 | person_profile | 0 | Read freely | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441055224_676099334622461_3142011906559831658_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=O7GQ8aQRSUAQ7kNvgFiePIh&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDkKJnM5mjBlemqtMjVzrkcIdDh62yC7XlsEmD3F_NPJw&oe=6672AB39 | 0 | 3 | My husband and boss Adam, is laughing at every joke that leaves the lips of his first love while I watch them through the glass doors that separates his office from mine. I had been dutifully preparing some documents that needed his signature and also setting up his meetings for the day like I have done for 7 years as his secretary but since Sophiaβs arrival, I have been unable to get any work done. I feel a pang in my chast every time Adam laughs, almost tearing up at the thought that he has never laughed like that around me. I stare at her slender frame, her lush black hair that bounces back into place even when she throws her head back in laughter and the grace in every of her movements. Sophia is an epitome of feminine grace and every of her features is proof of why Adam has been hung up over her even though they separated years ago. Even though he married me. The dark binds of his office are brought down abruptly, blocking my view of them both and now all I can see is black. It is as if Adam is trying to prevent me from prying even though I am his wife and privacy shouldnβt be a thing between us, especially when it comes to a woman he used to love so much. I still remember how shocked I was when she walked up to me earlier, heels clicking ever so sophisticatedly on the office tiles. I saw the feet cladded in shiny red heels before I raised my head to look at her. βAria, I didnβt know you still worked here! I canβt believe Adam is still making you work even after you both got married. That man is something, isnβt he?β She said, smiling sweetly with blood red lips that would look horrifying on me if I dared to try that shade of lipstick. I couldnβt speak, caught in the shock of staring face to face with her after all these years, especially as she still had the same aura of wealth and confidence that I have always known her to possess. For a split second, she made me feel insecure in my gray office wear and my tight bun hair and the fact that I wore little to no makeup. βSophia!β Adamβs voice was what broke me out of that trance I was stuck in as he stepped out of his office and there, right in front of me, he hugged her ever so tightly like an old time friend before he led her back into his office without sparing me as little as a glance. Now, they are alone together in his office, the blinds of his office pulled shut so that I canβt see them but can only hear their muffled voices and his own laughter every now and then. I squirm in my seat uncomfortably each time they laugh, gripping the edges of my table tightly and too destabilized to get any work done while they are both holed up in there. I stare at the calendar on my table. Todayβs date is marked with a red marker and I sigh deeply. Does he even know today is our third wedding anniversary? Every year, it seems like I am the only one who remembers it and now with Sophiaβs appearance, I can already tell that today will pass by like itβs just another day. I knew she was coming today. Being his secretary is the only reason why I knew the things Adam would rather keep from me. He already briefed me about a new business partner that just returned to the country two months ago and will be at the office at any time. What I didnβt know or should I say, what he purposely kept from me was that the so-called business partner was Sophia Bradley and perhaps the reason why he has been more cold and indifferent than usual, ever since her return. My heart aches at the realization but it aches even more because there is nothing I can do about it. I have never had a place in Adamβs heart but he has been the only one in mine. I loved him from the very moment he saved my life years ago but I can say the same for him. He always reminds me even without speaking, that our marriage is nothing but an attempt at fulfilling his grandfatherβs wishes and I knew if he had gotten his way, he would have never looked at me twice, not to talk of getting married to me. Grandfatherβs love for me is perhaps the only reason I am still sane in this loveless marriage. The old man never ceases to show how much he cherishes me but when has that ever been enough? I am married to Adam and not his family. The clock ticks endlessly, yet Adam remains in there with her. Their laughter dies down all of a sudden and I can barely hear a word they are saying. Unable to hold back anymore, I stand before the restlessness kil ls me. I am his wife and I deserve to know what is going on. To look natural, I quickly make two cups of coffee. After all, I am his secretary and this is a part of my job. Nervous sweat breaks out on my forehead as I make my way to his office with unsure steps. Inhaling sharply, I open the door and step in. My heart clenches at the sight of them both, relaxed in each otherβs company as they sit so close to each other on one of the couches in his office. I swallow hard and try to walk over to the table with the best confidence I could muster. βI made coffee.β I say but they donβt even acknowledge my presence, lost in each other and whatever they were discussing. I study Sophia for a moment, watching as she twirls her cherry blonde hair with a finger while seated with one leg crossed over the other to reveal a prov0cative amount of thi9hs, smiling so brightly that I canβt tell if sheβs faking it. I want to turn around and leave but my feet fail to move. I canβt just leave like this. For how long will I keep quiet and svck it up? βSir,β I call, looking directly at Adam. We are married but he never fails to remind me that I address him as my boss at work. Adam doesnβt even make a move to look at me and anger rises inside of me, slowly boiling. βSir,β I call again and that is when he finally regards me with a cold look that almost deters me but I remain firm under his gaze. βThere is something I need to talk to you about, itβs important.β I lie right through my teeth. I can feel Sophiaβs gaze burning through me but I try not to look at her, for the fear that my confidence would slip away if I do. Adam just waves me off. βIt can wait. As you can see, I have a guest.β βIt canβt wait.β I say, even more firmly but he is already back to smiling and listening to Sophia speak like a lovesick teenage boy. I call him a few more times and unable to hold back any longer, I call him by his name instead. βAdam!β They both look up at me with a mix of expressions. That of Adam is pure anger while Sophia is obviously irritated. I know she has never liked me and back when I was just his secretary and she was his girlfriend, she complained about every single thing I did. βAdam, what is this? Is this how you let your employees disrespect you?β She says it with absolute disgust and disrespect. I am stunned at her words, so stunned that I scoff. Employee? She dares to talk down on me like that even when she knows fully well that I am not just an employee. Adam stands, his tall frame causing his shadow to sweep over me while I grip the tray of coffee tightly in my hands. βAria, out. Now.β He commands and I am filled with so much hurt that my hands shake and my lips quiver. βWhy should I? I have every reason to be in this room and I have every right to speak for you to listen to me.β Sophia stands at once. βIt seems as though your wife has a bone to pick with me and I will not sit here and take such insults.β She begins to walk away and of course, Adam follows her. I try to move out of her way but my attempt fails when her shoulder heavily bumps into mine in a way that is too fierce to be considered unintentional. I lose grip of the tray and stagger forward and just like that, the hot coffee spills all over her very expensive looking dress and mine. She shrieks, backing away from me only to glare at me the next second. βWhat the hel is wrong with you?β She yells. Adam rushes to her side in less than a minute, fussing over her stained dress and even offering her his handkerchief while I stand there, drenched in coffee as my husband takes care of another woman. I feel the tears prickling at the corner of my eyes but what does crying in front of this woman make me? βI canβt believe you! What did I ever do to you? Go ahead and dislike me all you want but there is a limit to how far you can go and you just crossed that.β She says again, seething in uncontained anger. Adam turns to me, eyes dark with rage. It makes me shiver. Makes me feel unimaginable pain to know he is mad at me because of another woman. βApologise right now!β He commands and I scoff. How can he stand there and take her side when I did nothing wrong? βWhy should I do that? I have done nothing wrong. She bumped into me!β I defend myself, my voice breaking. Lips quivering. βI did no such thing!β Sophia says defensively but her eyes tell a different story. βYou heard me, Aria. Apologize to her right now.β Adam says again, still intently looking at me. I almost laugh at the fact that the only time he is looking me directly in the eyes after three years of marriage is when another woman is involved. I shake my head, finding all of this hard to believe. βSo you believe her over me? You take her words for it but mine does not matter? I am your wife.β βA wife I never wanted to marry!β He yells back and shatters what is left of my broken heart. Chapter 2 I am speechless for the next few seconds as his words hit me like a freight train. I wait. I wait for his hard eyes to soften with remorse at the harsh words he threw at me but that doesnβt happen. He is glowering at me, nose flaring angrily. βAdam, howβ¦how could you say that to me?β I say, my eyes crossing over to Sophia who is now hiding her own frame behind his tall, muscular one, βIn front of her?β βBecause itβs the truth!β He yells again, startling me into making a small helpless sound. Adam has never yelled at me. And even though it hurts me to admit that he is truly saying the truth, he has never said it to my face and I never really thought he would. I have always known it yet it hurts to hear it come from him. It feels like a thousand needles are pricking my heart and making me bleed out with so much pain. He runs his fingers through his hair, seeming frustrated. Like he would rather not have this conversation with me. And just when I think it is over, he continues to speak, breaking me even further. βYou were nothing but a mere secretary who wormed her way into my life. If you hadnβt forced yourself on me that night, none of this would have happened! This marriage would have never happened and you know it.β He brings up the past. Our past. The night that meant everything to me but clearly means nothing to him. I swallow over and over again till my throat and mouth become dry. I canβt cry. No, I canβt appear weak. Not in front of Adam and definitely not in front of Sophia so I keep my tears at bay, urging them to return before they spill down my cheeks. βI never forced myself on you, Adam. Why wonβt you believe me?β I manage to say but he raises a hand to tell me to stop talking and I clamp my lips shut. βDo not stand there and try to look innocent, Aria because that is far from who you are. I simply said the truth and I do not care if you cannot take it.β He says and stares at me intently. βDo not let what happened today repeat itself again. Know your place and I will not have any reason to talk to you like this. Do you understand?β He lays emphasis on every word of warning he is giving me and turns his back against me before I can even open my mouth to speak again. βAre you okay?β I canβt believe how his voice goes from hard to soft in the next second as he fusses over Sophia. Sophia makes a face that has me balling my fingers into a fist. A face that clearly says she is not okay. βThe coffee was hot and I think I might have to visit the hospital to prevent the burn from leaving a scar.β She says in a quiet voice. I look down at my own body that is also drenched in the same coffee. The coffee wasnβt hot enough to cause a burn but Adam believes her instantly. He pulls her into a hug and embarrassment washes over me like a bucket of ice. βIβll drive. Wait here, I will get my keys.β he says as he pulls away, rushing to his office table to grab his car keys before coming back to her side. He takes her purse from her and leads her out. They both seem so lost in each other that they forget my existence totally, leaving me to stand alone in the middle of the room. Silence falls over me and I am left with my thoughts, licking the wound that his words caused. I have never been able to convince Adam that I didnβt force myself on him yet till this very day, he still believes I drugged him into sleeping with him on the night we were having dinner with his family three years ago. I can never forget the pure look of disgust and shock on his face when we both woke up in each otherβs arms the next morning. I knew since then that Adam would never love me, yet I was hopeful. As the years go by, the hope keeps dwindling with his grandfather, being the only support system in everything. Sighing, I return to my office and pick up my phone. My eyes widens when I see that a number has called my phone repeatedly all the time I was in Adamβs office. The dread that fills me stems from the fact that I recognise the number as the hospitalβs number. I call back instantly, my heart racing. They pick up on the second ring. βMrs Miller, we have been trying to reach you all afternoon!β A female voice says. βWhy? Is something wrong? Is my grandmother okay?β I ask, rushing my words as I am filled with dread and panic. βYou need to be at the hospital, your grandmotherββ I donβt wait to hear the rest of her words. I race out of the room and call on a taxi to drive me to the hospital. I go straight to her hospital room but the sheets and blankets are already being neatly arranged and the bed is empty. More panic. More dread. βWhere is my grandmother?β I ask, βWhere is she?β The nurse cleaning the room gives me a look of pity that nauseates me. βI am sorry, Mrs Miller but your grandmother died ten minutes ago and has been moved to the hospitalβs mortuary. I am sorry.β She says. The world around me stops and I donβt know how I am able to walk on my two feet to the mortuary where the Nurse leads me. She stops at the door and points to my grandmother laying on a table in the room, her body covered in a white sheet from head to toe. I walk to the bedside with shaky legs and the moment I take the sheet off and set my eyes on her pale face, I burst out into a loud sob, wishing I could go back to a month ago so I can prevent that accident that made her this way. The accident that took my only living family away from me. βGrandmaβ¦β I call in a broken voice as I reach for her hand. They are too cold, so lifeless and the tears begin to leave my eyes in torrents as I remember how warm these hands used to be when they held my face. βIβm sorryβ¦Iβm so sorry.β I cry, holding tightly unto her and hating myself for not being there in her last moments. I should have been there with her but I was too busy worrying about my place in my husbandβs life. The nurse comes into the room and says, βShe asked us to give you this.β I wipe my tears, sniffling as I take what seems to be a key chain from her. I couldnβt think of a reason why grandmotherβs parting gift to me would be a key chain but I canβt seem to care. Her cold hands slammed me into the reality of what had happened. Grandmother is dead. I fall to my knees by the bed and weep, muttering and calling for her to return to me. βAria.β Adamβs voice calls from behind me. I am both surprised and relieved to find him there. He must have been contacted by the hospital as well and stopped by since he already came here with Sophia anyway. Sophia is standing in the room with us but I ignore her. I focus on Adam because I need him. I need someone to hold me and tell me everything will be fine. βAdam.β I cry as I walk over to him and hug him without a second thought, my tears gathering and falling again. His body stiffens at my touch but I donβt let go. I need his warmth. I need him because he is really all that I have left and I canβt bear to lose him too. I expect him to push me away but he doesnβt. He doesnβt hug me back too but I canβt find it in me to care as I sob uncontrollably. My tears subside and I sniffle repeatedly and slowly let go of him. He clears his throat and takes out his phone, saying; βIβll place a call to start making preparations for her funeral.β He turns around to leave with Sophia also following him but I canβt bear the sight of him turning his back to me and leaving. I grab his hand. βStay.β I sound so weak and helpless but I do not give a damm, βPlease, donβt go. Stay with me.β I beg. Adam opens his mouth to say something but a sharp cry stuns us both. We spin around at the same time to the source of the cry and she is crouching, holding her stomach with an expression of pain. Adam rushes to Sophiaβs side in a heartbeat and my heart sinks further down my stomach. βSophia, are you okay?β He asks with concern ringing high in his voice. She shakes her head, βThere is something Iβve been wanting to tell you but didnβt know how.β She says, holding her stomach as she looks directly at me. βWhat is it?β Adam asks, still very much concerned. βAdamβ¦Iβ¦I am pre9nant.β Chapter 3 Grandmotherβs funeral is being held on a gloomy day, much to my displeasure. I listened to the weather forecast so I could choose the perfect day for the funeral, and according to the forecast, the day is supposed to be sunny and bright just like Grandmother. I feel duped standing by grandmotherβs grave with the sky covered in clouds that only worsen the dark and depressing feeling that has settled in my guts since her death. I have cried so much that I have no tears left to shed at grandmotherβs grave and now have to wear dark sunglasses to hide how red and puffy my eyes are rather than to complement my black dress. There are a few people hanging around the other graves in the cemetery to pay their last respects to their loved ones and at each grave, there are at least two people; couples holding each other, families comforting each other and even church processions. I am alone, with no one to comfort me since no one else bothered to attend my grandmother's funeral. With her gone, I realize how lonely I actually am and the thought deals another blow to my already damaged heart. I try hard to get the heartbreaking events of the past few days off my mind and when I finally succeed, I turn my focus back to my grandmother. Sheβs smiling in the framed picture placed by her tombstone and I force a smile as well as a fond memory of her slips into my mind. βAria, my child, you canβt frown like that everytime or youβll get wrinkles like me before you are even my age!β She would say and then go ahead to spread my lips into a smile with her fingers. Grandmother was a cheerful soul who would tell me stories, mostly the ones about my birth and how she knew from the very first day that she set her eyes on me that I was going to be a really beautiful and amazing child. I shared everything with her and talking to her about my marriage was one of the things that made it bearable. I donβt know what Iβd do without Grandmother. Tears start to gather in my eyes again and I take off the sunglasses to wipe them off before they start to fall. I already promised myself not to cry anymore; Grandmother wouldnβt want that. Sniffling, I begin to place the things I brought with me by her grave; Tulips, which were her favorite flowers; Peaches, her favorite fruit and finally some sweets because grandmother had a really sweet tooth and never listened to me whenever I told her they were bad for her age. βThere are no sweets in heaven, Aria. Itβs only right that I take as much as I can down here before the big guy calls me up there.β She would say at the same she unwraps another candy and tosses it into her mouth. She would talk on and on about βThe big guyβ and βUp thereβ like she was always prepared for the day she would die. I canβt help it anymore, I burst into tears, falling on my knees by her grave as it dawns on me fully that she is really gone. βI should have let you have all the candies in the world. I should have been there with you at your dying moment. I should have held your hands and told you itβs gonna be okay. Iββ My voice breaks, the deep regret and tears choking me and making me lose my train of thoughts. I canβt think of a thing to say anymore and so I just cry, sobbing so hard my body shakes. I hear confident footsteps approaching me and feel a presence behind me that causes my sobs to come to a pause. My heart races and hope swells inside of me when the person puts a hand on my shoulder. I whip my head around, expecting to see Adam but my hope quickly shatters when I see that it is Adam uncle, Regis. βRegis.β I say, sniffing and wiping my tears in a rush. βHere,β He hands me his handkerchief, stuffing it in my hand and closing my palm around it before I can even refuse. I say a barely audible thank you before I dab at the tears with the hanky that smelt like him. βI came as soon as I heard, Iβm sorry about your Grandmother, Aria.β He says in a sincere and kind voice. Regis has always been kind to me even when I was just a secretary. Whenever he came to visit his nephew at the office, he would stop to say hi and hand me a canned coffee with a smile on his face. However, he left the country to study a few days before our wedding and only returned not too long ago. This is the first time seeing him since his return and the kind look in his eyes assures me that if he had been around, I would have had another person rooting for me just like Adamβs grandfather. βYou didnβt have to.β I say quietly, trying to downplay how much it actually means to me that at least, one person cares enough to be here with me. Regis looks around as if searching for something and then he frowns when our eyes meet again. βYouβre alone? Where the hel is Adam?β He asks, his voice a little hard. My cheeks redden in embarrassment. Regis has only just returned and probably doesnβt know anything yet. I am not willing to talk either. I force a smile and begin to pack the excess things I bought for my grandmother's funeral. Regis joins me wordlessly and I sigh in silent appreciation of how he doesnβt ask anymore questions. He takes everything from my hands even before I can protest. βDid you drive here?β He asks and I shake my head. I came here in a Taxi. βCβmon, weβll take my car.β He says and walks in front of me. I have no choice but to follow him. We have just gotten outside of the cemetery when a car drives into the parking space right beside Regisβ car. The car is familiar and I keep doubting who it belongs to until Adam steps out of the car, eyes trained on me as he walks over. The first thing I notice is his Royal Blue suit and I feel the slow brewing of anger inside of me. How could he show up wearing that? It is like a blatant disrespect of my Grandmother and I canβt stand to watch her get disrespected even in her death. It is clear that he came from the office; little surprise there and it would have been better if he didnβt come at all as I now realize how looking at him only infuriates me. He had managed to avoid me in the past three days since the hospital incident. Three days since Sophia announced that she was pre9nant and shook my world. I didnβt need anyone to tell me who the baby belonged to as he walks towards me now, I feel nothing but resentment for him. βIs it over? Crap, I must have lost track of time.β He says before turning to his uncle and giving him a tight smile of appreciation that I find nauseating. βThank you for being here with her, uncle.β Regis merely crosses his arms, staring back at his nephew, βCare to explain why you are only just coming?β Regis thows the question at him and I face Adam too, crossing my arms. βYes, Adam. Tell me what was more important than being at my grandmotherβs funeral.β I already know the answer but I still wait to hear him say it so I can have a reason to hate him even more. βI really wanted to be here, Aria but you knowβ¦β He trails off, running a hand through his hair, βI had to be with Sophia.β The sound of her name is what does it for me; the same woman who is the reason I wasnβt around to witness grandmotherβs dying moments. βDid you really come all the way here to tell me you were with another woman you slept with and impregnated?β βWhat?β Regis is the one who speaks, his voice echoing his shock as he looks from me to Adam. Adamβs usual blank look remains as if he is unaffected by my words and the pain he has caused me. βLetβs not do this here, Aria. You know I canβt just leave her.β I scoff. βI never stopped you. You know what? You should have never come here. You should have stayed with her since that is where your loyalties lie now and I am no longer in the picture.β Adam frowns, moving closer and intimidating me just a little with his height and muscular frame, βWhat does that mean? You are my wife.β βEx-wife,β I say the words without even thinking. I didnβt think any of this through but I donβt care because my entire being seems to agree that this is whatβs best for me, βI want a divorce, Adam.β His eyes grow wide, unable to contain the shock at my words and I am proud of myself that I finally got a reaction that isnβt anger or coldness from him. βBoth the divorce papers and my resignation will find their way to you soon.β I add before he can get over his shock and I donβt wait for him to reply as I turn to an equally stunned Regis. βTake me home, Regis.β Chapter 4 Adamβs POV I want a divorce. The words circle around my head non-stop. Of all the shets I have had the pleasure of hearingβand trust me, I hear a lot of crap as a CEOβAria asking for a divorce out of nowhere has to be the worst. I am a man who takes pride in my strength and ability to handle situations no matter how unexpected they are. It comes with the job, yet for some reason, I am unable to utter a single word or move my feet until she gets into the car with my uncle. When I finally come to my senses, she is long gone, leaving me to drown in the pool of shock she created. I am shocked at her audacity; the way she looked me in the eyes as she hit me with those words. Ariaβs cold hazel eyes totally betrayed the meek and timid trait that I have only ever known her for. I am equally shocked at myself for actually being affected by it when I shouldn't have batted an eyelash, after all, I never wanted to marry her. The three years of living with Aria felt like I was in bonda9e created by her own deceit and my grandfatherβs overbearing attitude. I never cared about Aria yet the sound of divorce numbed me completely that I am unable to think straight until the door to my car opens and reminds me that I am still standing still in front of the cemetery. My personal assistant steps out of the car and speaks. βSir, your appointment with the Taylor Enterprises is thirty minutes from now. Itβs more than an hourβs drive from here, we should leave now ifββ βCancel it,β I say, heading back to the car, not quite in the right mind to process anything, not even a meeting whose outcome was worth millions of dollars. My assistant follows behind me in a hurry, obviously confused. βBut sir, that isnβt the only appointment for the day. You also haveβ¦β He starts to read out my packed schedule for the day as I finally get into the car. βCancel them all!β I say, settling into the leather seats of the car and loosening my tie at the same time as it feels like I am slowly losing the ability to breathe, βGet in and turn the dann AC on.β I command him, unable to prevent my anger and irritation from reflecting in my voice. Finally noticing the negative emotions rolling out of me in waves, he mutters his response before getting into the driverβs seat and pulling the car out of the cemeteryβs parking lot. We get to the highway, air is emitting from not only the AC in the car yet I feel heat rising from inside of me and not even loosening a few buttons on my shirt helped. All I can think about is Aria and the dammed divorce. My shock is long gone and I am now stewing in nothing but anger, bordering on rage. Who the hel does she think she is? What gives her the boldness to think she makes the call for divorce? If anyone should be asking for a divorce, It should be me. I am the one who married her against my will. Sheβs the one who found me so irresistible that she went as far as dru9ging me just to have me. If anyone deserves to slam divorce papers in her face, it is me but the thought never crossed my mind. Sheβs a good secretary, dutiful, efficient and always at my beck and call. She also doubles as a good wife, never getting in my way or needy for attention. Aria takes whatever I give her; the little time, the irregular sax and the little communication, all that I deemed appropriate for our kind of relationship. The sudden switch has me racking my brain, thinking of different possibilities and all the things that could have gone wrong. A thought crosses my mind and it intensifies my anger in a way that I canβt even understand. βFind out if Aria has been meeting anyone lately. Men in particular.β I say. My assistant meets my eyes through the rearview mirror. His eyes fail to hide his surprise that I am asking him to look into my wife and the possibility that sheβs been seeing other men. I canβt rule out all the possibilities and if Aria has really been cheating on me, I swear to Godβ My phone vibrates beside me on the leather seats. Sophiaβs name pops up on the screen in a message notification. Sheβs asking me when next I would be available for an appointment at the doctorβs office. Seeing Sophiaβs message douses my anger but leaves me with a far more disturbing emotion. I thought of all the reasons why my quiet wife is suddenly asking for a divorce but it never crossed my mind that impregnating the woman I once loved could be the reason. I think back to that day two months ago when yet again, I let drinking lead me into making the worst decisions. All I had to do was pick Sophia up at the airport, drive her to her hotel and return home. Instead, I took the invite to have a drink in her hotel room; for old timeβs sake, she called it. We did more than just have a drink that night and the outcome is the baby growing inside of Sophia. I canβt call it a mistake yet deep down, I know it should have never happened. I should have never let myself get tempted by the thought of how being inside of Sophia will feel after three years. I want the child. Itβs my baby and I donβt plan on losing it but it comes at a price that I never thought would be a problem which is the divorce with Aria. I canβt let Aria divorce me. I need her. At the office and in my home. Sheβs been my secretary for seven years and no one can do her job like her. I also pay her well and make sure she doesnβt need anything as my wife. How does she plan to survive without me anyway? Does she think that by asking for divorce, she has put herself on a higher level than me? What game is she playing with me now? Ha! Women thinking that they can live without a man and his support. As I think deeply about these things, I also think of a way to remedy them. I just need to do something to appeal to her. βWhat do women like?β I asked my assistant. He hesitates at first, surprised by the sudden question before he clears his throat and answers, βErm, designer bags I guess and oh, flowers.β I am already scrolling through an online store on my phone, clicking away at every expensive bag that catches my eyes until I have already ordered a number to last her an entire year. Then we make a stop at the flower shop on the way home. Turns out there are more than a hundred thousand flowers and I canβt even decide which one to get for Aria because apparently, women have favorites when it comes to things as trivial as flowers as well. In the end, I pick Lilies because the attendant at the flowershop claims itβs most womenβs favorite. I head home after that with only one single thought at the back of my mind; I wonβt let Aria divorce me. Chapter 5 Iβm thankful that Regis doesnβt ask any questions as he drives me back home. He offers to drive me into the compound but I turn him down and wait till he drives off before I sigh and walk into the house. The house is brimming with maids who rush over to me the instant they hear the door open but I raise a hand to stop them all from coming close to me. I am no longer the mistress of the house. I walk past them all to get to my room. Adam and I only share a room when he is looking to satisfy his saxual urges. He crawls into my bed and peppers kisses all over my body till I give in and that is the only time I ever feel wanted by him. As I walk into the room, I refrain from staring at the bed for longer than I should, afraid that the memories of us tangled up in sheets with him buried deep inside of me will break my resolve. And right now, I have only one resolveβto leave Adam for good. I begin to pack while that resolve is still strong, not even stopping for one moment to think about the fact that I have nowhere to go. I canβt bear to stay one more day under the same roof with Adam, knowing how deeply his betrayal cut. I only pack a few things that are important, assuring myself that I will come back for the rest of my things later when the divorce is finalized. I am only halfway through packing when I hear the sound of a familiar voice that never fails to send chills down my spine and even right this moment, I can already feel the chilling crawl of dread and it makes me stop packing immediately. Adamβs mother, Elodie and his sister Eva are here. I exhale sharply, trying to keep my breathing under control and to also keep the terrible memories of them from flushing into the forefront of my mind. A few more deep exhales and I finally get a hold of myself, resuming packing my things. Once I finish packing, I haul the heavy suitcase out of the room and walk into the living room where Elodie and Eva are seated on one of the couches, legs crossed over one another like they owned the place. Elodie has her signature scowl on her face that doesnβt fade even when I bow to greet her. βWhy are you here?β Elodie asks, standing. I am confused by her question and my inability to give an answer makes her scoff, her face contorting into the ugliest form annoyance can take. βI almost forgot how dumb you are.β Elodie says again. Dumb. Her favorite word to throw at me the way she pleases and of course, it doesnβt hurt less today. In fact, it is even more painful now that I realize that besides having to live with Adamβs indifference, I have also had to deal with his motherβs hatred and utter disrespect for me and all along, my response has either been silence or an apology that she never deserved. βWhy are you here instead of the office, huh?β She sneers and continues, βMy son works tirelessly day and night just to make money for someone like you to leech off him, all he asks of you is to do your job as his secretary and yet you canβt even do that one thing? Do you think you are entitled to his money just because you are his wife?β Her words are like hard blows to the chast, every single word that strung her sentences together hitting nerves and breaking right through them. I feel something rising inside of me. It has always been there but I have always managed to control it. To top it all, Eva, Adamβs snobbish sister had to chip in, βSheβs a trickster who duped my poor innocent brother and I wonder why isnβt she at the office! Such a lazy bumm! I donβt even know how Grandpa accepted such a penniless betch to be part of our elite family!β βI had to be at my grandmotherβs funeral.β I respond simply, hoping the scowl on her face will disappear but it gets even more profound and she adds a scoff for good measure. Did Elodie and Eva not know that my grandmother died? βIs she dead for real? Or is it just an act?!β Eva has the guts to ask me and I glare at her. Elodie continues, βOf course, thatβs your excuse for being a lazy gold digger. Tell me, did that grandmother of yours teach you to go after other peopleβs money instead of working for your own?β That very thing that has been rising inside me since I saw Adamβs mother reaches its peak. Itβs anger. It is red, pure and fiery and controls my whole being that I can not even bring myself to care about anything other than keeping my grandmotherβs name from being soiled. βDo not talk about my grandmother like that!β I yell and she jumps slightly, startled by my outburst. βDid you just yell at me?β she says, taking a step forward but I donβt flinch as I stare back into her eyes. Eva approaches me and she lashes out, βDid you just shout at my mother?!!!β Eva has always tried to demean me and every possible way at every chance presented to her. She grabs my arm, presses it harshly, making me wince in pain. Elodie smiles and as usually, she is greatly entertained. I push Eva with the other hand and she tumbles on the sofa. She remains shocked for I have always allowed them to bully me and this time, I retaliate. βDid you forget your place? You are nothing but aββ βGold digger who married your son for his money, yes, I get it!β I snap at her, having had enough of the name calling every damm time, βBut you donβt have to worry about that anymore because I already filed for a divorce. I am leaving your son so you can go ahead and swallow all of his money for all I care.β I turn around to leave, huffing as I drag the heavy suitcase with me but then Elodie clamps her hand down on the suitcase to stop me. She looks at the suitcase in amusement. βYou are really leaving!β Elodie canβt even hide the joy in her tone. βYes, so please just stop and let me go.β She shakes her head, βNot so fast! You canβt just leave.β And then she signals to two of the maids who have been standing, watching the whole exchange. βSearch her!β She orders when they come forward. They hesitate and she glares at them. βDid you not hear her? She is no longer the mistress of the house. Search her right now.β I am too stunned to react when the maids finally snatch my suitcase from me. Eva tries to hold me preventing me from snatching back my bag from the maids. βWhat do you think youβre doing?β I say, my voice shaky. βI canβt just let you leave. Who knows what valuables you have stolen from my son inside that germ ridden bag of yours.β My mouth opens and closes several times at her words as I canβt even come up with a single string of sentences to say to her. I just watch as my things come tumbling to the ground in the rough search. Tears of humiliation burned at the back of my eyes. I donβt struggle any more from Evaβs grip and she stares at me triumphantly. βWhat is that? Hand it over.β Adamβs mother says when one of the maids found a gold bracelet I had lodged into my case. Grandmotherβs bracelet, the only thing I have left of her. βNo!β I rush forward to stop her from handing it over but I am too late. Adamβs mother is already holding and inspecting the bracelet. βOh, wow! Mom, you finally found something she stole from Adam!β Eva exclaimed enthusiastically. Upon saying those words, she drags me and throws me onto the marble. I hit my nose. As I touch it, blood is coming out. I wipe it quickly and spring up to my feet. βI knew it! You took something. Did my son buy this for you? What gives you the right to think you can walk away with something he got for you after filing for a divorce?β Elodie snaps. βThat doesnβt belong to your son! It is mine and I will appreciate it if you give it back.β She does the exact opposite and only continues to accuse me of being a thief until the door opens and Adam walks in. I donβt feel relief at his presence like I usually do when his mother treats me this way, instead, I feel nothing but resentment for him. I want to scream how much I hate him to his face. His face twists into confusion when he sees the situation. βWhat is going on here?β He asks, walking further into the house and looking from his mother to me. βThank goodness you arrived, son. This leech was about to leave with something that clearly doesnβt belong to her.β His mother responds. βAnd she hit me!!!β Eva adds, almost in tears, complaining to Adam. This time, Adam is too shocked to ask me why I hit his dear sister. I thought,as he did in the past, he would force me to apologize, but this time, he did nothing. I wonder why. My eyes are starting to water for some reason and I am confused as to why Adamβs appearance suddenly triggered them yet I smile through the tears. βAdam, will you please tell your mother that I have never gotten a gift from you?β Adam falters, seemingly speechless for a second as he stares at his hands. I also look down at his hands and I finally understand why my eyes sting with tears and why I am sniffling in preparation of a sneeze that rocks my entire body. Lilies. I am all ergic to them. Despite the tears rolling down my cheeks, I start to laugh. I laugh so hard, ignoring the burning gazes of everyone present in the room who probably think I have gone crazy. I sneeze in between laughs, yet I donβt stop laughing as I turn to Adamβs mother. βI have been married to your son for three years and he doesnβt even know I am all ergic to lilies, yet you think he is capable of getting me a bracelet?β I shake my head at my sad reality. Chapter 6 Adam hands the flowers over to one of the maids, asking her to put it in a vase or whatever. He clears his throat, trying and failing miserably to hide his embarrassment in front of his mother, his sister and the maids. βThe flowers werenβt for you.β He says, voice hard as he stares at me for a brief second. I barely even feel anything when he says that because I genuinely donβt care anymore, I just want to get the hel out of this house and never return. I donβt even care about the rest of my things which I am yet to pack, I just want to turn my back on this horrible life already. I hear Eva sniggers. Adam seems like he wants to say something to me but then he decides against it and turns to his mother instead. βMum, please return the bracelet to her.β She snorts and shakes her head stubbornly, βI am not letting her leave with it.β Adam grunts, a sign that he is slowly losing his patience, β I have never seen that bracelet mother, it belongs to Aria. Please, give it back.β Adamβs mother doesnβt immediately move to do as she is told but the moment she does, it is with an annoyed huff as she tosses the bracelet at me. I catch it in my palms while she heads back to sit in the same position as earlier when I first walked into the living room. I fall to my knees by the mess the maids made out of my clothes and then I begin to arrange them again, rushing through the process so I can get out of here fast to stop the repeated sting of humiliation. Adam standing there and just watching me clean up his motherβs mess without as much as an apology from either of them only adds to the rising level of humiliation. Once done, I stand and face Adam squarely, taking in the same clothes he wore to the cemetery earlier and getting reminded of all the reasons why I am making the best decision of my life. βAs I said before, it is over between us. The divorce papers and my resignation letter will find their way to you soon.β I say, ignoring the way his face twisted, βGoodbye, Adam.β I turn around before I can even hear his response. I donβt want to look at Adam, not anymore. I walk away from him, going straight for the door and turning its knob for what I hope is the very last time. I have barely taken a step outside the door when Adamβs strong hand grabs my upper arm and twists me around to look at him. I have worked with him for seven years, four of which I was just his secretary and that was enough for me to know the kind of man Adam Miller is. He is usually composed with a blank expression that shows how in control he is. Right now, Adam is neither composed nor in control. He seems like he has lost grip of it and the meaning of those words donβt even matter to him anymore as he holds my arm in a tight grip. I struggle to break free of his hold. βLet me go.β I snap at him but Adam only narrows his eyes at me, his anger burning past his blue eyes. βYou canβt just leave, Aria.β He growls. βYou canβt tell me what to do, Adam. At least not anymore. Let me go!β βDoes this even make any sense to you!β He yells in my face as he lets go of my hand to run his hand through his hair, β You canβt just spring this kind of shet on me.β βItβs not springing if we have both had it coming from the very moment we shared our vows which you have already broken. We both know this marriage should have never happened so cut the crap and let me leave.β I say, practically fuming before turning around in another attempt to leave. βWhat about grandfather? You are taking such a big step without talking to the old man who set it all up anyway. The man who has been nothing but good to you.β I turn back to face Adam, hating his attempt at making me feel guilty. My thoughts go to his grandfather momentarily and I try to imagine the old manβs reaction to me filing for a divorce when he cares about me so much. However, I donβt waver. I refuse to let those thoughts come between me and my freedom. I refuse to put the wish of another over my own happiness. βI will talk to grandfather. Believe me, you have nothing to worry about.β I say and make another attempt to leave but of course, Adam doesnβt give up as he speaks again. βI wonβt sign it Aria, I wonβt sign the goddamm papers!β βWhat the hel is wrong with you?β I yell out my frustration, βWhy wonβt you just let me go?β He stares me down, eyes burning stubbornly, βI wonβt sign the papers and I wonβt accept your resignation either. The company has rules you have to follow and you canβt just decide to resign without prior notice especially when there is a lot of work at the office which I pay you to do!β I scoff, unable to believe his nerve. Unable to get over his selfish thinking and absolute lack of remorse for the things he has done. βYou have Sophia, donβt you?β I shoot at him and his brows furrow. βWhat does that even mean?β βEveryone adores Sophia. She is smart, beautiful and can get your work done for you and oh, donβt forget the fact that she is also pre9nant with your child! How perfect is that?β Adamβs mother springs up, surprise evident in her features. Clearly, she is just learning about her coming grandson. βAdam, is what she says true? You have a child on the way?β Eva asked excitedly. Adamβs expression donβt give anything away and he doesnβt even spare his mother or sister a glance. He is still looking straight at me. βAria, what happened between Sophia and I wasnβt intentional, it justββ βDonβt you dare make excuses for her! Who cares what she thinks? Sophia is who you have always deserved. The only woman who actually deserves to be my daughter-in-law.β Adamβs mother cut in while making sure to give me a nasty look that doesnβt even surprise me anymore. I shrug at Adam, a way to show him that I was right. Everyone wants Sophia, including him and he canβt even bring himself to deny it. He continues to ignore his mother. βAria, it was an accident.β He says again and I nod, like I am agreeing to his words. βThree years ago, you didnβt think the same way. You didnβt think you accidentally slept with me but instead believed I had gone as far as dru9ging you to sleep with you. What changed, Adam? Because all I see right now is a bloody hypocrite and a coward who would rather blame others for his mistakes.β When I turn my back to him this time, I donβt stop walking. I donβt turn around. βAria! Aria, get back here while I am still being nice. Aria, I swear to God if you walk out that door, I wonβt take you back even if you go on your knees. You need me, Aria. You canβt survive without me!β Adam yells after me but I donβt stop walking as his arrogant words only fueled my desire to get away from him as fast as I can. I block out the rest of his words as I open the door and welcome my peace and freedom. I am never going back to that sad reality. | Read freely | 18 | https://facebook.com/61557986570531 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716534000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879755 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410719 | 1723321855 | 995 | 1647538179348259 | 2 | 9.748784076486E+14 | 1716620400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 250753834794512 | 0 | Read freely | 120211565986950196 | redtgb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | β€οΈπWhat happens nextπClick Here to read onπ | https://redtgb.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=11204&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1714661788 | 2.5075383479451E+14 | Read freely | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441255115_1177880883571742_5075201022874715379_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=lqVPf_9YhC8Q7kNvgE4Fc9J&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYB3a2XBY2D07vo6RW7haoBeWxXXT0Ek9W736f-GS_RPGg&oe=66729CF3 | person_profile | 0 | Read freely | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441055224_676099334622461_3142011906559831658_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=O7GQ8aQRSUAQ7kNvgFiePIh&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDkKJnM5mjBlemqtMjVzrkcIdDh62yC7XlsEmD3F_NPJw&oe=6672AB39 | 0 | 3 | My husband and boss Adam, is laughing at every joke that leaves the lips of his first love while I watch them through the glass doors that separates his office from mine. I had been dutifully preparing some documents that needed his signature and also setting up his meetings for the day like I have done for 7 years as his secretary but since Sophiaβs arrival, I have been unable to get any work done. I feel a pang in my chast every time Adam laughs, almost tearing up at the thought that he has never laughed like that around me. I stare at her slender frame, her lush black hair that bounces back into place even when she throws her head back in laughter and the grace in every of her movements. Sophia is an epitome of feminine grace and every of her features is proof of why Adam has been hung up over her even though they separated years ago. Even though he married me. The dark binds of his office are brought down abruptly, blocking my view of them both and now all I can see is black. It is as if Adam is trying to prevent me from prying even though I am his wife and privacy shouldnβt be a thing between us, especially when it comes to a woman he used to love so much. I still remember how shocked I was when she walked up to me earlier, heels clicking ever so sophisticatedly on the office tiles. I saw the feet cladded in shiny red heels before I raised my head to look at her. βAria, I didnβt know you still worked here! I canβt believe Adam is still making you work even after you both got married. That man is something, isnβt he?β She said, smiling sweetly with blood red lips that would look horrifying on me if I dared to try that shade of lipstick. I couldnβt speak, caught in the shock of staring face to face with her after all these years, especially as she still had the same aura of wealth and confidence that I have always known her to possess. For a split second, she made me feel insecure in my gray office wear and my tight bun hair and the fact that I wore little to no makeup. βSophia!β Adamβs voice was what broke me out of that trance I was stuck in as he stepped out of his office and there, right in front of me, he hugged her ever so tightly like an old time friend before he led her back into his office without sparing me as little as a glance. Now, they are alone together in his office, the blinds of his office pulled shut so that I canβt see them but can only hear their muffled voices and his own laughter every now and then. I squirm in my seat uncomfortably each time they laugh, gripping the edges of my table tightly and too destabilized to get any work done while they are both holed up in there. I stare at the calendar on my table. Todayβs date is marked with a red marker and I sigh deeply. Does he even know today is our third wedding anniversary? Every year, it seems like I am the only one who remembers it and now with Sophiaβs appearance, I can already tell that today will pass by like itβs just another day. I knew she was coming today. Being his secretary is the only reason why I knew the things Adam would rather keep from me. He already briefed me about a new business partner that just returned to the country two months ago and will be at the office at any time. What I didnβt know or should I say, what he purposely kept from me was that the so-called business partner was Sophia Bradley and perhaps the reason why he has been more cold and indifferent than usual, ever since her return. My heart aches at the realization but it aches even more because there is nothing I can do about it. I have never had a place in Adamβs heart but he has been the only one in mine. I loved him from the very moment he saved my life years ago but I can say the same for him. He always reminds me even without speaking, that our marriage is nothing but an attempt at fulfilling his grandfatherβs wishes and I knew if he had gotten his way, he would have never looked at me twice, not to talk of getting married to me. Grandfatherβs love for me is perhaps the only reason I am still sane in this loveless marriage. The old man never ceases to show how much he cherishes me but when has that ever been enough? I am married to Adam and not his family. The clock ticks endlessly, yet Adam remains in there with her. Their laughter dies down all of a sudden and I can barely hear a word they are saying. Unable to hold back anymore, I stand before the restlessness kil ls me. I am his wife and I deserve to know what is going on. To look natural, I quickly make two cups of coffee. After all, I am his secretary and this is a part of my job. Nervous sweat breaks out on my forehead as I make my way to his office with unsure steps. Inhaling sharply, I open the door and step in. My heart clenches at the sight of them both, relaxed in each otherβs company as they sit so close to each other on one of the couches in his office. I swallow hard and try to walk over to the table with the best confidence I could muster. βI made coffee.β I say but they donβt even acknowledge my presence, lost in each other and whatever they were discussing. I study Sophia for a moment, watching as she twirls her cherry blonde hair with a finger while seated with one leg crossed over the other to reveal a prov0cative amount of thi9hs, smiling so brightly that I canβt tell if sheβs faking it. I want to turn around and leave but my feet fail to move. I canβt just leave like this. For how long will I keep quiet and svck it up? βSir,β I call, looking directly at Adam. We are married but he never fails to remind me that I address him as my boss at work. Adam doesnβt even make a move to look at me and anger rises inside of me, slowly boiling. βSir,β I call again and that is when he finally regards me with a cold look that almost deters me but I remain firm under his gaze. βThere is something I need to talk to you about, itβs important.β I lie right through my teeth. I can feel Sophiaβs gaze burning through me but I try not to look at her, for the fear that my confidence would slip away if I do. Adam just waves me off. βIt can wait. As you can see, I have a guest.β βIt canβt wait.β I say, even more firmly but he is already back to smiling and listening to Sophia speak like a lovesick teenage boy. I call him a few more times and unable to hold back any longer, I call him by his name instead. βAdam!β They both look up at me with a mix of expressions. That of Adam is pure anger while Sophia is obviously irritated. I know she has never liked me and back when I was just his secretary and she was his girlfriend, she complained about every single thing I did. βAdam, what is this? Is this how you let your employees disrespect you?β She says it with absolute disgust and disrespect. I am stunned at her words, so stunned that I scoff. Employee? She dares to talk down on me like that even when she knows fully well that I am not just an employee. Adam stands, his tall frame causing his shadow to sweep over me while I grip the tray of coffee tightly in my hands. βAria, out. Now.β He commands and I am filled with so much hurt that my hands shake and my lips quiver. βWhy should I? I have every reason to be in this room and I have every right to speak for you to listen to me.β Sophia stands at once. βIt seems as though your wife has a bone to pick with me and I will not sit here and take such insults.β She begins to walk away and of course, Adam follows her. I try to move out of her way but my attempt fails when her shoulder heavily bumps into mine in a way that is too fierce to be considered unintentional. I lose grip of the tray and stagger forward and just like that, the hot coffee spills all over her very expensive looking dress and mine. She shrieks, backing away from me only to glare at me the next second. βWhat the hel is wrong with you?β She yells. Adam rushes to her side in less than a minute, fussing over her stained dress and even offering her his handkerchief while I stand there, drenched in coffee as my husband takes care of another woman. I feel the tears prickling at the corner of my eyes but what does crying in front of this woman make me? βI canβt believe you! What did I ever do to you? Go ahead and dislike me all you want but there is a limit to how far you can go and you just crossed that.β She says again, seething in uncontained anger. Adam turns to me, eyes dark with rage. It makes me shiver. Makes me feel unimaginable pain to know he is mad at me because of another woman. βApologise right now!β He commands and I scoff. How can he stand there and take her side when I did nothing wrong? βWhy should I do that? I have done nothing wrong. She bumped into me!β I defend myself, my voice breaking. Lips quivering. βI did no such thing!β Sophia says defensively but her eyes tell a different story. βYou heard me, Aria. Apologize to her right now.β Adam says again, still intently looking at me. I almost laugh at the fact that the only time he is looking me directly in the eyes after three years of marriage is when another woman is involved. I shake my head, finding all of this hard to believe. βSo you believe her over me? You take her words for it but mine does not matter? I am your wife.β βA wife I never wanted to marry!β He yells back and shatters what is left of my broken heart. Chapter 2 I am speechless for the next few seconds as his words hit me like a freight train. I wait. I wait for his hard eyes to soften with remorse at the harsh words he threw at me but that doesnβt happen. He is glowering at me, nose flaring angrily. βAdam, howβ¦how could you say that to me?β I say, my eyes crossing over to Sophia who is now hiding her own frame behind his tall, muscular one, βIn front of her?β βBecause itβs the truth!β He yells again, startling me into making a small helpless sound. Adam has never yelled at me. And even though it hurts me to admit that he is truly saying the truth, he has never said it to my face and I never really thought he would. I have always known it yet it hurts to hear it come from him. It feels like a thousand needles are pricking my heart and making me bleed out with so much pain. He runs his fingers through his hair, seeming frustrated. Like he would rather not have this conversation with me. And just when I think it is over, he continues to speak, breaking me even further. βYou were nothing but a mere secretary who wormed her way into my life. If you hadnβt forced yourself on me that night, none of this would have happened! This marriage would have never happened and you know it.β He brings up the past. Our past. The night that meant everything to me but clearly means nothing to him. I swallow over and over again till my throat and mouth become dry. I canβt cry. No, I canβt appear weak. Not in front of Adam and definitely not in front of Sophia so I keep my tears at bay, urging them to return before they spill down my cheeks. βI never forced myself on you, Adam. Why wonβt you believe me?β I manage to say but he raises a hand to tell me to stop talking and I clamp my lips shut. βDo not stand there and try to look innocent, Aria because that is far from who you are. I simply said the truth and I do not care if you cannot take it.β He says and stares at me intently. βDo not let what happened today repeat itself again. Know your place and I will not have any reason to talk to you like this. Do you understand?β He lays emphasis on every word of warning he is giving me and turns his back against me before I can even open my mouth to speak again. βAre you okay?β I canβt believe how his voice goes from hard to soft in the next second as he fusses over Sophia. Sophia makes a face that has me balling my fingers into a fist. A face that clearly says she is not okay. βThe coffee was hot and I think I might have to visit the hospital to prevent the burn from leaving a scar.β She says in a quiet voice. I look down at my own body that is also drenched in the same coffee. The coffee wasnβt hot enough to cause a burn but Adam believes her instantly. He pulls her into a hug and embarrassment washes over me like a bucket of ice. βIβll drive. Wait here, I will get my keys.β he says as he pulls away, rushing to his office table to grab his car keys before coming back to her side. He takes her purse from her and leads her out. They both seem so lost in each other that they forget my existence totally, leaving me to stand alone in the middle of the room. Silence falls over me and I am left with my thoughts, licking the wound that his words caused. I have never been able to convince Adam that I didnβt force myself on him yet till this very day, he still believes I drugged him into sleeping with him on the night we were having dinner with his family three years ago. I can never forget the pure look of disgust and shock on his face when we both woke up in each otherβs arms the next morning. I knew since then that Adam would never love me, yet I was hopeful. As the years go by, the hope keeps dwindling with his grandfather, being the only support system in everything. Sighing, I return to my office and pick up my phone. My eyes widens when I see that a number has called my phone repeatedly all the time I was in Adamβs office. The dread that fills me stems from the fact that I recognise the number as the hospitalβs number. I call back instantly, my heart racing. They pick up on the second ring. βMrs Miller, we have been trying to reach you all afternoon!β A female voice says. βWhy? Is something wrong? Is my grandmother okay?β I ask, rushing my words as I am filled with dread and panic. βYou need to be at the hospital, your grandmotherββ I donβt wait to hear the rest of her words. I race out of the room and call on a taxi to drive me to the hospital. I go straight to her hospital room but the sheets and blankets are already being neatly arranged and the bed is empty. More panic. More dread. βWhere is my grandmother?β I ask, βWhere is she?β The nurse cleaning the room gives me a look of pity that nauseates me. βI am sorry, Mrs Miller but your grandmother died ten minutes ago and has been moved to the hospitalβs mortuary. I am sorry.β She says. The world around me stops and I donβt know how I am able to walk on my two feet to the mortuary where the Nurse leads me. She stops at the door and points to my grandmother laying on a table in the room, her body covered in a white sheet from head to toe. I walk to the bedside with shaky legs and the moment I take the sheet off and set my eyes on her pale face, I burst out into a loud sob, wishing I could go back to a month ago so I can prevent that accident that made her this way. The accident that took my only living family away from me. βGrandmaβ¦β I call in a broken voice as I reach for her hand. They are too cold, so lifeless and the tears begin to leave my eyes in torrents as I remember how warm these hands used to be when they held my face. βIβm sorryβ¦Iβm so sorry.β I cry, holding tightly unto her and hating myself for not being there in her last moments. I should have been there with her but I was too busy worrying about my place in my husbandβs life. The nurse comes into the room and says, βShe asked us to give you this.β I wipe my tears, sniffling as I take what seems to be a key chain from her. I couldnβt think of a reason why grandmotherβs parting gift to me would be a key chain but I canβt seem to care. Her cold hands slammed me into the reality of what had happened. Grandmother is dead. I fall to my knees by the bed and weep, muttering and calling for her to return to me. βAria.β Adamβs voice calls from behind me. I am both surprised and relieved to find him there. He must have been contacted by the hospital as well and stopped by since he already came here with Sophia anyway. Sophia is standing in the room with us but I ignore her. I focus on Adam because I need him. I need someone to hold me and tell me everything will be fine. βAdam.β I cry as I walk over to him and hug him without a second thought, my tears gathering and falling again. His body stiffens at my touch but I donβt let go. I need his warmth. I need him because he is really all that I have left and I canβt bear to lose him too. I expect him to push me away but he doesnβt. He doesnβt hug me back too but I canβt find it in me to care as I sob uncontrollably. My tears subside and I sniffle repeatedly and slowly let go of him. He clears his throat and takes out his phone, saying; βIβll place a call to start making preparations for her funeral.β He turns around to leave with Sophia also following him but I canβt bear the sight of him turning his back to me and leaving. I grab his hand. βStay.β I sound so weak and helpless but I do not give a damm, βPlease, donβt go. Stay with me.β I beg. Adam opens his mouth to say something but a sharp cry stuns us both. We spin around at the same time to the source of the cry and she is crouching, holding her stomach with an expression of pain. Adam rushes to Sophiaβs side in a heartbeat and my heart sinks further down my stomach. βSophia, are you okay?β He asks with concern ringing high in his voice. She shakes her head, βThere is something Iβve been wanting to tell you but didnβt know how.β She says, holding her stomach as she looks directly at me. βWhat is it?β Adam asks, still very much concerned. βAdamβ¦Iβ¦I am pre9nant.β Chapter 3 Grandmotherβs funeral is being held on a gloomy day, much to my displeasure. I listened to the weather forecast so I could choose the perfect day for the funeral, and according to the forecast, the day is supposed to be sunny and bright just like Grandmother. I feel duped standing by grandmotherβs grave with the sky covered in clouds that only worsen the dark and depressing feeling that has settled in my guts since her death. I have cried so much that I have no tears left to shed at grandmotherβs grave and now have to wear dark sunglasses to hide how red and puffy my eyes are rather than to complement my black dress. There are a few people hanging around the other graves in the cemetery to pay their last respects to their loved ones and at each grave, there are at least two people; couples holding each other, families comforting each other and even church processions. I am alone, with no one to comfort me since no one else bothered to attend my grandmother's funeral. With her gone, I realize how lonely I actually am and the thought deals another blow to my already damaged heart. I try hard to get the heartbreaking events of the past few days off my mind and when I finally succeed, I turn my focus back to my grandmother. Sheβs smiling in the framed picture placed by her tombstone and I force a smile as well as a fond memory of her slips into my mind. βAria, my child, you canβt frown like that everytime or youβll get wrinkles like me before you are even my age!β She would say and then go ahead to spread my lips into a smile with her fingers. Grandmother was a cheerful soul who would tell me stories, mostly the ones about my birth and how she knew from the very first day that she set her eyes on me that I was going to be a really beautiful and amazing child. I shared everything with her and talking to her about my marriage was one of the things that made it bearable. I donβt know what Iβd do without Grandmother. Tears start to gather in my eyes again and I take off the sunglasses to wipe them off before they start to fall. I already promised myself not to cry anymore; Grandmother wouldnβt want that. Sniffling, I begin to place the things I brought with me by her grave; Tulips, which were her favorite flowers; Peaches, her favorite fruit and finally some sweets because grandmother had a really sweet tooth and never listened to me whenever I told her they were bad for her age. βThere are no sweets in heaven, Aria. Itβs only right that I take as much as I can down here before the big guy calls me up there.β She would say at the same she unwraps another candy and tosses it into her mouth. She would talk on and on about βThe big guyβ and βUp thereβ like she was always prepared for the day she would die. I canβt help it anymore, I burst into tears, falling on my knees by her grave as it dawns on me fully that she is really gone. βI should have let you have all the candies in the world. I should have been there with you at your dying moment. I should have held your hands and told you itβs gonna be okay. Iββ My voice breaks, the deep regret and tears choking me and making me lose my train of thoughts. I canβt think of a thing to say anymore and so I just cry, sobbing so hard my body shakes. I hear confident footsteps approaching me and feel a presence behind me that causes my sobs to come to a pause. My heart races and hope swells inside of me when the person puts a hand on my shoulder. I whip my head around, expecting to see Adam but my hope quickly shatters when I see that it is Adam uncle, Regis. βRegis.β I say, sniffing and wiping my tears in a rush. βHere,β He hands me his handkerchief, stuffing it in my hand and closing my palm around it before I can even refuse. I say a barely audible thank you before I dab at the tears with the hanky that smelt like him. βI came as soon as I heard, Iβm sorry about your Grandmother, Aria.β He says in a sincere and kind voice. Regis has always been kind to me even when I was just a secretary. Whenever he came to visit his nephew at the office, he would stop to say hi and hand me a canned coffee with a smile on his face. However, he left the country to study a few days before our wedding and only returned not too long ago. This is the first time seeing him since his return and the kind look in his eyes assures me that if he had been around, I would have had another person rooting for me just like Adamβs grandfather. βYou didnβt have to.β I say quietly, trying to downplay how much it actually means to me that at least, one person cares enough to be here with me. Regis looks around as if searching for something and then he frowns when our eyes meet again. βYouβre alone? Where the hel is Adam?β He asks, his voice a little hard. My cheeks redden in embarrassment. Regis has only just returned and probably doesnβt know anything yet. I am not willing to talk either. I force a smile and begin to pack the excess things I bought for my grandmother's funeral. Regis joins me wordlessly and I sigh in silent appreciation of how he doesnβt ask anymore questions. He takes everything from my hands even before I can protest. βDid you drive here?β He asks and I shake my head. I came here in a Taxi. βCβmon, weβll take my car.β He says and walks in front of me. I have no choice but to follow him. We have just gotten outside of the cemetery when a car drives into the parking space right beside Regisβ car. The car is familiar and I keep doubting who it belongs to until Adam steps out of the car, eyes trained on me as he walks over. The first thing I notice is his Royal Blue suit and I feel the slow brewing of anger inside of me. How could he show up wearing that? It is like a blatant disrespect of my Grandmother and I canβt stand to watch her get disrespected even in her death. It is clear that he came from the office; little surprise there and it would have been better if he didnβt come at all as I now realize how looking at him only infuriates me. He had managed to avoid me in the past three days since the hospital incident. Three days since Sophia announced that she was pre9nant and shook my world. I didnβt need anyone to tell me who the baby belonged to as he walks towards me now, I feel nothing but resentment for him. βIs it over? Crap, I must have lost track of time.β He says before turning to his uncle and giving him a tight smile of appreciation that I find nauseating. βThank you for being here with her, uncle.β Regis merely crosses his arms, staring back at his nephew, βCare to explain why you are only just coming?β Regis thows the question at him and I face Adam too, crossing my arms. βYes, Adam. Tell me what was more important than being at my grandmotherβs funeral.β I already know the answer but I still wait to hear him say it so I can have a reason to hate him even more. βI really wanted to be here, Aria but you knowβ¦β He trails off, running a hand through his hair, βI had to be with Sophia.β The sound of her name is what does it for me; the same woman who is the reason I wasnβt around to witness grandmotherβs dying moments. βDid you really come all the way here to tell me you were with another woman you slept with and impregnated?β βWhat?β Regis is the one who speaks, his voice echoing his shock as he looks from me to Adam. Adamβs usual blank look remains as if he is unaffected by my words and the pain he has caused me. βLetβs not do this here, Aria. You know I canβt just leave her.β I scoff. βI never stopped you. You know what? You should have never come here. You should have stayed with her since that is where your loyalties lie now and I am no longer in the picture.β Adam frowns, moving closer and intimidating me just a little with his height and muscular frame, βWhat does that mean? You are my wife.β βEx-wife,β I say the words without even thinking. I didnβt think any of this through but I donβt care because my entire being seems to agree that this is whatβs best for me, βI want a divorce, Adam.β His eyes grow wide, unable to contain the shock at my words and I am proud of myself that I finally got a reaction that isnβt anger or coldness from him. βBoth the divorce papers and my resignation will find their way to you soon.β I add before he can get over his shock and I donβt wait for him to reply as I turn to an equally stunned Regis. βTake me home, Regis.β Chapter 4 Adamβs POV I want a divorce. The words circle around my head non-stop. Of all the shets I have had the pleasure of hearingβand trust me, I hear a lot of crap as a CEOβAria asking for a divorce out of nowhere has to be the worst. I am a man who takes pride in my strength and ability to handle situations no matter how unexpected they are. It comes with the job, yet for some reason, I am unable to utter a single word or move my feet until she gets into the car with my uncle. When I finally come to my senses, she is long gone, leaving me to drown in the pool of shock she created. I am shocked at her audacity; the way she looked me in the eyes as she hit me with those words. Ariaβs cold hazel eyes totally betrayed the meek and timid trait that I have only ever known her for. I am equally shocked at myself for actually being affected by it when I shouldn't have batted an eyelash, after all, I never wanted to marry her. The three years of living with Aria felt like I was in bonda9e created by her own deceit and my grandfatherβs overbearing attitude. I never cared about Aria yet the sound of divorce numbed me completely that I am unable to think straight until the door to my car opens and reminds me that I am still standing still in front of the cemetery. My personal assistant steps out of the car and speaks. βSir, your appointment with the Taylor Enterprises is thirty minutes from now. Itβs more than an hourβs drive from here, we should leave now ifββ βCancel it,β I say, heading back to the car, not quite in the right mind to process anything, not even a meeting whose outcome was worth millions of dollars. My assistant follows behind me in a hurry, obviously confused. βBut sir, that isnβt the only appointment for the day. You also haveβ¦β He starts to read out my packed schedule for the day as I finally get into the car. βCancel them all!β I say, settling into the leather seats of the car and loosening my tie at the same time as it feels like I am slowly losing the ability to breathe, βGet in and turn the dann AC on.β I command him, unable to prevent my anger and irritation from reflecting in my voice. Finally noticing the negative emotions rolling out of me in waves, he mutters his response before getting into the driverβs seat and pulling the car out of the cemeteryβs parking lot. We get to the highway, air is emitting from not only the AC in the car yet I feel heat rising from inside of me and not even loosening a few buttons on my shirt helped. All I can think about is Aria and the dammed divorce. My shock is long gone and I am now stewing in nothing but anger, bordering on rage. Who the hel does she think she is? What gives her the boldness to think she makes the call for divorce? If anyone should be asking for a divorce, It should be me. I am the one who married her against my will. Sheβs the one who found me so irresistible that she went as far as dru9ging me just to have me. If anyone deserves to slam divorce papers in her face, it is me but the thought never crossed my mind. Sheβs a good secretary, dutiful, efficient and always at my beck and call. She also doubles as a good wife, never getting in my way or needy for attention. Aria takes whatever I give her; the little time, the irregular sax and the little communication, all that I deemed appropriate for our kind of relationship. The sudden switch has me racking my brain, thinking of different possibilities and all the things that could have gone wrong. A thought crosses my mind and it intensifies my anger in a way that I canβt even understand. βFind out if Aria has been meeting anyone lately. Men in particular.β I say. My assistant meets my eyes through the rearview mirror. His eyes fail to hide his surprise that I am asking him to look into my wife and the possibility that sheβs been seeing other men. I canβt rule out all the possibilities and if Aria has really been cheating on me, I swear to Godβ My phone vibrates beside me on the leather seats. Sophiaβs name pops up on the screen in a message notification. Sheβs asking me when next I would be available for an appointment at the doctorβs office. Seeing Sophiaβs message douses my anger but leaves me with a far more disturbing emotion. I thought of all the reasons why my quiet wife is suddenly asking for a divorce but it never crossed my mind that impregnating the woman I once loved could be the reason. I think back to that day two months ago when yet again, I let drinking lead me into making the worst decisions. All I had to do was pick Sophia up at the airport, drive her to her hotel and return home. Instead, I took the invite to have a drink in her hotel room; for old timeβs sake, she called it. We did more than just have a drink that night and the outcome is the baby growing inside of Sophia. I canβt call it a mistake yet deep down, I know it should have never happened. I should have never let myself get tempted by the thought of how being inside of Sophia will feel after three years. I want the child. Itβs my baby and I donβt plan on losing it but it comes at a price that I never thought would be a problem which is the divorce with Aria. I canβt let Aria divorce me. I need her. At the office and in my home. Sheβs been my secretary for seven years and no one can do her job like her. I also pay her well and make sure she doesnβt need anything as my wife. How does she plan to survive without me anyway? Does she think that by asking for divorce, she has put herself on a higher level than me? What game is she playing with me now? Ha! Women thinking that they can live without a man and his support. As I think deeply about these things, I also think of a way to remedy them. I just need to do something to appeal to her. βWhat do women like?β I asked my assistant. He hesitates at first, surprised by the sudden question before he clears his throat and answers, βErm, designer bags I guess and oh, flowers.β I am already scrolling through an online store on my phone, clicking away at every expensive bag that catches my eyes until I have already ordered a number to last her an entire year. Then we make a stop at the flower shop on the way home. Turns out there are more than a hundred thousand flowers and I canβt even decide which one to get for Aria because apparently, women have favorites when it comes to things as trivial as flowers as well. In the end, I pick Lilies because the attendant at the flowershop claims itβs most womenβs favorite. I head home after that with only one single thought at the back of my mind; I wonβt let Aria divorce me. Chapter 5 Iβm thankful that Regis doesnβt ask any questions as he drives me back home. He offers to drive me into the compound but I turn him down and wait till he drives off before I sigh and walk into the house. The house is brimming with maids who rush over to me the instant they hear the door open but I raise a hand to stop them all from coming close to me. I am no longer the mistress of the house. I walk past them all to get to my room. Adam and I only share a room when he is looking to satisfy his saxual urges. He crawls into my bed and peppers kisses all over my body till I give in and that is the only time I ever feel wanted by him. As I walk into the room, I refrain from staring at the bed for longer than I should, afraid that the memories of us tangled up in sheets with him buried deep inside of me will break my resolve. And right now, I have only one resolveβto leave Adam for good. I begin to pack while that resolve is still strong, not even stopping for one moment to think about the fact that I have nowhere to go. I canβt bear to stay one more day under the same roof with Adam, knowing how deeply his betrayal cut. I only pack a few things that are important, assuring myself that I will come back for the rest of my things later when the divorce is finalized. I am only halfway through packing when I hear the sound of a familiar voice that never fails to send chills down my spine and even right this moment, I can already feel the chilling crawl of dread and it makes me stop packing immediately. Adamβs mother, Elodie and his sister Eva are here. I exhale sharply, trying to keep my breathing under control and to also keep the terrible memories of them from flushing into the forefront of my mind. A few more deep exhales and I finally get a hold of myself, resuming packing my things. Once I finish packing, I haul the heavy suitcase out of the room and walk into the living room where Elodie and Eva are seated on one of the couches, legs crossed over one another like they owned the place. Elodie has her signature scowl on her face that doesnβt fade even when I bow to greet her. βWhy are you here?β Elodie asks, standing. I am confused by her question and my inability to give an answer makes her scoff, her face contorting into the ugliest form annoyance can take. βI almost forgot how dumb you are.β Elodie says again. Dumb. Her favorite word to throw at me the way she pleases and of course, it doesnβt hurt less today. In fact, it is even more painful now that I realize that besides having to live with Adamβs indifference, I have also had to deal with his motherβs hatred and utter disrespect for me and all along, my response has either been silence or an apology that she never deserved. βWhy are you here instead of the office, huh?β She sneers and continues, βMy son works tirelessly day and night just to make money for someone like you to leech off him, all he asks of you is to do your job as his secretary and yet you canβt even do that one thing? Do you think you are entitled to his money just because you are his wife?β Her words are like hard blows to the chast, every single word that strung her sentences together hitting nerves and breaking right through them. I feel something rising inside of me. It has always been there but I have always managed to control it. To top it all, Eva, Adamβs snobbish sister had to chip in, βSheβs a trickster who duped my poor innocent brother and I wonder why isnβt she at the office! Such a lazy bumm! I donβt even know how Grandpa accepted such a penniless betch to be part of our elite family!β βI had to be at my grandmotherβs funeral.β I respond simply, hoping the scowl on her face will disappear but it gets even more profound and she adds a scoff for good measure. Did Elodie and Eva not know that my grandmother died? βIs she dead for real? Or is it just an act?!β Eva has the guts to ask me and I glare at her. Elodie continues, βOf course, thatβs your excuse for being a lazy gold digger. Tell me, did that grandmother of yours teach you to go after other peopleβs money instead of working for your own?β That very thing that has been rising inside me since I saw Adamβs mother reaches its peak. Itβs anger. It is red, pure and fiery and controls my whole being that I can not even bring myself to care about anything other than keeping my grandmotherβs name from being soiled. βDo not talk about my grandmother like that!β I yell and she jumps slightly, startled by my outburst. βDid you just yell at me?β she says, taking a step forward but I donβt flinch as I stare back into her eyes. Eva approaches me and she lashes out, βDid you just shout at my mother?!!!β Eva has always tried to demean me and every possible way at every chance presented to her. She grabs my arm, presses it harshly, making me wince in pain. Elodie smiles and as usually, she is greatly entertained. I push Eva with the other hand and she tumbles on the sofa. She remains shocked for I have always allowed them to bully me and this time, I retaliate. βDid you forget your place? You are nothing but aββ βGold digger who married your son for his money, yes, I get it!β I snap at her, having had enough of the name calling every damm time, βBut you donβt have to worry about that anymore because I already filed for a divorce. I am leaving your son so you can go ahead and swallow all of his money for all I care.β I turn around to leave, huffing as I drag the heavy suitcase with me but then Elodie clamps her hand down on the suitcase to stop me. She looks at the suitcase in amusement. βYou are really leaving!β Elodie canβt even hide the joy in her tone. βYes, so please just stop and let me go.β She shakes her head, βNot so fast! You canβt just leave.β And then she signals to two of the maids who have been standing, watching the whole exchange. βSearch her!β She orders when they come forward. They hesitate and she glares at them. βDid you not hear her? She is no longer the mistress of the house. Search her right now.β I am too stunned to react when the maids finally snatch my suitcase from me. Eva tries to hold me preventing me from snatching back my bag from the maids. βWhat do you think youβre doing?β I say, my voice shaky. βI canβt just let you leave. Who knows what valuables you have stolen from my son inside that germ ridden bag of yours.β My mouth opens and closes several times at her words as I canβt even come up with a single string of sentences to say to her. I just watch as my things come tumbling to the ground in the rough search. Tears of humiliation burned at the back of my eyes. I donβt struggle any more from Evaβs grip and she stares at me triumphantly. βWhat is that? Hand it over.β Adamβs mother says when one of the maids found a gold bracelet I had lodged into my case. Grandmotherβs bracelet, the only thing I have left of her. βNo!β I rush forward to stop her from handing it over but I am too late. Adamβs mother is already holding and inspecting the bracelet. βOh, wow! Mom, you finally found something she stole from Adam!β Eva exclaimed enthusiastically. Upon saying those words, she drags me and throws me onto the marble. I hit my nose. As I touch it, blood is coming out. I wipe it quickly and spring up to my feet. βI knew it! You took something. Did my son buy this for you? What gives you the right to think you can walk away with something he got for you after filing for a divorce?β Elodie snaps. βThat doesnβt belong to your son! It is mine and I will appreciate it if you give it back.β She does the exact opposite and only continues to accuse me of being a thief until the door opens and Adam walks in. I donβt feel relief at his presence like I usually do when his mother treats me this way, instead, I feel nothing but resentment for him. I want to scream how much I hate him to his face. His face twists into confusion when he sees the situation. βWhat is going on here?β He asks, walking further into the house and looking from his mother to me. βThank goodness you arrived, son. This leech was about to leave with something that clearly doesnβt belong to her.β His mother responds. βAnd she hit me!!!β Eva adds, almost in tears, complaining to Adam. This time, Adam is too shocked to ask me why I hit his dear sister. I thought,as he did in the past, he would force me to apologize, but this time, he did nothing. I wonder why. My eyes are starting to water for some reason and I am confused as to why Adamβs appearance suddenly triggered them yet I smile through the tears. βAdam, will you please tell your mother that I have never gotten a gift from you?β Adam falters, seemingly speechless for a second as he stares at his hands. I also look down at his hands and I finally understand why my eyes sting with tears and why I am sniffling in preparation of a sneeze that rocks my entire body. Lilies. I am all ergic to them. Despite the tears rolling down my cheeks, I start to laugh. I laugh so hard, ignoring the burning gazes of everyone present in the room who probably think I have gone crazy. I sneeze in between laughs, yet I donβt stop laughing as I turn to Adamβs mother. βI have been married to your son for three years and he doesnβt even know I am all ergic to lilies, yet you think he is capable of getting me a bracelet?β I shake my head at my sad reality. Chapter 6 Adam hands the flowers over to one of the maids, asking her to put it in a vase or whatever. He clears his throat, trying and failing miserably to hide his embarrassment in front of his mother, his sister and the maids. βThe flowers werenβt for you.β He says, voice hard as he stares at me for a brief second. I barely even feel anything when he says that because I genuinely donβt care anymore, I just want to get the hel out of this house and never return. I donβt even care about the rest of my things which I am yet to pack, I just want to turn my back on this horrible life already. I hear Eva sniggers. Adam seems like he wants to say something to me but then he decides against it and turns to his mother instead. βMum, please return the bracelet to her.β She snorts and shakes her head stubbornly, βI am not letting her leave with it.β Adam grunts, a sign that he is slowly losing his patience, β I have never seen that bracelet mother, it belongs to Aria. Please, give it back.β Adamβs mother doesnβt immediately move to do as she is told but the moment she does, it is with an annoyed huff as she tosses the bracelet at me. I catch it in my palms while she heads back to sit in the same position as earlier when I first walked into the living room. I fall to my knees by the mess the maids made out of my clothes and then I begin to arrange them again, rushing through the process so I can get out of here fast to stop the repeated sting of humiliation. Adam standing there and just watching me clean up his motherβs mess without as much as an apology from either of them only adds to the rising level of humiliation. Once done, I stand and face Adam squarely, taking in the same clothes he wore to the cemetery earlier and getting reminded of all the reasons why I am making the best decision of my life. βAs I said before, it is over between us. The divorce papers and my resignation letter will find their way to you soon.β I say, ignoring the way his face twisted, βGoodbye, Adam.β I turn around before I can even hear his response. I donβt want to look at Adam, not anymore. I walk away from him, going straight for the door and turning its knob for what I hope is the very last time. I have barely taken a step outside the door when Adamβs strong hand grabs my upper arm and twists me around to look at him. I have worked with him for seven years, four of which I was just his secretary and that was enough for me to know the kind of man Adam Miller is. He is usually composed with a blank expression that shows how in control he is. Right now, Adam is neither composed nor in control. He seems like he has lost grip of it and the meaning of those words donβt even matter to him anymore as he holds my arm in a tight grip. I struggle to break free of his hold. βLet me go.β I snap at him but Adam only narrows his eyes at me, his anger burning past his blue eyes. βYou canβt just leave, Aria.β He growls. βYou canβt tell me what to do, Adam. At least not anymore. Let me go!β βDoes this even make any sense to you!β He yells in my face as he lets go of my hand to run his hand through his hair, β You canβt just spring this kind of shet on me.β βItβs not springing if we have both had it coming from the very moment we shared our vows which you have already broken. We both know this marriage should have never happened so cut the crap and let me leave.β I say, practically fuming before turning around in another attempt to leave. βWhat about grandfather? You are taking such a big step without talking to the old man who set it all up anyway. The man who has been nothing but good to you.β I turn back to face Adam, hating his attempt at making me feel guilty. My thoughts go to his grandfather momentarily and I try to imagine the old manβs reaction to me filing for a divorce when he cares about me so much. However, I donβt waver. I refuse to let those thoughts come between me and my freedom. I refuse to put the wish of another over my own happiness. βI will talk to grandfather. Believe me, you have nothing to worry about.β I say and make another attempt to leave but of course, Adam doesnβt give up as he speaks again. βI wonβt sign it Aria, I wonβt sign the goddamm papers!β βWhat the hel is wrong with you?β I yell out my frustration, βWhy wonβt you just let me go?β He stares me down, eyes burning stubbornly, βI wonβt sign the papers and I wonβt accept your resignation either. The company has rules you have to follow and you canβt just decide to resign without prior notice especially when there is a lot of work at the office which I pay you to do!β I scoff, unable to believe his nerve. Unable to get over his selfish thinking and absolute lack of remorse for the things he has done. βYou have Sophia, donβt you?β I shoot at him and his brows furrow. βWhat does that even mean?β βEveryone adores Sophia. She is smart, beautiful and can get your work done for you and oh, donβt forget the fact that she is also pre9nant with your child! How perfect is that?β Adamβs mother springs up, surprise evident in her features. Clearly, she is just learning about her coming grandson. βAdam, is what she says true? You have a child on the way?β Eva asked excitedly. Adamβs expression donβt give anything away and he doesnβt even spare his mother or sister a glance. He is still looking straight at me. βAria, what happened between Sophia and I wasnβt intentional, it justββ βDonβt you dare make excuses for her! Who cares what she thinks? Sophia is who you have always deserved. The only woman who actually deserves to be my daughter-in-law.β Adamβs mother cut in while making sure to give me a nasty look that doesnβt even surprise me anymore. I shrug at Adam, a way to show him that I was right. Everyone wants Sophia, including him and he canβt even bring himself to deny it. He continues to ignore his mother. βAria, it was an accident.β He says again and I nod, like I am agreeing to his words. βThree years ago, you didnβt think the same way. You didnβt think you accidentally slept with me but instead believed I had gone as far as dru9ging you to sleep with you. What changed, Adam? Because all I see right now is a bloody hypocrite and a coward who would rather blame others for his mistakes.β When I turn my back to him this time, I donβt stop walking. I donβt turn around. βAria! Aria, get back here while I am still being nice. Aria, I swear to God if you walk out that door, I wonβt take you back even if you go on your knees. You need me, Aria. You canβt survive without me!β Adam yells after me but I donβt stop walking as his arrogant words only fueled my desire to get away from him as fast as I can. I block out the rest of his words as I open the door and welcome my peace and freedom. I am never going back to that sad reality. | Read freely | 18 | https://facebook.com/61557986570531 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716534000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879756 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410719 | 1723321855 | 995 | 1647538179348259 | 2 | 9.748784076486E+14 | 1716620400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 250753834794512 | 0 | Read freely | 120211565986950196 | redtgb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | β€οΈπWhat happens nextπClick Here to read onπ | https://redtgb.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=11204&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1714661788 | 2.5075383479451E+14 | Read freely | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441255115_1177880883571742_5075201022874715379_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=lqVPf_9YhC8Q7kNvgE4Fc9J&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYB3a2XBY2D07vo6RW7haoBeWxXXT0Ek9W736f-GS_RPGg&oe=66729CF3 | person_profile | 0 | Read freely | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441055224_676099334622461_3142011906559831658_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=O7GQ8aQRSUAQ7kNvgFiePIh&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDkKJnM5mjBlemqtMjVzrkcIdDh62yC7XlsEmD3F_NPJw&oe=6672AB39 | 0 | 3 | My husband and boss Adam, is laughing at every joke that leaves the lips of his first love while I watch them through the glass doors that separates his office from mine. I had been dutifully preparing some documents that needed his signature and also setting up his meetings for the day like I have done for 7 years as his secretary but since Sophiaβs arrival, I have been unable to get any work done. I feel a pang in my chast every time Adam laughs, almost tearing up at the thought that he has never laughed like that around me. I stare at her slender frame, her lush black hair that bounces back into place even when she throws her head back in laughter and the grace in every of her movements. Sophia is an epitome of feminine grace and every of her features is proof of why Adam has been hung up over her even though they separated years ago. Even though he married me. The dark binds of his office are brought down abruptly, blocking my view of them both and now all I can see is black. It is as if Adam is trying to prevent me from prying even though I am his wife and privacy shouldnβt be a thing between us, especially when it comes to a woman he used to love so much. I still remember how shocked I was when she walked up to me earlier, heels clicking ever so sophisticatedly on the office tiles. I saw the feet cladded in shiny red heels before I raised my head to look at her. βAria, I didnβt know you still worked here! I canβt believe Adam is still making you work even after you both got married. That man is something, isnβt he?β She said, smiling sweetly with blood red lips that would look horrifying on me if I dared to try that shade of lipstick. I couldnβt speak, caught in the shock of staring face to face with her after all these years, especially as she still had the same aura of wealth and confidence that I have always known her to possess. For a split second, she made me feel insecure in my gray office wear and my tight bun hair and the fact that I wore little to no makeup. βSophia!β Adamβs voice was what broke me out of that trance I was stuck in as he stepped out of his office and there, right in front of me, he hugged her ever so tightly like an old time friend before he led her back into his office without sparing me as little as a glance. Now, they are alone together in his office, the blinds of his office pulled shut so that I canβt see them but can only hear their muffled voices and his own laughter every now and then. I squirm in my seat uncomfortably each time they laugh, gripping the edges of my table tightly and too destabilized to get any work done while they are both holed up in there. I stare at the calendar on my table. Todayβs date is marked with a red marker and I sigh deeply. Does he even know today is our third wedding anniversary? Every year, it seems like I am the only one who remembers it and now with Sophiaβs appearance, I can already tell that today will pass by like itβs just another day. I knew she was coming today. Being his secretary is the only reason why I knew the things Adam would rather keep from me. He already briefed me about a new business partner that just returned to the country two months ago and will be at the office at any time. What I didnβt know or should I say, what he purposely kept from me was that the so-called business partner was Sophia Bradley and perhaps the reason why he has been more cold and indifferent than usual, ever since her return. My heart aches at the realization but it aches even more because there is nothing I can do about it. I have never had a place in Adamβs heart but he has been the only one in mine. I loved him from the very moment he saved my life years ago but I can say the same for him. He always reminds me even without speaking, that our marriage is nothing but an attempt at fulfilling his grandfatherβs wishes and I knew if he had gotten his way, he would have never looked at me twice, not to talk of getting married to me. Grandfatherβs love for me is perhaps the only reason I am still sane in this loveless marriage. The old man never ceases to show how much he cherishes me but when has that ever been enough? I am married to Adam and not his family. The clock ticks endlessly, yet Adam remains in there with her. Their laughter dies down all of a sudden and I can barely hear a word they are saying. Unable to hold back anymore, I stand before the restlessness kil ls me. I am his wife and I deserve to know what is going on. To look natural, I quickly make two cups of coffee. After all, I am his secretary and this is a part of my job. Nervous sweat breaks out on my forehead as I make my way to his office with unsure steps. Inhaling sharply, I open the door and step in. My heart clenches at the sight of them both, relaxed in each otherβs company as they sit so close to each other on one of the couches in his office. I swallow hard and try to walk over to the table with the best confidence I could muster. βI made coffee.β I say but they donβt even acknowledge my presence, lost in each other and whatever they were discussing. I study Sophia for a moment, watching as she twirls her cherry blonde hair with a finger while seated with one leg crossed over the other to reveal a prov0cative amount of thi9hs, smiling so brightly that I canβt tell if sheβs faking it. I want to turn around and leave but my feet fail to move. I canβt just leave like this. For how long will I keep quiet and svck it up? βSir,β I call, looking directly at Adam. We are married but he never fails to remind me that I address him as my boss at work. Adam doesnβt even make a move to look at me and anger rises inside of me, slowly boiling. βSir,β I call again and that is when he finally regards me with a cold look that almost deters me but I remain firm under his gaze. βThere is something I need to talk to you about, itβs important.β I lie right through my teeth. I can feel Sophiaβs gaze burning through me but I try not to look at her, for the fear that my confidence would slip away if I do. Adam just waves me off. βIt can wait. As you can see, I have a guest.β βIt canβt wait.β I say, even more firmly but he is already back to smiling and listening to Sophia speak like a lovesick teenage boy. I call him a few more times and unable to hold back any longer, I call him by his name instead. βAdam!β They both look up at me with a mix of expressions. That of Adam is pure anger while Sophia is obviously irritated. I know she has never liked me and back when I was just his secretary and she was his girlfriend, she complained about every single thing I did. βAdam, what is this? Is this how you let your employees disrespect you?β She says it with absolute disgust and disrespect. I am stunned at her words, so stunned that I scoff. Employee? She dares to talk down on me like that even when she knows fully well that I am not just an employee. Adam stands, his tall frame causing his shadow to sweep over me while I grip the tray of coffee tightly in my hands. βAria, out. Now.β He commands and I am filled with so much hurt that my hands shake and my lips quiver. βWhy should I? I have every reason to be in this room and I have every right to speak for you to listen to me.β Sophia stands at once. βIt seems as though your wife has a bone to pick with me and I will not sit here and take such insults.β She begins to walk away and of course, Adam follows her. I try to move out of her way but my attempt fails when her shoulder heavily bumps into mine in a way that is too fierce to be considered unintentional. I lose grip of the tray and stagger forward and just like that, the hot coffee spills all over her very expensive looking dress and mine. She shrieks, backing away from me only to glare at me the next second. βWhat the hel is wrong with you?β She yells. Adam rushes to her side in less than a minute, fussing over her stained dress and even offering her his handkerchief while I stand there, drenched in coffee as my husband takes care of another woman. I feel the tears prickling at the corner of my eyes but what does crying in front of this woman make me? βI canβt believe you! What did I ever do to you? Go ahead and dislike me all you want but there is a limit to how far you can go and you just crossed that.β She says again, seething in uncontained anger. Adam turns to me, eyes dark with rage. It makes me shiver. Makes me feel unimaginable pain to know he is mad at me because of another woman. βApologise right now!β He commands and I scoff. How can he stand there and take her side when I did nothing wrong? βWhy should I do that? I have done nothing wrong. She bumped into me!β I defend myself, my voice breaking. Lips quivering. βI did no such thing!β Sophia says defensively but her eyes tell a different story. βYou heard me, Aria. Apologize to her right now.β Adam says again, still intently looking at me. I almost laugh at the fact that the only time he is looking me directly in the eyes after three years of marriage is when another woman is involved. I shake my head, finding all of this hard to believe. βSo you believe her over me? You take her words for it but mine does not matter? I am your wife.β βA wife I never wanted to marry!β He yells back and shatters what is left of my broken heart. Chapter 2 I am speechless for the next few seconds as his words hit me like a freight train. I wait. I wait for his hard eyes to soften with remorse at the harsh words he threw at me but that doesnβt happen. He is glowering at me, nose flaring angrily. βAdam, howβ¦how could you say that to me?β I say, my eyes crossing over to Sophia who is now hiding her own frame behind his tall, muscular one, βIn front of her?β βBecause itβs the truth!β He yells again, startling me into making a small helpless sound. Adam has never yelled at me. And even though it hurts me to admit that he is truly saying the truth, he has never said it to my face and I never really thought he would. I have always known it yet it hurts to hear it come from him. It feels like a thousand needles are pricking my heart and making me bleed out with so much pain. He runs his fingers through his hair, seeming frustrated. Like he would rather not have this conversation with me. And just when I think it is over, he continues to speak, breaking me even further. βYou were nothing but a mere secretary who wormed her way into my life. If you hadnβt forced yourself on me that night, none of this would have happened! This marriage would have never happened and you know it.β He brings up the past. Our past. The night that meant everything to me but clearly means nothing to him. I swallow over and over again till my throat and mouth become dry. I canβt cry. No, I canβt appear weak. Not in front of Adam and definitely not in front of Sophia so I keep my tears at bay, urging them to return before they spill down my cheeks. βI never forced myself on you, Adam. Why wonβt you believe me?β I manage to say but he raises a hand to tell me to stop talking and I clamp my lips shut. βDo not stand there and try to look innocent, Aria because that is far from who you are. I simply said the truth and I do not care if you cannot take it.β He says and stares at me intently. βDo not let what happened today repeat itself again. Know your place and I will not have any reason to talk to you like this. Do you understand?β He lays emphasis on every word of warning he is giving me and turns his back against me before I can even open my mouth to speak again. βAre you okay?β I canβt believe how his voice goes from hard to soft in the next second as he fusses over Sophia. Sophia makes a face that has me balling my fingers into a fist. A face that clearly says she is not okay. βThe coffee was hot and I think I might have to visit the hospital to prevent the burn from leaving a scar.β She says in a quiet voice. I look down at my own body that is also drenched in the same coffee. The coffee wasnβt hot enough to cause a burn but Adam believes her instantly. He pulls her into a hug and embarrassment washes over me like a bucket of ice. βIβll drive. Wait here, I will get my keys.β he says as he pulls away, rushing to his office table to grab his car keys before coming back to her side. He takes her purse from her and leads her out. They both seem so lost in each other that they forget my existence totally, leaving me to stand alone in the middle of the room. Silence falls over me and I am left with my thoughts, licking the wound that his words caused. I have never been able to convince Adam that I didnβt force myself on him yet till this very day, he still believes I drugged him into sleeping with him on the night we were having dinner with his family three years ago. I can never forget the pure look of disgust and shock on his face when we both woke up in each otherβs arms the next morning. I knew since then that Adam would never love me, yet I was hopeful. As the years go by, the hope keeps dwindling with his grandfather, being the only support system in everything. Sighing, I return to my office and pick up my phone. My eyes widens when I see that a number has called my phone repeatedly all the time I was in Adamβs office. The dread that fills me stems from the fact that I recognise the number as the hospitalβs number. I call back instantly, my heart racing. They pick up on the second ring. βMrs Miller, we have been trying to reach you all afternoon!β A female voice says. βWhy? Is something wrong? Is my grandmother okay?β I ask, rushing my words as I am filled with dread and panic. βYou need to be at the hospital, your grandmotherββ I donβt wait to hear the rest of her words. I race out of the room and call on a taxi to drive me to the hospital. I go straight to her hospital room but the sheets and blankets are already being neatly arranged and the bed is empty. More panic. More dread. βWhere is my grandmother?β I ask, βWhere is she?β The nurse cleaning the room gives me a look of pity that nauseates me. βI am sorry, Mrs Miller but your grandmother died ten minutes ago and has been moved to the hospitalβs mortuary. I am sorry.β She says. The world around me stops and I donβt know how I am able to walk on my two feet to the mortuary where the Nurse leads me. She stops at the door and points to my grandmother laying on a table in the room, her body covered in a white sheet from head to toe. I walk to the bedside with shaky legs and the moment I take the sheet off and set my eyes on her pale face, I burst out into a loud sob, wishing I could go back to a month ago so I can prevent that accident that made her this way. The accident that took my only living family away from me. βGrandmaβ¦β I call in a broken voice as I reach for her hand. They are too cold, so lifeless and the tears begin to leave my eyes in torrents as I remember how warm these hands used to be when they held my face. βIβm sorryβ¦Iβm so sorry.β I cry, holding tightly unto her and hating myself for not being there in her last moments. I should have been there with her but I was too busy worrying about my place in my husbandβs life. The nurse comes into the room and says, βShe asked us to give you this.β I wipe my tears, sniffling as I take what seems to be a key chain from her. I couldnβt think of a reason why grandmotherβs parting gift to me would be a key chain but I canβt seem to care. Her cold hands slammed me into the reality of what had happened. Grandmother is dead. I fall to my knees by the bed and weep, muttering and calling for her to return to me. βAria.β Adamβs voice calls from behind me. I am both surprised and relieved to find him there. He must have been contacted by the hospital as well and stopped by since he already came here with Sophia anyway. Sophia is standing in the room with us but I ignore her. I focus on Adam because I need him. I need someone to hold me and tell me everything will be fine. βAdam.β I cry as I walk over to him and hug him without a second thought, my tears gathering and falling again. His body stiffens at my touch but I donβt let go. I need his warmth. I need him because he is really all that I have left and I canβt bear to lose him too. I expect him to push me away but he doesnβt. He doesnβt hug me back too but I canβt find it in me to care as I sob uncontrollably. My tears subside and I sniffle repeatedly and slowly let go of him. He clears his throat and takes out his phone, saying; βIβll place a call to start making preparations for her funeral.β He turns around to leave with Sophia also following him but I canβt bear the sight of him turning his back to me and leaving. I grab his hand. βStay.β I sound so weak and helpless but I do not give a damm, βPlease, donβt go. Stay with me.β I beg. Adam opens his mouth to say something but a sharp cry stuns us both. We spin around at the same time to the source of the cry and she is crouching, holding her stomach with an expression of pain. Adam rushes to Sophiaβs side in a heartbeat and my heart sinks further down my stomach. βSophia, are you okay?β He asks with concern ringing high in his voice. She shakes her head, βThere is something Iβve been wanting to tell you but didnβt know how.β She says, holding her stomach as she looks directly at me. βWhat is it?β Adam asks, still very much concerned. βAdamβ¦Iβ¦I am pre9nant.β Chapter 3 Grandmotherβs funeral is being held on a gloomy day, much to my displeasure. I listened to the weather forecast so I could choose the perfect day for the funeral, and according to the forecast, the day is supposed to be sunny and bright just like Grandmother. I feel duped standing by grandmotherβs grave with the sky covered in clouds that only worsen the dark and depressing feeling that has settled in my guts since her death. I have cried so much that I have no tears left to shed at grandmotherβs grave and now have to wear dark sunglasses to hide how red and puffy my eyes are rather than to complement my black dress. There are a few people hanging around the other graves in the cemetery to pay their last respects to their loved ones and at each grave, there are at least two people; couples holding each other, families comforting each other and even church processions. I am alone, with no one to comfort me since no one else bothered to attend my grandmother's funeral. With her gone, I realize how lonely I actually am and the thought deals another blow to my already damaged heart. I try hard to get the heartbreaking events of the past few days off my mind and when I finally succeed, I turn my focus back to my grandmother. Sheβs smiling in the framed picture placed by her tombstone and I force a smile as well as a fond memory of her slips into my mind. βAria, my child, you canβt frown like that everytime or youβll get wrinkles like me before you are even my age!β She would say and then go ahead to spread my lips into a smile with her fingers. Grandmother was a cheerful soul who would tell me stories, mostly the ones about my birth and how she knew from the very first day that she set her eyes on me that I was going to be a really beautiful and amazing child. I shared everything with her and talking to her about my marriage was one of the things that made it bearable. I donβt know what Iβd do without Grandmother. Tears start to gather in my eyes again and I take off the sunglasses to wipe them off before they start to fall. I already promised myself not to cry anymore; Grandmother wouldnβt want that. Sniffling, I begin to place the things I brought with me by her grave; Tulips, which were her favorite flowers; Peaches, her favorite fruit and finally some sweets because grandmother had a really sweet tooth and never listened to me whenever I told her they were bad for her age. βThere are no sweets in heaven, Aria. Itβs only right that I take as much as I can down here before the big guy calls me up there.β She would say at the same she unwraps another candy and tosses it into her mouth. She would talk on and on about βThe big guyβ and βUp thereβ like she was always prepared for the day she would die. I canβt help it anymore, I burst into tears, falling on my knees by her grave as it dawns on me fully that she is really gone. βI should have let you have all the candies in the world. I should have been there with you at your dying moment. I should have held your hands and told you itβs gonna be okay. Iββ My voice breaks, the deep regret and tears choking me and making me lose my train of thoughts. I canβt think of a thing to say anymore and so I just cry, sobbing so hard my body shakes. I hear confident footsteps approaching me and feel a presence behind me that causes my sobs to come to a pause. My heart races and hope swells inside of me when the person puts a hand on my shoulder. I whip my head around, expecting to see Adam but my hope quickly shatters when I see that it is Adam uncle, Regis. βRegis.β I say, sniffing and wiping my tears in a rush. βHere,β He hands me his handkerchief, stuffing it in my hand and closing my palm around it before I can even refuse. I say a barely audible thank you before I dab at the tears with the hanky that smelt like him. βI came as soon as I heard, Iβm sorry about your Grandmother, Aria.β He says in a sincere and kind voice. Regis has always been kind to me even when I was just a secretary. Whenever he came to visit his nephew at the office, he would stop to say hi and hand me a canned coffee with a smile on his face. However, he left the country to study a few days before our wedding and only returned not too long ago. This is the first time seeing him since his return and the kind look in his eyes assures me that if he had been around, I would have had another person rooting for me just like Adamβs grandfather. βYou didnβt have to.β I say quietly, trying to downplay how much it actually means to me that at least, one person cares enough to be here with me. Regis looks around as if searching for something and then he frowns when our eyes meet again. βYouβre alone? Where the hel is Adam?β He asks, his voice a little hard. My cheeks redden in embarrassment. Regis has only just returned and probably doesnβt know anything yet. I am not willing to talk either. I force a smile and begin to pack the excess things I bought for my grandmother's funeral. Regis joins me wordlessly and I sigh in silent appreciation of how he doesnβt ask anymore questions. He takes everything from my hands even before I can protest. βDid you drive here?β He asks and I shake my head. I came here in a Taxi. βCβmon, weβll take my car.β He says and walks in front of me. I have no choice but to follow him. We have just gotten outside of the cemetery when a car drives into the parking space right beside Regisβ car. The car is familiar and I keep doubting who it belongs to until Adam steps out of the car, eyes trained on me as he walks over. The first thing I notice is his Royal Blue suit and I feel the slow brewing of anger inside of me. How could he show up wearing that? It is like a blatant disrespect of my Grandmother and I canβt stand to watch her get disrespected even in her death. It is clear that he came from the office; little surprise there and it would have been better if he didnβt come at all as I now realize how looking at him only infuriates me. He had managed to avoid me in the past three days since the hospital incident. Three days since Sophia announced that she was pre9nant and shook my world. I didnβt need anyone to tell me who the baby belonged to as he walks towards me now, I feel nothing but resentment for him. βIs it over? Crap, I must have lost track of time.β He says before turning to his uncle and giving him a tight smile of appreciation that I find nauseating. βThank you for being here with her, uncle.β Regis merely crosses his arms, staring back at his nephew, βCare to explain why you are only just coming?β Regis thows the question at him and I face Adam too, crossing my arms. βYes, Adam. Tell me what was more important than being at my grandmotherβs funeral.β I already know the answer but I still wait to hear him say it so I can have a reason to hate him even more. βI really wanted to be here, Aria but you knowβ¦β He trails off, running a hand through his hair, βI had to be with Sophia.β The sound of her name is what does it for me; the same woman who is the reason I wasnβt around to witness grandmotherβs dying moments. βDid you really come all the way here to tell me you were with another woman you slept with and impregnated?β βWhat?β Regis is the one who speaks, his voice echoing his shock as he looks from me to Adam. Adamβs usual blank look remains as if he is unaffected by my words and the pain he has caused me. βLetβs not do this here, Aria. You know I canβt just leave her.β I scoff. βI never stopped you. You know what? You should have never come here. You should have stayed with her since that is where your loyalties lie now and I am no longer in the picture.β Adam frowns, moving closer and intimidating me just a little with his height and muscular frame, βWhat does that mean? You are my wife.β βEx-wife,β I say the words without even thinking. I didnβt think any of this through but I donβt care because my entire being seems to agree that this is whatβs best for me, βI want a divorce, Adam.β His eyes grow wide, unable to contain the shock at my words and I am proud of myself that I finally got a reaction that isnβt anger or coldness from him. βBoth the divorce papers and my resignation will find their way to you soon.β I add before he can get over his shock and I donβt wait for him to reply as I turn to an equally stunned Regis. βTake me home, Regis.β Chapter 4 Adamβs POV I want a divorce. The words circle around my head non-stop. Of all the shets I have had the pleasure of hearingβand trust me, I hear a lot of crap as a CEOβAria asking for a divorce out of nowhere has to be the worst. I am a man who takes pride in my strength and ability to handle situations no matter how unexpected they are. It comes with the job, yet for some reason, I am unable to utter a single word or move my feet until she gets into the car with my uncle. When I finally come to my senses, she is long gone, leaving me to drown in the pool of shock she created. I am shocked at her audacity; the way she looked me in the eyes as she hit me with those words. Ariaβs cold hazel eyes totally betrayed the meek and timid trait that I have only ever known her for. I am equally shocked at myself for actually being affected by it when I shouldn't have batted an eyelash, after all, I never wanted to marry her. The three years of living with Aria felt like I was in bonda9e created by her own deceit and my grandfatherβs overbearing attitude. I never cared about Aria yet the sound of divorce numbed me completely that I am unable to think straight until the door to my car opens and reminds me that I am still standing still in front of the cemetery. My personal assistant steps out of the car and speaks. βSir, your appointment with the Taylor Enterprises is thirty minutes from now. Itβs more than an hourβs drive from here, we should leave now ifββ βCancel it,β I say, heading back to the car, not quite in the right mind to process anything, not even a meeting whose outcome was worth millions of dollars. My assistant follows behind me in a hurry, obviously confused. βBut sir, that isnβt the only appointment for the day. You also haveβ¦β He starts to read out my packed schedule for the day as I finally get into the car. βCancel them all!β I say, settling into the leather seats of the car and loosening my tie at the same time as it feels like I am slowly losing the ability to breathe, βGet in and turn the dann AC on.β I command him, unable to prevent my anger and irritation from reflecting in my voice. Finally noticing the negative emotions rolling out of me in waves, he mutters his response before getting into the driverβs seat and pulling the car out of the cemeteryβs parking lot. We get to the highway, air is emitting from not only the AC in the car yet I feel heat rising from inside of me and not even loosening a few buttons on my shirt helped. All I can think about is Aria and the dammed divorce. My shock is long gone and I am now stewing in nothing but anger, bordering on rage. Who the hel does she think she is? What gives her the boldness to think she makes the call for divorce? If anyone should be asking for a divorce, It should be me. I am the one who married her against my will. Sheβs the one who found me so irresistible that she went as far as dru9ging me just to have me. If anyone deserves to slam divorce papers in her face, it is me but the thought never crossed my mind. Sheβs a good secretary, dutiful, efficient and always at my beck and call. She also doubles as a good wife, never getting in my way or needy for attention. Aria takes whatever I give her; the little time, the irregular sax and the little communication, all that I deemed appropriate for our kind of relationship. The sudden switch has me racking my brain, thinking of different possibilities and all the things that could have gone wrong. A thought crosses my mind and it intensifies my anger in a way that I canβt even understand. βFind out if Aria has been meeting anyone lately. Men in particular.β I say. My assistant meets my eyes through the rearview mirror. His eyes fail to hide his surprise that I am asking him to look into my wife and the possibility that sheβs been seeing other men. I canβt rule out all the possibilities and if Aria has really been cheating on me, I swear to Godβ My phone vibrates beside me on the leather seats. Sophiaβs name pops up on the screen in a message notification. Sheβs asking me when next I would be available for an appointment at the doctorβs office. Seeing Sophiaβs message douses my anger but leaves me with a far more disturbing emotion. I thought of all the reasons why my quiet wife is suddenly asking for a divorce but it never crossed my mind that impregnating the woman I once loved could be the reason. I think back to that day two months ago when yet again, I let drinking lead me into making the worst decisions. All I had to do was pick Sophia up at the airport, drive her to her hotel and return home. Instead, I took the invite to have a drink in her hotel room; for old timeβs sake, she called it. We did more than just have a drink that night and the outcome is the baby growing inside of Sophia. I canβt call it a mistake yet deep down, I know it should have never happened. I should have never let myself get tempted by the thought of how being inside of Sophia will feel after three years. I want the child. Itβs my baby and I donβt plan on losing it but it comes at a price that I never thought would be a problem which is the divorce with Aria. I canβt let Aria divorce me. I need her. At the office and in my home. Sheβs been my secretary for seven years and no one can do her job like her. I also pay her well and make sure she doesnβt need anything as my wife. How does she plan to survive without me anyway? Does she think that by asking for divorce, she has put herself on a higher level than me? What game is she playing with me now? Ha! Women thinking that they can live without a man and his support. As I think deeply about these things, I also think of a way to remedy them. I just need to do something to appeal to her. βWhat do women like?β I asked my assistant. He hesitates at first, surprised by the sudden question before he clears his throat and answers, βErm, designer bags I guess and oh, flowers.β I am already scrolling through an online store on my phone, clicking away at every expensive bag that catches my eyes until I have already ordered a number to last her an entire year. Then we make a stop at the flower shop on the way home. Turns out there are more than a hundred thousand flowers and I canβt even decide which one to get for Aria because apparently, women have favorites when it comes to things as trivial as flowers as well. In the end, I pick Lilies because the attendant at the flowershop claims itβs most womenβs favorite. I head home after that with only one single thought at the back of my mind; I wonβt let Aria divorce me. Chapter 5 Iβm thankful that Regis doesnβt ask any questions as he drives me back home. He offers to drive me into the compound but I turn him down and wait till he drives off before I sigh and walk into the house. The house is brimming with maids who rush over to me the instant they hear the door open but I raise a hand to stop them all from coming close to me. I am no longer the mistress of the house. I walk past them all to get to my room. Adam and I only share a room when he is looking to satisfy his saxual urges. He crawls into my bed and peppers kisses all over my body till I give in and that is the only time I ever feel wanted by him. As I walk into the room, I refrain from staring at the bed for longer than I should, afraid that the memories of us tangled up in sheets with him buried deep inside of me will break my resolve. And right now, I have only one resolveβto leave Adam for good. I begin to pack while that resolve is still strong, not even stopping for one moment to think about the fact that I have nowhere to go. I canβt bear to stay one more day under the same roof with Adam, knowing how deeply his betrayal cut. I only pack a few things that are important, assuring myself that I will come back for the rest of my things later when the divorce is finalized. I am only halfway through packing when I hear the sound of a familiar voice that never fails to send chills down my spine and even right this moment, I can already feel the chilling crawl of dread and it makes me stop packing immediately. Adamβs mother, Elodie and his sister Eva are here. I exhale sharply, trying to keep my breathing under control and to also keep the terrible memories of them from flushing into the forefront of my mind. A few more deep exhales and I finally get a hold of myself, resuming packing my things. Once I finish packing, I haul the heavy suitcase out of the room and walk into the living room where Elodie and Eva are seated on one of the couches, legs crossed over one another like they owned the place. Elodie has her signature scowl on her face that doesnβt fade even when I bow to greet her. βWhy are you here?β Elodie asks, standing. I am confused by her question and my inability to give an answer makes her scoff, her face contorting into the ugliest form annoyance can take. βI almost forgot how dumb you are.β Elodie says again. Dumb. Her favorite word to throw at me the way she pleases and of course, it doesnβt hurt less today. In fact, it is even more painful now that I realize that besides having to live with Adamβs indifference, I have also had to deal with his motherβs hatred and utter disrespect for me and all along, my response has either been silence or an apology that she never deserved. βWhy are you here instead of the office, huh?β She sneers and continues, βMy son works tirelessly day and night just to make money for someone like you to leech off him, all he asks of you is to do your job as his secretary and yet you canβt even do that one thing? Do you think you are entitled to his money just because you are his wife?β Her words are like hard blows to the chast, every single word that strung her sentences together hitting nerves and breaking right through them. I feel something rising inside of me. It has always been there but I have always managed to control it. To top it all, Eva, Adamβs snobbish sister had to chip in, βSheβs a trickster who duped my poor innocent brother and I wonder why isnβt she at the office! Such a lazy bumm! I donβt even know how Grandpa accepted such a penniless betch to be part of our elite family!β βI had to be at my grandmotherβs funeral.β I respond simply, hoping the scowl on her face will disappear but it gets even more profound and she adds a scoff for good measure. Did Elodie and Eva not know that my grandmother died? βIs she dead for real? Or is it just an act?!β Eva has the guts to ask me and I glare at her. Elodie continues, βOf course, thatβs your excuse for being a lazy gold digger. Tell me, did that grandmother of yours teach you to go after other peopleβs money instead of working for your own?β That very thing that has been rising inside me since I saw Adamβs mother reaches its peak. Itβs anger. It is red, pure and fiery and controls my whole being that I can not even bring myself to care about anything other than keeping my grandmotherβs name from being soiled. βDo not talk about my grandmother like that!β I yell and she jumps slightly, startled by my outburst. βDid you just yell at me?β she says, taking a step forward but I donβt flinch as I stare back into her eyes. Eva approaches me and she lashes out, βDid you just shout at my mother?!!!β Eva has always tried to demean me and every possible way at every chance presented to her. She grabs my arm, presses it harshly, making me wince in pain. Elodie smiles and as usually, she is greatly entertained. I push Eva with the other hand and she tumbles on the sofa. She remains shocked for I have always allowed them to bully me and this time, I retaliate. βDid you forget your place? You are nothing but aββ βGold digger who married your son for his money, yes, I get it!β I snap at her, having had enough of the name calling every damm time, βBut you donβt have to worry about that anymore because I already filed for a divorce. I am leaving your son so you can go ahead and swallow all of his money for all I care.β I turn around to leave, huffing as I drag the heavy suitcase with me but then Elodie clamps her hand down on the suitcase to stop me. She looks at the suitcase in amusement. βYou are really leaving!β Elodie canβt even hide the joy in her tone. βYes, so please just stop and let me go.β She shakes her head, βNot so fast! You canβt just leave.β And then she signals to two of the maids who have been standing, watching the whole exchange. βSearch her!β She orders when they come forward. They hesitate and she glares at them. βDid you not hear her? She is no longer the mistress of the house. Search her right now.β I am too stunned to react when the maids finally snatch my suitcase from me. Eva tries to hold me preventing me from snatching back my bag from the maids. βWhat do you think youβre doing?β I say, my voice shaky. βI canβt just let you leave. Who knows what valuables you have stolen from my son inside that germ ridden bag of yours.β My mouth opens and closes several times at her words as I canβt even come up with a single string of sentences to say to her. I just watch as my things come tumbling to the ground in the rough search. Tears of humiliation burned at the back of my eyes. I donβt struggle any more from Evaβs grip and she stares at me triumphantly. βWhat is that? Hand it over.β Adamβs mother says when one of the maids found a gold bracelet I had lodged into my case. Grandmotherβs bracelet, the only thing I have left of her. βNo!β I rush forward to stop her from handing it over but I am too late. Adamβs mother is already holding and inspecting the bracelet. βOh, wow! Mom, you finally found something she stole from Adam!β Eva exclaimed enthusiastically. Upon saying those words, she drags me and throws me onto the marble. I hit my nose. As I touch it, blood is coming out. I wipe it quickly and spring up to my feet. βI knew it! You took something. Did my son buy this for you? What gives you the right to think you can walk away with something he got for you after filing for a divorce?β Elodie snaps. βThat doesnβt belong to your son! It is mine and I will appreciate it if you give it back.β She does the exact opposite and only continues to accuse me of being a thief until the door opens and Adam walks in. I donβt feel relief at his presence like I usually do when his mother treats me this way, instead, I feel nothing but resentment for him. I want to scream how much I hate him to his face. His face twists into confusion when he sees the situation. βWhat is going on here?β He asks, walking further into the house and looking from his mother to me. βThank goodness you arrived, son. This leech was about to leave with something that clearly doesnβt belong to her.β His mother responds. βAnd she hit me!!!β Eva adds, almost in tears, complaining to Adam. This time, Adam is too shocked to ask me why I hit his dear sister. I thought,as he did in the past, he would force me to apologize, but this time, he did nothing. I wonder why. My eyes are starting to water for some reason and I am confused as to why Adamβs appearance suddenly triggered them yet I smile through the tears. βAdam, will you please tell your mother that I have never gotten a gift from you?β Adam falters, seemingly speechless for a second as he stares at his hands. I also look down at his hands and I finally understand why my eyes sting with tears and why I am sniffling in preparation of a sneeze that rocks my entire body. Lilies. I am all ergic to them. Despite the tears rolling down my cheeks, I start to laugh. I laugh so hard, ignoring the burning gazes of everyone present in the room who probably think I have gone crazy. I sneeze in between laughs, yet I donβt stop laughing as I turn to Adamβs mother. βI have been married to your son for three years and he doesnβt even know I am all ergic to lilies, yet you think he is capable of getting me a bracelet?β I shake my head at my sad reality. Chapter 6 Adam hands the flowers over to one of the maids, asking her to put it in a vase or whatever. He clears his throat, trying and failing miserably to hide his embarrassment in front of his mother, his sister and the maids. βThe flowers werenβt for you.β He says, voice hard as he stares at me for a brief second. I barely even feel anything when he says that because I genuinely donβt care anymore, I just want to get the hel out of this house and never return. I donβt even care about the rest of my things which I am yet to pack, I just want to turn my back on this horrible life already. I hear Eva sniggers. Adam seems like he wants to say something to me but then he decides against it and turns to his mother instead. βMum, please return the bracelet to her.β She snorts and shakes her head stubbornly, βI am not letting her leave with it.β Adam grunts, a sign that he is slowly losing his patience, β I have never seen that bracelet mother, it belongs to Aria. Please, give it back.β Adamβs mother doesnβt immediately move to do as she is told but the moment she does, it is with an annoyed huff as she tosses the bracelet at me. I catch it in my palms while she heads back to sit in the same position as earlier when I first walked into the living room. I fall to my knees by the mess the maids made out of my clothes and then I begin to arrange them again, rushing through the process so I can get out of here fast to stop the repeated sting of humiliation. Adam standing there and just watching me clean up his motherβs mess without as much as an apology from either of them only adds to the rising level of humiliation. Once done, I stand and face Adam squarely, taking in the same clothes he wore to the cemetery earlier and getting reminded of all the reasons why I am making the best decision of my life. βAs I said before, it is over between us. The divorce papers and my resignation letter will find their way to you soon.β I say, ignoring the way his face twisted, βGoodbye, Adam.β I turn around before I can even hear his response. I donβt want to look at Adam, not anymore. I walk away from him, going straight for the door and turning its knob for what I hope is the very last time. I have barely taken a step outside the door when Adamβs strong hand grabs my upper arm and twists me around to look at him. I have worked with him for seven years, four of which I was just his secretary and that was enough for me to know the kind of man Adam Miller is. He is usually composed with a blank expression that shows how in control he is. Right now, Adam is neither composed nor in control. He seems like he has lost grip of it and the meaning of those words donβt even matter to him anymore as he holds my arm in a tight grip. I struggle to break free of his hold. βLet me go.β I snap at him but Adam only narrows his eyes at me, his anger burning past his blue eyes. βYou canβt just leave, Aria.β He growls. βYou canβt tell me what to do, Adam. At least not anymore. Let me go!β βDoes this even make any sense to you!β He yells in my face as he lets go of my hand to run his hand through his hair, β You canβt just spring this kind of shet on me.β βItβs not springing if we have both had it coming from the very moment we shared our vows which you have already broken. We both know this marriage should have never happened so cut the crap and let me leave.β I say, practically fuming before turning around in another attempt to leave. βWhat about grandfather? You are taking such a big step without talking to the old man who set it all up anyway. The man who has been nothing but good to you.β I turn back to face Adam, hating his attempt at making me feel guilty. My thoughts go to his grandfather momentarily and I try to imagine the old manβs reaction to me filing for a divorce when he cares about me so much. However, I donβt waver. I refuse to let those thoughts come between me and my freedom. I refuse to put the wish of another over my own happiness. βI will talk to grandfather. Believe me, you have nothing to worry about.β I say and make another attempt to leave but of course, Adam doesnβt give up as he speaks again. βI wonβt sign it Aria, I wonβt sign the goddamm papers!β βWhat the hel is wrong with you?β I yell out my frustration, βWhy wonβt you just let me go?β He stares me down, eyes burning stubbornly, βI wonβt sign the papers and I wonβt accept your resignation either. The company has rules you have to follow and you canβt just decide to resign without prior notice especially when there is a lot of work at the office which I pay you to do!β I scoff, unable to believe his nerve. Unable to get over his selfish thinking and absolute lack of remorse for the things he has done. βYou have Sophia, donβt you?β I shoot at him and his brows furrow. βWhat does that even mean?β βEveryone adores Sophia. She is smart, beautiful and can get your work done for you and oh, donβt forget the fact that she is also pre9nant with your child! How perfect is that?β Adamβs mother springs up, surprise evident in her features. Clearly, she is just learning about her coming grandson. βAdam, is what she says true? You have a child on the way?β Eva asked excitedly. Adamβs expression donβt give anything away and he doesnβt even spare his mother or sister a glance. He is still looking straight at me. βAria, what happened between Sophia and I wasnβt intentional, it justββ βDonβt you dare make excuses for her! Who cares what she thinks? Sophia is who you have always deserved. The only woman who actually deserves to be my daughter-in-law.β Adamβs mother cut in while making sure to give me a nasty look that doesnβt even surprise me anymore. I shrug at Adam, a way to show him that I was right. Everyone wants Sophia, including him and he canβt even bring himself to deny it. He continues to ignore his mother. βAria, it was an accident.β He says again and I nod, like I am agreeing to his words. βThree years ago, you didnβt think the same way. You didnβt think you accidentally slept with me but instead believed I had gone as far as dru9ging you to sleep with you. What changed, Adam? Because all I see right now is a bloody hypocrite and a coward who would rather blame others for his mistakes.β When I turn my back to him this time, I donβt stop walking. I donβt turn around. βAria! Aria, get back here while I am still being nice. Aria, I swear to God if you walk out that door, I wonβt take you back even if you go on your knees. You need me, Aria. You canβt survive without me!β Adam yells after me but I donβt stop walking as his arrogant words only fueled my desire to get away from him as fast as I can. I block out the rest of his words as I open the door and welcome my peace and freedom. I am never going back to that sad reality. | Read freely | 18 | https://facebook.com/61557986570531 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716534000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879757 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410719 | 1723321855 | 995 | 216463318195471 | 1 | 3.5079396395983E+14 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 1475434976107462 | 0 | Weiss Property Management | 120207717711510579 | weisspm.com | Contact Us | NONE | carousel | Expertise You Can Trust | Enhance your curb appeal | https://weisspm.com/lawn-mowing-and-landscaping/?utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=display&utm_campaign=sr_transform_your_property_with_weiss_property &utm_term={{ad.id}}&utm_content=4656879-e32-n-m-c{{campaign.id}}-g{{adset.id}}-a{{ad.id}}-u-cat-k-mod | 1710771508 | 1.4754349761075E+15 | Weiss Property Management | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/433883042_3571553513062526_408461915678430278_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=WrrehUSk_oIQ7kNvgGRgiUK&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCfOBCCKjrGLIOwVt2IpJO0VyFaAGg7Jki57vMrCQ2HKA&oe=6672C647 | person_profile | 0 | 0 | 3 | Enhance your curb appeal | Weiss Property Management | 809 | https://facebook.com/weisspm1 | 0 | CONTACT_US | 1710831600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879762 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410720 | 1723321855 | 995 | 1361528064521212 | 1 | 7.4287710132688E+14 | 1715410800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 250753834794512 | 0 | Read freely | 120208075188720056 | beokn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | β€οΈπWhat happens nextπClick Here to read onπ | https://beokn.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=11230&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717941362 | 2.5075383479451E+14 | Read freely | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/422079631_823590829824839_4719608256142825580_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=X0arSR329ugQ7kNvgFznJUe&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBCybnyEjPstfL-T8Ns-_chW2Zg5909W9W-lMZXE8xwkg&oe=6672CB06 | person_profile | 0 | Read freely | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441057328_1702104656985535_4588455529970348064_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=5anZ9pA6410Q7kNvgG9aKIE&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCRB-k4bkzqrpLp8SCU41jIJSVrD8mXEJ_6VsTi8QlSuA&oe=6672C68A | 0 | 3 | Yvette Snyder stood at the entrance of the hospital, her body frail, clutching a report in her thin hands. Three words on the report stood out: "No conception detected". "You've been married for three years. How are you not conceived?" Her mother, Yara Cadwell, demanded, jabbing a finger in Yvette's face disappointedly. Yara was dressed lavishly and wore high heels. "Why are you so useless? If you don't get conceived soon, the Lanes are going to kick you out of the family. What's going to happen to our family then?" Yvette looked at Yara blankly. She had a lot to say, but the words were stuck in her throat. In the end, all she could manage was, "I'm sorry." "I don't want you to be sorry. I want you to give birth to Xavier's child. Do you understand me?" Yvette's throat felt tight; she didn't know how to answer Yara. In their three years of marriage, her husband, Xavier Lane, had never slept with her. How could she ever have his child? Yara stared at Yvette. The latter's weak demeanor was so unlike her own. Finally, she said coldly before leaving, "If you really can't give him a child, then find him a woman who can. At least he'll appreciate you for that." Yvette stared after Yara's retreating figure in disbelief. Had her own mother just told her to find another woman for her husband to sleep with? ... As Yvette made her journey home, she couldn't stop thinking about Yara's parting words. Suddenly, a loud ringing in her ear drowned out her thoughts. She knew that her condition had worsened. Just then, she received a message on her phone. It was from Xavier, and the content was the same as always. "I'm not coming home tonight." In the past three years they had been married, Xavier had never spent the night at home before. He had never so much as touched Yvette either. Yvette could remember their wedding night three years ago. He had told her, "Since your family is bold enough to trick me into marrying you, you'd better be prepared to spend the rest of your life in loneliness." Three years ago, the Snyder and Lane families had decided to form an alliance through marriage. Both families had agreed to mutually beneficial terms in the agreement. But when the day of the wedding came around, the Snyder family went back on their word and transferred all of their assets away, including the billions that Xavier had paid to marry Yvette. Yvette's eyes dulled at the memory. She replied to Xavier's text with her usual response: "Okay." Without her realizing it, the report she was holding got scrunched up in her hands. When she got home, Yvette tossed the report into the trash can. Every month, around this time, she would feel unusually lethargic. Yvette didn't prepare dinner for herself. She just leaned back on the couch, blearily drifting in and out of sleep. The rumbling in her ear persisted. That was another reason why Xavier hated herβshe was hard of hearing, which, to the rich and powerful, was no better than being crippled. Xavier would never allow her to carry his child. β¦ At 5 o'clock in the morning, the pendulum clock on the wall chimed dully. Xavier would be home in an hour. Yvette realized too late that she had fallen asleep on the couch. She got up hastily and went to the kitchen to prepare Xavier's breakfast. Xavier was a meticulous man who was strict about punctuality, not only with himself but also with the people around him. He arrived home at six o'clock sharp. Xavier was a tall and handsome man. Clad in a smart tailored suit, his demeanor was quiet and reserved, yet undoubtedly masculine. However, to Yvette, he was cold and distant. Xavier didn't even look at Yvette. He walked right past her to look at the food on the table and said with a scoff, "You do this every day. Are you a nanny or what?" Over the past three years, Yvette had been doing the same things over and over again. She wore the same dark clothes and replied to his messages with the same singular word. If it hadn't been for the business alliance and the Snyders' deceit, Xavier would never have married a woman like Yvette. At the word "nanny", the rumbling in Yvette's ears returned. She swallowed, feeling a lump in her throat, and said bravely, "Xav, do you have someone that you like?" Her sudden question surprised Xavier. His eyes darkened. "What do you mean by that?" Yvette raised her head and stared at him, swallowing the bile rising in the back of her throat. "If you love someone else, you can be with herβ" Before she could finish, Xavier interrupted her. "You're mad." ... After Xavier left, Yvette sat on the balcony alone, staring out into the cold rain. The sound of the raindrops drifted in and out of clarity. She took off her hearing aids, letting the world around her fall into silence. A month ago, her doctor had told her, "Ms. Snyder, there's been a pathological change in your auditory nerves and some of your cranial nerves, causing your hearing to worsen. If this goes on, you may lose your hearing completely." Not used to a silent world, Yvette went to the living room and turned on the television. She turned up the volume to the max, which allowed her to hear some sound. By coincidence, the television was showing an interview with Daphne Reyes, an internationally renowned singer known for her love songs. Yvette's hands trembled slightly as she gripped the remote control. Daphne was Xavier's first love. It had been a long time since Yvette had seen her, but Daphne was still as pretty as ever. She was confident and relaxed in front of the cameras, unlike the shy and frightened young woman who had begged the Snyders for sponsorship in the past. When the interviewer asked Daphne why she had returned to her home country, her answer was bold. "I came home to get my first love back." The remote control slipped out of Yvette's hands. Her heart also fell to her stomach. Flustered, Yvette turned off the television and went to the table to clean up the uneaten breakfast. When she got to the kitchen, she found that Xavier had forgotten to take his phone. She picked it up and saw the unread messages on the lock screen. "Xav, you must have been unhappy over the past few years, right?" "I know you don't love her. How about we meet up tonight? I've missed you." Yvette stared blankly at the messages until the screen went dark again. Then, she called a cab to Xavier's office. On the way, she stared out of the window. The rain fell incessantly. It felt like it would never stop. Xavier never liked it when Yvette visited him at his office, so whenever she was there, she would take the service elevator from the loading bay. When Xavier's assistant, Mark Xyrax, saw her, he just greeted her impassively, "Ms. Snyder." No one around Xavier considered Yvette his wife. She was nothing but a smear on his reputation. When Xavier saw Yvette bringing him his phone, he frowned. She was always like this. No matter what he forgot, be it his lunch, his documents, a shirt, or even an umbrella, she would bring them to him. "I thought I told you that you didn't need to deliver my things to me yourself." Yvette froze. "Sorry, I forgot." Since when had her memory been so bad? Maybe she had panicked after seeing Daphne's message and became afraid that Xavier would disappear from her life suddenly. Before she left, she looked back at Xavier. Unable to help herself, she blurted out, "Xav, do you still like Daphne?" Xavier thought that Yvette had been behaving rather strangely lately. She kept forgetting things and asking weird questions. How could a person like her be his wife? Impatiently, he replied, "If you have so much free time, go find yourself something to do." Yvette had tried getting a job before, but Xavier's mother, Shannon Guetta, had reprimanded her without holding back. "Do you want the whole world to know that Xav married a disabled woman with hearing issues?" Therefore, Yvette had given up on finding a job and focused on her fruitless life as "Mrs. Lane" at Dewberry Estate. β¦ At home, she sat alone until nightfall. She couldn't sleep. Just then, the phone on her bedside table rang loudly. It was a call from an unfamiliar number. Yvette picked up the call. A familiar voice, yet one she dreaded, sounded from the other end. "Is this Yvvy? Xav is drunk. Can you come pick him up?" When Yvette arrived at Sternhow Club, she heard loud coaxing and jeering from the wealthy heirs inside the private room. "Daph, didn't you say you came back to get our dear Mr. Lane back into your arms? This is your chance now. Go on, tell him how you feel!" Daphne was a pretty woman who was popular wherever she went. She was also Xavier's first love, so the rich young men of the upper crust were happy to push the two together. Daphne wasn't shy at all. She turned to Xavier and said without any reservations, "I like you, Xav. Please be with me again." That was what Yvette heard when she arrived at the door of the private room. Inside, the other people were urging Xavier to answer Daphne. His best friend, Tristan Shaw, was the most vocal among them. "Xav, you've been waiting for Daphne for three years. She's back now. So, go on, answer her!" Yvette stood frozen outside the door. Her heart was pounding. Just then, one of the men pulled the door open. "Ms. Snyder?" Chapter 2 Everyone in the private room looked over at the door. For a moment, the room was eerily silent. Yvette immediately caught sight of Xavier in the middle of the room. His eyes were clear and bright. He was clearly not drunk. She knew that she had been tricked by Daphne. When Xavier saw Yvette, his pupils constricted. Everyone else in the room looked awkward, including Tristan, who had been the most vocal in getting Xavier to accept Daphne's confession earlier. Yvette shouldn't have gone there. Daphne was the first to break the silence. "Please don't get the wrong idea, Yvvy. Tristan was joking. Xavier and I are just friends." Before Yvette could answer, Xavier stood up impatiently. "There's no need to explain it to her." Then, he stalked over to Yvette. "What are you doing here?" "I thought you were drunk, so I came to take you home," Yvette answered truthfully. Xavier scoffed. "You really didn't retain anything I told you, did you?" Lowering his voice, he said softly so that only she could hear him, "Are you here to remind everyone that I was tricked into marrying you three years ago? Did you think they forgot?" Yvette was stunned. Xavier gave her a cold look. "Stop seeking attention. You're only making me hate you more." With that, he turned away, leaving Yvette standing alone. Yvette stared after his retreating figure, unable to snap out of her shock. None of the other scions in the room took pity on her when they saw Xavier ignoring her. Tristan even had no qualms in telling Daphne, who was feigning distress, "You're too kind, Daphne. You didn't need to explain anything. "If Yvette hadn't scammed Xav, he would've married you in the first place. You wouldn't have needed to suffer abroad as well." Despite the constant ringing in her ears, Yvette could still hear every word clearly. She knew better than anyone that even if Xavier hadn't married her, he wouldn't have married Daphne. Daphne was a nobody with no background, after all. Daphne was well aware of this as well. That was why she had chosen to break up with Xavier and leave the country. How had everything turned out to be Yvette's fault? When Yvette left Sternhow Club with her umbrella, she felt as if she had been enveloped by darkness. Just then, a lithe figure appeared beside her. It was Daphne. She was decked out in fine clothes, complete with high heels. She looked smug. "It's a cold night, isn't it? So, how does it feel to get scoffed at by Xavier after you came all the way here at this time to get him?" Yvette didn't answer her, but Daphne didn't mind her silence. She just continued speaking. "I do pity you, you know. You've never experienced true love before, have you? "Do you know that when I was with Xav, he would cook for me himself? When I was sick, he would drop everything and stay with me. "Has Xav ever told you he loves you? He used to say that to me all the timeβ¦" Yvette listened to Daphne's rambling quietly, her mind going over the past three years she had been married to Xavier. He had never so much as stepped into the kitchen during that time. When she had gotten sick, he had never comforted her. He had never told her he loved her either. β¦ That night, Yvette couldn't fall asleep. She had only just found out that the man she had loved for the past 12 years had once loved another with all his heart, in the spectacular way that only young people could. At that moment, she realized that it was time for her to give him up. She had a sleepless night. The next morning, Xavier returned home. The glare he gave her was cold. "How attached are you to the Lane family's money, to me, your money-making robot?" he demanded. Yvette was stunned. She didn't know what had gotten into him so early in the morning. Instinctively, she said, "I never wanted your money." She had only ever wanted Xavier. Xavier laughed in disdain. "Then, why did your mother come to my office and beg me to give you a child?" Yvette was stunned. She stared into Xavier's eyes. It was only then that she realized that he wasn't angry about what had happened last night. Xavier had no desire to waste his breath on her. "If you want to continue staying with me and keep your family afloat, tell your mother to behave herself!" ... In the end, Yvette didn't need to look for Yara. Yara found Yvette instead. She was no longer cold and distant; she gripped Yvette's hands and said gently, "Yvvy, you should ask Xavier to give you a child. He doesn't have to do it biologically. He could do it through scientific measures." Scientific measures. Yvette stared at Yara in shock as the latter continued, "Daphne told me that Xavier hasn't slept with you in the past three years." That was the last straw for Yvette. She didn't know why Xavier would tell Daphne about that. Maybe he really loved Daphne a lot. With that thought, she suddenly felt relieved. "Just let it go, Mom." Yara paused. She frowned. "What?" "I'm tired. I want to get a divorceβ" Before she could finish, Yara slapped her hard across the face. The kind, motherly facade was gone in an instant. She jabbed a finger at Yvette and gritted out, "You have no right to ask for a divorce! "Without the Lane family, what do you think you're going to do? Who's going to remarry a disabled divorcee like you?" Yvette felt her body go numb. Yara had never liked Yvette, even when the latter had been a child. Yara had been a famous dancer. The fact that she had given birth to a daughter with hearing issues was one of her biggest regrets. Therefore, she had sent Yvette away to be taken care of by a nanny. She had only allowed Yvette to return home when the latter started school. People used to tell Yvette that every mother loved their child. So, she had done everything she could to excel at everything in hopes of making Yara happy. Despite her hearing issues, she had been at the top of her class in dance, music, and art classes. But no matter how hard she tried, Yara still didn't consider her a good daughter. In Yara's words, Yvette wasn't "complete". Not only physically, but also in love and familial relationships. After Yara left, Yvette used some makeup to cover up the red print on her face. Then, she packed her bags quietly. Even after three years of married life, all her personal belongings fit into a single suitcase. After she finished packing up, she gathered her courage and sent Xavier a message. "Are you free tonight? I need to talk to you." Xavier didn't reply to her. Yvette's eyes darkened. She knew that he didn't want to reply to her messages. All she could do was wait for him to come home in the morning. She had thought that he wouldn't come home that night, but he got back at midnight. Yvette wasn't asleep at the time. She went up to him and took his coat and bag from him with familiarity in her actions. It was as if they were a normal married couple. Xavier's cold voice broke the peace. "Don't send me inane texts again." As Yvette held Xavier's coat, her hand trembled slightly. "I won't do it again," she mumbled. Xavier didn't notice anything wrong with her tone. He went straight to his study. Generally, if he came home, he would stay holed up in his study. He probably thought that someone who was hard of hearing would live in a silent world. Either that, or he simply didn't care about Yvette. That would explain why he got straight to discussing his acquisition of Snyder Group in his study as if nothing was wrong. When Yvette brought him some soup, she heard Xavier animatedly discussing work with his employees. He was talking about the acquisition of Snyder Group, her father, James Snyder's company. She didn't know how to feel about that. She knew that her brother, Terrence Synder, was useless at running a business, so it was only a matter of time before Snyder Group fell. However, she had never thought that her own husband would be the first to cause Snyder Group's downfall. "Xav," she interrupted. Xavier was slightly startled. Out of guilt, or maybe some other emotion, he quickly hung up the phone and closed his laptop. Feigning ignorance, Yvette walked into the study and placed the bowl in front of him. "Have some soup, then get to bed soon. Your health is more important than work." For some reason, Xavier felt himself relax when he heard her soft voice. She probably hadn't heard anything. Feeling conflicted, he stopped Yvette before she could leave. "You said you wanted to talk to me. What is it?" Hearing this, Yvette turned back to look at him. Softly, she said, "I just wanted to ask if you're free in the morning so we can go and file for divorce." Chapter 3 Yvette's voice was calm and impassive, as though divorce were a menial matter to her. Xavier's pupils contracted. "What did you just say?" Over the last three years, no matter what he had done, Yvette had never brought up divorce. In truth, Xavier knew that Yvette loved him. Her eyes, which were usually dull and empty, were clear and bright now. "I'm sorry for being a burden over the last few years, Mr. Lane. We should get divorced." Xavier clenched his fists unconsciously. "You heard what I said earlier, didn't you? Snyder Group was already failing; it won't matter whether I buy it or someone else does. What are you trying to do by bringing up divorce? "Is it because you want money? Or a child? Or do you want me to leave Snyder Group alone?" he asked coldly. "Don't forget that I don't love you. Your threats won't work on me!" At that moment, he seemed like a stranger to Yvette. A lump formed in her throat as her ears began throbbing. Even though she was wearing her hearing aids, she could barely hear what Xavier was saying. She could only answer his last question. "I don't want anything." Afraid that he would notice something wrong with her, Yvette left the study in a hurry. As he watched her leave, Xavier felt frustrated for some reason. He had never felt like this before. Not one to hold in his emotions, he flipped the table over. The bowl of soup that Yvette had brought him spilled all over the ground. ... Back in her own room, Yvette forced herself to swallow a handful of pills. She reached up to touch her ear. As she retracted her fingers, she saw crimson blood on them. Thanks to the medicine, her hearing recovered a little by the time it was dawn. Yvette stared blankly at the soft rays of sunlight streaming from the window. "The rain has stopped," she said quietly to herself. Xavier didn't leave the manor that day. He was in the living room bright and early, settled on the couch, waiting for Yvette to apologize and express her regret to him. This wasn't the first time Yvette had lost her temper with him. However, after every tantrum, she would apologize to him before long. Xavier figured that it would be the same this time around. Soon, he saw Yvette coming out of her room, all freshened up. She wore her usual dark-colored clothes. She dragged a suitcase with one hand while holding a piece of paper in the other. She handed the paper to him. It was a divorce agreement. "Let me know when you have time, Xav." With that, she left the manor, pulling her suitcase behind her. It was bright and sunny outside. Yvette felt as if she had gotten a new chance at life. Meanwhile, Xavier sat frozen on the couch, still clutching the divorce agreement in his hand. It took him a long time to come back to his senses. It was Saturday. Usually, around this time of the year, Xavier would take Yvette back to his hometown to pay respects to his ancestors. During this time, they would have to endure strange looks from his extended family. However, he was alone that day, which made him extraordinarily happy. At Lane Mansion, Shannon and the rest of the Lanes were surprised to see him alone. In the past, Yvette had always been the first one to turn up every year and the last to leave since she had been trying to please everyone. Why wasn't she there today? Shanon frowned and asked Xavier, "Where's Yvette, Xav?" Xavier's expression turned cold. "She wanted a divorce and left me." Everyone fell silent in disbelief when he said that. Shannon was shocked. She knew that Yvette probably loved Xavier more than anything in the world, only surpassed by his own parents. Seven years ago, Yvette had even protected Xavier with her own body when someone had attempted to stab him. Four years ago, not long after the two had gotten engaged, something had happened to Xavier while he had been on a business trip in Dibay. Everyone had been convinced that he was dead, but Yvette had refused to believe that. She had dropped everything and gone to the foreign city just to look for him. Then, after they had gotten married, Yvette had taken care of almost everything in his life with meticulous precision, including being polite to everyone around him, even his secretaries. She had always been afraid of offending them. Yvette clearly couldn't live without Xavier. So, why had she suggested getting a divorce? Shannon had no idea, but she was glad that Yvette had finally decided to let Xavier go. "She's not worthy to be your wife anyway. It's a good thing that you're divorcing her. She doesn't deserve you," she said The others immediately chimed in. "Yeah, you're young and handsome, Xav. You're in your best years now. Yvette's been dragging you down all this time!" Instantly, the gathering turned into a slander fest. They spoke of Yvette as if she were an unforgivable criminal. Xavier should have felt happy that they were defending him, but for some reason, he found their words too sharp and crass. He left Lane Mansion earlier than usual and made his way back to Dewberry Estate. The sky was just starting to darken when he arrived home. He opened the door and entered the manor. When he saw nothing but darkness, he remembered, with a start, that Yvette had left. He changed into his house slippers and tossed his coat into the washer. For some reason, he felt unusually exhausted today. He went to the wine cellar to get a bottle of wine so that he could celebrate Yvette's leaving. However, when he got to the wine cellar and saw the locked door, he realized too late that he didn't have the key. He didn't like strangers in his house, so there were no maids or servants at Dewberry Estate. Ever since he had married Yvette, she had been the one taking care of the household affairs. He could only go back to his room. Picking up his phone, he scrolled through his messages only to find work-related texts. Yvette hadn't called or texted him to apologize at all. Tossing his phone aside, he got up and headed over to the kitchen. When he opened the door of the fridge, he was stunned. Apart from food, there were also a lot of supplements. He picked one of the bags up and read the instructions on it. "Take five times a day for incapable of conceived." He took a whiff of the supplement. It smelled disgusting. He recalled that Yvette always smelled strange. So, this was why. He scoffed silently. They had never slept, so no matter how much medicine she took, she would never have gotten conceived. ... Meanwhile, over in a dark and dinky hotel, Yvette opened her eyes blearily. Her head was pounding. The world was silent. She knew, then, that her condition had worsened again. Before this, she had still been able to hear some sounds, even without her hearing aids. She pushed herself up and felt around on the bedside table until she found her medicine. She popped the pills in her mouth, tasting their bitterness. The day before, she had left Dewberry Estate, which had been her home for the past three years. At first, she had gone to her parents' house, Snyder Residence. However, at the door, she had overheard Yara and Terrence discussing how they would marry her off to an old man if the Lanes kicked her out. Yvette had blanked upon hearing that. It was then that she finally realized that she had no place to call home anymore. Even though she hadn't eaten anything in two days, she still didn't feel hungry. However, it was too quiet. The silence scared her. It had been raining more frequently in Tirion this year than it had in previous years. Yvette stared out at the passing pedestrians. Most of them were paired up or in groups. She was the only one alone. She bought a bus ticket heading out of the city. She decided to go to her nanny's house in the countryside. Viola Xenos, her nanny, had taken care of her when she was a child. It was already 9:00 pm when Yvette got there. When Viola saw Yvette, she looked pleasantly surprised. Yvette teared up when she saw Viola's warm smile. She reached out to her and hugged her. "Viola." Due to health issues, Viola had never married and didn't have children of her own. Yvette was closer to her than she was to her own mother. That night, Yvette cuddled up in Viola's embrace, just like she had when she was a child. Viola wrapped her arms around Yvette, only to realize that the latter was very thin. She pressed a hand on the Yvette's bony back, trembling uncontrollably. Forcing herself to calm down, she asked cautiously, "Has Xavier been treating you well, Yvvy?" Yvette felt a sharp pain in her throat when she heard Xavier's name. She wanted to lie to Viola and tell her that Xavier had treated her well, but she knew that Viola wasn't silly. Since she had already made up her mind to leave him, there was no need to lie to herself or to the people who loved her any longer. "The person he loves has returned. I've decided to let him go and divorce him." Viola was stunned. She couldn't believe her ears. Yvette had told her multiple times before that she wanted to spend the rest of her life with Xavier. Not knowing what else to say, she comforted Yvette by telling her that there were plenty of other fish in the sea. There was bound to be one who would love her. Yvette just nodded silently. The buzzing in her ears drowned out Viola's comforting voice. That night, she managed to get a good night's sleep, which was rare. However, when she woke up, she was greeted with the alarming sight of blood staining the spot where her head had laid on the pillow. Yvette touched her right ear. Her fingers felt sticky. She looked at her hand. It was covered in blood. Chapter 4 Even Yvette's hearing aids were stained red. Her pupils contracted, and she quickly grabbed some tissues to wipe her ear. Then, she stripped the bedsheets and washed them. She was afraid that Viola would worry about her if she found out that her illness was worsening. So, she cleaned up the mess and found an excuse to bid goodbye to Viola. Before she left, she placed a part of her savings on the bedside table without telling Viola. Viola walked Yvette to the bus stop and waved goodbye reluctantly. β¦ After Yvette left, Viola couldn't stop thinking about how thin the former was. Unable to just sit by, she called Lane Group. When the secretary heard that Viola was Yvette's nanny and wanted to speak to Xavier, she transferred the call to Xavier's line. It was the third day after Yvette had left Xavier. It was also the first time in three days that he had received a call about her. Sitting behind his desk, he felt exceptionally pleased. Just as he had expected, Yvette wouldn't be able to last more than three days without himβor so he thought. Viola's voice came through the other line, sounding weighed with age. "Mr. Lane, I am Yvvy's nanny. I've been taking care of her since she was a baby. "Please, I beg you, treat her well. Don't hurt her more than you already have. She's not as strong as she seems on the surface. "When she was born, Mrs. Snyder left her in my care because she didn't like that Yvvy is hard of hearing. Yvvy only returned home when she had to start going to school. "The Snyders have never treated her as one of their own. Apart from Mr. Snyder, everyone else treated her like she was a maid. "You and Mr. Snyder are the most important people she has in this world. I'm begging you, please. Please be kind to her." Xavier's mood darkened when he heard what Viola said. "Did she tell you to give me this sob story because she didn't want to face me herself?" he asked coldly. "Why should I care about her life? If you ask me, she deserved everything she got!" That said, he hung up the phone without waiting for an answer. Viola had heard Yvette gushing about how nice Xavier was to her. So, it was only then that she realized the truthβXavier wasn't a good man at all. He wasn't a good husband to Yvette. ... Yvette sat on the bus, heading home. Just then, her phone vibrated. It was a message from Xavier. "You said you wanted to get divorced, right? I'll see you at 10:00 am tomorrow." Yvette stared at the text blankly for a while before replying, "Okay." Just one word. It infuriated Xavier and completely ruined his mood. Unable to work anymore, he called up his friends and invited them out for drinks. Daphne was also at the club when he arrived. "I'm not going home until I'm drunk!" she declared. Tristan sat down beside Xavier. He couldn't help asking curiously, "How's Deaf Yvvy?" Xavier raised an eyebrow at him. "There's no need to talk about her ever again. We're filing for divorce tomorrow." Tristan was stunned. He couldn't believe his ears. "Really?" Beside them, Daphne brightened. She poured out a shot for him. "Congrats on getting back your freedom, Xav!" Xavier drank a lot that night. Daphne offered to send him home, but he rejected her suggestion. "No need. It's not appropriate." If he and Yvette were going to get divorced tomorrow, she might come home that night. Daphne wasn't happy about the rejection. "Why? You're divorcing her anyway. Why wouldn't it be appropriate? Are you still scared that she might find out about our relationship?" Their relationship? Xavier narrowed his eyes. "You're overthinking this." He got into his own car. Out of consideration, he also called a cab to send Daphne home. On the drive home, he kept unlocking his phone to check if Yvette had sent him any messages. She hadn't. When he reached Dewberry Estate, it was dark. With a stormy expression, Xavier opened the door and turned on the light. Yvette was nowhere to be seen. She hadn't come home. The manor was left exactly the way it had been when she had left. Still feeling the effects of the wine, Xavier threw himself heavily onto the couch and soon fell asleep. In his nightmares, Yvette was covered in blood, but there was a smile on her face. "I don't love you anymore, Xav," she said. When Xavier jolted awake, the sky outside had just brightened up. He rubbed his forehead and went to the bathroom to freshen himself up. Then, he changed into a smart suit and made his way to the courthouse. At the entrance of the courthouse, he spotted Yvette standing under a tree not far off. As usual, she was dressed in dark-colored clothes. From the distance, she looked incredibly frail and thin as she stood amid the drizzle. It was as if a single gust of wind could knock her over. Xavier could still remember how young and lively she had been when they had first gotten married. She hadn't been as thin and gloomy back then. Holding an umbrella, he walked toward Yvette. It took her a few moments to notice him. Xiaver hadn't changed much over the last three years. He was as handsome and as confident as ever, with the added hint of matureness that came with age. Yvette was a little dazed. The last three years felt like a blink in time to her, yet she also seemed to have exhausted a whole lifetime. Xavier stalked over to Yvette and gazed at her coldly. He was waiting for her to apologize to him. She had been sulking enough. It was time to put an end to this. However, Yvette just said, "I'm sorry to pull you away from your work. Let's go in." Xavier stiffened, but he quickly recovered. "Don't regret this." With that, he turned and headed into the courthouse. Yvette stared after him sadly. Would she regret this? She didn't know either. In the courthouse, the judge asked them if they were sure about going through with the divorce. Yvette's answer was firm. "Yes." Her determined expression frustrated Xavier. After filing for divorce, they still had to return to the courthouse in a month. If they didn't show up, then the divorce would be considered null. As they left the courthouse, Yvette looked at Xavier, her expression unusually calm. "I'll see you next month. Take care." With that, she stepped out into the rain, hailed a cab, and left. Xavier was left standing on the spot. He didn't know how to feel as he watched her car leave. Relieved, probably. Relieved that he wouldn't need to put up with her any longer or endure others' ridicule for having a disabled wife. ... In the cab, Yvette leaned against the window and stared blankly at the rain droplets on the glass. In the rearview mirror, the driver suddenly saw blood dripping from her ear. He was shocked by the sight. "Miss? Miss!" Yvette didn't answer him. The driver hastily stopped the car. Yvette was confused. They weren't at her destination yet. Why had they stopped? She looked over at the driver and saw him mouthing silently. She realized that she had gone deaf again. "I'm sorry, I can't hear you. What are you saying?" In the end, the driver had to type out what he wanted to say on his phone so that he could tell her about her bleeding ear. Yvette reached out belatedly and felt the warm sensation in her ear. She was used to it now. "It's alright. This happens all the time. I'm fine." She was hard of hearing, but her ears hadn't bled like this before. Two years ago, at a gathering, Tristan had pushed her into a swimming pool. Yvette didn't know how to swim, so she had almost drowned. At the same time, her eardrums had also expanded due to the pressure. She had been sent to the hospital, but the damage had been done. At the time, she had been told that everything was fine. Why was this happening again? The cab driver was still worried, so he dropped her off at the hospital she told him. After thanking him, Yvette went into the hospital on her own. This time, she saw her usual doctor, Tom Jensen. "Dr. Jensen, my memory has been rather bad lately. I kept forgetting what I'm doing," she said. When she had woken up at the hotel that morning, it had taken her a long time to remember that she had to file for divorce with Xavier. Tom looked at her latest report worriedly. "Ms. Snyder, I think you should consider getting tested for other things. Specifically, mental health issues." Mental healthβ¦ Following Tom's recommendation, Yvette went and got a psychiatric diagnosis. She was diagnosed with depression. It turned out that patients with severe depression often experienced memory loss. Before heading back to the hotel, Yvette stopped and bought a notebook and a pen. She wrote down everything that had happened lately. She placed the notebook right beside her bed so that it would be the first thing she saw when she woke up in the morning. News of her and Xavier's divorce spread quickly. That night, Yara called her multiple times, but she didn't hear anything. β¦ When she woke up the next morning, she saw a barrage of texts from Yara. "Where are you?" "Who do you think you are? Even if you're getting a divorce, Xavier should have been the one to ask for it!" "You're such a jinx! Back when you got married, your dad got into a car crash and died. What's going to happen now that you're getting divorced? Do you want Snyder Group to go bankrupt? Is that it?" Yvette stared at the messages. She was used to the verbal bully by now. She typed out a reply. "Mom, it's time that we live by our own merits. We shouldn't depend on others so much." Yara's response was swift. "You're such an ingrate! I shouldn't have given birth to you in the first place!" Yvette didn't bother replying to that. She placed her phone aside. She just had to wait a month. Once the divorce was finalized, she would be able to leave Tirion and start a new life. β¦ Yvette's health worsened over the next few days. She often found herself completely deaf. Sometimes, it took a very long time for her hearing to go back to normal. Her memory was deteriorating too. On the bright side, even though her hearing loss was incurable, at least she could do something about the depression. She tried everything she could to keep herself happy. She busied herself by registering as a volunteer online. She spent time taking care of abandoned old people and orphans. Helping them made her feel like she had a reason to continue living. A few days later, Yvette woke up in the morning and checked her notebook as usual. Then, she got ready to head out to the orphanage. When she picked up her phone, she saw several unread messages. There were messages from Terrance and Yara, as well as Daphne. She opened the texts one by one. Yara: "As you wished, Snyder Group is no more." Terrence: "Keep hiding. You're the most cowardly and cruel person I've ever seen." Daphne: "My condolences, Yvette. Actually, I think Snyder Group would thrive better under Xav." Daphne: "Since your family has helped me so much in the past, do let me know if you need anything. I'll help you if I can." Yvette had no idea what was happening. She closed the messaging app. Almost immediately, she got a notification about the latest news. Chapter 5 Yvette watched the news and saw the press conference held by Lane Group. It was an announcement that Xavier had successfully acquired Snyder Group. James' company no longer existed in the world. β¦ Things on Xavier's end had been extra pleasant lately. He had acquired Snyder Group and gotten his revenge. "The Snyder family finally got what they deserved for tricking you into that marriage three years ago." Tristan chuckled. Yet, he changed the topic in the next instant. He asked Xavier, "Xav, has Deaf Yvvy approached you during the past few days?" Xavier froze halfway through signing a document. He didn't know why, but people around him kept mentioning Yvette these days. "No," he replied coldly. That shocked Tristan. After all, how could Yvette not do anything when something this massive had happened to her family? With that in mind, he spoke again. "Could it be that she's finally come around? I heard her family has been looking everywhere for her. Nobody knows where she's goneβ" He kept blabbering on. Xavier frowned, feeling utterly annoyed. "Get out!" Tristan jolted. That was when he realized that Xavier was furious. Not daring to say another word, Tristan bolted out of the CEO's office. Once outside, he took his phone and called his assistant, Avery Fitzpatrick. "Have you found Yvette?" "Yes, she's in a small hotel in Hexim Pass," answered Avery. Tristan had Avery send him the location before he drove there. He refused to let Yvette off the hook so easily. So what if she was willing to divorce Xavier now? She had already prevented Xavier and Daphne from being together for over three years! Besides, Daphne had saved Tristan's life once, so he owed her. It rained outside. Yvette finished her volunteer work and picked up her medication from the hospital. Then, she held an umbrella while walking back to the hotel. There were very few people on the road. Tristan drove his car but kept his eyes on Yvette's slim back. He deliberately sped up as he drove past her, sending a puddle of rainwater splashing onto her. Yvette shot him a blank stare. Tristan happened to meet her emotionless gaze through his rearview mirror. He didn't know why, but he felt inexplicably nervous. Yvette recognized Tristan's luxurious, dark gray Bugatti. Yet, she retracted her gaze and pretended not to notice him. Even so, Tristan refused to stop there. He deliberately slowed his car and followed her. "Hey, Deaf Yvvy. So, you have a temper now, huh? "You're not even going to greet me now? Didn't you used to love greeting me? Didn't you enjoy tickling my fancy?" Yvette remained stoic while the former mocked her. She used to do everything to win over those around Xavier, including his friends. It was all because she liked him. She had figured that Xavier's family and friends would one day accept her. Alas, it seemed she had been too naΓ―ve. At the previous gathering, Tristan had declared that he was Daphne's friend. He couldn't care less about maintaining his gentlemanly, upper-class image when siding with Daphne. He had insulted Yvette and called her shameless. In the end, he had also thrown her into the pool, leaving her to die. Since then, Yvette had steered clear of him. Upon receiving no reaction or response from Yvette, Tristan stopped the car, opened the door, and strolled toward her. He grabbed her arm and asked, "What stunts are you planning to pull this time?" Yvette's arm hurt, so she looked up at him. "I don't know what you're saying." She wanted to pry his hand off her arm, but he flung her aside. "Don't touch me with your filthy hands!" Tristan bellowed. Yvette stumbled backward before falling to the ground with a loud thud. Tristan froze on the spot in slight disbelief. It baffled him to see Yvette resorting to such tricks. He had only pushed her with a slight force, so how could she fall like that? Seeing people looking their way, he nervously got back into his car. Still, he gave her a warning before driving away. "Don't mess with Daph just because you're a disabled person, Yvette! "She's different from you. It's taken her a lot of effort to get to where she is now, so you'd better not disrupt her and Xav's relationship again!" After driving away, he even told the Snyder family where Yvette was staying. Yvette's hands and knees were scraped when she fell. It hurt so much that she couldn't stand for a long time. Deep down, she didn't understand why Tristan was so blind to what was right and wrong. She recalled risking her life to rescue him from a car that had been about to explode four years ago. His face had been covered in blood, and his eyes hadn't been visible. However, he had spoken in the warmest voice. He had said, "Thank you. I promise I'll repay you someday." Yvette couldn't help but bitterly wonder if this was his way of repaying her. β¦ Once Yvette returned to the hotel, she took a shower and applied medication to her scraped skin. Then, she lay down in a daze. The fall hardened her determination to leave Xavier for good. β¦ The sun was shining brightly outside when Yvette woke up. She got up and headed to the living area, only to see Yara sitting on the couch, wearing a formal dress. Yara didn't seem to care one bit that Yvette had just woken up. She picked the document off the coffee table and handed it to the latter. "Take a good look at this. It's the backup plan I've selected for you." Yvette accepted the document but saw the title "prenuptial agreement" on the cover. She flipped through the pages while reading the contents aloud. "Ms. Yvette Snyder will marry Mr. Liam Lorimer. As his wife, she'll devote herself to him and look after him until the end of his life. Liam will look after Yvette's family, which includes maintaining their quality of life. He'll also provide 300 million as funds for the Snyder family." Following that, the document stated Liam's details. He was an entrepreneur from the older generation in Tirion. He was 78 years old that year. Yvette's mind tensed. At that moment, Yara spoke up again. "Mr. Lorimer has expressed that he doesn't mind that you were married before. "He'll help revive our family's reputation from the ashes, as long as you marry him. Come on, dearest. You wouldn't let me and Terrence down, right?" Yvette's face paled even more. "I can't agree to what you're asking of me." Yara had never imagined that Yvette would reject her so candidly. She blew up in a fit of rage at once. "What right do you have to refuse? I gave you life!" Hearing that, Yvette met Yara's gaze. "How about I return my life to you? Would that mean I no longer owe you?" "What did you say?" Yara shrilled. Yvette's pale lips moved as she said, "If I returned my life to you, would it mean you'd no longer be my mother? And I'll no longer be indebted to you for giving birth to me?" Yara sneered, not believing Yvette would dare do such a thing. "Okay, then. I won't force you to marry Mr. Lorimer if you give your life back to me. But the question is, do you have the guts to do it?" "Give me a month." Yvette seemed determined. In Yara's eyes, Yvette seemed like a crazed person. She warned, "You'd best not threaten me by only saying you'll end your life. We're not that close, so I don't care if you die. However, you must sign this document if you're too afraid to end your life." β¦ Yvette had suppressed all her emotions to the brim and needed to vent somewhere. So, she went to a bar. She sat in a corner, drinking and watching the crowd happily dance in a daze. That was when a dashing man with striking eyes noticed Yvette, who was all alone. He approached and asked, "Yvette?" Yvette stared at the man but didn't recognize him. Still dazed, she asked, "Do you know how one can achieve happiness?" The man was confused. "What did you say?" Yvette continued drinking as she spoke. "The doctor says I'm ill and should try to be happier, but I can't make myself feel happyβ¦" That sparked discomfort in the man, Claude Lander. He wondered if Yvette had forgotten about him. Also, he was confused by what she saidβsomething about being ill and needing to be happier. "You shouldn't be in a place like this if you want to be happy. Why don't I drive you home?" Claude spoke in a gentle tone. A smile curved across Yvette's face as she looked at him. "You're a good person." Complex emotions stirred in Claude when he saw her bitter smile. He wondered what she had been through these past few years. Why did she seem so sorrowful? Meanwhile, Xavier was also at the bar. After settling the divorce papers, he had let himself loose every night. On top of that, he hadn't returned to Dewberry Estate in a long time. It was getting late. When the crowd was about to leave, Daphne noticed a familiar figure in a corner of the bar. She exclaimed, "Isn't that Yvvy?" Xavier glanced in the direction Daphne was staring in and saw a man merrily chatting with Yvette. His expression soured at once. He was disappointed in Yvette for getting drunk at a bar and chatting up another man. He felt like he had thought too highly of her before. "Should we go and check up on her, Xav?" asked Daphne. "No," was all Xavier said before speedily leaving. On the other hand, Yvette declined Claude's offer. "There's no need to trouble yourself. I can go home on my own." Claude was still worried about Yvette, so he ran after her when he noticed her leaving the bar. "Do you really not remember me?" Yvette gazed at him but couldn't recall who he was. "It's Chubbs. Have you forgotten?" Claude reminded her. Only then did Yvette remember her friend, Chubbs, whom she met when she had been living with Viola in the countryside. Back then, Claude had been chubbier and nowhere near Yvette's height. Yet, his six-foot-two-inch frame now towered over her. He had even grown to have handsome features. "I remember now! You've changed so much. I didn't even recognize you!" said Yvette. Meeting an old friend away from home was a pleasant thing. But only a slight smile curved on Yvette's face. That upset Claude. "Come on. I'll drive you home," Claude stated. When he dropped her off, he was shocked to learn she lived in a run-down hotel. Yvette shifted in embarrassment. "Sorry, it's not a glamorous place. Please don't tell Viola I'm living in such a place. I don't want her to worry." Claude nodded. Since it was getting late, it was unwise for him to stay longer. So, he left after telling Yvette he would visit her the next day. He didn't notice the matte black car lingering in a dark area beneath the hotel as he walked out. Now that Claude had left, Yvette felt dizzy and had an upset stomach from drinking too much. That was when someone knocked hard on the door. Yvette had just opened the door when Xavier grabbed her wrist. He exerted so much strength on her slender wrist that it felt close to snapping in half. "You've made me look at you in a new light, Yvette!" Xavier snarled while shutting and locking the door. He then forcefully led her to the couch. He sneered with words as sharp and lethal as a blade, "So, you've already settled on which family you'll marry into next, huh? I knew you wouldn't be so willing to let me go for no reason!" Yvette didn't know why he had come over, nor did she know how he had seen Claude. She was only briefly dazed. Once she snapped out of it, she shot a furious look at Xavier and didn't bother explaining herself to him. The rims of her eyes reddened. "You and I aren't that different from each other." The Snyder family had tricked Xavier into marrying Yvette. However, Xavier had treated her coldly for three years while remaining entangled with his first love. Neither Xavier nor Yvette was a better person than the other. Xavier had also drunk some wine, so he reeked of it. Eyes reddening, he pinched Yvette's chin and spoke with a dangerously low voice. "Who is he? When did you guys meet?" That was the first time Yvette had seen him behave like this. She suddenly chuckled. "Are you jealous?" Xavier's gaze grew tense as he scoffed. "You're unworthy of such a reaction." Yvette became choked up. That was when Xavier leaned in domineeringly and continued interrogating her. "Has he already touched you? Huh?" In her three years of marriage, Yvette had given up on her work and declined to meet her friends whenever they had occasionally invited her out. She had done so to obey the Lane family's rules. But now Xavier was suspicious of her. Relief washed over Yvette just then. She questioned him back, "What do you think?" That utterly angered Xavier, and his heated hands started travelling down her body. | Read freely | 18 | https://facebook.com/61557986570531 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715324400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879763 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410720 | 1723321856 | 995 | 1361528064521212 | 1 | 7.4287710132688E+14 | 1715410800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 250753834794512 | 0 | Read freely | 120208075188720056 | beokn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | β€οΈπWhat happens nextπClick Here to read onπ | https://beokn.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=11230&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717941362 | 2.5075383479451E+14 | Read freely | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/422079631_823590829824839_4719608256142825580_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=X0arSR329ugQ7kNvgFznJUe&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBCybnyEjPstfL-T8Ns-_chW2Zg5909W9W-lMZXE8xwkg&oe=6672CB06 | person_profile | 0 | Read freely | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441057328_1702104656985535_4588455529970348064_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=5anZ9pA6410Q7kNvgG9aKIE&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCRB-k4bkzqrpLp8SCU41jIJSVrD8mXEJ_6VsTi8QlSuA&oe=6672C68A | 0 | 3 | Yvette Snyder stood at the entrance of the hospital, her body frail, clutching a report in her thin hands. Three words on the report stood out: "No conception detected". "You've been married for three years. How are you not conceived?" Her mother, Yara Cadwell, demanded, jabbing a finger in Yvette's face disappointedly. Yara was dressed lavishly and wore high heels. "Why are you so useless? If you don't get conceived soon, the Lanes are going to kick you out of the family. What's going to happen to our family then?" Yvette looked at Yara blankly. She had a lot to say, but the words were stuck in her throat. In the end, all she could manage was, "I'm sorry." "I don't want you to be sorry. I want you to give birth to Xavier's child. Do you understand me?" Yvette's throat felt tight; she didn't know how to answer Yara. In their three years of marriage, her husband, Xavier Lane, had never slept with her. How could she ever have his child? Yara stared at Yvette. The latter's weak demeanor was so unlike her own. Finally, she said coldly before leaving, "If you really can't give him a child, then find him a woman who can. At least he'll appreciate you for that." Yvette stared after Yara's retreating figure in disbelief. Had her own mother just told her to find another woman for her husband to sleep with? ... As Yvette made her journey home, she couldn't stop thinking about Yara's parting words. Suddenly, a loud ringing in her ear drowned out her thoughts. She knew that her condition had worsened. Just then, she received a message on her phone. It was from Xavier, and the content was the same as always. "I'm not coming home tonight." In the past three years they had been married, Xavier had never spent the night at home before. He had never so much as touched Yvette either. Yvette could remember their wedding night three years ago. He had told her, "Since your family is bold enough to trick me into marrying you, you'd better be prepared to spend the rest of your life in loneliness." Three years ago, the Snyder and Lane families had decided to form an alliance through marriage. Both families had agreed to mutually beneficial terms in the agreement. But when the day of the wedding came around, the Snyder family went back on their word and transferred all of their assets away, including the billions that Xavier had paid to marry Yvette. Yvette's eyes dulled at the memory. She replied to Xavier's text with her usual response: "Okay." Without her realizing it, the report she was holding got scrunched up in her hands. When she got home, Yvette tossed the report into the trash can. Every month, around this time, she would feel unusually lethargic. Yvette didn't prepare dinner for herself. She just leaned back on the couch, blearily drifting in and out of sleep. The rumbling in her ear persisted. That was another reason why Xavier hated herβshe was hard of hearing, which, to the rich and powerful, was no better than being crippled. Xavier would never allow her to carry his child. β¦ At 5 o'clock in the morning, the pendulum clock on the wall chimed dully. Xavier would be home in an hour. Yvette realized too late that she had fallen asleep on the couch. She got up hastily and went to the kitchen to prepare Xavier's breakfast. Xavier was a meticulous man who was strict about punctuality, not only with himself but also with the people around him. He arrived home at six o'clock sharp. Xavier was a tall and handsome man. Clad in a smart tailored suit, his demeanor was quiet and reserved, yet undoubtedly masculine. However, to Yvette, he was cold and distant. Xavier didn't even look at Yvette. He walked right past her to look at the food on the table and said with a scoff, "You do this every day. Are you a nanny or what?" Over the past three years, Yvette had been doing the same things over and over again. She wore the same dark clothes and replied to his messages with the same singular word. If it hadn't been for the business alliance and the Snyders' deceit, Xavier would never have married a woman like Yvette. At the word "nanny", the rumbling in Yvette's ears returned. She swallowed, feeling a lump in her throat, and said bravely, "Xav, do you have someone that you like?" Her sudden question surprised Xavier. His eyes darkened. "What do you mean by that?" Yvette raised her head and stared at him, swallowing the bile rising in the back of her throat. "If you love someone else, you can be with herβ" Before she could finish, Xavier interrupted her. "You're mad." ... After Xavier left, Yvette sat on the balcony alone, staring out into the cold rain. The sound of the raindrops drifted in and out of clarity. She took off her hearing aids, letting the world around her fall into silence. A month ago, her doctor had told her, "Ms. Snyder, there's been a pathological change in your auditory nerves and some of your cranial nerves, causing your hearing to worsen. If this goes on, you may lose your hearing completely." Not used to a silent world, Yvette went to the living room and turned on the television. She turned up the volume to the max, which allowed her to hear some sound. By coincidence, the television was showing an interview with Daphne Reyes, an internationally renowned singer known for her love songs. Yvette's hands trembled slightly as she gripped the remote control. Daphne was Xavier's first love. It had been a long time since Yvette had seen her, but Daphne was still as pretty as ever. She was confident and relaxed in front of the cameras, unlike the shy and frightened young woman who had begged the Snyders for sponsorship in the past. When the interviewer asked Daphne why she had returned to her home country, her answer was bold. "I came home to get my first love back." The remote control slipped out of Yvette's hands. Her heart also fell to her stomach. Flustered, Yvette turned off the television and went to the table to clean up the uneaten breakfast. When she got to the kitchen, she found that Xavier had forgotten to take his phone. She picked it up and saw the unread messages on the lock screen. "Xav, you must have been unhappy over the past few years, right?" "I know you don't love her. How about we meet up tonight? I've missed you." Yvette stared blankly at the messages until the screen went dark again. Then, she called a cab to Xavier's office. On the way, she stared out of the window. The rain fell incessantly. It felt like it would never stop. Xavier never liked it when Yvette visited him at his office, so whenever she was there, she would take the service elevator from the loading bay. When Xavier's assistant, Mark Xyrax, saw her, he just greeted her impassively, "Ms. Snyder." No one around Xavier considered Yvette his wife. She was nothing but a smear on his reputation. When Xavier saw Yvette bringing him his phone, he frowned. She was always like this. No matter what he forgot, be it his lunch, his documents, a shirt, or even an umbrella, she would bring them to him. "I thought I told you that you didn't need to deliver my things to me yourself." Yvette froze. "Sorry, I forgot." Since when had her memory been so bad? Maybe she had panicked after seeing Daphne's message and became afraid that Xavier would disappear from her life suddenly. Before she left, she looked back at Xavier. Unable to help herself, she blurted out, "Xav, do you still like Daphne?" Xavier thought that Yvette had been behaving rather strangely lately. She kept forgetting things and asking weird questions. How could a person like her be his wife? Impatiently, he replied, "If you have so much free time, go find yourself something to do." Yvette had tried getting a job before, but Xavier's mother, Shannon Guetta, had reprimanded her without holding back. "Do you want the whole world to know that Xav married a disabled woman with hearing issues?" Therefore, Yvette had given up on finding a job and focused on her fruitless life as "Mrs. Lane" at Dewberry Estate. β¦ At home, she sat alone until nightfall. She couldn't sleep. Just then, the phone on her bedside table rang loudly. It was a call from an unfamiliar number. Yvette picked up the call. A familiar voice, yet one she dreaded, sounded from the other end. "Is this Yvvy? Xav is drunk. Can you come pick him up?" When Yvette arrived at Sternhow Club, she heard loud coaxing and jeering from the wealthy heirs inside the private room. "Daph, didn't you say you came back to get our dear Mr. Lane back into your arms? This is your chance now. Go on, tell him how you feel!" Daphne was a pretty woman who was popular wherever she went. She was also Xavier's first love, so the rich young men of the upper crust were happy to push the two together. Daphne wasn't shy at all. She turned to Xavier and said without any reservations, "I like you, Xav. Please be with me again." That was what Yvette heard when she arrived at the door of the private room. Inside, the other people were urging Xavier to answer Daphne. His best friend, Tristan Shaw, was the most vocal among them. "Xav, you've been waiting for Daphne for three years. She's back now. So, go on, answer her!" Yvette stood frozen outside the door. Her heart was pounding. Just then, one of the men pulled the door open. "Ms. Snyder?" Chapter 2 Everyone in the private room looked over at the door. For a moment, the room was eerily silent. Yvette immediately caught sight of Xavier in the middle of the room. His eyes were clear and bright. He was clearly not drunk. She knew that she had been tricked by Daphne. When Xavier saw Yvette, his pupils constricted. Everyone else in the room looked awkward, including Tristan, who had been the most vocal in getting Xavier to accept Daphne's confession earlier. Yvette shouldn't have gone there. Daphne was the first to break the silence. "Please don't get the wrong idea, Yvvy. Tristan was joking. Xavier and I are just friends." Before Yvette could answer, Xavier stood up impatiently. "There's no need to explain it to her." Then, he stalked over to Yvette. "What are you doing here?" "I thought you were drunk, so I came to take you home," Yvette answered truthfully. Xavier scoffed. "You really didn't retain anything I told you, did you?" Lowering his voice, he said softly so that only she could hear him, "Are you here to remind everyone that I was tricked into marrying you three years ago? Did you think they forgot?" Yvette was stunned. Xavier gave her a cold look. "Stop seeking attention. You're only making me hate you more." With that, he turned away, leaving Yvette standing alone. Yvette stared after his retreating figure, unable to snap out of her shock. None of the other scions in the room took pity on her when they saw Xavier ignoring her. Tristan even had no qualms in telling Daphne, who was feigning distress, "You're too kind, Daphne. You didn't need to explain anything. "If Yvette hadn't scammed Xav, he would've married you in the first place. You wouldn't have needed to suffer abroad as well." Despite the constant ringing in her ears, Yvette could still hear every word clearly. She knew better than anyone that even if Xavier hadn't married her, he wouldn't have married Daphne. Daphne was a nobody with no background, after all. Daphne was well aware of this as well. That was why she had chosen to break up with Xavier and leave the country. How had everything turned out to be Yvette's fault? When Yvette left Sternhow Club with her umbrella, she felt as if she had been enveloped by darkness. Just then, a lithe figure appeared beside her. It was Daphne. She was decked out in fine clothes, complete with high heels. She looked smug. "It's a cold night, isn't it? So, how does it feel to get scoffed at by Xavier after you came all the way here at this time to get him?" Yvette didn't answer her, but Daphne didn't mind her silence. She just continued speaking. "I do pity you, you know. You've never experienced true love before, have you? "Do you know that when I was with Xav, he would cook for me himself? When I was sick, he would drop everything and stay with me. "Has Xav ever told you he loves you? He used to say that to me all the timeβ¦" Yvette listened to Daphne's rambling quietly, her mind going over the past three years she had been married to Xavier. He had never so much as stepped into the kitchen during that time. When she had gotten sick, he had never comforted her. He had never told her he loved her either. β¦ That night, Yvette couldn't fall asleep. She had only just found out that the man she had loved for the past 12 years had once loved another with all his heart, in the spectacular way that only young people could. At that moment, she realized that it was time for her to give him up. She had a sleepless night. The next morning, Xavier returned home. The glare he gave her was cold. "How attached are you to the Lane family's money, to me, your money-making robot?" he demanded. Yvette was stunned. She didn't know what had gotten into him so early in the morning. Instinctively, she said, "I never wanted your money." She had only ever wanted Xavier. Xavier laughed in disdain. "Then, why did your mother come to my office and beg me to give you a child?" Yvette was stunned. She stared into Xavier's eyes. It was only then that she realized that he wasn't angry about what had happened last night. Xavier had no desire to waste his breath on her. "If you want to continue staying with me and keep your family afloat, tell your mother to behave herself!" ... In the end, Yvette didn't need to look for Yara. Yara found Yvette instead. She was no longer cold and distant; she gripped Yvette's hands and said gently, "Yvvy, you should ask Xavier to give you a child. He doesn't have to do it biologically. He could do it through scientific measures." Scientific measures. Yvette stared at Yara in shock as the latter continued, "Daphne told me that Xavier hasn't slept with you in the past three years." That was the last straw for Yvette. She didn't know why Xavier would tell Daphne about that. Maybe he really loved Daphne a lot. With that thought, she suddenly felt relieved. "Just let it go, Mom." Yara paused. She frowned. "What?" "I'm tired. I want to get a divorceβ" Before she could finish, Yara slapped her hard across the face. The kind, motherly facade was gone in an instant. She jabbed a finger at Yvette and gritted out, "You have no right to ask for a divorce! "Without the Lane family, what do you think you're going to do? Who's going to remarry a disabled divorcee like you?" Yvette felt her body go numb. Yara had never liked Yvette, even when the latter had been a child. Yara had been a famous dancer. The fact that she had given birth to a daughter with hearing issues was one of her biggest regrets. Therefore, she had sent Yvette away to be taken care of by a nanny. She had only allowed Yvette to return home when the latter started school. People used to tell Yvette that every mother loved their child. So, she had done everything she could to excel at everything in hopes of making Yara happy. Despite her hearing issues, she had been at the top of her class in dance, music, and art classes. But no matter how hard she tried, Yara still didn't consider her a good daughter. In Yara's words, Yvette wasn't "complete". Not only physically, but also in love and familial relationships. After Yara left, Yvette used some makeup to cover up the red print on her face. Then, she packed her bags quietly. Even after three years of married life, all her personal belongings fit into a single suitcase. After she finished packing up, she gathered her courage and sent Xavier a message. "Are you free tonight? I need to talk to you." Xavier didn't reply to her. Yvette's eyes darkened. She knew that he didn't want to reply to her messages. All she could do was wait for him to come home in the morning. She had thought that he wouldn't come home that night, but he got back at midnight. Yvette wasn't asleep at the time. She went up to him and took his coat and bag from him with familiarity in her actions. It was as if they were a normal married couple. Xavier's cold voice broke the peace. "Don't send me inane texts again." As Yvette held Xavier's coat, her hand trembled slightly. "I won't do it again," she mumbled. Xavier didn't notice anything wrong with her tone. He went straight to his study. Generally, if he came home, he would stay holed up in his study. He probably thought that someone who was hard of hearing would live in a silent world. Either that, or he simply didn't care about Yvette. That would explain why he got straight to discussing his acquisition of Snyder Group in his study as if nothing was wrong. When Yvette brought him some soup, she heard Xavier animatedly discussing work with his employees. He was talking about the acquisition of Snyder Group, her father, James Snyder's company. She didn't know how to feel about that. She knew that her brother, Terrence Synder, was useless at running a business, so it was only a matter of time before Snyder Group fell. However, she had never thought that her own husband would be the first to cause Snyder Group's downfall. "Xav," she interrupted. Xavier was slightly startled. Out of guilt, or maybe some other emotion, he quickly hung up the phone and closed his laptop. Feigning ignorance, Yvette walked into the study and placed the bowl in front of him. "Have some soup, then get to bed soon. Your health is more important than work." For some reason, Xavier felt himself relax when he heard her soft voice. She probably hadn't heard anything. Feeling conflicted, he stopped Yvette before she could leave. "You said you wanted to talk to me. What is it?" Hearing this, Yvette turned back to look at him. Softly, she said, "I just wanted to ask if you're free in the morning so we can go and file for divorce." Chapter 3 Yvette's voice was calm and impassive, as though divorce were a menial matter to her. Xavier's pupils contracted. "What did you just say?" Over the last three years, no matter what he had done, Yvette had never brought up divorce. In truth, Xavier knew that Yvette loved him. Her eyes, which were usually dull and empty, were clear and bright now. "I'm sorry for being a burden over the last few years, Mr. Lane. We should get divorced." Xavier clenched his fists unconsciously. "You heard what I said earlier, didn't you? Snyder Group was already failing; it won't matter whether I buy it or someone else does. What are you trying to do by bringing up divorce? "Is it because you want money? Or a child? Or do you want me to leave Snyder Group alone?" he asked coldly. "Don't forget that I don't love you. Your threats won't work on me!" At that moment, he seemed like a stranger to Yvette. A lump formed in her throat as her ears began throbbing. Even though she was wearing her hearing aids, she could barely hear what Xavier was saying. She could only answer his last question. "I don't want anything." Afraid that he would notice something wrong with her, Yvette left the study in a hurry. As he watched her leave, Xavier felt frustrated for some reason. He had never felt like this before. Not one to hold in his emotions, he flipped the table over. The bowl of soup that Yvette had brought him spilled all over the ground. ... Back in her own room, Yvette forced herself to swallow a handful of pills. She reached up to touch her ear. As she retracted her fingers, she saw crimson blood on them. Thanks to the medicine, her hearing recovered a little by the time it was dawn. Yvette stared blankly at the soft rays of sunlight streaming from the window. "The rain has stopped," she said quietly to herself. Xavier didn't leave the manor that day. He was in the living room bright and early, settled on the couch, waiting for Yvette to apologize and express her regret to him. This wasn't the first time Yvette had lost her temper with him. However, after every tantrum, she would apologize to him before long. Xavier figured that it would be the same this time around. Soon, he saw Yvette coming out of her room, all freshened up. She wore her usual dark-colored clothes. She dragged a suitcase with one hand while holding a piece of paper in the other. She handed the paper to him. It was a divorce agreement. "Let me know when you have time, Xav." With that, she left the manor, pulling her suitcase behind her. It was bright and sunny outside. Yvette felt as if she had gotten a new chance at life. Meanwhile, Xavier sat frozen on the couch, still clutching the divorce agreement in his hand. It took him a long time to come back to his senses. It was Saturday. Usually, around this time of the year, Xavier would take Yvette back to his hometown to pay respects to his ancestors. During this time, they would have to endure strange looks from his extended family. However, he was alone that day, which made him extraordinarily happy. At Lane Mansion, Shannon and the rest of the Lanes were surprised to see him alone. In the past, Yvette had always been the first one to turn up every year and the last to leave since she had been trying to please everyone. Why wasn't she there today? Shanon frowned and asked Xavier, "Where's Yvette, Xav?" Xavier's expression turned cold. "She wanted a divorce and left me." Everyone fell silent in disbelief when he said that. Shannon was shocked. She knew that Yvette probably loved Xavier more than anything in the world, only surpassed by his own parents. Seven years ago, Yvette had even protected Xavier with her own body when someone had attempted to stab him. Four years ago, not long after the two had gotten engaged, something had happened to Xavier while he had been on a business trip in Dibay. Everyone had been convinced that he was dead, but Yvette had refused to believe that. She had dropped everything and gone to the foreign city just to look for him. Then, after they had gotten married, Yvette had taken care of almost everything in his life with meticulous precision, including being polite to everyone around him, even his secretaries. She had always been afraid of offending them. Yvette clearly couldn't live without Xavier. So, why had she suggested getting a divorce? Shannon had no idea, but she was glad that Yvette had finally decided to let Xavier go. "She's not worthy to be your wife anyway. It's a good thing that you're divorcing her. She doesn't deserve you," she said The others immediately chimed in. "Yeah, you're young and handsome, Xav. You're in your best years now. Yvette's been dragging you down all this time!" Instantly, the gathering turned into a slander fest. They spoke of Yvette as if she were an unforgivable criminal. Xavier should have felt happy that they were defending him, but for some reason, he found their words too sharp and crass. He left Lane Mansion earlier than usual and made his way back to Dewberry Estate. The sky was just starting to darken when he arrived home. He opened the door and entered the manor. When he saw nothing but darkness, he remembered, with a start, that Yvette had left. He changed into his house slippers and tossed his coat into the washer. For some reason, he felt unusually exhausted today. He went to the wine cellar to get a bottle of wine so that he could celebrate Yvette's leaving. However, when he got to the wine cellar and saw the locked door, he realized too late that he didn't have the key. He didn't like strangers in his house, so there were no maids or servants at Dewberry Estate. Ever since he had married Yvette, she had been the one taking care of the household affairs. He could only go back to his room. Picking up his phone, he scrolled through his messages only to find work-related texts. Yvette hadn't called or texted him to apologize at all. Tossing his phone aside, he got up and headed over to the kitchen. When he opened the door of the fridge, he was stunned. Apart from food, there were also a lot of supplements. He picked one of the bags up and read the instructions on it. "Take five times a day for incapable of conceived." He took a whiff of the supplement. It smelled disgusting. He recalled that Yvette always smelled strange. So, this was why. He scoffed silently. They had never slept, so no matter how much medicine she took, she would never have gotten conceived. ... Meanwhile, over in a dark and dinky hotel, Yvette opened her eyes blearily. Her head was pounding. The world was silent. She knew, then, that her condition had worsened again. Before this, she had still been able to hear some sounds, even without her hearing aids. She pushed herself up and felt around on the bedside table until she found her medicine. She popped the pills in her mouth, tasting their bitterness. The day before, she had left Dewberry Estate, which had been her home for the past three years. At first, she had gone to her parents' house, Snyder Residence. However, at the door, she had overheard Yara and Terrence discussing how they would marry her off to an old man if the Lanes kicked her out. Yvette had blanked upon hearing that. It was then that she finally realized that she had no place to call home anymore. Even though she hadn't eaten anything in two days, she still didn't feel hungry. However, it was too quiet. The silence scared her. It had been raining more frequently in Tirion this year than it had in previous years. Yvette stared out at the passing pedestrians. Most of them were paired up or in groups. She was the only one alone. She bought a bus ticket heading out of the city. She decided to go to her nanny's house in the countryside. Viola Xenos, her nanny, had taken care of her when she was a child. It was already 9:00 pm when Yvette got there. When Viola saw Yvette, she looked pleasantly surprised. Yvette teared up when she saw Viola's warm smile. She reached out to her and hugged her. "Viola." Due to health issues, Viola had never married and didn't have children of her own. Yvette was closer to her than she was to her own mother. That night, Yvette cuddled up in Viola's embrace, just like she had when she was a child. Viola wrapped her arms around Yvette, only to realize that the latter was very thin. She pressed a hand on the Yvette's bony back, trembling uncontrollably. Forcing herself to calm down, she asked cautiously, "Has Xavier been treating you well, Yvvy?" Yvette felt a sharp pain in her throat when she heard Xavier's name. She wanted to lie to Viola and tell her that Xavier had treated her well, but she knew that Viola wasn't silly. Since she had already made up her mind to leave him, there was no need to lie to herself or to the people who loved her any longer. "The person he loves has returned. I've decided to let him go and divorce him." Viola was stunned. She couldn't believe her ears. Yvette had told her multiple times before that she wanted to spend the rest of her life with Xavier. Not knowing what else to say, she comforted Yvette by telling her that there were plenty of other fish in the sea. There was bound to be one who would love her. Yvette just nodded silently. The buzzing in her ears drowned out Viola's comforting voice. That night, she managed to get a good night's sleep, which was rare. However, when she woke up, she was greeted with the alarming sight of blood staining the spot where her head had laid on the pillow. Yvette touched her right ear. Her fingers felt sticky. She looked at her hand. It was covered in blood. Chapter 4 Even Yvette's hearing aids were stained red. Her pupils contracted, and she quickly grabbed some tissues to wipe her ear. Then, she stripped the bedsheets and washed them. She was afraid that Viola would worry about her if she found out that her illness was worsening. So, she cleaned up the mess and found an excuse to bid goodbye to Viola. Before she left, she placed a part of her savings on the bedside table without telling Viola. Viola walked Yvette to the bus stop and waved goodbye reluctantly. β¦ After Yvette left, Viola couldn't stop thinking about how thin the former was. Unable to just sit by, she called Lane Group. When the secretary heard that Viola was Yvette's nanny and wanted to speak to Xavier, she transferred the call to Xavier's line. It was the third day after Yvette had left Xavier. It was also the first time in three days that he had received a call about her. Sitting behind his desk, he felt exceptionally pleased. Just as he had expected, Yvette wouldn't be able to last more than three days without himβor so he thought. Viola's voice came through the other line, sounding weighed with age. "Mr. Lane, I am Yvvy's nanny. I've been taking care of her since she was a baby. "Please, I beg you, treat her well. Don't hurt her more than you already have. She's not as strong as she seems on the surface. "When she was born, Mrs. Snyder left her in my care because she didn't like that Yvvy is hard of hearing. Yvvy only returned home when she had to start going to school. "The Snyders have never treated her as one of their own. Apart from Mr. Snyder, everyone else treated her like she was a maid. "You and Mr. Snyder are the most important people she has in this world. I'm begging you, please. Please be kind to her." Xavier's mood darkened when he heard what Viola said. "Did she tell you to give me this sob story because she didn't want to face me herself?" he asked coldly. "Why should I care about her life? If you ask me, she deserved everything she got!" That said, he hung up the phone without waiting for an answer. Viola had heard Yvette gushing about how nice Xavier was to her. So, it was only then that she realized the truthβXavier wasn't a good man at all. He wasn't a good husband to Yvette. ... Yvette sat on the bus, heading home. Just then, her phone vibrated. It was a message from Xavier. "You said you wanted to get divorced, right? I'll see you at 10:00 am tomorrow." Yvette stared at the text blankly for a while before replying, "Okay." Just one word. It infuriated Xavier and completely ruined his mood. Unable to work anymore, he called up his friends and invited them out for drinks. Daphne was also at the club when he arrived. "I'm not going home until I'm drunk!" she declared. Tristan sat down beside Xavier. He couldn't help asking curiously, "How's Deaf Yvvy?" Xavier raised an eyebrow at him. "There's no need to talk about her ever again. We're filing for divorce tomorrow." Tristan was stunned. He couldn't believe his ears. "Really?" Beside them, Daphne brightened. She poured out a shot for him. "Congrats on getting back your freedom, Xav!" Xavier drank a lot that night. Daphne offered to send him home, but he rejected her suggestion. "No need. It's not appropriate." If he and Yvette were going to get divorced tomorrow, she might come home that night. Daphne wasn't happy about the rejection. "Why? You're divorcing her anyway. Why wouldn't it be appropriate? Are you still scared that she might find out about our relationship?" Their relationship? Xavier narrowed his eyes. "You're overthinking this." He got into his own car. Out of consideration, he also called a cab to send Daphne home. On the drive home, he kept unlocking his phone to check if Yvette had sent him any messages. She hadn't. When he reached Dewberry Estate, it was dark. With a stormy expression, Xavier opened the door and turned on the light. Yvette was nowhere to be seen. She hadn't come home. The manor was left exactly the way it had been when she had left. Still feeling the effects of the wine, Xavier threw himself heavily onto the couch and soon fell asleep. In his nightmares, Yvette was covered in blood, but there was a smile on her face. "I don't love you anymore, Xav," she said. When Xavier jolted awake, the sky outside had just brightened up. He rubbed his forehead and went to the bathroom to freshen himself up. Then, he changed into a smart suit and made his way to the courthouse. At the entrance of the courthouse, he spotted Yvette standing under a tree not far off. As usual, she was dressed in dark-colored clothes. From the distance, she looked incredibly frail and thin as she stood amid the drizzle. It was as if a single gust of wind could knock her over. Xavier could still remember how young and lively she had been when they had first gotten married. She hadn't been as thin and gloomy back then. Holding an umbrella, he walked toward Yvette. It took her a few moments to notice him. Xiaver hadn't changed much over the last three years. He was as handsome and as confident as ever, with the added hint of matureness that came with age. Yvette was a little dazed. The last three years felt like a blink in time to her, yet she also seemed to have exhausted a whole lifetime. Xavier stalked over to Yvette and gazed at her coldly. He was waiting for her to apologize to him. She had been sulking enough. It was time to put an end to this. However, Yvette just said, "I'm sorry to pull you away from your work. Let's go in." Xavier stiffened, but he quickly recovered. "Don't regret this." With that, he turned and headed into the courthouse. Yvette stared after him sadly. Would she regret this? She didn't know either. In the courthouse, the judge asked them if they were sure about going through with the divorce. Yvette's answer was firm. "Yes." Her determined expression frustrated Xavier. After filing for divorce, they still had to return to the courthouse in a month. If they didn't show up, then the divorce would be considered null. As they left the courthouse, Yvette looked at Xavier, her expression unusually calm. "I'll see you next month. Take care." With that, she stepped out into the rain, hailed a cab, and left. Xavier was left standing on the spot. He didn't know how to feel as he watched her car leave. Relieved, probably. Relieved that he wouldn't need to put up with her any longer or endure others' ridicule for having a disabled wife. ... In the cab, Yvette leaned against the window and stared blankly at the rain droplets on the glass. In the rearview mirror, the driver suddenly saw blood dripping from her ear. He was shocked by the sight. "Miss? Miss!" Yvette didn't answer him. The driver hastily stopped the car. Yvette was confused. They weren't at her destination yet. Why had they stopped? She looked over at the driver and saw him mouthing silently. She realized that she had gone deaf again. "I'm sorry, I can't hear you. What are you saying?" In the end, the driver had to type out what he wanted to say on his phone so that he could tell her about her bleeding ear. Yvette reached out belatedly and felt the warm sensation in her ear. She was used to it now. "It's alright. This happens all the time. I'm fine." She was hard of hearing, but her ears hadn't bled like this before. Two years ago, at a gathering, Tristan had pushed her into a swimming pool. Yvette didn't know how to swim, so she had almost drowned. At the same time, her eardrums had also expanded due to the pressure. She had been sent to the hospital, but the damage had been done. At the time, she had been told that everything was fine. Why was this happening again? The cab driver was still worried, so he dropped her off at the hospital she told him. After thanking him, Yvette went into the hospital on her own. This time, she saw her usual doctor, Tom Jensen. "Dr. Jensen, my memory has been rather bad lately. I kept forgetting what I'm doing," she said. When she had woken up at the hotel that morning, it had taken her a long time to remember that she had to file for divorce with Xavier. Tom looked at her latest report worriedly. "Ms. Snyder, I think you should consider getting tested for other things. Specifically, mental health issues." Mental healthβ¦ Following Tom's recommendation, Yvette went and got a psychiatric diagnosis. She was diagnosed with depression. It turned out that patients with severe depression often experienced memory loss. Before heading back to the hotel, Yvette stopped and bought a notebook and a pen. She wrote down everything that had happened lately. She placed the notebook right beside her bed so that it would be the first thing she saw when she woke up in the morning. News of her and Xavier's divorce spread quickly. That night, Yara called her multiple times, but she didn't hear anything. β¦ When she woke up the next morning, she saw a barrage of texts from Yara. "Where are you?" "Who do you think you are? Even if you're getting a divorce, Xavier should have been the one to ask for it!" "You're such a jinx! Back when you got married, your dad got into a car crash and died. What's going to happen now that you're getting divorced? Do you want Snyder Group to go bankrupt? Is that it?" Yvette stared at the messages. She was used to the verbal bully by now. She typed out a reply. "Mom, it's time that we live by our own merits. We shouldn't depend on others so much." Yara's response was swift. "You're such an ingrate! I shouldn't have given birth to you in the first place!" Yvette didn't bother replying to that. She placed her phone aside. She just had to wait a month. Once the divorce was finalized, she would be able to leave Tirion and start a new life. β¦ Yvette's health worsened over the next few days. She often found herself completely deaf. Sometimes, it took a very long time for her hearing to go back to normal. Her memory was deteriorating too. On the bright side, even though her hearing loss was incurable, at least she could do something about the depression. She tried everything she could to keep herself happy. She busied herself by registering as a volunteer online. She spent time taking care of abandoned old people and orphans. Helping them made her feel like she had a reason to continue living. A few days later, Yvette woke up in the morning and checked her notebook as usual. Then, she got ready to head out to the orphanage. When she picked up her phone, she saw several unread messages. There were messages from Terrance and Yara, as well as Daphne. She opened the texts one by one. Yara: "As you wished, Snyder Group is no more." Terrence: "Keep hiding. You're the most cowardly and cruel person I've ever seen." Daphne: "My condolences, Yvette. Actually, I think Snyder Group would thrive better under Xav." Daphne: "Since your family has helped me so much in the past, do let me know if you need anything. I'll help you if I can." Yvette had no idea what was happening. She closed the messaging app. Almost immediately, she got a notification about the latest news. Chapter 5 Yvette watched the news and saw the press conference held by Lane Group. It was an announcement that Xavier had successfully acquired Snyder Group. James' company no longer existed in the world. β¦ Things on Xavier's end had been extra pleasant lately. He had acquired Snyder Group and gotten his revenge. "The Snyder family finally got what they deserved for tricking you into that marriage three years ago." Tristan chuckled. Yet, he changed the topic in the next instant. He asked Xavier, "Xav, has Deaf Yvvy approached you during the past few days?" Xavier froze halfway through signing a document. He didn't know why, but people around him kept mentioning Yvette these days. "No," he replied coldly. That shocked Tristan. After all, how could Yvette not do anything when something this massive had happened to her family? With that in mind, he spoke again. "Could it be that she's finally come around? I heard her family has been looking everywhere for her. Nobody knows where she's goneβ" He kept blabbering on. Xavier frowned, feeling utterly annoyed. "Get out!" Tristan jolted. That was when he realized that Xavier was furious. Not daring to say another word, Tristan bolted out of the CEO's office. Once outside, he took his phone and called his assistant, Avery Fitzpatrick. "Have you found Yvette?" "Yes, she's in a small hotel in Hexim Pass," answered Avery. Tristan had Avery send him the location before he drove there. He refused to let Yvette off the hook so easily. So what if she was willing to divorce Xavier now? She had already prevented Xavier and Daphne from being together for over three years! Besides, Daphne had saved Tristan's life once, so he owed her. It rained outside. Yvette finished her volunteer work and picked up her medication from the hospital. Then, she held an umbrella while walking back to the hotel. There were very few people on the road. Tristan drove his car but kept his eyes on Yvette's slim back. He deliberately sped up as he drove past her, sending a puddle of rainwater splashing onto her. Yvette shot him a blank stare. Tristan happened to meet her emotionless gaze through his rearview mirror. He didn't know why, but he felt inexplicably nervous. Yvette recognized Tristan's luxurious, dark gray Bugatti. Yet, she retracted her gaze and pretended not to notice him. Even so, Tristan refused to stop there. He deliberately slowed his car and followed her. "Hey, Deaf Yvvy. So, you have a temper now, huh? "You're not even going to greet me now? Didn't you used to love greeting me? Didn't you enjoy tickling my fancy?" Yvette remained stoic while the former mocked her. She used to do everything to win over those around Xavier, including his friends. It was all because she liked him. She had figured that Xavier's family and friends would one day accept her. Alas, it seemed she had been too naΓ―ve. At the previous gathering, Tristan had declared that he was Daphne's friend. He couldn't care less about maintaining his gentlemanly, upper-class image when siding with Daphne. He had insulted Yvette and called her shameless. In the end, he had also thrown her into the pool, leaving her to die. Since then, Yvette had steered clear of him. Upon receiving no reaction or response from Yvette, Tristan stopped the car, opened the door, and strolled toward her. He grabbed her arm and asked, "What stunts are you planning to pull this time?" Yvette's arm hurt, so she looked up at him. "I don't know what you're saying." She wanted to pry his hand off her arm, but he flung her aside. "Don't touch me with your filthy hands!" Tristan bellowed. Yvette stumbled backward before falling to the ground with a loud thud. Tristan froze on the spot in slight disbelief. It baffled him to see Yvette resorting to such tricks. He had only pushed her with a slight force, so how could she fall like that? Seeing people looking their way, he nervously got back into his car. Still, he gave her a warning before driving away. "Don't mess with Daph just because you're a disabled person, Yvette! "She's different from you. It's taken her a lot of effort to get to where she is now, so you'd better not disrupt her and Xav's relationship again!" After driving away, he even told the Snyder family where Yvette was staying. Yvette's hands and knees were scraped when she fell. It hurt so much that she couldn't stand for a long time. Deep down, she didn't understand why Tristan was so blind to what was right and wrong. She recalled risking her life to rescue him from a car that had been about to explode four years ago. His face had been covered in blood, and his eyes hadn't been visible. However, he had spoken in the warmest voice. He had said, "Thank you. I promise I'll repay you someday." Yvette couldn't help but bitterly wonder if this was his way of repaying her. β¦ Once Yvette returned to the hotel, she took a shower and applied medication to her scraped skin. Then, she lay down in a daze. The fall hardened her determination to leave Xavier for good. β¦ The sun was shining brightly outside when Yvette woke up. She got up and headed to the living area, only to see Yara sitting on the couch, wearing a formal dress. Yara didn't seem to care one bit that Yvette had just woken up. She picked the document off the coffee table and handed it to the latter. "Take a good look at this. It's the backup plan I've selected for you." Yvette accepted the document but saw the title "prenuptial agreement" on the cover. She flipped through the pages while reading the contents aloud. "Ms. Yvette Snyder will marry Mr. Liam Lorimer. As his wife, she'll devote herself to him and look after him until the end of his life. Liam will look after Yvette's family, which includes maintaining their quality of life. He'll also provide 300 million as funds for the Snyder family." Following that, the document stated Liam's details. He was an entrepreneur from the older generation in Tirion. He was 78 years old that year. Yvette's mind tensed. At that moment, Yara spoke up again. "Mr. Lorimer has expressed that he doesn't mind that you were married before. "He'll help revive our family's reputation from the ashes, as long as you marry him. Come on, dearest. You wouldn't let me and Terrence down, right?" Yvette's face paled even more. "I can't agree to what you're asking of me." Yara had never imagined that Yvette would reject her so candidly. She blew up in a fit of rage at once. "What right do you have to refuse? I gave you life!" Hearing that, Yvette met Yara's gaze. "How about I return my life to you? Would that mean I no longer owe you?" "What did you say?" Yara shrilled. Yvette's pale lips moved as she said, "If I returned my life to you, would it mean you'd no longer be my mother? And I'll no longer be indebted to you for giving birth to me?" Yara sneered, not believing Yvette would dare do such a thing. "Okay, then. I won't force you to marry Mr. Lorimer if you give your life back to me. But the question is, do you have the guts to do it?" "Give me a month." Yvette seemed determined. In Yara's eyes, Yvette seemed like a crazed person. She warned, "You'd best not threaten me by only saying you'll end your life. We're not that close, so I don't care if you die. However, you must sign this document if you're too afraid to end your life." β¦ Yvette had suppressed all her emotions to the brim and needed to vent somewhere. So, she went to a bar. She sat in a corner, drinking and watching the crowd happily dance in a daze. That was when a dashing man with striking eyes noticed Yvette, who was all alone. He approached and asked, "Yvette?" Yvette stared at the man but didn't recognize him. Still dazed, she asked, "Do you know how one can achieve happiness?" The man was confused. "What did you say?" Yvette continued drinking as she spoke. "The doctor says I'm ill and should try to be happier, but I can't make myself feel happyβ¦" That sparked discomfort in the man, Claude Lander. He wondered if Yvette had forgotten about him. Also, he was confused by what she saidβsomething about being ill and needing to be happier. "You shouldn't be in a place like this if you want to be happy. Why don't I drive you home?" Claude spoke in a gentle tone. A smile curved across Yvette's face as she looked at him. "You're a good person." Complex emotions stirred in Claude when he saw her bitter smile. He wondered what she had been through these past few years. Why did she seem so sorrowful? Meanwhile, Xavier was also at the bar. After settling the divorce papers, he had let himself loose every night. On top of that, he hadn't returned to Dewberry Estate in a long time. It was getting late. When the crowd was about to leave, Daphne noticed a familiar figure in a corner of the bar. She exclaimed, "Isn't that Yvvy?" Xavier glanced in the direction Daphne was staring in and saw a man merrily chatting with Yvette. His expression soured at once. He was disappointed in Yvette for getting drunk at a bar and chatting up another man. He felt like he had thought too highly of her before. "Should we go and check up on her, Xav?" asked Daphne. "No," was all Xavier said before speedily leaving. On the other hand, Yvette declined Claude's offer. "There's no need to trouble yourself. I can go home on my own." Claude was still worried about Yvette, so he ran after her when he noticed her leaving the bar. "Do you really not remember me?" Yvette gazed at him but couldn't recall who he was. "It's Chubbs. Have you forgotten?" Claude reminded her. Only then did Yvette remember her friend, Chubbs, whom she met when she had been living with Viola in the countryside. Back then, Claude had been chubbier and nowhere near Yvette's height. Yet, his six-foot-two-inch frame now towered over her. He had even grown to have handsome features. "I remember now! You've changed so much. I didn't even recognize you!" said Yvette. Meeting an old friend away from home was a pleasant thing. But only a slight smile curved on Yvette's face. That upset Claude. "Come on. I'll drive you home," Claude stated. When he dropped her off, he was shocked to learn she lived in a run-down hotel. Yvette shifted in embarrassment. "Sorry, it's not a glamorous place. Please don't tell Viola I'm living in such a place. I don't want her to worry." Claude nodded. Since it was getting late, it was unwise for him to stay longer. So, he left after telling Yvette he would visit her the next day. He didn't notice the matte black car lingering in a dark area beneath the hotel as he walked out. Now that Claude had left, Yvette felt dizzy and had an upset stomach from drinking too much. That was when someone knocked hard on the door. Yvette had just opened the door when Xavier grabbed her wrist. He exerted so much strength on her slender wrist that it felt close to snapping in half. "You've made me look at you in a new light, Yvette!" Xavier snarled while shutting and locking the door. He then forcefully led her to the couch. He sneered with words as sharp and lethal as a blade, "So, you've already settled on which family you'll marry into next, huh? I knew you wouldn't be so willing to let me go for no reason!" Yvette didn't know why he had come over, nor did she know how he had seen Claude. She was only briefly dazed. Once she snapped out of it, she shot a furious look at Xavier and didn't bother explaining herself to him. The rims of her eyes reddened. "You and I aren't that different from each other." The Snyder family had tricked Xavier into marrying Yvette. However, Xavier had treated her coldly for three years while remaining entangled with his first love. Neither Xavier nor Yvette was a better person than the other. Xavier had also drunk some wine, so he reeked of it. Eyes reddening, he pinched Yvette's chin and spoke with a dangerously low voice. "Who is he? When did you guys meet?" That was the first time Yvette had seen him behave like this. She suddenly chuckled. "Are you jealous?" Xavier's gaze grew tense as he scoffed. "You're unworthy of such a reaction." Yvette became choked up. That was when Xavier leaned in domineeringly and continued interrogating her. "Has he already touched you? Huh?" In her three years of marriage, Yvette had given up on her work and declined to meet her friends whenever they had occasionally invited her out. She had done so to obey the Lane family's rules. But now Xavier was suspicious of her. Relief washed over Yvette just then. She questioned him back, "What do you think?" That utterly angered Xavier, and his heated hands started travelling down her body. | Read freely | 18 | https://facebook.com/61557986570531 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715324400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879764 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410720 | 1723321856 | 995 | 1361528064521212 | 1 | 7.4287710132688E+14 | 1715410800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 250753834794512 | 0 | Read freely | 120208075188720056 | beokn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | β€οΈπWhat happens nextπClick Here to read onπ | https://beokn.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=11230&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717941362 | 2.5075383479451E+14 | Read freely | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/422079631_823590829824839_4719608256142825580_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=X0arSR329ugQ7kNvgFznJUe&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBCybnyEjPstfL-T8Ns-_chW2Zg5909W9W-lMZXE8xwkg&oe=6672CB06 | person_profile | 0 | Read freely | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441057328_1702104656985535_4588455529970348064_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=5anZ9pA6410Q7kNvgG9aKIE&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCRB-k4bkzqrpLp8SCU41jIJSVrD8mXEJ_6VsTi8QlSuA&oe=6672C68A | 0 | 3 | Yvette Snyder stood at the entrance of the hospital, her body frail, clutching a report in her thin hands. Three words on the report stood out: "No conception detected". "You've been married for three years. How are you not conceived?" Her mother, Yara Cadwell, demanded, jabbing a finger in Yvette's face disappointedly. Yara was dressed lavishly and wore high heels. "Why are you so useless? If you don't get conceived soon, the Lanes are going to kick you out of the family. What's going to happen to our family then?" Yvette looked at Yara blankly. She had a lot to say, but the words were stuck in her throat. In the end, all she could manage was, "I'm sorry." "I don't want you to be sorry. I want you to give birth to Xavier's child. Do you understand me?" Yvette's throat felt tight; she didn't know how to answer Yara. In their three years of marriage, her husband, Xavier Lane, had never slept with her. How could she ever have his child? Yara stared at Yvette. The latter's weak demeanor was so unlike her own. Finally, she said coldly before leaving, "If you really can't give him a child, then find him a woman who can. At least he'll appreciate you for that." Yvette stared after Yara's retreating figure in disbelief. Had her own mother just told her to find another woman for her husband to sleep with? ... As Yvette made her journey home, she couldn't stop thinking about Yara's parting words. Suddenly, a loud ringing in her ear drowned out her thoughts. She knew that her condition had worsened. Just then, she received a message on her phone. It was from Xavier, and the content was the same as always. "I'm not coming home tonight." In the past three years they had been married, Xavier had never spent the night at home before. He had never so much as touched Yvette either. Yvette could remember their wedding night three years ago. He had told her, "Since your family is bold enough to trick me into marrying you, you'd better be prepared to spend the rest of your life in loneliness." Three years ago, the Snyder and Lane families had decided to form an alliance through marriage. Both families had agreed to mutually beneficial terms in the agreement. But when the day of the wedding came around, the Snyder family went back on their word and transferred all of their assets away, including the billions that Xavier had paid to marry Yvette. Yvette's eyes dulled at the memory. She replied to Xavier's text with her usual response: "Okay." Without her realizing it, the report she was holding got scrunched up in her hands. When she got home, Yvette tossed the report into the trash can. Every month, around this time, she would feel unusually lethargic. Yvette didn't prepare dinner for herself. She just leaned back on the couch, blearily drifting in and out of sleep. The rumbling in her ear persisted. That was another reason why Xavier hated herβshe was hard of hearing, which, to the rich and powerful, was no better than being crippled. Xavier would never allow her to carry his child. β¦ At 5 o'clock in the morning, the pendulum clock on the wall chimed dully. Xavier would be home in an hour. Yvette realized too late that she had fallen asleep on the couch. She got up hastily and went to the kitchen to prepare Xavier's breakfast. Xavier was a meticulous man who was strict about punctuality, not only with himself but also with the people around him. He arrived home at six o'clock sharp. Xavier was a tall and handsome man. Clad in a smart tailored suit, his demeanor was quiet and reserved, yet undoubtedly masculine. However, to Yvette, he was cold and distant. Xavier didn't even look at Yvette. He walked right past her to look at the food on the table and said with a scoff, "You do this every day. Are you a nanny or what?" Over the past three years, Yvette had been doing the same things over and over again. She wore the same dark clothes and replied to his messages with the same singular word. If it hadn't been for the business alliance and the Snyders' deceit, Xavier would never have married a woman like Yvette. At the word "nanny", the rumbling in Yvette's ears returned. She swallowed, feeling a lump in her throat, and said bravely, "Xav, do you have someone that you like?" Her sudden question surprised Xavier. His eyes darkened. "What do you mean by that?" Yvette raised her head and stared at him, swallowing the bile rising in the back of her throat. "If you love someone else, you can be with herβ" Before she could finish, Xavier interrupted her. "You're mad." ... After Xavier left, Yvette sat on the balcony alone, staring out into the cold rain. The sound of the raindrops drifted in and out of clarity. She took off her hearing aids, letting the world around her fall into silence. A month ago, her doctor had told her, "Ms. Snyder, there's been a pathological change in your auditory nerves and some of your cranial nerves, causing your hearing to worsen. If this goes on, you may lose your hearing completely." Not used to a silent world, Yvette went to the living room and turned on the television. She turned up the volume to the max, which allowed her to hear some sound. By coincidence, the television was showing an interview with Daphne Reyes, an internationally renowned singer known for her love songs. Yvette's hands trembled slightly as she gripped the remote control. Daphne was Xavier's first love. It had been a long time since Yvette had seen her, but Daphne was still as pretty as ever. She was confident and relaxed in front of the cameras, unlike the shy and frightened young woman who had begged the Snyders for sponsorship in the past. When the interviewer asked Daphne why she had returned to her home country, her answer was bold. "I came home to get my first love back." The remote control slipped out of Yvette's hands. Her heart also fell to her stomach. Flustered, Yvette turned off the television and went to the table to clean up the uneaten breakfast. When she got to the kitchen, she found that Xavier had forgotten to take his phone. She picked it up and saw the unread messages on the lock screen. "Xav, you must have been unhappy over the past few years, right?" "I know you don't love her. How about we meet up tonight? I've missed you." Yvette stared blankly at the messages until the screen went dark again. Then, she called a cab to Xavier's office. On the way, she stared out of the window. The rain fell incessantly. It felt like it would never stop. Xavier never liked it when Yvette visited him at his office, so whenever she was there, she would take the service elevator from the loading bay. When Xavier's assistant, Mark Xyrax, saw her, he just greeted her impassively, "Ms. Snyder." No one around Xavier considered Yvette his wife. She was nothing but a smear on his reputation. When Xavier saw Yvette bringing him his phone, he frowned. She was always like this. No matter what he forgot, be it his lunch, his documents, a shirt, or even an umbrella, she would bring them to him. "I thought I told you that you didn't need to deliver my things to me yourself." Yvette froze. "Sorry, I forgot." Since when had her memory been so bad? Maybe she had panicked after seeing Daphne's message and became afraid that Xavier would disappear from her life suddenly. Before she left, she looked back at Xavier. Unable to help herself, she blurted out, "Xav, do you still like Daphne?" Xavier thought that Yvette had been behaving rather strangely lately. She kept forgetting things and asking weird questions. How could a person like her be his wife? Impatiently, he replied, "If you have so much free time, go find yourself something to do." Yvette had tried getting a job before, but Xavier's mother, Shannon Guetta, had reprimanded her without holding back. "Do you want the whole world to know that Xav married a disabled woman with hearing issues?" Therefore, Yvette had given up on finding a job and focused on her fruitless life as "Mrs. Lane" at Dewberry Estate. β¦ At home, she sat alone until nightfall. She couldn't sleep. Just then, the phone on her bedside table rang loudly. It was a call from an unfamiliar number. Yvette picked up the call. A familiar voice, yet one she dreaded, sounded from the other end. "Is this Yvvy? Xav is drunk. Can you come pick him up?" When Yvette arrived at Sternhow Club, she heard loud coaxing and jeering from the wealthy heirs inside the private room. "Daph, didn't you say you came back to get our dear Mr. Lane back into your arms? This is your chance now. Go on, tell him how you feel!" Daphne was a pretty woman who was popular wherever she went. She was also Xavier's first love, so the rich young men of the upper crust were happy to push the two together. Daphne wasn't shy at all. She turned to Xavier and said without any reservations, "I like you, Xav. Please be with me again." That was what Yvette heard when she arrived at the door of the private room. Inside, the other people were urging Xavier to answer Daphne. His best friend, Tristan Shaw, was the most vocal among them. "Xav, you've been waiting for Daphne for three years. She's back now. So, go on, answer her!" Yvette stood frozen outside the door. Her heart was pounding. Just then, one of the men pulled the door open. "Ms. Snyder?" Chapter 2 Everyone in the private room looked over at the door. For a moment, the room was eerily silent. Yvette immediately caught sight of Xavier in the middle of the room. His eyes were clear and bright. He was clearly not drunk. She knew that she had been tricked by Daphne. When Xavier saw Yvette, his pupils constricted. Everyone else in the room looked awkward, including Tristan, who had been the most vocal in getting Xavier to accept Daphne's confession earlier. Yvette shouldn't have gone there. Daphne was the first to break the silence. "Please don't get the wrong idea, Yvvy. Tristan was joking. Xavier and I are just friends." Before Yvette could answer, Xavier stood up impatiently. "There's no need to explain it to her." Then, he stalked over to Yvette. "What are you doing here?" "I thought you were drunk, so I came to take you home," Yvette answered truthfully. Xavier scoffed. "You really didn't retain anything I told you, did you?" Lowering his voice, he said softly so that only she could hear him, "Are you here to remind everyone that I was tricked into marrying you three years ago? Did you think they forgot?" Yvette was stunned. Xavier gave her a cold look. "Stop seeking attention. You're only making me hate you more." With that, he turned away, leaving Yvette standing alone. Yvette stared after his retreating figure, unable to snap out of her shock. None of the other scions in the room took pity on her when they saw Xavier ignoring her. Tristan even had no qualms in telling Daphne, who was feigning distress, "You're too kind, Daphne. You didn't need to explain anything. "If Yvette hadn't scammed Xav, he would've married you in the first place. You wouldn't have needed to suffer abroad as well." Despite the constant ringing in her ears, Yvette could still hear every word clearly. She knew better than anyone that even if Xavier hadn't married her, he wouldn't have married Daphne. Daphne was a nobody with no background, after all. Daphne was well aware of this as well. That was why she had chosen to break up with Xavier and leave the country. How had everything turned out to be Yvette's fault? When Yvette left Sternhow Club with her umbrella, she felt as if she had been enveloped by darkness. Just then, a lithe figure appeared beside her. It was Daphne. She was decked out in fine clothes, complete with high heels. She looked smug. "It's a cold night, isn't it? So, how does it feel to get scoffed at by Xavier after you came all the way here at this time to get him?" Yvette didn't answer her, but Daphne didn't mind her silence. She just continued speaking. "I do pity you, you know. You've never experienced true love before, have you? "Do you know that when I was with Xav, he would cook for me himself? When I was sick, he would drop everything and stay with me. "Has Xav ever told you he loves you? He used to say that to me all the timeβ¦" Yvette listened to Daphne's rambling quietly, her mind going over the past three years she had been married to Xavier. He had never so much as stepped into the kitchen during that time. When she had gotten sick, he had never comforted her. He had never told her he loved her either. β¦ That night, Yvette couldn't fall asleep. She had only just found out that the man she had loved for the past 12 years had once loved another with all his heart, in the spectacular way that only young people could. At that moment, she realized that it was time for her to give him up. She had a sleepless night. The next morning, Xavier returned home. The glare he gave her was cold. "How attached are you to the Lane family's money, to me, your money-making robot?" he demanded. Yvette was stunned. She didn't know what had gotten into him so early in the morning. Instinctively, she said, "I never wanted your money." She had only ever wanted Xavier. Xavier laughed in disdain. "Then, why did your mother come to my office and beg me to give you a child?" Yvette was stunned. She stared into Xavier's eyes. It was only then that she realized that he wasn't angry about what had happened last night. Xavier had no desire to waste his breath on her. "If you want to continue staying with me and keep your family afloat, tell your mother to behave herself!" ... In the end, Yvette didn't need to look for Yara. Yara found Yvette instead. She was no longer cold and distant; she gripped Yvette's hands and said gently, "Yvvy, you should ask Xavier to give you a child. He doesn't have to do it biologically. He could do it through scientific measures." Scientific measures. Yvette stared at Yara in shock as the latter continued, "Daphne told me that Xavier hasn't slept with you in the past three years." That was the last straw for Yvette. She didn't know why Xavier would tell Daphne about that. Maybe he really loved Daphne a lot. With that thought, she suddenly felt relieved. "Just let it go, Mom." Yara paused. She frowned. "What?" "I'm tired. I want to get a divorceβ" Before she could finish, Yara slapped her hard across the face. The kind, motherly facade was gone in an instant. She jabbed a finger at Yvette and gritted out, "You have no right to ask for a divorce! "Without the Lane family, what do you think you're going to do? Who's going to remarry a disabled divorcee like you?" Yvette felt her body go numb. Yara had never liked Yvette, even when the latter had been a child. Yara had been a famous dancer. The fact that she had given birth to a daughter with hearing issues was one of her biggest regrets. Therefore, she had sent Yvette away to be taken care of by a nanny. She had only allowed Yvette to return home when the latter started school. People used to tell Yvette that every mother loved their child. So, she had done everything she could to excel at everything in hopes of making Yara happy. Despite her hearing issues, she had been at the top of her class in dance, music, and art classes. But no matter how hard she tried, Yara still didn't consider her a good daughter. In Yara's words, Yvette wasn't "complete". Not only physically, but also in love and familial relationships. After Yara left, Yvette used some makeup to cover up the red print on her face. Then, she packed her bags quietly. Even after three years of married life, all her personal belongings fit into a single suitcase. After she finished packing up, she gathered her courage and sent Xavier a message. "Are you free tonight? I need to talk to you." Xavier didn't reply to her. Yvette's eyes darkened. She knew that he didn't want to reply to her messages. All she could do was wait for him to come home in the morning. She had thought that he wouldn't come home that night, but he got back at midnight. Yvette wasn't asleep at the time. She went up to him and took his coat and bag from him with familiarity in her actions. It was as if they were a normal married couple. Xavier's cold voice broke the peace. "Don't send me inane texts again." As Yvette held Xavier's coat, her hand trembled slightly. "I won't do it again," she mumbled. Xavier didn't notice anything wrong with her tone. He went straight to his study. Generally, if he came home, he would stay holed up in his study. He probably thought that someone who was hard of hearing would live in a silent world. Either that, or he simply didn't care about Yvette. That would explain why he got straight to discussing his acquisition of Snyder Group in his study as if nothing was wrong. When Yvette brought him some soup, she heard Xavier animatedly discussing work with his employees. He was talking about the acquisition of Snyder Group, her father, James Snyder's company. She didn't know how to feel about that. She knew that her brother, Terrence Synder, was useless at running a business, so it was only a matter of time before Snyder Group fell. However, she had never thought that her own husband would be the first to cause Snyder Group's downfall. "Xav," she interrupted. Xavier was slightly startled. Out of guilt, or maybe some other emotion, he quickly hung up the phone and closed his laptop. Feigning ignorance, Yvette walked into the study and placed the bowl in front of him. "Have some soup, then get to bed soon. Your health is more important than work." For some reason, Xavier felt himself relax when he heard her soft voice. She probably hadn't heard anything. Feeling conflicted, he stopped Yvette before she could leave. "You said you wanted to talk to me. What is it?" Hearing this, Yvette turned back to look at him. Softly, she said, "I just wanted to ask if you're free in the morning so we can go and file for divorce." Chapter 3 Yvette's voice was calm and impassive, as though divorce were a menial matter to her. Xavier's pupils contracted. "What did you just say?" Over the last three years, no matter what he had done, Yvette had never brought up divorce. In truth, Xavier knew that Yvette loved him. Her eyes, which were usually dull and empty, were clear and bright now. "I'm sorry for being a burden over the last few years, Mr. Lane. We should get divorced." Xavier clenched his fists unconsciously. "You heard what I said earlier, didn't you? Snyder Group was already failing; it won't matter whether I buy it or someone else does. What are you trying to do by bringing up divorce? "Is it because you want money? Or a child? Or do you want me to leave Snyder Group alone?" he asked coldly. "Don't forget that I don't love you. Your threats won't work on me!" At that moment, he seemed like a stranger to Yvette. A lump formed in her throat as her ears began throbbing. Even though she was wearing her hearing aids, she could barely hear what Xavier was saying. She could only answer his last question. "I don't want anything." Afraid that he would notice something wrong with her, Yvette left the study in a hurry. As he watched her leave, Xavier felt frustrated for some reason. He had never felt like this before. Not one to hold in his emotions, he flipped the table over. The bowl of soup that Yvette had brought him spilled all over the ground. ... Back in her own room, Yvette forced herself to swallow a handful of pills. She reached up to touch her ear. As she retracted her fingers, she saw crimson blood on them. Thanks to the medicine, her hearing recovered a little by the time it was dawn. Yvette stared blankly at the soft rays of sunlight streaming from the window. "The rain has stopped," she said quietly to herself. Xavier didn't leave the manor that day. He was in the living room bright and early, settled on the couch, waiting for Yvette to apologize and express her regret to him. This wasn't the first time Yvette had lost her temper with him. However, after every tantrum, she would apologize to him before long. Xavier figured that it would be the same this time around. Soon, he saw Yvette coming out of her room, all freshened up. She wore her usual dark-colored clothes. She dragged a suitcase with one hand while holding a piece of paper in the other. She handed the paper to him. It was a divorce agreement. "Let me know when you have time, Xav." With that, she left the manor, pulling her suitcase behind her. It was bright and sunny outside. Yvette felt as if she had gotten a new chance at life. Meanwhile, Xavier sat frozen on the couch, still clutching the divorce agreement in his hand. It took him a long time to come back to his senses. It was Saturday. Usually, around this time of the year, Xavier would take Yvette back to his hometown to pay respects to his ancestors. During this time, they would have to endure strange looks from his extended family. However, he was alone that day, which made him extraordinarily happy. At Lane Mansion, Shannon and the rest of the Lanes were surprised to see him alone. In the past, Yvette had always been the first one to turn up every year and the last to leave since she had been trying to please everyone. Why wasn't she there today? Shanon frowned and asked Xavier, "Where's Yvette, Xav?" Xavier's expression turned cold. "She wanted a divorce and left me." Everyone fell silent in disbelief when he said that. Shannon was shocked. She knew that Yvette probably loved Xavier more than anything in the world, only surpassed by his own parents. Seven years ago, Yvette had even protected Xavier with her own body when someone had attempted to stab him. Four years ago, not long after the two had gotten engaged, something had happened to Xavier while he had been on a business trip in Dibay. Everyone had been convinced that he was dead, but Yvette had refused to believe that. She had dropped everything and gone to the foreign city just to look for him. Then, after they had gotten married, Yvette had taken care of almost everything in his life with meticulous precision, including being polite to everyone around him, even his secretaries. She had always been afraid of offending them. Yvette clearly couldn't live without Xavier. So, why had she suggested getting a divorce? Shannon had no idea, but she was glad that Yvette had finally decided to let Xavier go. "She's not worthy to be your wife anyway. It's a good thing that you're divorcing her. She doesn't deserve you," she said The others immediately chimed in. "Yeah, you're young and handsome, Xav. You're in your best years now. Yvette's been dragging you down all this time!" Instantly, the gathering turned into a slander fest. They spoke of Yvette as if she were an unforgivable criminal. Xavier should have felt happy that they were defending him, but for some reason, he found their words too sharp and crass. He left Lane Mansion earlier than usual and made his way back to Dewberry Estate. The sky was just starting to darken when he arrived home. He opened the door and entered the manor. When he saw nothing but darkness, he remembered, with a start, that Yvette had left. He changed into his house slippers and tossed his coat into the washer. For some reason, he felt unusually exhausted today. He went to the wine cellar to get a bottle of wine so that he could celebrate Yvette's leaving. However, when he got to the wine cellar and saw the locked door, he realized too late that he didn't have the key. He didn't like strangers in his house, so there were no maids or servants at Dewberry Estate. Ever since he had married Yvette, she had been the one taking care of the household affairs. He could only go back to his room. Picking up his phone, he scrolled through his messages only to find work-related texts. Yvette hadn't called or texted him to apologize at all. Tossing his phone aside, he got up and headed over to the kitchen. When he opened the door of the fridge, he was stunned. Apart from food, there were also a lot of supplements. He picked one of the bags up and read the instructions on it. "Take five times a day for incapable of conceived." He took a whiff of the supplement. It smelled disgusting. He recalled that Yvette always smelled strange. So, this was why. He scoffed silently. They had never slept, so no matter how much medicine she took, she would never have gotten conceived. ... Meanwhile, over in a dark and dinky hotel, Yvette opened her eyes blearily. Her head was pounding. The world was silent. She knew, then, that her condition had worsened again. Before this, she had still been able to hear some sounds, even without her hearing aids. She pushed herself up and felt around on the bedside table until she found her medicine. She popped the pills in her mouth, tasting their bitterness. The day before, she had left Dewberry Estate, which had been her home for the past three years. At first, she had gone to her parents' house, Snyder Residence. However, at the door, she had overheard Yara and Terrence discussing how they would marry her off to an old man if the Lanes kicked her out. Yvette had blanked upon hearing that. It was then that she finally realized that she had no place to call home anymore. Even though she hadn't eaten anything in two days, she still didn't feel hungry. However, it was too quiet. The silence scared her. It had been raining more frequently in Tirion this year than it had in previous years. Yvette stared out at the passing pedestrians. Most of them were paired up or in groups. She was the only one alone. She bought a bus ticket heading out of the city. She decided to go to her nanny's house in the countryside. Viola Xenos, her nanny, had taken care of her when she was a child. It was already 9:00 pm when Yvette got there. When Viola saw Yvette, she looked pleasantly surprised. Yvette teared up when she saw Viola's warm smile. She reached out to her and hugged her. "Viola." Due to health issues, Viola had never married and didn't have children of her own. Yvette was closer to her than she was to her own mother. That night, Yvette cuddled up in Viola's embrace, just like she had when she was a child. Viola wrapped her arms around Yvette, only to realize that the latter was very thin. She pressed a hand on the Yvette's bony back, trembling uncontrollably. Forcing herself to calm down, she asked cautiously, "Has Xavier been treating you well, Yvvy?" Yvette felt a sharp pain in her throat when she heard Xavier's name. She wanted to lie to Viola and tell her that Xavier had treated her well, but she knew that Viola wasn't silly. Since she had already made up her mind to leave him, there was no need to lie to herself or to the people who loved her any longer. "The person he loves has returned. I've decided to let him go and divorce him." Viola was stunned. She couldn't believe her ears. Yvette had told her multiple times before that she wanted to spend the rest of her life with Xavier. Not knowing what else to say, she comforted Yvette by telling her that there were plenty of other fish in the sea. There was bound to be one who would love her. Yvette just nodded silently. The buzzing in her ears drowned out Viola's comforting voice. That night, she managed to get a good night's sleep, which was rare. However, when she woke up, she was greeted with the alarming sight of blood staining the spot where her head had laid on the pillow. Yvette touched her right ear. Her fingers felt sticky. She looked at her hand. It was covered in blood. Chapter 4 Even Yvette's hearing aids were stained red. Her pupils contracted, and she quickly grabbed some tissues to wipe her ear. Then, she stripped the bedsheets and washed them. She was afraid that Viola would worry about her if she found out that her illness was worsening. So, she cleaned up the mess and found an excuse to bid goodbye to Viola. Before she left, she placed a part of her savings on the bedside table without telling Viola. Viola walked Yvette to the bus stop and waved goodbye reluctantly. β¦ After Yvette left, Viola couldn't stop thinking about how thin the former was. Unable to just sit by, she called Lane Group. When the secretary heard that Viola was Yvette's nanny and wanted to speak to Xavier, she transferred the call to Xavier's line. It was the third day after Yvette had left Xavier. It was also the first time in three days that he had received a call about her. Sitting behind his desk, he felt exceptionally pleased. Just as he had expected, Yvette wouldn't be able to last more than three days without himβor so he thought. Viola's voice came through the other line, sounding weighed with age. "Mr. Lane, I am Yvvy's nanny. I've been taking care of her since she was a baby. "Please, I beg you, treat her well. Don't hurt her more than you already have. She's not as strong as she seems on the surface. "When she was born, Mrs. Snyder left her in my care because she didn't like that Yvvy is hard of hearing. Yvvy only returned home when she had to start going to school. "The Snyders have never treated her as one of their own. Apart from Mr. Snyder, everyone else treated her like she was a maid. "You and Mr. Snyder are the most important people she has in this world. I'm begging you, please. Please be kind to her." Xavier's mood darkened when he heard what Viola said. "Did she tell you to give me this sob story because she didn't want to face me herself?" he asked coldly. "Why should I care about her life? If you ask me, she deserved everything she got!" That said, he hung up the phone without waiting for an answer. Viola had heard Yvette gushing about how nice Xavier was to her. So, it was only then that she realized the truthβXavier wasn't a good man at all. He wasn't a good husband to Yvette. ... Yvette sat on the bus, heading home. Just then, her phone vibrated. It was a message from Xavier. "You said you wanted to get divorced, right? I'll see you at 10:00 am tomorrow." Yvette stared at the text blankly for a while before replying, "Okay." Just one word. It infuriated Xavier and completely ruined his mood. Unable to work anymore, he called up his friends and invited them out for drinks. Daphne was also at the club when he arrived. "I'm not going home until I'm drunk!" she declared. Tristan sat down beside Xavier. He couldn't help asking curiously, "How's Deaf Yvvy?" Xavier raised an eyebrow at him. "There's no need to talk about her ever again. We're filing for divorce tomorrow." Tristan was stunned. He couldn't believe his ears. "Really?" Beside them, Daphne brightened. She poured out a shot for him. "Congrats on getting back your freedom, Xav!" Xavier drank a lot that night. Daphne offered to send him home, but he rejected her suggestion. "No need. It's not appropriate." If he and Yvette were going to get divorced tomorrow, she might come home that night. Daphne wasn't happy about the rejection. "Why? You're divorcing her anyway. Why wouldn't it be appropriate? Are you still scared that she might find out about our relationship?" Their relationship? Xavier narrowed his eyes. "You're overthinking this." He got into his own car. Out of consideration, he also called a cab to send Daphne home. On the drive home, he kept unlocking his phone to check if Yvette had sent him any messages. She hadn't. When he reached Dewberry Estate, it was dark. With a stormy expression, Xavier opened the door and turned on the light. Yvette was nowhere to be seen. She hadn't come home. The manor was left exactly the way it had been when she had left. Still feeling the effects of the wine, Xavier threw himself heavily onto the couch and soon fell asleep. In his nightmares, Yvette was covered in blood, but there was a smile on her face. "I don't love you anymore, Xav," she said. When Xavier jolted awake, the sky outside had just brightened up. He rubbed his forehead and went to the bathroom to freshen himself up. Then, he changed into a smart suit and made his way to the courthouse. At the entrance of the courthouse, he spotted Yvette standing under a tree not far off. As usual, she was dressed in dark-colored clothes. From the distance, she looked incredibly frail and thin as she stood amid the drizzle. It was as if a single gust of wind could knock her over. Xavier could still remember how young and lively she had been when they had first gotten married. She hadn't been as thin and gloomy back then. Holding an umbrella, he walked toward Yvette. It took her a few moments to notice him. Xiaver hadn't changed much over the last three years. He was as handsome and as confident as ever, with the added hint of matureness that came with age. Yvette was a little dazed. The last three years felt like a blink in time to her, yet she also seemed to have exhausted a whole lifetime. Xavier stalked over to Yvette and gazed at her coldly. He was waiting for her to apologize to him. She had been sulking enough. It was time to put an end to this. However, Yvette just said, "I'm sorry to pull you away from your work. Let's go in." Xavier stiffened, but he quickly recovered. "Don't regret this." With that, he turned and headed into the courthouse. Yvette stared after him sadly. Would she regret this? She didn't know either. In the courthouse, the judge asked them if they were sure about going through with the divorce. Yvette's answer was firm. "Yes." Her determined expression frustrated Xavier. After filing for divorce, they still had to return to the courthouse in a month. If they didn't show up, then the divorce would be considered null. As they left the courthouse, Yvette looked at Xavier, her expression unusually calm. "I'll see you next month. Take care." With that, she stepped out into the rain, hailed a cab, and left. Xavier was left standing on the spot. He didn't know how to feel as he watched her car leave. Relieved, probably. Relieved that he wouldn't need to put up with her any longer or endure others' ridicule for having a disabled wife. ... In the cab, Yvette leaned against the window and stared blankly at the rain droplets on the glass. In the rearview mirror, the driver suddenly saw blood dripping from her ear. He was shocked by the sight. "Miss? Miss!" Yvette didn't answer him. The driver hastily stopped the car. Yvette was confused. They weren't at her destination yet. Why had they stopped? She looked over at the driver and saw him mouthing silently. She realized that she had gone deaf again. "I'm sorry, I can't hear you. What are you saying?" In the end, the driver had to type out what he wanted to say on his phone so that he could tell her about her bleeding ear. Yvette reached out belatedly and felt the warm sensation in her ear. She was used to it now. "It's alright. This happens all the time. I'm fine." She was hard of hearing, but her ears hadn't bled like this before. Two years ago, at a gathering, Tristan had pushed her into a swimming pool. Yvette didn't know how to swim, so she had almost drowned. At the same time, her eardrums had also expanded due to the pressure. She had been sent to the hospital, but the damage had been done. At the time, she had been told that everything was fine. Why was this happening again? The cab driver was still worried, so he dropped her off at the hospital she told him. After thanking him, Yvette went into the hospital on her own. This time, she saw her usual doctor, Tom Jensen. "Dr. Jensen, my memory has been rather bad lately. I kept forgetting what I'm doing," she said. When she had woken up at the hotel that morning, it had taken her a long time to remember that she had to file for divorce with Xavier. Tom looked at her latest report worriedly. "Ms. Snyder, I think you should consider getting tested for other things. Specifically, mental health issues." Mental healthβ¦ Following Tom's recommendation, Yvette went and got a psychiatric diagnosis. She was diagnosed with depression. It turned out that patients with severe depression often experienced memory loss. Before heading back to the hotel, Yvette stopped and bought a notebook and a pen. She wrote down everything that had happened lately. She placed the notebook right beside her bed so that it would be the first thing she saw when she woke up in the morning. News of her and Xavier's divorce spread quickly. That night, Yara called her multiple times, but she didn't hear anything. β¦ When she woke up the next morning, she saw a barrage of texts from Yara. "Where are you?" "Who do you think you are? Even if you're getting a divorce, Xavier should have been the one to ask for it!" "You're such a jinx! Back when you got married, your dad got into a car crash and died. What's going to happen now that you're getting divorced? Do you want Snyder Group to go bankrupt? Is that it?" Yvette stared at the messages. She was used to the verbal bully by now. She typed out a reply. "Mom, it's time that we live by our own merits. We shouldn't depend on others so much." Yara's response was swift. "You're such an ingrate! I shouldn't have given birth to you in the first place!" Yvette didn't bother replying to that. She placed her phone aside. She just had to wait a month. Once the divorce was finalized, she would be able to leave Tirion and start a new life. β¦ Yvette's health worsened over the next few days. She often found herself completely deaf. Sometimes, it took a very long time for her hearing to go back to normal. Her memory was deteriorating too. On the bright side, even though her hearing loss was incurable, at least she could do something about the depression. She tried everything she could to keep herself happy. She busied herself by registering as a volunteer online. She spent time taking care of abandoned old people and orphans. Helping them made her feel like she had a reason to continue living. A few days later, Yvette woke up in the morning and checked her notebook as usual. Then, she got ready to head out to the orphanage. When she picked up her phone, she saw several unread messages. There were messages from Terrance and Yara, as well as Daphne. She opened the texts one by one. Yara: "As you wished, Snyder Group is no more." Terrence: "Keep hiding. You're the most cowardly and cruel person I've ever seen." Daphne: "My condolences, Yvette. Actually, I think Snyder Group would thrive better under Xav." Daphne: "Since your family has helped me so much in the past, do let me know if you need anything. I'll help you if I can." Yvette had no idea what was happening. She closed the messaging app. Almost immediately, she got a notification about the latest news. Chapter 5 Yvette watched the news and saw the press conference held by Lane Group. It was an announcement that Xavier had successfully acquired Snyder Group. James' company no longer existed in the world. β¦ Things on Xavier's end had been extra pleasant lately. He had acquired Snyder Group and gotten his revenge. "The Snyder family finally got what they deserved for tricking you into that marriage three years ago." Tristan chuckled. Yet, he changed the topic in the next instant. He asked Xavier, "Xav, has Deaf Yvvy approached you during the past few days?" Xavier froze halfway through signing a document. He didn't know why, but people around him kept mentioning Yvette these days. "No," he replied coldly. That shocked Tristan. After all, how could Yvette not do anything when something this massive had happened to her family? With that in mind, he spoke again. "Could it be that she's finally come around? I heard her family has been looking everywhere for her. Nobody knows where she's goneβ" He kept blabbering on. Xavier frowned, feeling utterly annoyed. "Get out!" Tristan jolted. That was when he realized that Xavier was furious. Not daring to say another word, Tristan bolted out of the CEO's office. Once outside, he took his phone and called his assistant, Avery Fitzpatrick. "Have you found Yvette?" "Yes, she's in a small hotel in Hexim Pass," answered Avery. Tristan had Avery send him the location before he drove there. He refused to let Yvette off the hook so easily. So what if she was willing to divorce Xavier now? She had already prevented Xavier and Daphne from being together for over three years! Besides, Daphne had saved Tristan's life once, so he owed her. It rained outside. Yvette finished her volunteer work and picked up her medication from the hospital. Then, she held an umbrella while walking back to the hotel. There were very few people on the road. Tristan drove his car but kept his eyes on Yvette's slim back. He deliberately sped up as he drove past her, sending a puddle of rainwater splashing onto her. Yvette shot him a blank stare. Tristan happened to meet her emotionless gaze through his rearview mirror. He didn't know why, but he felt inexplicably nervous. Yvette recognized Tristan's luxurious, dark gray Bugatti. Yet, she retracted her gaze and pretended not to notice him. Even so, Tristan refused to stop there. He deliberately slowed his car and followed her. "Hey, Deaf Yvvy. So, you have a temper now, huh? "You're not even going to greet me now? Didn't you used to love greeting me? Didn't you enjoy tickling my fancy?" Yvette remained stoic while the former mocked her. She used to do everything to win over those around Xavier, including his friends. It was all because she liked him. She had figured that Xavier's family and friends would one day accept her. Alas, it seemed she had been too naΓ―ve. At the previous gathering, Tristan had declared that he was Daphne's friend. He couldn't care less about maintaining his gentlemanly, upper-class image when siding with Daphne. He had insulted Yvette and called her shameless. In the end, he had also thrown her into the pool, leaving her to die. Since then, Yvette had steered clear of him. Upon receiving no reaction or response from Yvette, Tristan stopped the car, opened the door, and strolled toward her. He grabbed her arm and asked, "What stunts are you planning to pull this time?" Yvette's arm hurt, so she looked up at him. "I don't know what you're saying." She wanted to pry his hand off her arm, but he flung her aside. "Don't touch me with your filthy hands!" Tristan bellowed. Yvette stumbled backward before falling to the ground with a loud thud. Tristan froze on the spot in slight disbelief. It baffled him to see Yvette resorting to such tricks. He had only pushed her with a slight force, so how could she fall like that? Seeing people looking their way, he nervously got back into his car. Still, he gave her a warning before driving away. "Don't mess with Daph just because you're a disabled person, Yvette! "She's different from you. It's taken her a lot of effort to get to where she is now, so you'd better not disrupt her and Xav's relationship again!" After driving away, he even told the Snyder family where Yvette was staying. Yvette's hands and knees were scraped when she fell. It hurt so much that she couldn't stand for a long time. Deep down, she didn't understand why Tristan was so blind to what was right and wrong. She recalled risking her life to rescue him from a car that had been about to explode four years ago. His face had been covered in blood, and his eyes hadn't been visible. However, he had spoken in the warmest voice. He had said, "Thank you. I promise I'll repay you someday." Yvette couldn't help but bitterly wonder if this was his way of repaying her. β¦ Once Yvette returned to the hotel, she took a shower and applied medication to her scraped skin. Then, she lay down in a daze. The fall hardened her determination to leave Xavier for good. β¦ The sun was shining brightly outside when Yvette woke up. She got up and headed to the living area, only to see Yara sitting on the couch, wearing a formal dress. Yara didn't seem to care one bit that Yvette had just woken up. She picked the document off the coffee table and handed it to the latter. "Take a good look at this. It's the backup plan I've selected for you." Yvette accepted the document but saw the title "prenuptial agreement" on the cover. She flipped through the pages while reading the contents aloud. "Ms. Yvette Snyder will marry Mr. Liam Lorimer. As his wife, she'll devote herself to him and look after him until the end of his life. Liam will look after Yvette's family, which includes maintaining their quality of life. He'll also provide 300 million as funds for the Snyder family." Following that, the document stated Liam's details. He was an entrepreneur from the older generation in Tirion. He was 78 years old that year. Yvette's mind tensed. At that moment, Yara spoke up again. "Mr. Lorimer has expressed that he doesn't mind that you were married before. "He'll help revive our family's reputation from the ashes, as long as you marry him. Come on, dearest. You wouldn't let me and Terrence down, right?" Yvette's face paled even more. "I can't agree to what you're asking of me." Yara had never imagined that Yvette would reject her so candidly. She blew up in a fit of rage at once. "What right do you have to refuse? I gave you life!" Hearing that, Yvette met Yara's gaze. "How about I return my life to you? Would that mean I no longer owe you?" "What did you say?" Yara shrilled. Yvette's pale lips moved as she said, "If I returned my life to you, would it mean you'd no longer be my mother? And I'll no longer be indebted to you for giving birth to me?" Yara sneered, not believing Yvette would dare do such a thing. "Okay, then. I won't force you to marry Mr. Lorimer if you give your life back to me. But the question is, do you have the guts to do it?" "Give me a month." Yvette seemed determined. In Yara's eyes, Yvette seemed like a crazed person. She warned, "You'd best not threaten me by only saying you'll end your life. We're not that close, so I don't care if you die. However, you must sign this document if you're too afraid to end your life." β¦ Yvette had suppressed all her emotions to the brim and needed to vent somewhere. So, she went to a bar. She sat in a corner, drinking and watching the crowd happily dance in a daze. That was when a dashing man with striking eyes noticed Yvette, who was all alone. He approached and asked, "Yvette?" Yvette stared at the man but didn't recognize him. Still dazed, she asked, "Do you know how one can achieve happiness?" The man was confused. "What did you say?" Yvette continued drinking as she spoke. "The doctor says I'm ill and should try to be happier, but I can't make myself feel happyβ¦" That sparked discomfort in the man, Claude Lander. He wondered if Yvette had forgotten about him. Also, he was confused by what she saidβsomething about being ill and needing to be happier. "You shouldn't be in a place like this if you want to be happy. Why don't I drive you home?" Claude spoke in a gentle tone. A smile curved across Yvette's face as she looked at him. "You're a good person." Complex emotions stirred in Claude when he saw her bitter smile. He wondered what she had been through these past few years. Why did she seem so sorrowful? Meanwhile, Xavier was also at the bar. After settling the divorce papers, he had let himself loose every night. On top of that, he hadn't returned to Dewberry Estate in a long time. It was getting late. When the crowd was about to leave, Daphne noticed a familiar figure in a corner of the bar. She exclaimed, "Isn't that Yvvy?" Xavier glanced in the direction Daphne was staring in and saw a man merrily chatting with Yvette. His expression soured at once. He was disappointed in Yvette for getting drunk at a bar and chatting up another man. He felt like he had thought too highly of her before. "Should we go and check up on her, Xav?" asked Daphne. "No," was all Xavier said before speedily leaving. On the other hand, Yvette declined Claude's offer. "There's no need to trouble yourself. I can go home on my own." Claude was still worried about Yvette, so he ran after her when he noticed her leaving the bar. "Do you really not remember me?" Yvette gazed at him but couldn't recall who he was. "It's Chubbs. Have you forgotten?" Claude reminded her. Only then did Yvette remember her friend, Chubbs, whom she met when she had been living with Viola in the countryside. Back then, Claude had been chubbier and nowhere near Yvette's height. Yet, his six-foot-two-inch frame now towered over her. He had even grown to have handsome features. "I remember now! You've changed so much. I didn't even recognize you!" said Yvette. Meeting an old friend away from home was a pleasant thing. But only a slight smile curved on Yvette's face. That upset Claude. "Come on. I'll drive you home," Claude stated. When he dropped her off, he was shocked to learn she lived in a run-down hotel. Yvette shifted in embarrassment. "Sorry, it's not a glamorous place. Please don't tell Viola I'm living in such a place. I don't want her to worry." Claude nodded. Since it was getting late, it was unwise for him to stay longer. So, he left after telling Yvette he would visit her the next day. He didn't notice the matte black car lingering in a dark area beneath the hotel as he walked out. Now that Claude had left, Yvette felt dizzy and had an upset stomach from drinking too much. That was when someone knocked hard on the door. Yvette had just opened the door when Xavier grabbed her wrist. He exerted so much strength on her slender wrist that it felt close to snapping in half. "You've made me look at you in a new light, Yvette!" Xavier snarled while shutting and locking the door. He then forcefully led her to the couch. He sneered with words as sharp and lethal as a blade, "So, you've already settled on which family you'll marry into next, huh? I knew you wouldn't be so willing to let me go for no reason!" Yvette didn't know why he had come over, nor did she know how he had seen Claude. She was only briefly dazed. Once she snapped out of it, she shot a furious look at Xavier and didn't bother explaining herself to him. The rims of her eyes reddened. "You and I aren't that different from each other." The Snyder family had tricked Xavier into marrying Yvette. However, Xavier had treated her coldly for three years while remaining entangled with his first love. Neither Xavier nor Yvette was a better person than the other. Xavier had also drunk some wine, so he reeked of it. Eyes reddening, he pinched Yvette's chin and spoke with a dangerously low voice. "Who is he? When did you guys meet?" That was the first time Yvette had seen him behave like this. She suddenly chuckled. "Are you jealous?" Xavier's gaze grew tense as he scoffed. "You're unworthy of such a reaction." Yvette became choked up. That was when Xavier leaned in domineeringly and continued interrogating her. "Has he already touched you? Huh?" In her three years of marriage, Yvette had given up on her work and declined to meet her friends whenever they had occasionally invited her out. She had done so to obey the Lane family's rules. But now Xavier was suspicious of her. Relief washed over Yvette just then. She questioned him back, "What do you think?" That utterly angered Xavier, and his heated hands started travelling down her body. | Read freely | 18 | https://facebook.com/61557986570531 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715324400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879766 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410721 | 1723321856 | 995 | 1361528064521212 | 1 | 7.4287710132688E+14 | 1715410800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 250753834794512 | 0 | Read freely | 120208075188720056 | beokn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | β€οΈπWhat happens nextπClick Here to read onπ | https://beokn.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=11230&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717941362 | 2.5075383479451E+14 | Read freely | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/422079631_823590829824839_4719608256142825580_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=X0arSR329ugQ7kNvgFznJUe&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBCybnyEjPstfL-T8Ns-_chW2Zg5909W9W-lMZXE8xwkg&oe=6672CB06 | person_profile | 0 | Read freely | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441057328_1702104656985535_4588455529970348064_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=5anZ9pA6410Q7kNvgG9aKIE&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCRB-k4bkzqrpLp8SCU41jIJSVrD8mXEJ_6VsTi8QlSuA&oe=6672C68A | 0 | 3 | Yvette Snyder stood at the entrance of the hospital, her body frail, clutching a report in her thin hands. Three words on the report stood out: "No conception detected". "You've been married for three years. How are you not conceived?" Her mother, Yara Cadwell, demanded, jabbing a finger in Yvette's face disappointedly. Yara was dressed lavishly and wore high heels. "Why are you so useless? If you don't get conceived soon, the Lanes are going to kick you out of the family. What's going to happen to our family then?" Yvette looked at Yara blankly. She had a lot to say, but the words were stuck in her throat. In the end, all she could manage was, "I'm sorry." "I don't want you to be sorry. I want you to give birth to Xavier's child. Do you understand me?" Yvette's throat felt tight; she didn't know how to answer Yara. In their three years of marriage, her husband, Xavier Lane, had never slept with her. How could she ever have his child? Yara stared at Yvette. The latter's weak demeanor was so unlike her own. Finally, she said coldly before leaving, "If you really can't give him a child, then find him a woman who can. At least he'll appreciate you for that." Yvette stared after Yara's retreating figure in disbelief. Had her own mother just told her to find another woman for her husband to sleep with? ... As Yvette made her journey home, she couldn't stop thinking about Yara's parting words. Suddenly, a loud ringing in her ear drowned out her thoughts. She knew that her condition had worsened. Just then, she received a message on her phone. It was from Xavier, and the content was the same as always. "I'm not coming home tonight." In the past three years they had been married, Xavier had never spent the night at home before. He had never so much as touched Yvette either. Yvette could remember their wedding night three years ago. He had told her, "Since your family is bold enough to trick me into marrying you, you'd better be prepared to spend the rest of your life in loneliness." Three years ago, the Snyder and Lane families had decided to form an alliance through marriage. Both families had agreed to mutually beneficial terms in the agreement. But when the day of the wedding came around, the Snyder family went back on their word and transferred all of their assets away, including the billions that Xavier had paid to marry Yvette. Yvette's eyes dulled at the memory. She replied to Xavier's text with her usual response: "Okay." Without her realizing it, the report she was holding got scrunched up in her hands. When she got home, Yvette tossed the report into the trash can. Every month, around this time, she would feel unusually lethargic. Yvette didn't prepare dinner for herself. She just leaned back on the couch, blearily drifting in and out of sleep. The rumbling in her ear persisted. That was another reason why Xavier hated herβshe was hard of hearing, which, to the rich and powerful, was no better than being crippled. Xavier would never allow her to carry his child. β¦ At 5 o'clock in the morning, the pendulum clock on the wall chimed dully. Xavier would be home in an hour. Yvette realized too late that she had fallen asleep on the couch. She got up hastily and went to the kitchen to prepare Xavier's breakfast. Xavier was a meticulous man who was strict about punctuality, not only with himself but also with the people around him. He arrived home at six o'clock sharp. Xavier was a tall and handsome man. Clad in a smart tailored suit, his demeanor was quiet and reserved, yet undoubtedly masculine. However, to Yvette, he was cold and distant. Xavier didn't even look at Yvette. He walked right past her to look at the food on the table and said with a scoff, "You do this every day. Are you a nanny or what?" Over the past three years, Yvette had been doing the same things over and over again. She wore the same dark clothes and replied to his messages with the same singular word. If it hadn't been for the business alliance and the Snyders' deceit, Xavier would never have married a woman like Yvette. At the word "nanny", the rumbling in Yvette's ears returned. She swallowed, feeling a lump in her throat, and said bravely, "Xav, do you have someone that you like?" Her sudden question surprised Xavier. His eyes darkened. "What do you mean by that?" Yvette raised her head and stared at him, swallowing the bile rising in the back of her throat. "If you love someone else, you can be with herβ" Before she could finish, Xavier interrupted her. "You're mad." ... After Xavier left, Yvette sat on the balcony alone, staring out into the cold rain. The sound of the raindrops drifted in and out of clarity. She took off her hearing aids, letting the world around her fall into silence. A month ago, her doctor had told her, "Ms. Snyder, there's been a pathological change in your auditory nerves and some of your cranial nerves, causing your hearing to worsen. If this goes on, you may lose your hearing completely." Not used to a silent world, Yvette went to the living room and turned on the television. She turned up the volume to the max, which allowed her to hear some sound. By coincidence, the television was showing an interview with Daphne Reyes, an internationally renowned singer known for her love songs. Yvette's hands trembled slightly as she gripped the remote control. Daphne was Xavier's first love. It had been a long time since Yvette had seen her, but Daphne was still as pretty as ever. She was confident and relaxed in front of the cameras, unlike the shy and frightened young woman who had begged the Snyders for sponsorship in the past. When the interviewer asked Daphne why she had returned to her home country, her answer was bold. "I came home to get my first love back." The remote control slipped out of Yvette's hands. Her heart also fell to her stomach. Flustered, Yvette turned off the television and went to the table to clean up the uneaten breakfast. When she got to the kitchen, she found that Xavier had forgotten to take his phone. She picked it up and saw the unread messages on the lock screen. "Xav, you must have been unhappy over the past few years, right?" "I know you don't love her. How about we meet up tonight? I've missed you." Yvette stared blankly at the messages until the screen went dark again. Then, she called a cab to Xavier's office. On the way, she stared out of the window. The rain fell incessantly. It felt like it would never stop. Xavier never liked it when Yvette visited him at his office, so whenever she was there, she would take the service elevator from the loading bay. When Xavier's assistant, Mark Xyrax, saw her, he just greeted her impassively, "Ms. Snyder." No one around Xavier considered Yvette his wife. She was nothing but a smear on his reputation. When Xavier saw Yvette bringing him his phone, he frowned. She was always like this. No matter what he forgot, be it his lunch, his documents, a shirt, or even an umbrella, she would bring them to him. "I thought I told you that you didn't need to deliver my things to me yourself." Yvette froze. "Sorry, I forgot." Since when had her memory been so bad? Maybe she had panicked after seeing Daphne's message and became afraid that Xavier would disappear from her life suddenly. Before she left, she looked back at Xavier. Unable to help herself, she blurted out, "Xav, do you still like Daphne?" Xavier thought that Yvette had been behaving rather strangely lately. She kept forgetting things and asking weird questions. How could a person like her be his wife? Impatiently, he replied, "If you have so much free time, go find yourself something to do." Yvette had tried getting a job before, but Xavier's mother, Shannon Guetta, had reprimanded her without holding back. "Do you want the whole world to know that Xav married a disabled woman with hearing issues?" Therefore, Yvette had given up on finding a job and focused on her fruitless life as "Mrs. Lane" at Dewberry Estate. β¦ At home, she sat alone until nightfall. She couldn't sleep. Just then, the phone on her bedside table rang loudly. It was a call from an unfamiliar number. Yvette picked up the call. A familiar voice, yet one she dreaded, sounded from the other end. "Is this Yvvy? Xav is drunk. Can you come pick him up?" When Yvette arrived at Sternhow Club, she heard loud coaxing and jeering from the wealthy heirs inside the private room. "Daph, didn't you say you came back to get our dear Mr. Lane back into your arms? This is your chance now. Go on, tell him how you feel!" Daphne was a pretty woman who was popular wherever she went. She was also Xavier's first love, so the rich young men of the upper crust were happy to push the two together. Daphne wasn't shy at all. She turned to Xavier and said without any reservations, "I like you, Xav. Please be with me again." That was what Yvette heard when she arrived at the door of the private room. Inside, the other people were urging Xavier to answer Daphne. His best friend, Tristan Shaw, was the most vocal among them. "Xav, you've been waiting for Daphne for three years. She's back now. So, go on, answer her!" Yvette stood frozen outside the door. Her heart was pounding. Just then, one of the men pulled the door open. "Ms. Snyder?" Chapter 2 Everyone in the private room looked over at the door. For a moment, the room was eerily silent. Yvette immediately caught sight of Xavier in the middle of the room. His eyes were clear and bright. He was clearly not drunk. She knew that she had been tricked by Daphne. When Xavier saw Yvette, his pupils constricted. Everyone else in the room looked awkward, including Tristan, who had been the most vocal in getting Xavier to accept Daphne's confession earlier. Yvette shouldn't have gone there. Daphne was the first to break the silence. "Please don't get the wrong idea, Yvvy. Tristan was joking. Xavier and I are just friends." Before Yvette could answer, Xavier stood up impatiently. "There's no need to explain it to her." Then, he stalked over to Yvette. "What are you doing here?" "I thought you were drunk, so I came to take you home," Yvette answered truthfully. Xavier scoffed. "You really didn't retain anything I told you, did you?" Lowering his voice, he said softly so that only she could hear him, "Are you here to remind everyone that I was tricked into marrying you three years ago? Did you think they forgot?" Yvette was stunned. Xavier gave her a cold look. "Stop seeking attention. You're only making me hate you more." With that, he turned away, leaving Yvette standing alone. Yvette stared after his retreating figure, unable to snap out of her shock. None of the other scions in the room took pity on her when they saw Xavier ignoring her. Tristan even had no qualms in telling Daphne, who was feigning distress, "You're too kind, Daphne. You didn't need to explain anything. "If Yvette hadn't scammed Xav, he would've married you in the first place. You wouldn't have needed to suffer abroad as well." Despite the constant ringing in her ears, Yvette could still hear every word clearly. She knew better than anyone that even if Xavier hadn't married her, he wouldn't have married Daphne. Daphne was a nobody with no background, after all. Daphne was well aware of this as well. That was why she had chosen to break up with Xavier and leave the country. How had everything turned out to be Yvette's fault? When Yvette left Sternhow Club with her umbrella, she felt as if she had been enveloped by darkness. Just then, a lithe figure appeared beside her. It was Daphne. She was decked out in fine clothes, complete with high heels. She looked smug. "It's a cold night, isn't it? So, how does it feel to get scoffed at by Xavier after you came all the way here at this time to get him?" Yvette didn't answer her, but Daphne didn't mind her silence. She just continued speaking. "I do pity you, you know. You've never experienced true love before, have you? "Do you know that when I was with Xav, he would cook for me himself? When I was sick, he would drop everything and stay with me. "Has Xav ever told you he loves you? He used to say that to me all the timeβ¦" Yvette listened to Daphne's rambling quietly, her mind going over the past three years she had been married to Xavier. He had never so much as stepped into the kitchen during that time. When she had gotten sick, he had never comforted her. He had never told her he loved her either. β¦ That night, Yvette couldn't fall asleep. She had only just found out that the man she had loved for the past 12 years had once loved another with all his heart, in the spectacular way that only young people could. At that moment, she realized that it was time for her to give him up. She had a sleepless night. The next morning, Xavier returned home. The glare he gave her was cold. "How attached are you to the Lane family's money, to me, your money-making robot?" he demanded. Yvette was stunned. She didn't know what had gotten into him so early in the morning. Instinctively, she said, "I never wanted your money." She had only ever wanted Xavier. Xavier laughed in disdain. "Then, why did your mother come to my office and beg me to give you a child?" Yvette was stunned. She stared into Xavier's eyes. It was only then that she realized that he wasn't angry about what had happened last night. Xavier had no desire to waste his breath on her. "If you want to continue staying with me and keep your family afloat, tell your mother to behave herself!" ... In the end, Yvette didn't need to look for Yara. Yara found Yvette instead. She was no longer cold and distant; she gripped Yvette's hands and said gently, "Yvvy, you should ask Xavier to give you a child. He doesn't have to do it biologically. He could do it through scientific measures." Scientific measures. Yvette stared at Yara in shock as the latter continued, "Daphne told me that Xavier hasn't slept with you in the past three years." That was the last straw for Yvette. She didn't know why Xavier would tell Daphne about that. Maybe he really loved Daphne a lot. With that thought, she suddenly felt relieved. "Just let it go, Mom." Yara paused. She frowned. "What?" "I'm tired. I want to get a divorceβ" Before she could finish, Yara slapped her hard across the face. The kind, motherly facade was gone in an instant. She jabbed a finger at Yvette and gritted out, "You have no right to ask for a divorce! "Without the Lane family, what do you think you're going to do? Who's going to remarry a disabled divorcee like you?" Yvette felt her body go numb. Yara had never liked Yvette, even when the latter had been a child. Yara had been a famous dancer. The fact that she had given birth to a daughter with hearing issues was one of her biggest regrets. Therefore, she had sent Yvette away to be taken care of by a nanny. She had only allowed Yvette to return home when the latter started school. People used to tell Yvette that every mother loved their child. So, she had done everything she could to excel at everything in hopes of making Yara happy. Despite her hearing issues, she had been at the top of her class in dance, music, and art classes. But no matter how hard she tried, Yara still didn't consider her a good daughter. In Yara's words, Yvette wasn't "complete". Not only physically, but also in love and familial relationships. After Yara left, Yvette used some makeup to cover up the red print on her face. Then, she packed her bags quietly. Even after three years of married life, all her personal belongings fit into a single suitcase. After she finished packing up, she gathered her courage and sent Xavier a message. "Are you free tonight? I need to talk to you." Xavier didn't reply to her. Yvette's eyes darkened. She knew that he didn't want to reply to her messages. All she could do was wait for him to come home in the morning. She had thought that he wouldn't come home that night, but he got back at midnight. Yvette wasn't asleep at the time. She went up to him and took his coat and bag from him with familiarity in her actions. It was as if they were a normal married couple. Xavier's cold voice broke the peace. "Don't send me inane texts again." As Yvette held Xavier's coat, her hand trembled slightly. "I won't do it again," she mumbled. Xavier didn't notice anything wrong with her tone. He went straight to his study. Generally, if he came home, he would stay holed up in his study. He probably thought that someone who was hard of hearing would live in a silent world. Either that, or he simply didn't care about Yvette. That would explain why he got straight to discussing his acquisition of Snyder Group in his study as if nothing was wrong. When Yvette brought him some soup, she heard Xavier animatedly discussing work with his employees. He was talking about the acquisition of Snyder Group, her father, James Snyder's company. She didn't know how to feel about that. She knew that her brother, Terrence Synder, was useless at running a business, so it was only a matter of time before Snyder Group fell. However, she had never thought that her own husband would be the first to cause Snyder Group's downfall. "Xav," she interrupted. Xavier was slightly startled. Out of guilt, or maybe some other emotion, he quickly hung up the phone and closed his laptop. Feigning ignorance, Yvette walked into the study and placed the bowl in front of him. "Have some soup, then get to bed soon. Your health is more important than work." For some reason, Xavier felt himself relax when he heard her soft voice. She probably hadn't heard anything. Feeling conflicted, he stopped Yvette before she could leave. "You said you wanted to talk to me. What is it?" Hearing this, Yvette turned back to look at him. Softly, she said, "I just wanted to ask if you're free in the morning so we can go and file for divorce." Chapter 3 Yvette's voice was calm and impassive, as though divorce were a menial matter to her. Xavier's pupils contracted. "What did you just say?" Over the last three years, no matter what he had done, Yvette had never brought up divorce. In truth, Xavier knew that Yvette loved him. Her eyes, which were usually dull and empty, were clear and bright now. "I'm sorry for being a burden over the last few years, Mr. Lane. We should get divorced." Xavier clenched his fists unconsciously. "You heard what I said earlier, didn't you? Snyder Group was already failing; it won't matter whether I buy it or someone else does. What are you trying to do by bringing up divorce? "Is it because you want money? Or a child? Or do you want me to leave Snyder Group alone?" he asked coldly. "Don't forget that I don't love you. Your threats won't work on me!" At that moment, he seemed like a stranger to Yvette. A lump formed in her throat as her ears began throbbing. Even though she was wearing her hearing aids, she could barely hear what Xavier was saying. She could only answer his last question. "I don't want anything." Afraid that he would notice something wrong with her, Yvette left the study in a hurry. As he watched her leave, Xavier felt frustrated for some reason. He had never felt like this before. Not one to hold in his emotions, he flipped the table over. The bowl of soup that Yvette had brought him spilled all over the ground. ... Back in her own room, Yvette forced herself to swallow a handful of pills. She reached up to touch her ear. As she retracted her fingers, she saw crimson blood on them. Thanks to the medicine, her hearing recovered a little by the time it was dawn. Yvette stared blankly at the soft rays of sunlight streaming from the window. "The rain has stopped," she said quietly to herself. Xavier didn't leave the manor that day. He was in the living room bright and early, settled on the couch, waiting for Yvette to apologize and express her regret to him. This wasn't the first time Yvette had lost her temper with him. However, after every tantrum, she would apologize to him before long. Xavier figured that it would be the same this time around. Soon, he saw Yvette coming out of her room, all freshened up. She wore her usual dark-colored clothes. She dragged a suitcase with one hand while holding a piece of paper in the other. She handed the paper to him. It was a divorce agreement. "Let me know when you have time, Xav." With that, she left the manor, pulling her suitcase behind her. It was bright and sunny outside. Yvette felt as if she had gotten a new chance at life. Meanwhile, Xavier sat frozen on the couch, still clutching the divorce agreement in his hand. It took him a long time to come back to his senses. It was Saturday. Usually, around this time of the year, Xavier would take Yvette back to his hometown to pay respects to his ancestors. During this time, they would have to endure strange looks from his extended family. However, he was alone that day, which made him extraordinarily happy. At Lane Mansion, Shannon and the rest of the Lanes were surprised to see him alone. In the past, Yvette had always been the first one to turn up every year and the last to leave since she had been trying to please everyone. Why wasn't she there today? Shanon frowned and asked Xavier, "Where's Yvette, Xav?" Xavier's expression turned cold. "She wanted a divorce and left me." Everyone fell silent in disbelief when he said that. Shannon was shocked. She knew that Yvette probably loved Xavier more than anything in the world, only surpassed by his own parents. Seven years ago, Yvette had even protected Xavier with her own body when someone had attempted to stab him. Four years ago, not long after the two had gotten engaged, something had happened to Xavier while he had been on a business trip in Dibay. Everyone had been convinced that he was dead, but Yvette had refused to believe that. She had dropped everything and gone to the foreign city just to look for him. Then, after they had gotten married, Yvette had taken care of almost everything in his life with meticulous precision, including being polite to everyone around him, even his secretaries. She had always been afraid of offending them. Yvette clearly couldn't live without Xavier. So, why had she suggested getting a divorce? Shannon had no idea, but she was glad that Yvette had finally decided to let Xavier go. "She's not worthy to be your wife anyway. It's a good thing that you're divorcing her. She doesn't deserve you," she said The others immediately chimed in. "Yeah, you're young and handsome, Xav. You're in your best years now. Yvette's been dragging you down all this time!" Instantly, the gathering turned into a slander fest. They spoke of Yvette as if she were an unforgivable criminal. Xavier should have felt happy that they were defending him, but for some reason, he found their words too sharp and crass. He left Lane Mansion earlier than usual and made his way back to Dewberry Estate. The sky was just starting to darken when he arrived home. He opened the door and entered the manor. When he saw nothing but darkness, he remembered, with a start, that Yvette had left. He changed into his house slippers and tossed his coat into the washer. For some reason, he felt unusually exhausted today. He went to the wine cellar to get a bottle of wine so that he could celebrate Yvette's leaving. However, when he got to the wine cellar and saw the locked door, he realized too late that he didn't have the key. He didn't like strangers in his house, so there were no maids or servants at Dewberry Estate. Ever since he had married Yvette, she had been the one taking care of the household affairs. He could only go back to his room. Picking up his phone, he scrolled through his messages only to find work-related texts. Yvette hadn't called or texted him to apologize at all. Tossing his phone aside, he got up and headed over to the kitchen. When he opened the door of the fridge, he was stunned. Apart from food, there were also a lot of supplements. He picked one of the bags up and read the instructions on it. "Take five times a day for incapable of conceived." He took a whiff of the supplement. It smelled disgusting. He recalled that Yvette always smelled strange. So, this was why. He scoffed silently. They had never slept, so no matter how much medicine she took, she would never have gotten conceived. ... Meanwhile, over in a dark and dinky hotel, Yvette opened her eyes blearily. Her head was pounding. The world was silent. She knew, then, that her condition had worsened again. Before this, she had still been able to hear some sounds, even without her hearing aids. She pushed herself up and felt around on the bedside table until she found her medicine. She popped the pills in her mouth, tasting their bitterness. The day before, she had left Dewberry Estate, which had been her home for the past three years. At first, she had gone to her parents' house, Snyder Residence. However, at the door, she had overheard Yara and Terrence discussing how they would marry her off to an old man if the Lanes kicked her out. Yvette had blanked upon hearing that. It was then that she finally realized that she had no place to call home anymore. Even though she hadn't eaten anything in two days, she still didn't feel hungry. However, it was too quiet. The silence scared her. It had been raining more frequently in Tirion this year than it had in previous years. Yvette stared out at the passing pedestrians. Most of them were paired up or in groups. She was the only one alone. She bought a bus ticket heading out of the city. She decided to go to her nanny's house in the countryside. Viola Xenos, her nanny, had taken care of her when she was a child. It was already 9:00 pm when Yvette got there. When Viola saw Yvette, she looked pleasantly surprised. Yvette teared up when she saw Viola's warm smile. She reached out to her and hugged her. "Viola." Due to health issues, Viola had never married and didn't have children of her own. Yvette was closer to her than she was to her own mother. That night, Yvette cuddled up in Viola's embrace, just like she had when she was a child. Viola wrapped her arms around Yvette, only to realize that the latter was very thin. She pressed a hand on the Yvette's bony back, trembling uncontrollably. Forcing herself to calm down, she asked cautiously, "Has Xavier been treating you well, Yvvy?" Yvette felt a sharp pain in her throat when she heard Xavier's name. She wanted to lie to Viola and tell her that Xavier had treated her well, but she knew that Viola wasn't silly. Since she had already made up her mind to leave him, there was no need to lie to herself or to the people who loved her any longer. "The person he loves has returned. I've decided to let him go and divorce him." Viola was stunned. She couldn't believe her ears. Yvette had told her multiple times before that she wanted to spend the rest of her life with Xavier. Not knowing what else to say, she comforted Yvette by telling her that there were plenty of other fish in the sea. There was bound to be one who would love her. Yvette just nodded silently. The buzzing in her ears drowned out Viola's comforting voice. That night, she managed to get a good night's sleep, which was rare. However, when she woke up, she was greeted with the alarming sight of blood staining the spot where her head had laid on the pillow. Yvette touched her right ear. Her fingers felt sticky. She looked at her hand. It was covered in blood. Chapter 4 Even Yvette's hearing aids were stained red. Her pupils contracted, and she quickly grabbed some tissues to wipe her ear. Then, she stripped the bedsheets and washed them. She was afraid that Viola would worry about her if she found out that her illness was worsening. So, she cleaned up the mess and found an excuse to bid goodbye to Viola. Before she left, she placed a part of her savings on the bedside table without telling Viola. Viola walked Yvette to the bus stop and waved goodbye reluctantly. β¦ After Yvette left, Viola couldn't stop thinking about how thin the former was. Unable to just sit by, she called Lane Group. When the secretary heard that Viola was Yvette's nanny and wanted to speak to Xavier, she transferred the call to Xavier's line. It was the third day after Yvette had left Xavier. It was also the first time in three days that he had received a call about her. Sitting behind his desk, he felt exceptionally pleased. Just as he had expected, Yvette wouldn't be able to last more than three days without himβor so he thought. Viola's voice came through the other line, sounding weighed with age. "Mr. Lane, I am Yvvy's nanny. I've been taking care of her since she was a baby. "Please, I beg you, treat her well. Don't hurt her more than you already have. She's not as strong as she seems on the surface. "When she was born, Mrs. Snyder left her in my care because she didn't like that Yvvy is hard of hearing. Yvvy only returned home when she had to start going to school. "The Snyders have never treated her as one of their own. Apart from Mr. Snyder, everyone else treated her like she was a maid. "You and Mr. Snyder are the most important people she has in this world. I'm begging you, please. Please be kind to her." Xavier's mood darkened when he heard what Viola said. "Did she tell you to give me this sob story because she didn't want to face me herself?" he asked coldly. "Why should I care about her life? If you ask me, she deserved everything she got!" That said, he hung up the phone without waiting for an answer. Viola had heard Yvette gushing about how nice Xavier was to her. So, it was only then that she realized the truthβXavier wasn't a good man at all. He wasn't a good husband to Yvette. ... Yvette sat on the bus, heading home. Just then, her phone vibrated. It was a message from Xavier. "You said you wanted to get divorced, right? I'll see you at 10:00 am tomorrow." Yvette stared at the text blankly for a while before replying, "Okay." Just one word. It infuriated Xavier and completely ruined his mood. Unable to work anymore, he called up his friends and invited them out for drinks. Daphne was also at the club when he arrived. "I'm not going home until I'm drunk!" she declared. Tristan sat down beside Xavier. He couldn't help asking curiously, "How's Deaf Yvvy?" Xavier raised an eyebrow at him. "There's no need to talk about her ever again. We're filing for divorce tomorrow." Tristan was stunned. He couldn't believe his ears. "Really?" Beside them, Daphne brightened. She poured out a shot for him. "Congrats on getting back your freedom, Xav!" Xavier drank a lot that night. Daphne offered to send him home, but he rejected her suggestion. "No need. It's not appropriate." If he and Yvette were going to get divorced tomorrow, she might come home that night. Daphne wasn't happy about the rejection. "Why? You're divorcing her anyway. Why wouldn't it be appropriate? Are you still scared that she might find out about our relationship?" Their relationship? Xavier narrowed his eyes. "You're overthinking this." He got into his own car. Out of consideration, he also called a cab to send Daphne home. On the drive home, he kept unlocking his phone to check if Yvette had sent him any messages. She hadn't. When he reached Dewberry Estate, it was dark. With a stormy expression, Xavier opened the door and turned on the light. Yvette was nowhere to be seen. She hadn't come home. The manor was left exactly the way it had been when she had left. Still feeling the effects of the wine, Xavier threw himself heavily onto the couch and soon fell asleep. In his nightmares, Yvette was covered in blood, but there was a smile on her face. "I don't love you anymore, Xav," she said. When Xavier jolted awake, the sky outside had just brightened up. He rubbed his forehead and went to the bathroom to freshen himself up. Then, he changed into a smart suit and made his way to the courthouse. At the entrance of the courthouse, he spotted Yvette standing under a tree not far off. As usual, she was dressed in dark-colored clothes. From the distance, she looked incredibly frail and thin as she stood amid the drizzle. It was as if a single gust of wind could knock her over. Xavier could still remember how young and lively she had been when they had first gotten married. She hadn't been as thin and gloomy back then. Holding an umbrella, he walked toward Yvette. It took her a few moments to notice him. Xiaver hadn't changed much over the last three years. He was as handsome and as confident as ever, with the added hint of matureness that came with age. Yvette was a little dazed. The last three years felt like a blink in time to her, yet she also seemed to have exhausted a whole lifetime. Xavier stalked over to Yvette and gazed at her coldly. He was waiting for her to apologize to him. She had been sulking enough. It was time to put an end to this. However, Yvette just said, "I'm sorry to pull you away from your work. Let's go in." Xavier stiffened, but he quickly recovered. "Don't regret this." With that, he turned and headed into the courthouse. Yvette stared after him sadly. Would she regret this? She didn't know either. In the courthouse, the judge asked them if they were sure about going through with the divorce. Yvette's answer was firm. "Yes." Her determined expression frustrated Xavier. After filing for divorce, they still had to return to the courthouse in a month. If they didn't show up, then the divorce would be considered null. As they left the courthouse, Yvette looked at Xavier, her expression unusually calm. "I'll see you next month. Take care." With that, she stepped out into the rain, hailed a cab, and left. Xavier was left standing on the spot. He didn't know how to feel as he watched her car leave. Relieved, probably. Relieved that he wouldn't need to put up with her any longer or endure others' ridicule for having a disabled wife. ... In the cab, Yvette leaned against the window and stared blankly at the rain droplets on the glass. In the rearview mirror, the driver suddenly saw blood dripping from her ear. He was shocked by the sight. "Miss? Miss!" Yvette didn't answer him. The driver hastily stopped the car. Yvette was confused. They weren't at her destination yet. Why had they stopped? She looked over at the driver and saw him mouthing silently. She realized that she had gone deaf again. "I'm sorry, I can't hear you. What are you saying?" In the end, the driver had to type out what he wanted to say on his phone so that he could tell her about her bleeding ear. Yvette reached out belatedly and felt the warm sensation in her ear. She was used to it now. "It's alright. This happens all the time. I'm fine." She was hard of hearing, but her ears hadn't bled like this before. Two years ago, at a gathering, Tristan had pushed her into a swimming pool. Yvette didn't know how to swim, so she had almost drowned. At the same time, her eardrums had also expanded due to the pressure. She had been sent to the hospital, but the damage had been done. At the time, she had been told that everything was fine. Why was this happening again? The cab driver was still worried, so he dropped her off at the hospital she told him. After thanking him, Yvette went into the hospital on her own. This time, she saw her usual doctor, Tom Jensen. "Dr. Jensen, my memory has been rather bad lately. I kept forgetting what I'm doing," she said. When she had woken up at the hotel that morning, it had taken her a long time to remember that she had to file for divorce with Xavier. Tom looked at her latest report worriedly. "Ms. Snyder, I think you should consider getting tested for other things. Specifically, mental health issues." Mental healthβ¦ Following Tom's recommendation, Yvette went and got a psychiatric diagnosis. She was diagnosed with depression. It turned out that patients with severe depression often experienced memory loss. Before heading back to the hotel, Yvette stopped and bought a notebook and a pen. She wrote down everything that had happened lately. She placed the notebook right beside her bed so that it would be the first thing she saw when she woke up in the morning. News of her and Xavier's divorce spread quickly. That night, Yara called her multiple times, but she didn't hear anything. β¦ When she woke up the next morning, she saw a barrage of texts from Yara. "Where are you?" "Who do you think you are? Even if you're getting a divorce, Xavier should have been the one to ask for it!" "You're such a jinx! Back when you got married, your dad got into a car crash and died. What's going to happen now that you're getting divorced? Do you want Snyder Group to go bankrupt? Is that it?" Yvette stared at the messages. She was used to the verbal bully by now. She typed out a reply. "Mom, it's time that we live by our own merits. We shouldn't depend on others so much." Yara's response was swift. "You're such an ingrate! I shouldn't have given birth to you in the first place!" Yvette didn't bother replying to that. She placed her phone aside. She just had to wait a month. Once the divorce was finalized, she would be able to leave Tirion and start a new life. β¦ Yvette's health worsened over the next few days. She often found herself completely deaf. Sometimes, it took a very long time for her hearing to go back to normal. Her memory was deteriorating too. On the bright side, even though her hearing loss was incurable, at least she could do something about the depression. She tried everything she could to keep herself happy. She busied herself by registering as a volunteer online. She spent time taking care of abandoned old people and orphans. Helping them made her feel like she had a reason to continue living. A few days later, Yvette woke up in the morning and checked her notebook as usual. Then, she got ready to head out to the orphanage. When she picked up her phone, she saw several unread messages. There were messages from Terrance and Yara, as well as Daphne. She opened the texts one by one. Yara: "As you wished, Snyder Group is no more." Terrence: "Keep hiding. You're the most cowardly and cruel person I've ever seen." Daphne: "My condolences, Yvette. Actually, I think Snyder Group would thrive better under Xav." Daphne: "Since your family has helped me so much in the past, do let me know if you need anything. I'll help you if I can." Yvette had no idea what was happening. She closed the messaging app. Almost immediately, she got a notification about the latest news. Chapter 5 Yvette watched the news and saw the press conference held by Lane Group. It was an announcement that Xavier had successfully acquired Snyder Group. James' company no longer existed in the world. β¦ Things on Xavier's end had been extra pleasant lately. He had acquired Snyder Group and gotten his revenge. "The Snyder family finally got what they deserved for tricking you into that marriage three years ago." Tristan chuckled. Yet, he changed the topic in the next instant. He asked Xavier, "Xav, has Deaf Yvvy approached you during the past few days?" Xavier froze halfway through signing a document. He didn't know why, but people around him kept mentioning Yvette these days. "No," he replied coldly. That shocked Tristan. After all, how could Yvette not do anything when something this massive had happened to her family? With that in mind, he spoke again. "Could it be that she's finally come around? I heard her family has been looking everywhere for her. Nobody knows where she's goneβ" He kept blabbering on. Xavier frowned, feeling utterly annoyed. "Get out!" Tristan jolted. That was when he realized that Xavier was furious. Not daring to say another word, Tristan bolted out of the CEO's office. Once outside, he took his phone and called his assistant, Avery Fitzpatrick. "Have you found Yvette?" "Yes, she's in a small hotel in Hexim Pass," answered Avery. Tristan had Avery send him the location before he drove there. He refused to let Yvette off the hook so easily. So what if she was willing to divorce Xavier now? She had already prevented Xavier and Daphne from being together for over three years! Besides, Daphne had saved Tristan's life once, so he owed her. It rained outside. Yvette finished her volunteer work and picked up her medication from the hospital. Then, she held an umbrella while walking back to the hotel. There were very few people on the road. Tristan drove his car but kept his eyes on Yvette's slim back. He deliberately sped up as he drove past her, sending a puddle of rainwater splashing onto her. Yvette shot him a blank stare. Tristan happened to meet her emotionless gaze through his rearview mirror. He didn't know why, but he felt inexplicably nervous. Yvette recognized Tristan's luxurious, dark gray Bugatti. Yet, she retracted her gaze and pretended not to notice him. Even so, Tristan refused to stop there. He deliberately slowed his car and followed her. "Hey, Deaf Yvvy. So, you have a temper now, huh? "You're not even going to greet me now? Didn't you used to love greeting me? Didn't you enjoy tickling my fancy?" Yvette remained stoic while the former mocked her. She used to do everything to win over those around Xavier, including his friends. It was all because she liked him. She had figured that Xavier's family and friends would one day accept her. Alas, it seemed she had been too naΓ―ve. At the previous gathering, Tristan had declared that he was Daphne's friend. He couldn't care less about maintaining his gentlemanly, upper-class image when siding with Daphne. He had insulted Yvette and called her shameless. In the end, he had also thrown her into the pool, leaving her to die. Since then, Yvette had steered clear of him. Upon receiving no reaction or response from Yvette, Tristan stopped the car, opened the door, and strolled toward her. He grabbed her arm and asked, "What stunts are you planning to pull this time?" Yvette's arm hurt, so she looked up at him. "I don't know what you're saying." She wanted to pry his hand off her arm, but he flung her aside. "Don't touch me with your filthy hands!" Tristan bellowed. Yvette stumbled backward before falling to the ground with a loud thud. Tristan froze on the spot in slight disbelief. It baffled him to see Yvette resorting to such tricks. He had only pushed her with a slight force, so how could she fall like that? Seeing people looking their way, he nervously got back into his car. Still, he gave her a warning before driving away. "Don't mess with Daph just because you're a disabled person, Yvette! "She's different from you. It's taken her a lot of effort to get to where she is now, so you'd better not disrupt her and Xav's relationship again!" After driving away, he even told the Snyder family where Yvette was staying. Yvette's hands and knees were scraped when she fell. It hurt so much that she couldn't stand for a long time. Deep down, she didn't understand why Tristan was so blind to what was right and wrong. She recalled risking her life to rescue him from a car that had been about to explode four years ago. His face had been covered in blood, and his eyes hadn't been visible. However, he had spoken in the warmest voice. He had said, "Thank you. I promise I'll repay you someday." Yvette couldn't help but bitterly wonder if this was his way of repaying her. β¦ Once Yvette returned to the hotel, she took a shower and applied medication to her scraped skin. Then, she lay down in a daze. The fall hardened her determination to leave Xavier for good. β¦ The sun was shining brightly outside when Yvette woke up. She got up and headed to the living area, only to see Yara sitting on the couch, wearing a formal dress. Yara didn't seem to care one bit that Yvette had just woken up. She picked the document off the coffee table and handed it to the latter. "Take a good look at this. It's the backup plan I've selected for you." Yvette accepted the document but saw the title "prenuptial agreement" on the cover. She flipped through the pages while reading the contents aloud. "Ms. Yvette Snyder will marry Mr. Liam Lorimer. As his wife, she'll devote herself to him and look after him until the end of his life. Liam will look after Yvette's family, which includes maintaining their quality of life. He'll also provide 300 million as funds for the Snyder family." Following that, the document stated Liam's details. He was an entrepreneur from the older generation in Tirion. He was 78 years old that year. Yvette's mind tensed. At that moment, Yara spoke up again. "Mr. Lorimer has expressed that he doesn't mind that you were married before. "He'll help revive our family's reputation from the ashes, as long as you marry him. Come on, dearest. You wouldn't let me and Terrence down, right?" Yvette's face paled even more. "I can't agree to what you're asking of me." Yara had never imagined that Yvette would reject her so candidly. She blew up in a fit of rage at once. "What right do you have to refuse? I gave you life!" Hearing that, Yvette met Yara's gaze. "How about I return my life to you? Would that mean I no longer owe you?" "What did you say?" Yara shrilled. Yvette's pale lips moved as she said, "If I returned my life to you, would it mean you'd no longer be my mother? And I'll no longer be indebted to you for giving birth to me?" Yara sneered, not believing Yvette would dare do such a thing. "Okay, then. I won't force you to marry Mr. Lorimer if you give your life back to me. But the question is, do you have the guts to do it?" "Give me a month." Yvette seemed determined. In Yara's eyes, Yvette seemed like a crazed person. She warned, "You'd best not threaten me by only saying you'll end your life. We're not that close, so I don't care if you die. However, you must sign this document if you're too afraid to end your life." β¦ Yvette had suppressed all her emotions to the brim and needed to vent somewhere. So, she went to a bar. She sat in a corner, drinking and watching the crowd happily dance in a daze. That was when a dashing man with striking eyes noticed Yvette, who was all alone. He approached and asked, "Yvette?" Yvette stared at the man but didn't recognize him. Still dazed, she asked, "Do you know how one can achieve happiness?" The man was confused. "What did you say?" Yvette continued drinking as she spoke. "The doctor says I'm ill and should try to be happier, but I can't make myself feel happyβ¦" That sparked discomfort in the man, Claude Lander. He wondered if Yvette had forgotten about him. Also, he was confused by what she saidβsomething about being ill and needing to be happier. "You shouldn't be in a place like this if you want to be happy. Why don't I drive you home?" Claude spoke in a gentle tone. A smile curved across Yvette's face as she looked at him. "You're a good person." Complex emotions stirred in Claude when he saw her bitter smile. He wondered what she had been through these past few years. Why did she seem so sorrowful? Meanwhile, Xavier was also at the bar. After settling the divorce papers, he had let himself loose every night. On top of that, he hadn't returned to Dewberry Estate in a long time. It was getting late. When the crowd was about to leave, Daphne noticed a familiar figure in a corner of the bar. She exclaimed, "Isn't that Yvvy?" Xavier glanced in the direction Daphne was staring in and saw a man merrily chatting with Yvette. His expression soured at once. He was disappointed in Yvette for getting drunk at a bar and chatting up another man. He felt like he had thought too highly of her before. "Should we go and check up on her, Xav?" asked Daphne. "No," was all Xavier said before speedily leaving. On the other hand, Yvette declined Claude's offer. "There's no need to trouble yourself. I can go home on my own." Claude was still worried about Yvette, so he ran after her when he noticed her leaving the bar. "Do you really not remember me?" Yvette gazed at him but couldn't recall who he was. "It's Chubbs. Have you forgotten?" Claude reminded her. Only then did Yvette remember her friend, Chubbs, whom she met when she had been living with Viola in the countryside. Back then, Claude had been chubbier and nowhere near Yvette's height. Yet, his six-foot-two-inch frame now towered over her. He had even grown to have handsome features. "I remember now! You've changed so much. I didn't even recognize you!" said Yvette. Meeting an old friend away from home was a pleasant thing. But only a slight smile curved on Yvette's face. That upset Claude. "Come on. I'll drive you home," Claude stated. When he dropped her off, he was shocked to learn she lived in a run-down hotel. Yvette shifted in embarrassment. "Sorry, it's not a glamorous place. Please don't tell Viola I'm living in such a place. I don't want her to worry." Claude nodded. Since it was getting late, it was unwise for him to stay longer. So, he left after telling Yvette he would visit her the next day. He didn't notice the matte black car lingering in a dark area beneath the hotel as he walked out. Now that Claude had left, Yvette felt dizzy and had an upset stomach from drinking too much. That was when someone knocked hard on the door. Yvette had just opened the door when Xavier grabbed her wrist. He exerted so much strength on her slender wrist that it felt close to snapping in half. "You've made me look at you in a new light, Yvette!" Xavier snarled while shutting and locking the door. He then forcefully led her to the couch. He sneered with words as sharp and lethal as a blade, "So, you've already settled on which family you'll marry into next, huh? I knew you wouldn't be so willing to let me go for no reason!" Yvette didn't know why he had come over, nor did she know how he had seen Claude. She was only briefly dazed. Once she snapped out of it, she shot a furious look at Xavier and didn't bother explaining herself to him. The rims of her eyes reddened. "You and I aren't that different from each other." The Snyder family had tricked Xavier into marrying Yvette. However, Xavier had treated her coldly for three years while remaining entangled with his first love. Neither Xavier nor Yvette was a better person than the other. Xavier had also drunk some wine, so he reeked of it. Eyes reddening, he pinched Yvette's chin and spoke with a dangerously low voice. "Who is he? When did you guys meet?" That was the first time Yvette had seen him behave like this. She suddenly chuckled. "Are you jealous?" Xavier's gaze grew tense as he scoffed. "You're unworthy of such a reaction." Yvette became choked up. That was when Xavier leaned in domineeringly and continued interrogating her. "Has he already touched you? Huh?" In her three years of marriage, Yvette had given up on her work and declined to meet her friends whenever they had occasionally invited her out. She had done so to obey the Lane family's rules. But now Xavier was suspicious of her. Relief washed over Yvette just then. She questioned him back, "What do you think?" That utterly angered Xavier, and his heated hands started travelling down her body. | Read freely | 18 | https://facebook.com/61557986570531 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715324400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879767 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410721 | 1723321856 | 995 | 1361528064521212 | 1 | 7.4287710132688E+14 | 1715410800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 250753834794512 | 0 | Read freely | 120208075188720056 | beokn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | β€οΈπWhat happens nextπClick Here to read onπ | https://beokn.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=11230&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717941362 | 2.5075383479451E+14 | Read freely | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/422079631_823590829824839_4719608256142825580_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=X0arSR329ugQ7kNvgFznJUe&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBCybnyEjPstfL-T8Ns-_chW2Zg5909W9W-lMZXE8xwkg&oe=6672CB06 | person_profile | 0 | Read freely | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441057328_1702104656985535_4588455529970348064_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=5anZ9pA6410Q7kNvgG9aKIE&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCRB-k4bkzqrpLp8SCU41jIJSVrD8mXEJ_6VsTi8QlSuA&oe=6672C68A | 0 | 3 | Yvette Snyder stood at the entrance of the hospital, her body frail, clutching a report in her thin hands. Three words on the report stood out: "No conception detected". "You've been married for three years. How are you not conceived?" Her mother, Yara Cadwell, demanded, jabbing a finger in Yvette's face disappointedly. Yara was dressed lavishly and wore high heels. "Why are you so useless? If you don't get conceived soon, the Lanes are going to kick you out of the family. What's going to happen to our family then?" Yvette looked at Yara blankly. She had a lot to say, but the words were stuck in her throat. In the end, all she could manage was, "I'm sorry." "I don't want you to be sorry. I want you to give birth to Xavier's child. Do you understand me?" Yvette's throat felt tight; she didn't know how to answer Yara. In their three years of marriage, her husband, Xavier Lane, had never slept with her. How could she ever have his child? Yara stared at Yvette. The latter's weak demeanor was so unlike her own. Finally, she said coldly before leaving, "If you really can't give him a child, then find him a woman who can. At least he'll appreciate you for that." Yvette stared after Yara's retreating figure in disbelief. Had her own mother just told her to find another woman for her husband to sleep with? ... As Yvette made her journey home, she couldn't stop thinking about Yara's parting words. Suddenly, a loud ringing in her ear drowned out her thoughts. She knew that her condition had worsened. Just then, she received a message on her phone. It was from Xavier, and the content was the same as always. "I'm not coming home tonight." In the past three years they had been married, Xavier had never spent the night at home before. He had never so much as touched Yvette either. Yvette could remember their wedding night three years ago. He had told her, "Since your family is bold enough to trick me into marrying you, you'd better be prepared to spend the rest of your life in loneliness." Three years ago, the Snyder and Lane families had decided to form an alliance through marriage. Both families had agreed to mutually beneficial terms in the agreement. But when the day of the wedding came around, the Snyder family went back on their word and transferred all of their assets away, including the billions that Xavier had paid to marry Yvette. Yvette's eyes dulled at the memory. She replied to Xavier's text with her usual response: "Okay." Without her realizing it, the report she was holding got scrunched up in her hands. When she got home, Yvette tossed the report into the trash can. Every month, around this time, she would feel unusually lethargic. Yvette didn't prepare dinner for herself. She just leaned back on the couch, blearily drifting in and out of sleep. The rumbling in her ear persisted. That was another reason why Xavier hated herβshe was hard of hearing, which, to the rich and powerful, was no better than being crippled. Xavier would never allow her to carry his child. β¦ At 5 o'clock in the morning, the pendulum clock on the wall chimed dully. Xavier would be home in an hour. Yvette realized too late that she had fallen asleep on the couch. She got up hastily and went to the kitchen to prepare Xavier's breakfast. Xavier was a meticulous man who was strict about punctuality, not only with himself but also with the people around him. He arrived home at six o'clock sharp. Xavier was a tall and handsome man. Clad in a smart tailored suit, his demeanor was quiet and reserved, yet undoubtedly masculine. However, to Yvette, he was cold and distant. Xavier didn't even look at Yvette. He walked right past her to look at the food on the table and said with a scoff, "You do this every day. Are you a nanny or what?" Over the past three years, Yvette had been doing the same things over and over again. She wore the same dark clothes and replied to his messages with the same singular word. If it hadn't been for the business alliance and the Snyders' deceit, Xavier would never have married a woman like Yvette. At the word "nanny", the rumbling in Yvette's ears returned. She swallowed, feeling a lump in her throat, and said bravely, "Xav, do you have someone that you like?" Her sudden question surprised Xavier. His eyes darkened. "What do you mean by that?" Yvette raised her head and stared at him, swallowing the bile rising in the back of her throat. "If you love someone else, you can be with herβ" Before she could finish, Xavier interrupted her. "You're mad." ... After Xavier left, Yvette sat on the balcony alone, staring out into the cold rain. The sound of the raindrops drifted in and out of clarity. She took off her hearing aids, letting the world around her fall into silence. A month ago, her doctor had told her, "Ms. Snyder, there's been a pathological change in your auditory nerves and some of your cranial nerves, causing your hearing to worsen. If this goes on, you may lose your hearing completely." Not used to a silent world, Yvette went to the living room and turned on the television. She turned up the volume to the max, which allowed her to hear some sound. By coincidence, the television was showing an interview with Daphne Reyes, an internationally renowned singer known for her love songs. Yvette's hands trembled slightly as she gripped the remote control. Daphne was Xavier's first love. It had been a long time since Yvette had seen her, but Daphne was still as pretty as ever. She was confident and relaxed in front of the cameras, unlike the shy and frightened young woman who had begged the Snyders for sponsorship in the past. When the interviewer asked Daphne why she had returned to her home country, her answer was bold. "I came home to get my first love back." The remote control slipped out of Yvette's hands. Her heart also fell to her stomach. Flustered, Yvette turned off the television and went to the table to clean up the uneaten breakfast. When she got to the kitchen, she found that Xavier had forgotten to take his phone. She picked it up and saw the unread messages on the lock screen. "Xav, you must have been unhappy over the past few years, right?" "I know you don't love her. How about we meet up tonight? I've missed you." Yvette stared blankly at the messages until the screen went dark again. Then, she called a cab to Xavier's office. On the way, she stared out of the window. The rain fell incessantly. It felt like it would never stop. Xavier never liked it when Yvette visited him at his office, so whenever she was there, she would take the service elevator from the loading bay. When Xavier's assistant, Mark Xyrax, saw her, he just greeted her impassively, "Ms. Snyder." No one around Xavier considered Yvette his wife. She was nothing but a smear on his reputation. When Xavier saw Yvette bringing him his phone, he frowned. She was always like this. No matter what he forgot, be it his lunch, his documents, a shirt, or even an umbrella, she would bring them to him. "I thought I told you that you didn't need to deliver my things to me yourself." Yvette froze. "Sorry, I forgot." Since when had her memory been so bad? Maybe she had panicked after seeing Daphne's message and became afraid that Xavier would disappear from her life suddenly. Before she left, she looked back at Xavier. Unable to help herself, she blurted out, "Xav, do you still like Daphne?" Xavier thought that Yvette had been behaving rather strangely lately. She kept forgetting things and asking weird questions. How could a person like her be his wife? Impatiently, he replied, "If you have so much free time, go find yourself something to do." Yvette had tried getting a job before, but Xavier's mother, Shannon Guetta, had reprimanded her without holding back. "Do you want the whole world to know that Xav married a disabled woman with hearing issues?" Therefore, Yvette had given up on finding a job and focused on her fruitless life as "Mrs. Lane" at Dewberry Estate. β¦ At home, she sat alone until nightfall. She couldn't sleep. Just then, the phone on her bedside table rang loudly. It was a call from an unfamiliar number. Yvette picked up the call. A familiar voice, yet one she dreaded, sounded from the other end. "Is this Yvvy? Xav is drunk. Can you come pick him up?" When Yvette arrived at Sternhow Club, she heard loud coaxing and jeering from the wealthy heirs inside the private room. "Daph, didn't you say you came back to get our dear Mr. Lane back into your arms? This is your chance now. Go on, tell him how you feel!" Daphne was a pretty woman who was popular wherever she went. She was also Xavier's first love, so the rich young men of the upper crust were happy to push the two together. Daphne wasn't shy at all. She turned to Xavier and said without any reservations, "I like you, Xav. Please be with me again." That was what Yvette heard when she arrived at the door of the private room. Inside, the other people were urging Xavier to answer Daphne. His best friend, Tristan Shaw, was the most vocal among them. "Xav, you've been waiting for Daphne for three years. She's back now. So, go on, answer her!" Yvette stood frozen outside the door. Her heart was pounding. Just then, one of the men pulled the door open. "Ms. Snyder?" Chapter 2 Everyone in the private room looked over at the door. For a moment, the room was eerily silent. Yvette immediately caught sight of Xavier in the middle of the room. His eyes were clear and bright. He was clearly not drunk. She knew that she had been tricked by Daphne. When Xavier saw Yvette, his pupils constricted. Everyone else in the room looked awkward, including Tristan, who had been the most vocal in getting Xavier to accept Daphne's confession earlier. Yvette shouldn't have gone there. Daphne was the first to break the silence. "Please don't get the wrong idea, Yvvy. Tristan was joking. Xavier and I are just friends." Before Yvette could answer, Xavier stood up impatiently. "There's no need to explain it to her." Then, he stalked over to Yvette. "What are you doing here?" "I thought you were drunk, so I came to take you home," Yvette answered truthfully. Xavier scoffed. "You really didn't retain anything I told you, did you?" Lowering his voice, he said softly so that only she could hear him, "Are you here to remind everyone that I was tricked into marrying you three years ago? Did you think they forgot?" Yvette was stunned. Xavier gave her a cold look. "Stop seeking attention. You're only making me hate you more." With that, he turned away, leaving Yvette standing alone. Yvette stared after his retreating figure, unable to snap out of her shock. None of the other scions in the room took pity on her when they saw Xavier ignoring her. Tristan even had no qualms in telling Daphne, who was feigning distress, "You're too kind, Daphne. You didn't need to explain anything. "If Yvette hadn't scammed Xav, he would've married you in the first place. You wouldn't have needed to suffer abroad as well." Despite the constant ringing in her ears, Yvette could still hear every word clearly. She knew better than anyone that even if Xavier hadn't married her, he wouldn't have married Daphne. Daphne was a nobody with no background, after all. Daphne was well aware of this as well. That was why she had chosen to break up with Xavier and leave the country. How had everything turned out to be Yvette's fault? When Yvette left Sternhow Club with her umbrella, she felt as if she had been enveloped by darkness. Just then, a lithe figure appeared beside her. It was Daphne. She was decked out in fine clothes, complete with high heels. She looked smug. "It's a cold night, isn't it? So, how does it feel to get scoffed at by Xavier after you came all the way here at this time to get him?" Yvette didn't answer her, but Daphne didn't mind her silence. She just continued speaking. "I do pity you, you know. You've never experienced true love before, have you? "Do you know that when I was with Xav, he would cook for me himself? When I was sick, he would drop everything and stay with me. "Has Xav ever told you he loves you? He used to say that to me all the timeβ¦" Yvette listened to Daphne's rambling quietly, her mind going over the past three years she had been married to Xavier. He had never so much as stepped into the kitchen during that time. When she had gotten sick, he had never comforted her. He had never told her he loved her either. β¦ That night, Yvette couldn't fall asleep. She had only just found out that the man she had loved for the past 12 years had once loved another with all his heart, in the spectacular way that only young people could. At that moment, she realized that it was time for her to give him up. She had a sleepless night. The next morning, Xavier returned home. The glare he gave her was cold. "How attached are you to the Lane family's money, to me, your money-making robot?" he demanded. Yvette was stunned. She didn't know what had gotten into him so early in the morning. Instinctively, she said, "I never wanted your money." She had only ever wanted Xavier. Xavier laughed in disdain. "Then, why did your mother come to my office and beg me to give you a child?" Yvette was stunned. She stared into Xavier's eyes. It was only then that she realized that he wasn't angry about what had happened last night. Xavier had no desire to waste his breath on her. "If you want to continue staying with me and keep your family afloat, tell your mother to behave herself!" ... In the end, Yvette didn't need to look for Yara. Yara found Yvette instead. She was no longer cold and distant; she gripped Yvette's hands and said gently, "Yvvy, you should ask Xavier to give you a child. He doesn't have to do it biologically. He could do it through scientific measures." Scientific measures. Yvette stared at Yara in shock as the latter continued, "Daphne told me that Xavier hasn't slept with you in the past three years." That was the last straw for Yvette. She didn't know why Xavier would tell Daphne about that. Maybe he really loved Daphne a lot. With that thought, she suddenly felt relieved. "Just let it go, Mom." Yara paused. She frowned. "What?" "I'm tired. I want to get a divorceβ" Before she could finish, Yara slapped her hard across the face. The kind, motherly facade was gone in an instant. She jabbed a finger at Yvette and gritted out, "You have no right to ask for a divorce! "Without the Lane family, what do you think you're going to do? Who's going to remarry a disabled divorcee like you?" Yvette felt her body go numb. Yara had never liked Yvette, even when the latter had been a child. Yara had been a famous dancer. The fact that she had given birth to a daughter with hearing issues was one of her biggest regrets. Therefore, she had sent Yvette away to be taken care of by a nanny. She had only allowed Yvette to return home when the latter started school. People used to tell Yvette that every mother loved their child. So, she had done everything she could to excel at everything in hopes of making Yara happy. Despite her hearing issues, she had been at the top of her class in dance, music, and art classes. But no matter how hard she tried, Yara still didn't consider her a good daughter. In Yara's words, Yvette wasn't "complete". Not only physically, but also in love and familial relationships. After Yara left, Yvette used some makeup to cover up the red print on her face. Then, she packed her bags quietly. Even after three years of married life, all her personal belongings fit into a single suitcase. After she finished packing up, she gathered her courage and sent Xavier a message. "Are you free tonight? I need to talk to you." Xavier didn't reply to her. Yvette's eyes darkened. She knew that he didn't want to reply to her messages. All she could do was wait for him to come home in the morning. She had thought that he wouldn't come home that night, but he got back at midnight. Yvette wasn't asleep at the time. She went up to him and took his coat and bag from him with familiarity in her actions. It was as if they were a normal married couple. Xavier's cold voice broke the peace. "Don't send me inane texts again." As Yvette held Xavier's coat, her hand trembled slightly. "I won't do it again," she mumbled. Xavier didn't notice anything wrong with her tone. He went straight to his study. Generally, if he came home, he would stay holed up in his study. He probably thought that someone who was hard of hearing would live in a silent world. Either that, or he simply didn't care about Yvette. That would explain why he got straight to discussing his acquisition of Snyder Group in his study as if nothing was wrong. When Yvette brought him some soup, she heard Xavier animatedly discussing work with his employees. He was talking about the acquisition of Snyder Group, her father, James Snyder's company. She didn't know how to feel about that. She knew that her brother, Terrence Synder, was useless at running a business, so it was only a matter of time before Snyder Group fell. However, she had never thought that her own husband would be the first to cause Snyder Group's downfall. "Xav," she interrupted. Xavier was slightly startled. Out of guilt, or maybe some other emotion, he quickly hung up the phone and closed his laptop. Feigning ignorance, Yvette walked into the study and placed the bowl in front of him. "Have some soup, then get to bed soon. Your health is more important than work." For some reason, Xavier felt himself relax when he heard her soft voice. She probably hadn't heard anything. Feeling conflicted, he stopped Yvette before she could leave. "You said you wanted to talk to me. What is it?" Hearing this, Yvette turned back to look at him. Softly, she said, "I just wanted to ask if you're free in the morning so we can go and file for divorce." Chapter 3 Yvette's voice was calm and impassive, as though divorce were a menial matter to her. Xavier's pupils contracted. "What did you just say?" Over the last three years, no matter what he had done, Yvette had never brought up divorce. In truth, Xavier knew that Yvette loved him. Her eyes, which were usually dull and empty, were clear and bright now. "I'm sorry for being a burden over the last few years, Mr. Lane. We should get divorced." Xavier clenched his fists unconsciously. "You heard what I said earlier, didn't you? Snyder Group was already failing; it won't matter whether I buy it or someone else does. What are you trying to do by bringing up divorce? "Is it because you want money? Or a child? Or do you want me to leave Snyder Group alone?" he asked coldly. "Don't forget that I don't love you. Your threats won't work on me!" At that moment, he seemed like a stranger to Yvette. A lump formed in her throat as her ears began throbbing. Even though she was wearing her hearing aids, she could barely hear what Xavier was saying. She could only answer his last question. "I don't want anything." Afraid that he would notice something wrong with her, Yvette left the study in a hurry. As he watched her leave, Xavier felt frustrated for some reason. He had never felt like this before. Not one to hold in his emotions, he flipped the table over. The bowl of soup that Yvette had brought him spilled all over the ground. ... Back in her own room, Yvette forced herself to swallow a handful of pills. She reached up to touch her ear. As she retracted her fingers, she saw crimson blood on them. Thanks to the medicine, her hearing recovered a little by the time it was dawn. Yvette stared blankly at the soft rays of sunlight streaming from the window. "The rain has stopped," she said quietly to herself. Xavier didn't leave the manor that day. He was in the living room bright and early, settled on the couch, waiting for Yvette to apologize and express her regret to him. This wasn't the first time Yvette had lost her temper with him. However, after every tantrum, she would apologize to him before long. Xavier figured that it would be the same this time around. Soon, he saw Yvette coming out of her room, all freshened up. She wore her usual dark-colored clothes. She dragged a suitcase with one hand while holding a piece of paper in the other. She handed the paper to him. It was a divorce agreement. "Let me know when you have time, Xav." With that, she left the manor, pulling her suitcase behind her. It was bright and sunny outside. Yvette felt as if she had gotten a new chance at life. Meanwhile, Xavier sat frozen on the couch, still clutching the divorce agreement in his hand. It took him a long time to come back to his senses. It was Saturday. Usually, around this time of the year, Xavier would take Yvette back to his hometown to pay respects to his ancestors. During this time, they would have to endure strange looks from his extended family. However, he was alone that day, which made him extraordinarily happy. At Lane Mansion, Shannon and the rest of the Lanes were surprised to see him alone. In the past, Yvette had always been the first one to turn up every year and the last to leave since she had been trying to please everyone. Why wasn't she there today? Shanon frowned and asked Xavier, "Where's Yvette, Xav?" Xavier's expression turned cold. "She wanted a divorce and left me." Everyone fell silent in disbelief when he said that. Shannon was shocked. She knew that Yvette probably loved Xavier more than anything in the world, only surpassed by his own parents. Seven years ago, Yvette had even protected Xavier with her own body when someone had attempted to stab him. Four years ago, not long after the two had gotten engaged, something had happened to Xavier while he had been on a business trip in Dibay. Everyone had been convinced that he was dead, but Yvette had refused to believe that. She had dropped everything and gone to the foreign city just to look for him. Then, after they had gotten married, Yvette had taken care of almost everything in his life with meticulous precision, including being polite to everyone around him, even his secretaries. She had always been afraid of offending them. Yvette clearly couldn't live without Xavier. So, why had she suggested getting a divorce? Shannon had no idea, but she was glad that Yvette had finally decided to let Xavier go. "She's not worthy to be your wife anyway. It's a good thing that you're divorcing her. She doesn't deserve you," she said The others immediately chimed in. "Yeah, you're young and handsome, Xav. You're in your best years now. Yvette's been dragging you down all this time!" Instantly, the gathering turned into a slander fest. They spoke of Yvette as if she were an unforgivable criminal. Xavier should have felt happy that they were defending him, but for some reason, he found their words too sharp and crass. He left Lane Mansion earlier than usual and made his way back to Dewberry Estate. The sky was just starting to darken when he arrived home. He opened the door and entered the manor. When he saw nothing but darkness, he remembered, with a start, that Yvette had left. He changed into his house slippers and tossed his coat into the washer. For some reason, he felt unusually exhausted today. He went to the wine cellar to get a bottle of wine so that he could celebrate Yvette's leaving. However, when he got to the wine cellar and saw the locked door, he realized too late that he didn't have the key. He didn't like strangers in his house, so there were no maids or servants at Dewberry Estate. Ever since he had married Yvette, she had been the one taking care of the household affairs. He could only go back to his room. Picking up his phone, he scrolled through his messages only to find work-related texts. Yvette hadn't called or texted him to apologize at all. Tossing his phone aside, he got up and headed over to the kitchen. When he opened the door of the fridge, he was stunned. Apart from food, there were also a lot of supplements. He picked one of the bags up and read the instructions on it. "Take five times a day for incapable of conceived." He took a whiff of the supplement. It smelled disgusting. He recalled that Yvette always smelled strange. So, this was why. He scoffed silently. They had never slept, so no matter how much medicine she took, she would never have gotten conceived. ... Meanwhile, over in a dark and dinky hotel, Yvette opened her eyes blearily. Her head was pounding. The world was silent. She knew, then, that her condition had worsened again. Before this, she had still been able to hear some sounds, even without her hearing aids. She pushed herself up and felt around on the bedside table until she found her medicine. She popped the pills in her mouth, tasting their bitterness. The day before, she had left Dewberry Estate, which had been her home for the past three years. At first, she had gone to her parents' house, Snyder Residence. However, at the door, she had overheard Yara and Terrence discussing how they would marry her off to an old man if the Lanes kicked her out. Yvette had blanked upon hearing that. It was then that she finally realized that she had no place to call home anymore. Even though she hadn't eaten anything in two days, she still didn't feel hungry. However, it was too quiet. The silence scared her. It had been raining more frequently in Tirion this year than it had in previous years. Yvette stared out at the passing pedestrians. Most of them were paired up or in groups. She was the only one alone. She bought a bus ticket heading out of the city. She decided to go to her nanny's house in the countryside. Viola Xenos, her nanny, had taken care of her when she was a child. It was already 9:00 pm when Yvette got there. When Viola saw Yvette, she looked pleasantly surprised. Yvette teared up when she saw Viola's warm smile. She reached out to her and hugged her. "Viola." Due to health issues, Viola had never married and didn't have children of her own. Yvette was closer to her than she was to her own mother. That night, Yvette cuddled up in Viola's embrace, just like she had when she was a child. Viola wrapped her arms around Yvette, only to realize that the latter was very thin. She pressed a hand on the Yvette's bony back, trembling uncontrollably. Forcing herself to calm down, she asked cautiously, "Has Xavier been treating you well, Yvvy?" Yvette felt a sharp pain in her throat when she heard Xavier's name. She wanted to lie to Viola and tell her that Xavier had treated her well, but she knew that Viola wasn't silly. Since she had already made up her mind to leave him, there was no need to lie to herself or to the people who loved her any longer. "The person he loves has returned. I've decided to let him go and divorce him." Viola was stunned. She couldn't believe her ears. Yvette had told her multiple times before that she wanted to spend the rest of her life with Xavier. Not knowing what else to say, she comforted Yvette by telling her that there were plenty of other fish in the sea. There was bound to be one who would love her. Yvette just nodded silently. The buzzing in her ears drowned out Viola's comforting voice. That night, she managed to get a good night's sleep, which was rare. However, when she woke up, she was greeted with the alarming sight of blood staining the spot where her head had laid on the pillow. Yvette touched her right ear. Her fingers felt sticky. She looked at her hand. It was covered in blood. Chapter 4 Even Yvette's hearing aids were stained red. Her pupils contracted, and she quickly grabbed some tissues to wipe her ear. Then, she stripped the bedsheets and washed them. She was afraid that Viola would worry about her if she found out that her illness was worsening. So, she cleaned up the mess and found an excuse to bid goodbye to Viola. Before she left, she placed a part of her savings on the bedside table without telling Viola. Viola walked Yvette to the bus stop and waved goodbye reluctantly. β¦ After Yvette left, Viola couldn't stop thinking about how thin the former was. Unable to just sit by, she called Lane Group. When the secretary heard that Viola was Yvette's nanny and wanted to speak to Xavier, she transferred the call to Xavier's line. It was the third day after Yvette had left Xavier. It was also the first time in three days that he had received a call about her. Sitting behind his desk, he felt exceptionally pleased. Just as he had expected, Yvette wouldn't be able to last more than three days without himβor so he thought. Viola's voice came through the other line, sounding weighed with age. "Mr. Lane, I am Yvvy's nanny. I've been taking care of her since she was a baby. "Please, I beg you, treat her well. Don't hurt her more than you already have. She's not as strong as she seems on the surface. "When she was born, Mrs. Snyder left her in my care because she didn't like that Yvvy is hard of hearing. Yvvy only returned home when she had to start going to school. "The Snyders have never treated her as one of their own. Apart from Mr. Snyder, everyone else treated her like she was a maid. "You and Mr. Snyder are the most important people she has in this world. I'm begging you, please. Please be kind to her." Xavier's mood darkened when he heard what Viola said. "Did she tell you to give me this sob story because she didn't want to face me herself?" he asked coldly. "Why should I care about her life? If you ask me, she deserved everything she got!" That said, he hung up the phone without waiting for an answer. Viola had heard Yvette gushing about how nice Xavier was to her. So, it was only then that she realized the truthβXavier wasn't a good man at all. He wasn't a good husband to Yvette. ... Yvette sat on the bus, heading home. Just then, her phone vibrated. It was a message from Xavier. "You said you wanted to get divorced, right? I'll see you at 10:00 am tomorrow." Yvette stared at the text blankly for a while before replying, "Okay." Just one word. It infuriated Xavier and completely ruined his mood. Unable to work anymore, he called up his friends and invited them out for drinks. Daphne was also at the club when he arrived. "I'm not going home until I'm drunk!" she declared. Tristan sat down beside Xavier. He couldn't help asking curiously, "How's Deaf Yvvy?" Xavier raised an eyebrow at him. "There's no need to talk about her ever again. We're filing for divorce tomorrow." Tristan was stunned. He couldn't believe his ears. "Really?" Beside them, Daphne brightened. She poured out a shot for him. "Congrats on getting back your freedom, Xav!" Xavier drank a lot that night. Daphne offered to send him home, but he rejected her suggestion. "No need. It's not appropriate." If he and Yvette were going to get divorced tomorrow, she might come home that night. Daphne wasn't happy about the rejection. "Why? You're divorcing her anyway. Why wouldn't it be appropriate? Are you still scared that she might find out about our relationship?" Their relationship? Xavier narrowed his eyes. "You're overthinking this." He got into his own car. Out of consideration, he also called a cab to send Daphne home. On the drive home, he kept unlocking his phone to check if Yvette had sent him any messages. She hadn't. When he reached Dewberry Estate, it was dark. With a stormy expression, Xavier opened the door and turned on the light. Yvette was nowhere to be seen. She hadn't come home. The manor was left exactly the way it had been when she had left. Still feeling the effects of the wine, Xavier threw himself heavily onto the couch and soon fell asleep. In his nightmares, Yvette was covered in blood, but there was a smile on her face. "I don't love you anymore, Xav," she said. When Xavier jolted awake, the sky outside had just brightened up. He rubbed his forehead and went to the bathroom to freshen himself up. Then, he changed into a smart suit and made his way to the courthouse. At the entrance of the courthouse, he spotted Yvette standing under a tree not far off. As usual, she was dressed in dark-colored clothes. From the distance, she looked incredibly frail and thin as she stood amid the drizzle. It was as if a single gust of wind could knock her over. Xavier could still remember how young and lively she had been when they had first gotten married. She hadn't been as thin and gloomy back then. Holding an umbrella, he walked toward Yvette. It took her a few moments to notice him. Xiaver hadn't changed much over the last three years. He was as handsome and as confident as ever, with the added hint of matureness that came with age. Yvette was a little dazed. The last three years felt like a blink in time to her, yet she also seemed to have exhausted a whole lifetime. Xavier stalked over to Yvette and gazed at her coldly. He was waiting for her to apologize to him. She had been sulking enough. It was time to put an end to this. However, Yvette just said, "I'm sorry to pull you away from your work. Let's go in." Xavier stiffened, but he quickly recovered. "Don't regret this." With that, he turned and headed into the courthouse. Yvette stared after him sadly. Would she regret this? She didn't know either. In the courthouse, the judge asked them if they were sure about going through with the divorce. Yvette's answer was firm. "Yes." Her determined expression frustrated Xavier. After filing for divorce, they still had to return to the courthouse in a month. If they didn't show up, then the divorce would be considered null. As they left the courthouse, Yvette looked at Xavier, her expression unusually calm. "I'll see you next month. Take care." With that, she stepped out into the rain, hailed a cab, and left. Xavier was left standing on the spot. He didn't know how to feel as he watched her car leave. Relieved, probably. Relieved that he wouldn't need to put up with her any longer or endure others' ridicule for having a disabled wife. ... In the cab, Yvette leaned against the window and stared blankly at the rain droplets on the glass. In the rearview mirror, the driver suddenly saw blood dripping from her ear. He was shocked by the sight. "Miss? Miss!" Yvette didn't answer him. The driver hastily stopped the car. Yvette was confused. They weren't at her destination yet. Why had they stopped? She looked over at the driver and saw him mouthing silently. She realized that she had gone deaf again. "I'm sorry, I can't hear you. What are you saying?" In the end, the driver had to type out what he wanted to say on his phone so that he could tell her about her bleeding ear. Yvette reached out belatedly and felt the warm sensation in her ear. She was used to it now. "It's alright. This happens all the time. I'm fine." She was hard of hearing, but her ears hadn't bled like this before. Two years ago, at a gathering, Tristan had pushed her into a swimming pool. Yvette didn't know how to swim, so she had almost drowned. At the same time, her eardrums had also expanded due to the pressure. She had been sent to the hospital, but the damage had been done. At the time, she had been told that everything was fine. Why was this happening again? The cab driver was still worried, so he dropped her off at the hospital she told him. After thanking him, Yvette went into the hospital on her own. This time, she saw her usual doctor, Tom Jensen. "Dr. Jensen, my memory has been rather bad lately. I kept forgetting what I'm doing," she said. When she had woken up at the hotel that morning, it had taken her a long time to remember that she had to file for divorce with Xavier. Tom looked at her latest report worriedly. "Ms. Snyder, I think you should consider getting tested for other things. Specifically, mental health issues." Mental healthβ¦ Following Tom's recommendation, Yvette went and got a psychiatric diagnosis. She was diagnosed with depression. It turned out that patients with severe depression often experienced memory loss. Before heading back to the hotel, Yvette stopped and bought a notebook and a pen. She wrote down everything that had happened lately. She placed the notebook right beside her bed so that it would be the first thing she saw when she woke up in the morning. News of her and Xavier's divorce spread quickly. That night, Yara called her multiple times, but she didn't hear anything. β¦ When she woke up the next morning, she saw a barrage of texts from Yara. "Where are you?" "Who do you think you are? Even if you're getting a divorce, Xavier should have been the one to ask for it!" "You're such a jinx! Back when you got married, your dad got into a car crash and died. What's going to happen now that you're getting divorced? Do you want Snyder Group to go bankrupt? Is that it?" Yvette stared at the messages. She was used to the verbal bully by now. She typed out a reply. "Mom, it's time that we live by our own merits. We shouldn't depend on others so much." Yara's response was swift. "You're such an ingrate! I shouldn't have given birth to you in the first place!" Yvette didn't bother replying to that. She placed her phone aside. She just had to wait a month. Once the divorce was finalized, she would be able to leave Tirion and start a new life. β¦ Yvette's health worsened over the next few days. She often found herself completely deaf. Sometimes, it took a very long time for her hearing to go back to normal. Her memory was deteriorating too. On the bright side, even though her hearing loss was incurable, at least she could do something about the depression. She tried everything she could to keep herself happy. She busied herself by registering as a volunteer online. She spent time taking care of abandoned old people and orphans. Helping them made her feel like she had a reason to continue living. A few days later, Yvette woke up in the morning and checked her notebook as usual. Then, she got ready to head out to the orphanage. When she picked up her phone, she saw several unread messages. There were messages from Terrance and Yara, as well as Daphne. She opened the texts one by one. Yara: "As you wished, Snyder Group is no more." Terrence: "Keep hiding. You're the most cowardly and cruel person I've ever seen." Daphne: "My condolences, Yvette. Actually, I think Snyder Group would thrive better under Xav." Daphne: "Since your family has helped me so much in the past, do let me know if you need anything. I'll help you if I can." Yvette had no idea what was happening. She closed the messaging app. Almost immediately, she got a notification about the latest news. Chapter 5 Yvette watched the news and saw the press conference held by Lane Group. It was an announcement that Xavier had successfully acquired Snyder Group. James' company no longer existed in the world. β¦ Things on Xavier's end had been extra pleasant lately. He had acquired Snyder Group and gotten his revenge. "The Snyder family finally got what they deserved for tricking you into that marriage three years ago." Tristan chuckled. Yet, he changed the topic in the next instant. He asked Xavier, "Xav, has Deaf Yvvy approached you during the past few days?" Xavier froze halfway through signing a document. He didn't know why, but people around him kept mentioning Yvette these days. "No," he replied coldly. That shocked Tristan. After all, how could Yvette not do anything when something this massive had happened to her family? With that in mind, he spoke again. "Could it be that she's finally come around? I heard her family has been looking everywhere for her. Nobody knows where she's goneβ" He kept blabbering on. Xavier frowned, feeling utterly annoyed. "Get out!" Tristan jolted. That was when he realized that Xavier was furious. Not daring to say another word, Tristan bolted out of the CEO's office. Once outside, he took his phone and called his assistant, Avery Fitzpatrick. "Have you found Yvette?" "Yes, she's in a small hotel in Hexim Pass," answered Avery. Tristan had Avery send him the location before he drove there. He refused to let Yvette off the hook so easily. So what if she was willing to divorce Xavier now? She had already prevented Xavier and Daphne from being together for over three years! Besides, Daphne had saved Tristan's life once, so he owed her. It rained outside. Yvette finished her volunteer work and picked up her medication from the hospital. Then, she held an umbrella while walking back to the hotel. There were very few people on the road. Tristan drove his car but kept his eyes on Yvette's slim back. He deliberately sped up as he drove past her, sending a puddle of rainwater splashing onto her. Yvette shot him a blank stare. Tristan happened to meet her emotionless gaze through his rearview mirror. He didn't know why, but he felt inexplicably nervous. Yvette recognized Tristan's luxurious, dark gray Bugatti. Yet, she retracted her gaze and pretended not to notice him. Even so, Tristan refused to stop there. He deliberately slowed his car and followed her. "Hey, Deaf Yvvy. So, you have a temper now, huh? "You're not even going to greet me now? Didn't you used to love greeting me? Didn't you enjoy tickling my fancy?" Yvette remained stoic while the former mocked her. She used to do everything to win over those around Xavier, including his friends. It was all because she liked him. She had figured that Xavier's family and friends would one day accept her. Alas, it seemed she had been too naΓ―ve. At the previous gathering, Tristan had declared that he was Daphne's friend. He couldn't care less about maintaining his gentlemanly, upper-class image when siding with Daphne. He had insulted Yvette and called her shameless. In the end, he had also thrown her into the pool, leaving her to die. Since then, Yvette had steered clear of him. Upon receiving no reaction or response from Yvette, Tristan stopped the car, opened the door, and strolled toward her. He grabbed her arm and asked, "What stunts are you planning to pull this time?" Yvette's arm hurt, so she looked up at him. "I don't know what you're saying." She wanted to pry his hand off her arm, but he flung her aside. "Don't touch me with your filthy hands!" Tristan bellowed. Yvette stumbled backward before falling to the ground with a loud thud. Tristan froze on the spot in slight disbelief. It baffled him to see Yvette resorting to such tricks. He had only pushed her with a slight force, so how could she fall like that? Seeing people looking their way, he nervously got back into his car. Still, he gave her a warning before driving away. "Don't mess with Daph just because you're a disabled person, Yvette! "She's different from you. It's taken her a lot of effort to get to where she is now, so you'd better not disrupt her and Xav's relationship again!" After driving away, he even told the Snyder family where Yvette was staying. Yvette's hands and knees were scraped when she fell. It hurt so much that she couldn't stand for a long time. Deep down, she didn't understand why Tristan was so blind to what was right and wrong. She recalled risking her life to rescue him from a car that had been about to explode four years ago. His face had been covered in blood, and his eyes hadn't been visible. However, he had spoken in the warmest voice. He had said, "Thank you. I promise I'll repay you someday." Yvette couldn't help but bitterly wonder if this was his way of repaying her. β¦ Once Yvette returned to the hotel, she took a shower and applied medication to her scraped skin. Then, she lay down in a daze. The fall hardened her determination to leave Xavier for good. β¦ The sun was shining brightly outside when Yvette woke up. She got up and headed to the living area, only to see Yara sitting on the couch, wearing a formal dress. Yara didn't seem to care one bit that Yvette had just woken up. She picked the document off the coffee table and handed it to the latter. "Take a good look at this. It's the backup plan I've selected for you." Yvette accepted the document but saw the title "prenuptial agreement" on the cover. She flipped through the pages while reading the contents aloud. "Ms. Yvette Snyder will marry Mr. Liam Lorimer. As his wife, she'll devote herself to him and look after him until the end of his life. Liam will look after Yvette's family, which includes maintaining their quality of life. He'll also provide 300 million as funds for the Snyder family." Following that, the document stated Liam's details. He was an entrepreneur from the older generation in Tirion. He was 78 years old that year. Yvette's mind tensed. At that moment, Yara spoke up again. "Mr. Lorimer has expressed that he doesn't mind that you were married before. "He'll help revive our family's reputation from the ashes, as long as you marry him. Come on, dearest. You wouldn't let me and Terrence down, right?" Yvette's face paled even more. "I can't agree to what you're asking of me." Yara had never imagined that Yvette would reject her so candidly. She blew up in a fit of rage at once. "What right do you have to refuse? I gave you life!" Hearing that, Yvette met Yara's gaze. "How about I return my life to you? Would that mean I no longer owe you?" "What did you say?" Yara shrilled. Yvette's pale lips moved as she said, "If I returned my life to you, would it mean you'd no longer be my mother? And I'll no longer be indebted to you for giving birth to me?" Yara sneered, not believing Yvette would dare do such a thing. "Okay, then. I won't force you to marry Mr. Lorimer if you give your life back to me. But the question is, do you have the guts to do it?" "Give me a month." Yvette seemed determined. In Yara's eyes, Yvette seemed like a crazed person. She warned, "You'd best not threaten me by only saying you'll end your life. We're not that close, so I don't care if you die. However, you must sign this document if you're too afraid to end your life." β¦ Yvette had suppressed all her emotions to the brim and needed to vent somewhere. So, she went to a bar. She sat in a corner, drinking and watching the crowd happily dance in a daze. That was when a dashing man with striking eyes noticed Yvette, who was all alone. He approached and asked, "Yvette?" Yvette stared at the man but didn't recognize him. Still dazed, she asked, "Do you know how one can achieve happiness?" The man was confused. "What did you say?" Yvette continued drinking as she spoke. "The doctor says I'm ill and should try to be happier, but I can't make myself feel happyβ¦" That sparked discomfort in the man, Claude Lander. He wondered if Yvette had forgotten about him. Also, he was confused by what she saidβsomething about being ill and needing to be happier. "You shouldn't be in a place like this if you want to be happy. Why don't I drive you home?" Claude spoke in a gentle tone. A smile curved across Yvette's face as she looked at him. "You're a good person." Complex emotions stirred in Claude when he saw her bitter smile. He wondered what she had been through these past few years. Why did she seem so sorrowful? Meanwhile, Xavier was also at the bar. After settling the divorce papers, he had let himself loose every night. On top of that, he hadn't returned to Dewberry Estate in a long time. It was getting late. When the crowd was about to leave, Daphne noticed a familiar figure in a corner of the bar. She exclaimed, "Isn't that Yvvy?" Xavier glanced in the direction Daphne was staring in and saw a man merrily chatting with Yvette. His expression soured at once. He was disappointed in Yvette for getting drunk at a bar and chatting up another man. He felt like he had thought too highly of her before. "Should we go and check up on her, Xav?" asked Daphne. "No," was all Xavier said before speedily leaving. On the other hand, Yvette declined Claude's offer. "There's no need to trouble yourself. I can go home on my own." Claude was still worried about Yvette, so he ran after her when he noticed her leaving the bar. "Do you really not remember me?" Yvette gazed at him but couldn't recall who he was. "It's Chubbs. Have you forgotten?" Claude reminded her. Only then did Yvette remember her friend, Chubbs, whom she met when she had been living with Viola in the countryside. Back then, Claude had been chubbier and nowhere near Yvette's height. Yet, his six-foot-two-inch frame now towered over her. He had even grown to have handsome features. "I remember now! You've changed so much. I didn't even recognize you!" said Yvette. Meeting an old friend away from home was a pleasant thing. But only a slight smile curved on Yvette's face. That upset Claude. "Come on. I'll drive you home," Claude stated. When he dropped her off, he was shocked to learn she lived in a run-down hotel. Yvette shifted in embarrassment. "Sorry, it's not a glamorous place. Please don't tell Viola I'm living in such a place. I don't want her to worry." Claude nodded. Since it was getting late, it was unwise for him to stay longer. So, he left after telling Yvette he would visit her the next day. He didn't notice the matte black car lingering in a dark area beneath the hotel as he walked out. Now that Claude had left, Yvette felt dizzy and had an upset stomach from drinking too much. That was when someone knocked hard on the door. Yvette had just opened the door when Xavier grabbed her wrist. He exerted so much strength on her slender wrist that it felt close to snapping in half. "You've made me look at you in a new light, Yvette!" Xavier snarled while shutting and locking the door. He then forcefully led her to the couch. He sneered with words as sharp and lethal as a blade, "So, you've already settled on which family you'll marry into next, huh? I knew you wouldn't be so willing to let me go for no reason!" Yvette didn't know why he had come over, nor did she know how he had seen Claude. She was only briefly dazed. Once she snapped out of it, she shot a furious look at Xavier and didn't bother explaining herself to him. The rims of her eyes reddened. "You and I aren't that different from each other." The Snyder family had tricked Xavier into marrying Yvette. However, Xavier had treated her coldly for three years while remaining entangled with his first love. Neither Xavier nor Yvette was a better person than the other. Xavier had also drunk some wine, so he reeked of it. Eyes reddening, he pinched Yvette's chin and spoke with a dangerously low voice. "Who is he? When did you guys meet?" That was the first time Yvette had seen him behave like this. She suddenly chuckled. "Are you jealous?" Xavier's gaze grew tense as he scoffed. "You're unworthy of such a reaction." Yvette became choked up. That was when Xavier leaned in domineeringly and continued interrogating her. "Has he already touched you? Huh?" In her three years of marriage, Yvette had given up on her work and declined to meet her friends whenever they had occasionally invited her out. She had done so to obey the Lane family's rules. But now Xavier was suspicious of her. Relief washed over Yvette just then. She questioned him back, "What do you think?" That utterly angered Xavier, and his heated hands started travelling down her body. | Read freely | 18 | https://facebook.com/61557986570531 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715324400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879768 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410721 | 1723321856 | 995 | 1361528064521212 | 1 | 7.4287710132688E+14 | 1715410800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 250753834794512 | 0 | Read freely | 120208075188720056 | beokn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | β€οΈπWhat happens nextπClick Here to read onπ | https://beokn.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=11230&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717941362 | 2.5075383479451E+14 | Read freely | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/422079631_823590829824839_4719608256142825580_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=X0arSR329ugQ7kNvgFznJUe&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBCybnyEjPstfL-T8Ns-_chW2Zg5909W9W-lMZXE8xwkg&oe=6672CB06 | person_profile | 0 | Read freely | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441057328_1702104656985535_4588455529970348064_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=5anZ9pA6410Q7kNvgG9aKIE&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCRB-k4bkzqrpLp8SCU41jIJSVrD8mXEJ_6VsTi8QlSuA&oe=6672C68A | 0 | 3 | Yvette Snyder stood at the entrance of the hospital, her body frail, clutching a report in her thin hands. Three words on the report stood out: "No conception detected". "You've been married for three years. How are you not conceived?" Her mother, Yara Cadwell, demanded, jabbing a finger in Yvette's face disappointedly. Yara was dressed lavishly and wore high heels. "Why are you so useless? If you don't get conceived soon, the Lanes are going to kick you out of the family. What's going to happen to our family then?" Yvette looked at Yara blankly. She had a lot to say, but the words were stuck in her throat. In the end, all she could manage was, "I'm sorry." "I don't want you to be sorry. I want you to give birth to Xavier's child. Do you understand me?" Yvette's throat felt tight; she didn't know how to answer Yara. In their three years of marriage, her husband, Xavier Lane, had never slept with her. How could she ever have his child? Yara stared at Yvette. The latter's weak demeanor was so unlike her own. Finally, she said coldly before leaving, "If you really can't give him a child, then find him a woman who can. At least he'll appreciate you for that." Yvette stared after Yara's retreating figure in disbelief. Had her own mother just told her to find another woman for her husband to sleep with? ... As Yvette made her journey home, she couldn't stop thinking about Yara's parting words. Suddenly, a loud ringing in her ear drowned out her thoughts. She knew that her condition had worsened. Just then, she received a message on her phone. It was from Xavier, and the content was the same as always. "I'm not coming home tonight." In the past three years they had been married, Xavier had never spent the night at home before. He had never so much as touched Yvette either. Yvette could remember their wedding night three years ago. He had told her, "Since your family is bold enough to trick me into marrying you, you'd better be prepared to spend the rest of your life in loneliness." Three years ago, the Snyder and Lane families had decided to form an alliance through marriage. Both families had agreed to mutually beneficial terms in the agreement. But when the day of the wedding came around, the Snyder family went back on their word and transferred all of their assets away, including the billions that Xavier had paid to marry Yvette. Yvette's eyes dulled at the memory. She replied to Xavier's text with her usual response: "Okay." Without her realizing it, the report she was holding got scrunched up in her hands. When she got home, Yvette tossed the report into the trash can. Every month, around this time, she would feel unusually lethargic. Yvette didn't prepare dinner for herself. She just leaned back on the couch, blearily drifting in and out of sleep. The rumbling in her ear persisted. That was another reason why Xavier hated herβshe was hard of hearing, which, to the rich and powerful, was no better than being crippled. Xavier would never allow her to carry his child. β¦ At 5 o'clock in the morning, the pendulum clock on the wall chimed dully. Xavier would be home in an hour. Yvette realized too late that she had fallen asleep on the couch. She got up hastily and went to the kitchen to prepare Xavier's breakfast. Xavier was a meticulous man who was strict about punctuality, not only with himself but also with the people around him. He arrived home at six o'clock sharp. Xavier was a tall and handsome man. Clad in a smart tailored suit, his demeanor was quiet and reserved, yet undoubtedly masculine. However, to Yvette, he was cold and distant. Xavier didn't even look at Yvette. He walked right past her to look at the food on the table and said with a scoff, "You do this every day. Are you a nanny or what?" Over the past three years, Yvette had been doing the same things over and over again. She wore the same dark clothes and replied to his messages with the same singular word. If it hadn't been for the business alliance and the Snyders' deceit, Xavier would never have married a woman like Yvette. At the word "nanny", the rumbling in Yvette's ears returned. She swallowed, feeling a lump in her throat, and said bravely, "Xav, do you have someone that you like?" Her sudden question surprised Xavier. His eyes darkened. "What do you mean by that?" Yvette raised her head and stared at him, swallowing the bile rising in the back of her throat. "If you love someone else, you can be with herβ" Before she could finish, Xavier interrupted her. "You're mad." ... After Xavier left, Yvette sat on the balcony alone, staring out into the cold rain. The sound of the raindrops drifted in and out of clarity. She took off her hearing aids, letting the world around her fall into silence. A month ago, her doctor had told her, "Ms. Snyder, there's been a pathological change in your auditory nerves and some of your cranial nerves, causing your hearing to worsen. If this goes on, you may lose your hearing completely." Not used to a silent world, Yvette went to the living room and turned on the television. She turned up the volume to the max, which allowed her to hear some sound. By coincidence, the television was showing an interview with Daphne Reyes, an internationally renowned singer known for her love songs. Yvette's hands trembled slightly as she gripped the remote control. Daphne was Xavier's first love. It had been a long time since Yvette had seen her, but Daphne was still as pretty as ever. She was confident and relaxed in front of the cameras, unlike the shy and frightened young woman who had begged the Snyders for sponsorship in the past. When the interviewer asked Daphne why she had returned to her home country, her answer was bold. "I came home to get my first love back." The remote control slipped out of Yvette's hands. Her heart also fell to her stomach. Flustered, Yvette turned off the television and went to the table to clean up the uneaten breakfast. When she got to the kitchen, she found that Xavier had forgotten to take his phone. She picked it up and saw the unread messages on the lock screen. "Xav, you must have been unhappy over the past few years, right?" "I know you don't love her. How about we meet up tonight? I've missed you." Yvette stared blankly at the messages until the screen went dark again. Then, she called a cab to Xavier's office. On the way, she stared out of the window. The rain fell incessantly. It felt like it would never stop. Xavier never liked it when Yvette visited him at his office, so whenever she was there, she would take the service elevator from the loading bay. When Xavier's assistant, Mark Xyrax, saw her, he just greeted her impassively, "Ms. Snyder." No one around Xavier considered Yvette his wife. She was nothing but a smear on his reputation. When Xavier saw Yvette bringing him his phone, he frowned. She was always like this. No matter what he forgot, be it his lunch, his documents, a shirt, or even an umbrella, she would bring them to him. "I thought I told you that you didn't need to deliver my things to me yourself." Yvette froze. "Sorry, I forgot." Since when had her memory been so bad? Maybe she had panicked after seeing Daphne's message and became afraid that Xavier would disappear from her life suddenly. Before she left, she looked back at Xavier. Unable to help herself, she blurted out, "Xav, do you still like Daphne?" Xavier thought that Yvette had been behaving rather strangely lately. She kept forgetting things and asking weird questions. How could a person like her be his wife? Impatiently, he replied, "If you have so much free time, go find yourself something to do." Yvette had tried getting a job before, but Xavier's mother, Shannon Guetta, had reprimanded her without holding back. "Do you want the whole world to know that Xav married a disabled woman with hearing issues?" Therefore, Yvette had given up on finding a job and focused on her fruitless life as "Mrs. Lane" at Dewberry Estate. β¦ At home, she sat alone until nightfall. She couldn't sleep. Just then, the phone on her bedside table rang loudly. It was a call from an unfamiliar number. Yvette picked up the call. A familiar voice, yet one she dreaded, sounded from the other end. "Is this Yvvy? Xav is drunk. Can you come pick him up?" When Yvette arrived at Sternhow Club, she heard loud coaxing and jeering from the wealthy heirs inside the private room. "Daph, didn't you say you came back to get our dear Mr. Lane back into your arms? This is your chance now. Go on, tell him how you feel!" Daphne was a pretty woman who was popular wherever she went. She was also Xavier's first love, so the rich young men of the upper crust were happy to push the two together. Daphne wasn't shy at all. She turned to Xavier and said without any reservations, "I like you, Xav. Please be with me again." That was what Yvette heard when she arrived at the door of the private room. Inside, the other people were urging Xavier to answer Daphne. His best friend, Tristan Shaw, was the most vocal among them. "Xav, you've been waiting for Daphne for three years. She's back now. So, go on, answer her!" Yvette stood frozen outside the door. Her heart was pounding. Just then, one of the men pulled the door open. "Ms. Snyder?" Chapter 2 Everyone in the private room looked over at the door. For a moment, the room was eerily silent. Yvette immediately caught sight of Xavier in the middle of the room. His eyes were clear and bright. He was clearly not drunk. She knew that she had been tricked by Daphne. When Xavier saw Yvette, his pupils constricted. Everyone else in the room looked awkward, including Tristan, who had been the most vocal in getting Xavier to accept Daphne's confession earlier. Yvette shouldn't have gone there. Daphne was the first to break the silence. "Please don't get the wrong idea, Yvvy. Tristan was joking. Xavier and I are just friends." Before Yvette could answer, Xavier stood up impatiently. "There's no need to explain it to her." Then, he stalked over to Yvette. "What are you doing here?" "I thought you were drunk, so I came to take you home," Yvette answered truthfully. Xavier scoffed. "You really didn't retain anything I told you, did you?" Lowering his voice, he said softly so that only she could hear him, "Are you here to remind everyone that I was tricked into marrying you three years ago? Did you think they forgot?" Yvette was stunned. Xavier gave her a cold look. "Stop seeking attention. You're only making me hate you more." With that, he turned away, leaving Yvette standing alone. Yvette stared after his retreating figure, unable to snap out of her shock. None of the other scions in the room took pity on her when they saw Xavier ignoring her. Tristan even had no qualms in telling Daphne, who was feigning distress, "You're too kind, Daphne. You didn't need to explain anything. "If Yvette hadn't scammed Xav, he would've married you in the first place. You wouldn't have needed to suffer abroad as well." Despite the constant ringing in her ears, Yvette could still hear every word clearly. She knew better than anyone that even if Xavier hadn't married her, he wouldn't have married Daphne. Daphne was a nobody with no background, after all. Daphne was well aware of this as well. That was why she had chosen to break up with Xavier and leave the country. How had everything turned out to be Yvette's fault? When Yvette left Sternhow Club with her umbrella, she felt as if she had been enveloped by darkness. Just then, a lithe figure appeared beside her. It was Daphne. She was decked out in fine clothes, complete with high heels. She looked smug. "It's a cold night, isn't it? So, how does it feel to get scoffed at by Xavier after you came all the way here at this time to get him?" Yvette didn't answer her, but Daphne didn't mind her silence. She just continued speaking. "I do pity you, you know. You've never experienced true love before, have you? "Do you know that when I was with Xav, he would cook for me himself? When I was sick, he would drop everything and stay with me. "Has Xav ever told you he loves you? He used to say that to me all the timeβ¦" Yvette listened to Daphne's rambling quietly, her mind going over the past three years she had been married to Xavier. He had never so much as stepped into the kitchen during that time. When she had gotten sick, he had never comforted her. He had never told her he loved her either. β¦ That night, Yvette couldn't fall asleep. She had only just found out that the man she had loved for the past 12 years had once loved another with all his heart, in the spectacular way that only young people could. At that moment, she realized that it was time for her to give him up. She had a sleepless night. The next morning, Xavier returned home. The glare he gave her was cold. "How attached are you to the Lane family's money, to me, your money-making robot?" he demanded. Yvette was stunned. She didn't know what had gotten into him so early in the morning. Instinctively, she said, "I never wanted your money." She had only ever wanted Xavier. Xavier laughed in disdain. "Then, why did your mother come to my office and beg me to give you a child?" Yvette was stunned. She stared into Xavier's eyes. It was only then that she realized that he wasn't angry about what had happened last night. Xavier had no desire to waste his breath on her. "If you want to continue staying with me and keep your family afloat, tell your mother to behave herself!" ... In the end, Yvette didn't need to look for Yara. Yara found Yvette instead. She was no longer cold and distant; she gripped Yvette's hands and said gently, "Yvvy, you should ask Xavier to give you a child. He doesn't have to do it biologically. He could do it through scientific measures." Scientific measures. Yvette stared at Yara in shock as the latter continued, "Daphne told me that Xavier hasn't slept with you in the past three years." That was the last straw for Yvette. She didn't know why Xavier would tell Daphne about that. Maybe he really loved Daphne a lot. With that thought, she suddenly felt relieved. "Just let it go, Mom." Yara paused. She frowned. "What?" "I'm tired. I want to get a divorceβ" Before she could finish, Yara slapped her hard across the face. The kind, motherly facade was gone in an instant. She jabbed a finger at Yvette and gritted out, "You have no right to ask for a divorce! "Without the Lane family, what do you think you're going to do? Who's going to remarry a disabled divorcee like you?" Yvette felt her body go numb. Yara had never liked Yvette, even when the latter had been a child. Yara had been a famous dancer. The fact that she had given birth to a daughter with hearing issues was one of her biggest regrets. Therefore, she had sent Yvette away to be taken care of by a nanny. She had only allowed Yvette to return home when the latter started school. People used to tell Yvette that every mother loved their child. So, she had done everything she could to excel at everything in hopes of making Yara happy. Despite her hearing issues, she had been at the top of her class in dance, music, and art classes. But no matter how hard she tried, Yara still didn't consider her a good daughter. In Yara's words, Yvette wasn't "complete". Not only physically, but also in love and familial relationships. After Yara left, Yvette used some makeup to cover up the red print on her face. Then, she packed her bags quietly. Even after three years of married life, all her personal belongings fit into a single suitcase. After she finished packing up, she gathered her courage and sent Xavier a message. "Are you free tonight? I need to talk to you." Xavier didn't reply to her. Yvette's eyes darkened. She knew that he didn't want to reply to her messages. All she could do was wait for him to come home in the morning. She had thought that he wouldn't come home that night, but he got back at midnight. Yvette wasn't asleep at the time. She went up to him and took his coat and bag from him with familiarity in her actions. It was as if they were a normal married couple. Xavier's cold voice broke the peace. "Don't send me inane texts again." As Yvette held Xavier's coat, her hand trembled slightly. "I won't do it again," she mumbled. Xavier didn't notice anything wrong with her tone. He went straight to his study. Generally, if he came home, he would stay holed up in his study. He probably thought that someone who was hard of hearing would live in a silent world. Either that, or he simply didn't care about Yvette. That would explain why he got straight to discussing his acquisition of Snyder Group in his study as if nothing was wrong. When Yvette brought him some soup, she heard Xavier animatedly discussing work with his employees. He was talking about the acquisition of Snyder Group, her father, James Snyder's company. She didn't know how to feel about that. She knew that her brother, Terrence Synder, was useless at running a business, so it was only a matter of time before Snyder Group fell. However, she had never thought that her own husband would be the first to cause Snyder Group's downfall. "Xav," she interrupted. Xavier was slightly startled. Out of guilt, or maybe some other emotion, he quickly hung up the phone and closed his laptop. Feigning ignorance, Yvette walked into the study and placed the bowl in front of him. "Have some soup, then get to bed soon. Your health is more important than work." For some reason, Xavier felt himself relax when he heard her soft voice. She probably hadn't heard anything. Feeling conflicted, he stopped Yvette before she could leave. "You said you wanted to talk to me. What is it?" Hearing this, Yvette turned back to look at him. Softly, she said, "I just wanted to ask if you're free in the morning so we can go and file for divorce." Chapter 3 Yvette's voice was calm and impassive, as though divorce were a menial matter to her. Xavier's pupils contracted. "What did you just say?" Over the last three years, no matter what he had done, Yvette had never brought up divorce. In truth, Xavier knew that Yvette loved him. Her eyes, which were usually dull and empty, were clear and bright now. "I'm sorry for being a burden over the last few years, Mr. Lane. We should get divorced." Xavier clenched his fists unconsciously. "You heard what I said earlier, didn't you? Snyder Group was already failing; it won't matter whether I buy it or someone else does. What are you trying to do by bringing up divorce? "Is it because you want money? Or a child? Or do you want me to leave Snyder Group alone?" he asked coldly. "Don't forget that I don't love you. Your threats won't work on me!" At that moment, he seemed like a stranger to Yvette. A lump formed in her throat as her ears began throbbing. Even though she was wearing her hearing aids, she could barely hear what Xavier was saying. She could only answer his last question. "I don't want anything." Afraid that he would notice something wrong with her, Yvette left the study in a hurry. As he watched her leave, Xavier felt frustrated for some reason. He had never felt like this before. Not one to hold in his emotions, he flipped the table over. The bowl of soup that Yvette had brought him spilled all over the ground. ... Back in her own room, Yvette forced herself to swallow a handful of pills. She reached up to touch her ear. As she retracted her fingers, she saw crimson blood on them. Thanks to the medicine, her hearing recovered a little by the time it was dawn. Yvette stared blankly at the soft rays of sunlight streaming from the window. "The rain has stopped," she said quietly to herself. Xavier didn't leave the manor that day. He was in the living room bright and early, settled on the couch, waiting for Yvette to apologize and express her regret to him. This wasn't the first time Yvette had lost her temper with him. However, after every tantrum, she would apologize to him before long. Xavier figured that it would be the same this time around. Soon, he saw Yvette coming out of her room, all freshened up. She wore her usual dark-colored clothes. She dragged a suitcase with one hand while holding a piece of paper in the other. She handed the paper to him. It was a divorce agreement. "Let me know when you have time, Xav." With that, she left the manor, pulling her suitcase behind her. It was bright and sunny outside. Yvette felt as if she had gotten a new chance at life. Meanwhile, Xavier sat frozen on the couch, still clutching the divorce agreement in his hand. It took him a long time to come back to his senses. It was Saturday. Usually, around this time of the year, Xavier would take Yvette back to his hometown to pay respects to his ancestors. During this time, they would have to endure strange looks from his extended family. However, he was alone that day, which made him extraordinarily happy. At Lane Mansion, Shannon and the rest of the Lanes were surprised to see him alone. In the past, Yvette had always been the first one to turn up every year and the last to leave since she had been trying to please everyone. Why wasn't she there today? Shanon frowned and asked Xavier, "Where's Yvette, Xav?" Xavier's expression turned cold. "She wanted a divorce and left me." Everyone fell silent in disbelief when he said that. Shannon was shocked. She knew that Yvette probably loved Xavier more than anything in the world, only surpassed by his own parents. Seven years ago, Yvette had even protected Xavier with her own body when someone had attempted to stab him. Four years ago, not long after the two had gotten engaged, something had happened to Xavier while he had been on a business trip in Dibay. Everyone had been convinced that he was dead, but Yvette had refused to believe that. She had dropped everything and gone to the foreign city just to look for him. Then, after they had gotten married, Yvette had taken care of almost everything in his life with meticulous precision, including being polite to everyone around him, even his secretaries. She had always been afraid of offending them. Yvette clearly couldn't live without Xavier. So, why had she suggested getting a divorce? Shannon had no idea, but she was glad that Yvette had finally decided to let Xavier go. "She's not worthy to be your wife anyway. It's a good thing that you're divorcing her. She doesn't deserve you," she said The others immediately chimed in. "Yeah, you're young and handsome, Xav. You're in your best years now. Yvette's been dragging you down all this time!" Instantly, the gathering turned into a slander fest. They spoke of Yvette as if she were an unforgivable criminal. Xavier should have felt happy that they were defending him, but for some reason, he found their words too sharp and crass. He left Lane Mansion earlier than usual and made his way back to Dewberry Estate. The sky was just starting to darken when he arrived home. He opened the door and entered the manor. When he saw nothing but darkness, he remembered, with a start, that Yvette had left. He changed into his house slippers and tossed his coat into the washer. For some reason, he felt unusually exhausted today. He went to the wine cellar to get a bottle of wine so that he could celebrate Yvette's leaving. However, when he got to the wine cellar and saw the locked door, he realized too late that he didn't have the key. He didn't like strangers in his house, so there were no maids or servants at Dewberry Estate. Ever since he had married Yvette, she had been the one taking care of the household affairs. He could only go back to his room. Picking up his phone, he scrolled through his messages only to find work-related texts. Yvette hadn't called or texted him to apologize at all. Tossing his phone aside, he got up and headed over to the kitchen. When he opened the door of the fridge, he was stunned. Apart from food, there were also a lot of supplements. He picked one of the bags up and read the instructions on it. "Take five times a day for incapable of conceived." He took a whiff of the supplement. It smelled disgusting. He recalled that Yvette always smelled strange. So, this was why. He scoffed silently. They had never slept, so no matter how much medicine she took, she would never have gotten conceived. ... Meanwhile, over in a dark and dinky hotel, Yvette opened her eyes blearily. Her head was pounding. The world was silent. She knew, then, that her condition had worsened again. Before this, she had still been able to hear some sounds, even without her hearing aids. She pushed herself up and felt around on the bedside table until she found her medicine. She popped the pills in her mouth, tasting their bitterness. The day before, she had left Dewberry Estate, which had been her home for the past three years. At first, she had gone to her parents' house, Snyder Residence. However, at the door, she had overheard Yara and Terrence discussing how they would marry her off to an old man if the Lanes kicked her out. Yvette had blanked upon hearing that. It was then that she finally realized that she had no place to call home anymore. Even though she hadn't eaten anything in two days, she still didn't feel hungry. However, it was too quiet. The silence scared her. It had been raining more frequently in Tirion this year than it had in previous years. Yvette stared out at the passing pedestrians. Most of them were paired up or in groups. She was the only one alone. She bought a bus ticket heading out of the city. She decided to go to her nanny's house in the countryside. Viola Xenos, her nanny, had taken care of her when she was a child. It was already 9:00 pm when Yvette got there. When Viola saw Yvette, she looked pleasantly surprised. Yvette teared up when she saw Viola's warm smile. She reached out to her and hugged her. "Viola." Due to health issues, Viola had never married and didn't have children of her own. Yvette was closer to her than she was to her own mother. That night, Yvette cuddled up in Viola's embrace, just like she had when she was a child. Viola wrapped her arms around Yvette, only to realize that the latter was very thin. She pressed a hand on the Yvette's bony back, trembling uncontrollably. Forcing herself to calm down, she asked cautiously, "Has Xavier been treating you well, Yvvy?" Yvette felt a sharp pain in her throat when she heard Xavier's name. She wanted to lie to Viola and tell her that Xavier had treated her well, but she knew that Viola wasn't silly. Since she had already made up her mind to leave him, there was no need to lie to herself or to the people who loved her any longer. "The person he loves has returned. I've decided to let him go and divorce him." Viola was stunned. She couldn't believe her ears. Yvette had told her multiple times before that she wanted to spend the rest of her life with Xavier. Not knowing what else to say, she comforted Yvette by telling her that there were plenty of other fish in the sea. There was bound to be one who would love her. Yvette just nodded silently. The buzzing in her ears drowned out Viola's comforting voice. That night, she managed to get a good night's sleep, which was rare. However, when she woke up, she was greeted with the alarming sight of blood staining the spot where her head had laid on the pillow. Yvette touched her right ear. Her fingers felt sticky. She looked at her hand. It was covered in blood. Chapter 4 Even Yvette's hearing aids were stained red. Her pupils contracted, and she quickly grabbed some tissues to wipe her ear. Then, she stripped the bedsheets and washed them. She was afraid that Viola would worry about her if she found out that her illness was worsening. So, she cleaned up the mess and found an excuse to bid goodbye to Viola. Before she left, she placed a part of her savings on the bedside table without telling Viola. Viola walked Yvette to the bus stop and waved goodbye reluctantly. β¦ After Yvette left, Viola couldn't stop thinking about how thin the former was. Unable to just sit by, she called Lane Group. When the secretary heard that Viola was Yvette's nanny and wanted to speak to Xavier, she transferred the call to Xavier's line. It was the third day after Yvette had left Xavier. It was also the first time in three days that he had received a call about her. Sitting behind his desk, he felt exceptionally pleased. Just as he had expected, Yvette wouldn't be able to last more than three days without himβor so he thought. Viola's voice came through the other line, sounding weighed with age. "Mr. Lane, I am Yvvy's nanny. I've been taking care of her since she was a baby. "Please, I beg you, treat her well. Don't hurt her more than you already have. She's not as strong as she seems on the surface. "When she was born, Mrs. Snyder left her in my care because she didn't like that Yvvy is hard of hearing. Yvvy only returned home when she had to start going to school. "The Snyders have never treated her as one of their own. Apart from Mr. Snyder, everyone else treated her like she was a maid. "You and Mr. Snyder are the most important people she has in this world. I'm begging you, please. Please be kind to her." Xavier's mood darkened when he heard what Viola said. "Did she tell you to give me this sob story because she didn't want to face me herself?" he asked coldly. "Why should I care about her life? If you ask me, she deserved everything she got!" That said, he hung up the phone without waiting for an answer. Viola had heard Yvette gushing about how nice Xavier was to her. So, it was only then that she realized the truthβXavier wasn't a good man at all. He wasn't a good husband to Yvette. ... Yvette sat on the bus, heading home. Just then, her phone vibrated. It was a message from Xavier. "You said you wanted to get divorced, right? I'll see you at 10:00 am tomorrow." Yvette stared at the text blankly for a while before replying, "Okay." Just one word. It infuriated Xavier and completely ruined his mood. Unable to work anymore, he called up his friends and invited them out for drinks. Daphne was also at the club when he arrived. "I'm not going home until I'm drunk!" she declared. Tristan sat down beside Xavier. He couldn't help asking curiously, "How's Deaf Yvvy?" Xavier raised an eyebrow at him. "There's no need to talk about her ever again. We're filing for divorce tomorrow." Tristan was stunned. He couldn't believe his ears. "Really?" Beside them, Daphne brightened. She poured out a shot for him. "Congrats on getting back your freedom, Xav!" Xavier drank a lot that night. Daphne offered to send him home, but he rejected her suggestion. "No need. It's not appropriate." If he and Yvette were going to get divorced tomorrow, she might come home that night. Daphne wasn't happy about the rejection. "Why? You're divorcing her anyway. Why wouldn't it be appropriate? Are you still scared that she might find out about our relationship?" Their relationship? Xavier narrowed his eyes. "You're overthinking this." He got into his own car. Out of consideration, he also called a cab to send Daphne home. On the drive home, he kept unlocking his phone to check if Yvette had sent him any messages. She hadn't. When he reached Dewberry Estate, it was dark. With a stormy expression, Xavier opened the door and turned on the light. Yvette was nowhere to be seen. She hadn't come home. The manor was left exactly the way it had been when she had left. Still feeling the effects of the wine, Xavier threw himself heavily onto the couch and soon fell asleep. In his nightmares, Yvette was covered in blood, but there was a smile on her face. "I don't love you anymore, Xav," she said. When Xavier jolted awake, the sky outside had just brightened up. He rubbed his forehead and went to the bathroom to freshen himself up. Then, he changed into a smart suit and made his way to the courthouse. At the entrance of the courthouse, he spotted Yvette standing under a tree not far off. As usual, she was dressed in dark-colored clothes. From the distance, she looked incredibly frail and thin as she stood amid the drizzle. It was as if a single gust of wind could knock her over. Xavier could still remember how young and lively she had been when they had first gotten married. She hadn't been as thin and gloomy back then. Holding an umbrella, he walked toward Yvette. It took her a few moments to notice him. Xiaver hadn't changed much over the last three years. He was as handsome and as confident as ever, with the added hint of matureness that came with age. Yvette was a little dazed. The last three years felt like a blink in time to her, yet she also seemed to have exhausted a whole lifetime. Xavier stalked over to Yvette and gazed at her coldly. He was waiting for her to apologize to him. She had been sulking enough. It was time to put an end to this. However, Yvette just said, "I'm sorry to pull you away from your work. Let's go in." Xavier stiffened, but he quickly recovered. "Don't regret this." With that, he turned and headed into the courthouse. Yvette stared after him sadly. Would she regret this? She didn't know either. In the courthouse, the judge asked them if they were sure about going through with the divorce. Yvette's answer was firm. "Yes." Her determined expression frustrated Xavier. After filing for divorce, they still had to return to the courthouse in a month. If they didn't show up, then the divorce would be considered null. As they left the courthouse, Yvette looked at Xavier, her expression unusually calm. "I'll see you next month. Take care." With that, she stepped out into the rain, hailed a cab, and left. Xavier was left standing on the spot. He didn't know how to feel as he watched her car leave. Relieved, probably. Relieved that he wouldn't need to put up with her any longer or endure others' ridicule for having a disabled wife. ... In the cab, Yvette leaned against the window and stared blankly at the rain droplets on the glass. In the rearview mirror, the driver suddenly saw blood dripping from her ear. He was shocked by the sight. "Miss? Miss!" Yvette didn't answer him. The driver hastily stopped the car. Yvette was confused. They weren't at her destination yet. Why had they stopped? She looked over at the driver and saw him mouthing silently. She realized that she had gone deaf again. "I'm sorry, I can't hear you. What are you saying?" In the end, the driver had to type out what he wanted to say on his phone so that he could tell her about her bleeding ear. Yvette reached out belatedly and felt the warm sensation in her ear. She was used to it now. "It's alright. This happens all the time. I'm fine." She was hard of hearing, but her ears hadn't bled like this before. Two years ago, at a gathering, Tristan had pushed her into a swimming pool. Yvette didn't know how to swim, so she had almost drowned. At the same time, her eardrums had also expanded due to the pressure. She had been sent to the hospital, but the damage had been done. At the time, she had been told that everything was fine. Why was this happening again? The cab driver was still worried, so he dropped her off at the hospital she told him. After thanking him, Yvette went into the hospital on her own. This time, she saw her usual doctor, Tom Jensen. "Dr. Jensen, my memory has been rather bad lately. I kept forgetting what I'm doing," she said. When she had woken up at the hotel that morning, it had taken her a long time to remember that she had to file for divorce with Xavier. Tom looked at her latest report worriedly. "Ms. Snyder, I think you should consider getting tested for other things. Specifically, mental health issues." Mental healthβ¦ Following Tom's recommendation, Yvette went and got a psychiatric diagnosis. She was diagnosed with depression. It turned out that patients with severe depression often experienced memory loss. Before heading back to the hotel, Yvette stopped and bought a notebook and a pen. She wrote down everything that had happened lately. She placed the notebook right beside her bed so that it would be the first thing she saw when she woke up in the morning. News of her and Xavier's divorce spread quickly. That night, Yara called her multiple times, but she didn't hear anything. β¦ When she woke up the next morning, she saw a barrage of texts from Yara. "Where are you?" "Who do you think you are? Even if you're getting a divorce, Xavier should have been the one to ask for it!" "You're such a jinx! Back when you got married, your dad got into a car crash and died. What's going to happen now that you're getting divorced? Do you want Snyder Group to go bankrupt? Is that it?" Yvette stared at the messages. She was used to the verbal bully by now. She typed out a reply. "Mom, it's time that we live by our own merits. We shouldn't depend on others so much." Yara's response was swift. "You're such an ingrate! I shouldn't have given birth to you in the first place!" Yvette didn't bother replying to that. She placed her phone aside. She just had to wait a month. Once the divorce was finalized, she would be able to leave Tirion and start a new life. β¦ Yvette's health worsened over the next few days. She often found herself completely deaf. Sometimes, it took a very long time for her hearing to go back to normal. Her memory was deteriorating too. On the bright side, even though her hearing loss was incurable, at least she could do something about the depression. She tried everything she could to keep herself happy. She busied herself by registering as a volunteer online. She spent time taking care of abandoned old people and orphans. Helping them made her feel like she had a reason to continue living. A few days later, Yvette woke up in the morning and checked her notebook as usual. Then, she got ready to head out to the orphanage. When she picked up her phone, she saw several unread messages. There were messages from Terrance and Yara, as well as Daphne. She opened the texts one by one. Yara: "As you wished, Snyder Group is no more." Terrence: "Keep hiding. You're the most cowardly and cruel person I've ever seen." Daphne: "My condolences, Yvette. Actually, I think Snyder Group would thrive better under Xav." Daphne: "Since your family has helped me so much in the past, do let me know if you need anything. I'll help you if I can." Yvette had no idea what was happening. She closed the messaging app. Almost immediately, she got a notification about the latest news. Chapter 5 Yvette watched the news and saw the press conference held by Lane Group. It was an announcement that Xavier had successfully acquired Snyder Group. James' company no longer existed in the world. β¦ Things on Xavier's end had been extra pleasant lately. He had acquired Snyder Group and gotten his revenge. "The Snyder family finally got what they deserved for tricking you into that marriage three years ago." Tristan chuckled. Yet, he changed the topic in the next instant. He asked Xavier, "Xav, has Deaf Yvvy approached you during the past few days?" Xavier froze halfway through signing a document. He didn't know why, but people around him kept mentioning Yvette these days. "No," he replied coldly. That shocked Tristan. After all, how could Yvette not do anything when something this massive had happened to her family? With that in mind, he spoke again. "Could it be that she's finally come around? I heard her family has been looking everywhere for her. Nobody knows where she's goneβ" He kept blabbering on. Xavier frowned, feeling utterly annoyed. "Get out!" Tristan jolted. That was when he realized that Xavier was furious. Not daring to say another word, Tristan bolted out of the CEO's office. Once outside, he took his phone and called his assistant, Avery Fitzpatrick. "Have you found Yvette?" "Yes, she's in a small hotel in Hexim Pass," answered Avery. Tristan had Avery send him the location before he drove there. He refused to let Yvette off the hook so easily. So what if she was willing to divorce Xavier now? She had already prevented Xavier and Daphne from being together for over three years! Besides, Daphne had saved Tristan's life once, so he owed her. It rained outside. Yvette finished her volunteer work and picked up her medication from the hospital. Then, she held an umbrella while walking back to the hotel. There were very few people on the road. Tristan drove his car but kept his eyes on Yvette's slim back. He deliberately sped up as he drove past her, sending a puddle of rainwater splashing onto her. Yvette shot him a blank stare. Tristan happened to meet her emotionless gaze through his rearview mirror. He didn't know why, but he felt inexplicably nervous. Yvette recognized Tristan's luxurious, dark gray Bugatti. Yet, she retracted her gaze and pretended not to notice him. Even so, Tristan refused to stop there. He deliberately slowed his car and followed her. "Hey, Deaf Yvvy. So, you have a temper now, huh? "You're not even going to greet me now? Didn't you used to love greeting me? Didn't you enjoy tickling my fancy?" Yvette remained stoic while the former mocked her. She used to do everything to win over those around Xavier, including his friends. It was all because she liked him. She had figured that Xavier's family and friends would one day accept her. Alas, it seemed she had been too naΓ―ve. At the previous gathering, Tristan had declared that he was Daphne's friend. He couldn't care less about maintaining his gentlemanly, upper-class image when siding with Daphne. He had insulted Yvette and called her shameless. In the end, he had also thrown her into the pool, leaving her to die. Since then, Yvette had steered clear of him. Upon receiving no reaction or response from Yvette, Tristan stopped the car, opened the door, and strolled toward her. He grabbed her arm and asked, "What stunts are you planning to pull this time?" Yvette's arm hurt, so she looked up at him. "I don't know what you're saying." She wanted to pry his hand off her arm, but he flung her aside. "Don't touch me with your filthy hands!" Tristan bellowed. Yvette stumbled backward before falling to the ground with a loud thud. Tristan froze on the spot in slight disbelief. It baffled him to see Yvette resorting to such tricks. He had only pushed her with a slight force, so how could she fall like that? Seeing people looking their way, he nervously got back into his car. Still, he gave her a warning before driving away. "Don't mess with Daph just because you're a disabled person, Yvette! "She's different from you. It's taken her a lot of effort to get to where she is now, so you'd better not disrupt her and Xav's relationship again!" After driving away, he even told the Snyder family where Yvette was staying. Yvette's hands and knees were scraped when she fell. It hurt so much that she couldn't stand for a long time. Deep down, she didn't understand why Tristan was so blind to what was right and wrong. She recalled risking her life to rescue him from a car that had been about to explode four years ago. His face had been covered in blood, and his eyes hadn't been visible. However, he had spoken in the warmest voice. He had said, "Thank you. I promise I'll repay you someday." Yvette couldn't help but bitterly wonder if this was his way of repaying her. β¦ Once Yvette returned to the hotel, she took a shower and applied medication to her scraped skin. Then, she lay down in a daze. The fall hardened her determination to leave Xavier for good. β¦ The sun was shining brightly outside when Yvette woke up. She got up and headed to the living area, only to see Yara sitting on the couch, wearing a formal dress. Yara didn't seem to care one bit that Yvette had just woken up. She picked the document off the coffee table and handed it to the latter. "Take a good look at this. It's the backup plan I've selected for you." Yvette accepted the document but saw the title "prenuptial agreement" on the cover. She flipped through the pages while reading the contents aloud. "Ms. Yvette Snyder will marry Mr. Liam Lorimer. As his wife, she'll devote herself to him and look after him until the end of his life. Liam will look after Yvette's family, which includes maintaining their quality of life. He'll also provide 300 million as funds for the Snyder family." Following that, the document stated Liam's details. He was an entrepreneur from the older generation in Tirion. He was 78 years old that year. Yvette's mind tensed. At that moment, Yara spoke up again. "Mr. Lorimer has expressed that he doesn't mind that you were married before. "He'll help revive our family's reputation from the ashes, as long as you marry him. Come on, dearest. You wouldn't let me and Terrence down, right?" Yvette's face paled even more. "I can't agree to what you're asking of me." Yara had never imagined that Yvette would reject her so candidly. She blew up in a fit of rage at once. "What right do you have to refuse? I gave you life!" Hearing that, Yvette met Yara's gaze. "How about I return my life to you? Would that mean I no longer owe you?" "What did you say?" Yara shrilled. Yvette's pale lips moved as she said, "If I returned my life to you, would it mean you'd no longer be my mother? And I'll no longer be indebted to you for giving birth to me?" Yara sneered, not believing Yvette would dare do such a thing. "Okay, then. I won't force you to marry Mr. Lorimer if you give your life back to me. But the question is, do you have the guts to do it?" "Give me a month." Yvette seemed determined. In Yara's eyes, Yvette seemed like a crazed person. She warned, "You'd best not threaten me by only saying you'll end your life. We're not that close, so I don't care if you die. However, you must sign this document if you're too afraid to end your life." β¦ Yvette had suppressed all her emotions to the brim and needed to vent somewhere. So, she went to a bar. She sat in a corner, drinking and watching the crowd happily dance in a daze. That was when a dashing man with striking eyes noticed Yvette, who was all alone. He approached and asked, "Yvette?" Yvette stared at the man but didn't recognize him. Still dazed, she asked, "Do you know how one can achieve happiness?" The man was confused. "What did you say?" Yvette continued drinking as she spoke. "The doctor says I'm ill and should try to be happier, but I can't make myself feel happyβ¦" That sparked discomfort in the man, Claude Lander. He wondered if Yvette had forgotten about him. Also, he was confused by what she saidβsomething about being ill and needing to be happier. "You shouldn't be in a place like this if you want to be happy. Why don't I drive you home?" Claude spoke in a gentle tone. A smile curved across Yvette's face as she looked at him. "You're a good person." Complex emotions stirred in Claude when he saw her bitter smile. He wondered what she had been through these past few years. Why did she seem so sorrowful? Meanwhile, Xavier was also at the bar. After settling the divorce papers, he had let himself loose every night. On top of that, he hadn't returned to Dewberry Estate in a long time. It was getting late. When the crowd was about to leave, Daphne noticed a familiar figure in a corner of the bar. She exclaimed, "Isn't that Yvvy?" Xavier glanced in the direction Daphne was staring in and saw a man merrily chatting with Yvette. His expression soured at once. He was disappointed in Yvette for getting drunk at a bar and chatting up another man. He felt like he had thought too highly of her before. "Should we go and check up on her, Xav?" asked Daphne. "No," was all Xavier said before speedily leaving. On the other hand, Yvette declined Claude's offer. "There's no need to trouble yourself. I can go home on my own." Claude was still worried about Yvette, so he ran after her when he noticed her leaving the bar. "Do you really not remember me?" Yvette gazed at him but couldn't recall who he was. "It's Chubbs. Have you forgotten?" Claude reminded her. Only then did Yvette remember her friend, Chubbs, whom she met when she had been living with Viola in the countryside. Back then, Claude had been chubbier and nowhere near Yvette's height. Yet, his six-foot-two-inch frame now towered over her. He had even grown to have handsome features. "I remember now! You've changed so much. I didn't even recognize you!" said Yvette. Meeting an old friend away from home was a pleasant thing. But only a slight smile curved on Yvette's face. That upset Claude. "Come on. I'll drive you home," Claude stated. When he dropped her off, he was shocked to learn she lived in a run-down hotel. Yvette shifted in embarrassment. "Sorry, it's not a glamorous place. Please don't tell Viola I'm living in such a place. I don't want her to worry." Claude nodded. Since it was getting late, it was unwise for him to stay longer. So, he left after telling Yvette he would visit her the next day. He didn't notice the matte black car lingering in a dark area beneath the hotel as he walked out. Now that Claude had left, Yvette felt dizzy and had an upset stomach from drinking too much. That was when someone knocked hard on the door. Yvette had just opened the door when Xavier grabbed her wrist. He exerted so much strength on her slender wrist that it felt close to snapping in half. "You've made me look at you in a new light, Yvette!" Xavier snarled while shutting and locking the door. He then forcefully led her to the couch. He sneered with words as sharp and lethal as a blade, "So, you've already settled on which family you'll marry into next, huh? I knew you wouldn't be so willing to let me go for no reason!" Yvette didn't know why he had come over, nor did she know how he had seen Claude. She was only briefly dazed. Once she snapped out of it, she shot a furious look at Xavier and didn't bother explaining herself to him. The rims of her eyes reddened. "You and I aren't that different from each other." The Snyder family had tricked Xavier into marrying Yvette. However, Xavier had treated her coldly for three years while remaining entangled with his first love. Neither Xavier nor Yvette was a better person than the other. Xavier had also drunk some wine, so he reeked of it. Eyes reddening, he pinched Yvette's chin and spoke with a dangerously low voice. "Who is he? When did you guys meet?" That was the first time Yvette had seen him behave like this. She suddenly chuckled. "Are you jealous?" Xavier's gaze grew tense as he scoffed. "You're unworthy of such a reaction." Yvette became choked up. That was when Xavier leaned in domineeringly and continued interrogating her. "Has he already touched you? Huh?" In her three years of marriage, Yvette had given up on her work and declined to meet her friends whenever they had occasionally invited her out. She had done so to obey the Lane family's rules. But now Xavier was suspicious of her. Relief washed over Yvette just then. She questioned him back, "What do you think?" That utterly angered Xavier, and his heated hands started travelling down her body. | Read freely | 18 | https://facebook.com/61557986570531 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715324400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879769 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410722 | 1723321856 | 995 | 1361528064521212 | 1 | 7.4287710132688E+14 | 1715410800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 250753834794512 | 0 | Read freely | 120208075188720056 | beokn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | β€οΈπWhat happens nextπClick Here to read onπ | https://beokn.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=11230&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717941362 | 2.5075383479451E+14 | Read freely | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/422079631_823590829824839_4719608256142825580_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=X0arSR329ugQ7kNvgFznJUe&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBCybnyEjPstfL-T8Ns-_chW2Zg5909W9W-lMZXE8xwkg&oe=6672CB06 | person_profile | 0 | Read freely | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441057328_1702104656985535_4588455529970348064_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=5anZ9pA6410Q7kNvgG9aKIE&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCRB-k4bkzqrpLp8SCU41jIJSVrD8mXEJ_6VsTi8QlSuA&oe=6672C68A | 0 | 3 | Yvette Snyder stood at the entrance of the hospital, her body frail, clutching a report in her thin hands. Three words on the report stood out: "No conception detected". "You've been married for three years. How are you not conceived?" Her mother, Yara Cadwell, demanded, jabbing a finger in Yvette's face disappointedly. Yara was dressed lavishly and wore high heels. "Why are you so useless? If you don't get conceived soon, the Lanes are going to kick you out of the family. What's going to happen to our family then?" Yvette looked at Yara blankly. She had a lot to say, but the words were stuck in her throat. In the end, all she could manage was, "I'm sorry." "I don't want you to be sorry. I want you to give birth to Xavier's child. Do you understand me?" Yvette's throat felt tight; she didn't know how to answer Yara. In their three years of marriage, her husband, Xavier Lane, had never slept with her. How could she ever have his child? Yara stared at Yvette. The latter's weak demeanor was so unlike her own. Finally, she said coldly before leaving, "If you really can't give him a child, then find him a woman who can. At least he'll appreciate you for that." Yvette stared after Yara's retreating figure in disbelief. Had her own mother just told her to find another woman for her husband to sleep with? ... As Yvette made her journey home, she couldn't stop thinking about Yara's parting words. Suddenly, a loud ringing in her ear drowned out her thoughts. She knew that her condition had worsened. Just then, she received a message on her phone. It was from Xavier, and the content was the same as always. "I'm not coming home tonight." In the past three years they had been married, Xavier had never spent the night at home before. He had never so much as touched Yvette either. Yvette could remember their wedding night three years ago. He had told her, "Since your family is bold enough to trick me into marrying you, you'd better be prepared to spend the rest of your life in loneliness." Three years ago, the Snyder and Lane families had decided to form an alliance through marriage. Both families had agreed to mutually beneficial terms in the agreement. But when the day of the wedding came around, the Snyder family went back on their word and transferred all of their assets away, including the billions that Xavier had paid to marry Yvette. Yvette's eyes dulled at the memory. She replied to Xavier's text with her usual response: "Okay." Without her realizing it, the report she was holding got scrunched up in her hands. When she got home, Yvette tossed the report into the trash can. Every month, around this time, she would feel unusually lethargic. Yvette didn't prepare dinner for herself. She just leaned back on the couch, blearily drifting in and out of sleep. The rumbling in her ear persisted. That was another reason why Xavier hated herβshe was hard of hearing, which, to the rich and powerful, was no better than being crippled. Xavier would never allow her to carry his child. β¦ At 5 o'clock in the morning, the pendulum clock on the wall chimed dully. Xavier would be home in an hour. Yvette realized too late that she had fallen asleep on the couch. She got up hastily and went to the kitchen to prepare Xavier's breakfast. Xavier was a meticulous man who was strict about punctuality, not only with himself but also with the people around him. He arrived home at six o'clock sharp. Xavier was a tall and handsome man. Clad in a smart tailored suit, his demeanor was quiet and reserved, yet undoubtedly masculine. However, to Yvette, he was cold and distant. Xavier didn't even look at Yvette. He walked right past her to look at the food on the table and said with a scoff, "You do this every day. Are you a nanny or what?" Over the past three years, Yvette had been doing the same things over and over again. She wore the same dark clothes and replied to his messages with the same singular word. If it hadn't been for the business alliance and the Snyders' deceit, Xavier would never have married a woman like Yvette. At the word "nanny", the rumbling in Yvette's ears returned. She swallowed, feeling a lump in her throat, and said bravely, "Xav, do you have someone that you like?" Her sudden question surprised Xavier. His eyes darkened. "What do you mean by that?" Yvette raised her head and stared at him, swallowing the bile rising in the back of her throat. "If you love someone else, you can be with herβ" Before she could finish, Xavier interrupted her. "You're mad." ... After Xavier left, Yvette sat on the balcony alone, staring out into the cold rain. The sound of the raindrops drifted in and out of clarity. She took off her hearing aids, letting the world around her fall into silence. A month ago, her doctor had told her, "Ms. Snyder, there's been a pathological change in your auditory nerves and some of your cranial nerves, causing your hearing to worsen. If this goes on, you may lose your hearing completely." Not used to a silent world, Yvette went to the living room and turned on the television. She turned up the volume to the max, which allowed her to hear some sound. By coincidence, the television was showing an interview with Daphne Reyes, an internationally renowned singer known for her love songs. Yvette's hands trembled slightly as she gripped the remote control. Daphne was Xavier's first love. It had been a long time since Yvette had seen her, but Daphne was still as pretty as ever. She was confident and relaxed in front of the cameras, unlike the shy and frightened young woman who had begged the Snyders for sponsorship in the past. When the interviewer asked Daphne why she had returned to her home country, her answer was bold. "I came home to get my first love back." The remote control slipped out of Yvette's hands. Her heart also fell to her stomach. Flustered, Yvette turned off the television and went to the table to clean up the uneaten breakfast. When she got to the kitchen, she found that Xavier had forgotten to take his phone. She picked it up and saw the unread messages on the lock screen. "Xav, you must have been unhappy over the past few years, right?" "I know you don't love her. How about we meet up tonight? I've missed you." Yvette stared blankly at the messages until the screen went dark again. Then, she called a cab to Xavier's office. On the way, she stared out of the window. The rain fell incessantly. It felt like it would never stop. Xavier never liked it when Yvette visited him at his office, so whenever she was there, she would take the service elevator from the loading bay. When Xavier's assistant, Mark Xyrax, saw her, he just greeted her impassively, "Ms. Snyder." No one around Xavier considered Yvette his wife. She was nothing but a smear on his reputation. When Xavier saw Yvette bringing him his phone, he frowned. She was always like this. No matter what he forgot, be it his lunch, his documents, a shirt, or even an umbrella, she would bring them to him. "I thought I told you that you didn't need to deliver my things to me yourself." Yvette froze. "Sorry, I forgot." Since when had her memory been so bad? Maybe she had panicked after seeing Daphne's message and became afraid that Xavier would disappear from her life suddenly. Before she left, she looked back at Xavier. Unable to help herself, she blurted out, "Xav, do you still like Daphne?" Xavier thought that Yvette had been behaving rather strangely lately. She kept forgetting things and asking weird questions. How could a person like her be his wife? Impatiently, he replied, "If you have so much free time, go find yourself something to do." Yvette had tried getting a job before, but Xavier's mother, Shannon Guetta, had reprimanded her without holding back. "Do you want the whole world to know that Xav married a disabled woman with hearing issues?" Therefore, Yvette had given up on finding a job and focused on her fruitless life as "Mrs. Lane" at Dewberry Estate. β¦ At home, she sat alone until nightfall. She couldn't sleep. Just then, the phone on her bedside table rang loudly. It was a call from an unfamiliar number. Yvette picked up the call. A familiar voice, yet one she dreaded, sounded from the other end. "Is this Yvvy? Xav is drunk. Can you come pick him up?" When Yvette arrived at Sternhow Club, she heard loud coaxing and jeering from the wealthy heirs inside the private room. "Daph, didn't you say you came back to get our dear Mr. Lane back into your arms? This is your chance now. Go on, tell him how you feel!" Daphne was a pretty woman who was popular wherever she went. She was also Xavier's first love, so the rich young men of the upper crust were happy to push the two together. Daphne wasn't shy at all. She turned to Xavier and said without any reservations, "I like you, Xav. Please be with me again." That was what Yvette heard when she arrived at the door of the private room. Inside, the other people were urging Xavier to answer Daphne. His best friend, Tristan Shaw, was the most vocal among them. "Xav, you've been waiting for Daphne for three years. She's back now. So, go on, answer her!" Yvette stood frozen outside the door. Her heart was pounding. Just then, one of the men pulled the door open. "Ms. Snyder?" Chapter 2 Everyone in the private room looked over at the door. For a moment, the room was eerily silent. Yvette immediately caught sight of Xavier in the middle of the room. His eyes were clear and bright. He was clearly not drunk. She knew that she had been tricked by Daphne. When Xavier saw Yvette, his pupils constricted. Everyone else in the room looked awkward, including Tristan, who had been the most vocal in getting Xavier to accept Daphne's confession earlier. Yvette shouldn't have gone there. Daphne was the first to break the silence. "Please don't get the wrong idea, Yvvy. Tristan was joking. Xavier and I are just friends." Before Yvette could answer, Xavier stood up impatiently. "There's no need to explain it to her." Then, he stalked over to Yvette. "What are you doing here?" "I thought you were drunk, so I came to take you home," Yvette answered truthfully. Xavier scoffed. "You really didn't retain anything I told you, did you?" Lowering his voice, he said softly so that only she could hear him, "Are you here to remind everyone that I was tricked into marrying you three years ago? Did you think they forgot?" Yvette was stunned. Xavier gave her a cold look. "Stop seeking attention. You're only making me hate you more." With that, he turned away, leaving Yvette standing alone. Yvette stared after his retreating figure, unable to snap out of her shock. None of the other scions in the room took pity on her when they saw Xavier ignoring her. Tristan even had no qualms in telling Daphne, who was feigning distress, "You're too kind, Daphne. You didn't need to explain anything. "If Yvette hadn't scammed Xav, he would've married you in the first place. You wouldn't have needed to suffer abroad as well." Despite the constant ringing in her ears, Yvette could still hear every word clearly. She knew better than anyone that even if Xavier hadn't married her, he wouldn't have married Daphne. Daphne was a nobody with no background, after all. Daphne was well aware of this as well. That was why she had chosen to break up with Xavier and leave the country. How had everything turned out to be Yvette's fault? When Yvette left Sternhow Club with her umbrella, she felt as if she had been enveloped by darkness. Just then, a lithe figure appeared beside her. It was Daphne. She was decked out in fine clothes, complete with high heels. She looked smug. "It's a cold night, isn't it? So, how does it feel to get scoffed at by Xavier after you came all the way here at this time to get him?" Yvette didn't answer her, but Daphne didn't mind her silence. She just continued speaking. "I do pity you, you know. You've never experienced true love before, have you? "Do you know that when I was with Xav, he would cook for me himself? When I was sick, he would drop everything and stay with me. "Has Xav ever told you he loves you? He used to say that to me all the timeβ¦" Yvette listened to Daphne's rambling quietly, her mind going over the past three years she had been married to Xavier. He had never so much as stepped into the kitchen during that time. When she had gotten sick, he had never comforted her. He had never told her he loved her either. β¦ That night, Yvette couldn't fall asleep. She had only just found out that the man she had loved for the past 12 years had once loved another with all his heart, in the spectacular way that only young people could. At that moment, she realized that it was time for her to give him up. She had a sleepless night. The next morning, Xavier returned home. The glare he gave her was cold. "How attached are you to the Lane family's money, to me, your money-making robot?" he demanded. Yvette was stunned. She didn't know what had gotten into him so early in the morning. Instinctively, she said, "I never wanted your money." She had only ever wanted Xavier. Xavier laughed in disdain. "Then, why did your mother come to my office and beg me to give you a child?" Yvette was stunned. She stared into Xavier's eyes. It was only then that she realized that he wasn't angry about what had happened last night. Xavier had no desire to waste his breath on her. "If you want to continue staying with me and keep your family afloat, tell your mother to behave herself!" ... In the end, Yvette didn't need to look for Yara. Yara found Yvette instead. She was no longer cold and distant; she gripped Yvette's hands and said gently, "Yvvy, you should ask Xavier to give you a child. He doesn't have to do it biologically. He could do it through scientific measures." Scientific measures. Yvette stared at Yara in shock as the latter continued, "Daphne told me that Xavier hasn't slept with you in the past three years." That was the last straw for Yvette. She didn't know why Xavier would tell Daphne about that. Maybe he really loved Daphne a lot. With that thought, she suddenly felt relieved. "Just let it go, Mom." Yara paused. She frowned. "What?" "I'm tired. I want to get a divorceβ" Before she could finish, Yara slapped her hard across the face. The kind, motherly facade was gone in an instant. She jabbed a finger at Yvette and gritted out, "You have no right to ask for a divorce! "Without the Lane family, what do you think you're going to do? Who's going to remarry a disabled divorcee like you?" Yvette felt her body go numb. Yara had never liked Yvette, even when the latter had been a child. Yara had been a famous dancer. The fact that she had given birth to a daughter with hearing issues was one of her biggest regrets. Therefore, she had sent Yvette away to be taken care of by a nanny. She had only allowed Yvette to return home when the latter started school. People used to tell Yvette that every mother loved their child. So, she had done everything she could to excel at everything in hopes of making Yara happy. Despite her hearing issues, she had been at the top of her class in dance, music, and art classes. But no matter how hard she tried, Yara still didn't consider her a good daughter. In Yara's words, Yvette wasn't "complete". Not only physically, but also in love and familial relationships. After Yara left, Yvette used some makeup to cover up the red print on her face. Then, she packed her bags quietly. Even after three years of married life, all her personal belongings fit into a single suitcase. After she finished packing up, she gathered her courage and sent Xavier a message. "Are you free tonight? I need to talk to you." Xavier didn't reply to her. Yvette's eyes darkened. She knew that he didn't want to reply to her messages. All she could do was wait for him to come home in the morning. She had thought that he wouldn't come home that night, but he got back at midnight. Yvette wasn't asleep at the time. She went up to him and took his coat and bag from him with familiarity in her actions. It was as if they were a normal married couple. Xavier's cold voice broke the peace. "Don't send me inane texts again." As Yvette held Xavier's coat, her hand trembled slightly. "I won't do it again," she mumbled. Xavier didn't notice anything wrong with her tone. He went straight to his study. Generally, if he came home, he would stay holed up in his study. He probably thought that someone who was hard of hearing would live in a silent world. Either that, or he simply didn't care about Yvette. That would explain why he got straight to discussing his acquisition of Snyder Group in his study as if nothing was wrong. When Yvette brought him some soup, she heard Xavier animatedly discussing work with his employees. He was talking about the acquisition of Snyder Group, her father, James Snyder's company. She didn't know how to feel about that. She knew that her brother, Terrence Synder, was useless at running a business, so it was only a matter of time before Snyder Group fell. However, she had never thought that her own husband would be the first to cause Snyder Group's downfall. "Xav," she interrupted. Xavier was slightly startled. Out of guilt, or maybe some other emotion, he quickly hung up the phone and closed his laptop. Feigning ignorance, Yvette walked into the study and placed the bowl in front of him. "Have some soup, then get to bed soon. Your health is more important than work." For some reason, Xavier felt himself relax when he heard her soft voice. She probably hadn't heard anything. Feeling conflicted, he stopped Yvette before she could leave. "You said you wanted to talk to me. What is it?" Hearing this, Yvette turned back to look at him. Softly, she said, "I just wanted to ask if you're free in the morning so we can go and file for divorce." Chapter 3 Yvette's voice was calm and impassive, as though divorce were a menial matter to her. Xavier's pupils contracted. "What did you just say?" Over the last three years, no matter what he had done, Yvette had never brought up divorce. In truth, Xavier knew that Yvette loved him. Her eyes, which were usually dull and empty, were clear and bright now. "I'm sorry for being a burden over the last few years, Mr. Lane. We should get divorced." Xavier clenched his fists unconsciously. "You heard what I said earlier, didn't you? Snyder Group was already failing; it won't matter whether I buy it or someone else does. What are you trying to do by bringing up divorce? "Is it because you want money? Or a child? Or do you want me to leave Snyder Group alone?" he asked coldly. "Don't forget that I don't love you. Your threats won't work on me!" At that moment, he seemed like a stranger to Yvette. A lump formed in her throat as her ears began throbbing. Even though she was wearing her hearing aids, she could barely hear what Xavier was saying. She could only answer his last question. "I don't want anything." Afraid that he would notice something wrong with her, Yvette left the study in a hurry. As he watched her leave, Xavier felt frustrated for some reason. He had never felt like this before. Not one to hold in his emotions, he flipped the table over. The bowl of soup that Yvette had brought him spilled all over the ground. ... Back in her own room, Yvette forced herself to swallow a handful of pills. She reached up to touch her ear. As she retracted her fingers, she saw crimson blood on them. Thanks to the medicine, her hearing recovered a little by the time it was dawn. Yvette stared blankly at the soft rays of sunlight streaming from the window. "The rain has stopped," she said quietly to herself. Xavier didn't leave the manor that day. He was in the living room bright and early, settled on the couch, waiting for Yvette to apologize and express her regret to him. This wasn't the first time Yvette had lost her temper with him. However, after every tantrum, she would apologize to him before long. Xavier figured that it would be the same this time around. Soon, he saw Yvette coming out of her room, all freshened up. She wore her usual dark-colored clothes. She dragged a suitcase with one hand while holding a piece of paper in the other. She handed the paper to him. It was a divorce agreement. "Let me know when you have time, Xav." With that, she left the manor, pulling her suitcase behind her. It was bright and sunny outside. Yvette felt as if she had gotten a new chance at life. Meanwhile, Xavier sat frozen on the couch, still clutching the divorce agreement in his hand. It took him a long time to come back to his senses. It was Saturday. Usually, around this time of the year, Xavier would take Yvette back to his hometown to pay respects to his ancestors. During this time, they would have to endure strange looks from his extended family. However, he was alone that day, which made him extraordinarily happy. At Lane Mansion, Shannon and the rest of the Lanes were surprised to see him alone. In the past, Yvette had always been the first one to turn up every year and the last to leave since she had been trying to please everyone. Why wasn't she there today? Shanon frowned and asked Xavier, "Where's Yvette, Xav?" Xavier's expression turned cold. "She wanted a divorce and left me." Everyone fell silent in disbelief when he said that. Shannon was shocked. She knew that Yvette probably loved Xavier more than anything in the world, only surpassed by his own parents. Seven years ago, Yvette had even protected Xavier with her own body when someone had attempted to stab him. Four years ago, not long after the two had gotten engaged, something had happened to Xavier while he had been on a business trip in Dibay. Everyone had been convinced that he was dead, but Yvette had refused to believe that. She had dropped everything and gone to the foreign city just to look for him. Then, after they had gotten married, Yvette had taken care of almost everything in his life with meticulous precision, including being polite to everyone around him, even his secretaries. She had always been afraid of offending them. Yvette clearly couldn't live without Xavier. So, why had she suggested getting a divorce? Shannon had no idea, but she was glad that Yvette had finally decided to let Xavier go. "She's not worthy to be your wife anyway. It's a good thing that you're divorcing her. She doesn't deserve you," she said The others immediately chimed in. "Yeah, you're young and handsome, Xav. You're in your best years now. Yvette's been dragging you down all this time!" Instantly, the gathering turned into a slander fest. They spoke of Yvette as if she were an unforgivable criminal. Xavier should have felt happy that they were defending him, but for some reason, he found their words too sharp and crass. He left Lane Mansion earlier than usual and made his way back to Dewberry Estate. The sky was just starting to darken when he arrived home. He opened the door and entered the manor. When he saw nothing but darkness, he remembered, with a start, that Yvette had left. He changed into his house slippers and tossed his coat into the washer. For some reason, he felt unusually exhausted today. He went to the wine cellar to get a bottle of wine so that he could celebrate Yvette's leaving. However, when he got to the wine cellar and saw the locked door, he realized too late that he didn't have the key. He didn't like strangers in his house, so there were no maids or servants at Dewberry Estate. Ever since he had married Yvette, she had been the one taking care of the household affairs. He could only go back to his room. Picking up his phone, he scrolled through his messages only to find work-related texts. Yvette hadn't called or texted him to apologize at all. Tossing his phone aside, he got up and headed over to the kitchen. When he opened the door of the fridge, he was stunned. Apart from food, there were also a lot of supplements. He picked one of the bags up and read the instructions on it. "Take five times a day for incapable of conceived." He took a whiff of the supplement. It smelled disgusting. He recalled that Yvette always smelled strange. So, this was why. He scoffed silently. They had never slept, so no matter how much medicine she took, she would never have gotten conceived. ... Meanwhile, over in a dark and dinky hotel, Yvette opened her eyes blearily. Her head was pounding. The world was silent. She knew, then, that her condition had worsened again. Before this, she had still been able to hear some sounds, even without her hearing aids. She pushed herself up and felt around on the bedside table until she found her medicine. She popped the pills in her mouth, tasting their bitterness. The day before, she had left Dewberry Estate, which had been her home for the past three years. At first, she had gone to her parents' house, Snyder Residence. However, at the door, she had overheard Yara and Terrence discussing how they would marry her off to an old man if the Lanes kicked her out. Yvette had blanked upon hearing that. It was then that she finally realized that she had no place to call home anymore. Even though she hadn't eaten anything in two days, she still didn't feel hungry. However, it was too quiet. The silence scared her. It had been raining more frequently in Tirion this year than it had in previous years. Yvette stared out at the passing pedestrians. Most of them were paired up or in groups. She was the only one alone. She bought a bus ticket heading out of the city. She decided to go to her nanny's house in the countryside. Viola Xenos, her nanny, had taken care of her when she was a child. It was already 9:00 pm when Yvette got there. When Viola saw Yvette, she looked pleasantly surprised. Yvette teared up when she saw Viola's warm smile. She reached out to her and hugged her. "Viola." Due to health issues, Viola had never married and didn't have children of her own. Yvette was closer to her than she was to her own mother. That night, Yvette cuddled up in Viola's embrace, just like she had when she was a child. Viola wrapped her arms around Yvette, only to realize that the latter was very thin. She pressed a hand on the Yvette's bony back, trembling uncontrollably. Forcing herself to calm down, she asked cautiously, "Has Xavier been treating you well, Yvvy?" Yvette felt a sharp pain in her throat when she heard Xavier's name. She wanted to lie to Viola and tell her that Xavier had treated her well, but she knew that Viola wasn't silly. Since she had already made up her mind to leave him, there was no need to lie to herself or to the people who loved her any longer. "The person he loves has returned. I've decided to let him go and divorce him." Viola was stunned. She couldn't believe her ears. Yvette had told her multiple times before that she wanted to spend the rest of her life with Xavier. Not knowing what else to say, she comforted Yvette by telling her that there were plenty of other fish in the sea. There was bound to be one who would love her. Yvette just nodded silently. The buzzing in her ears drowned out Viola's comforting voice. That night, she managed to get a good night's sleep, which was rare. However, when she woke up, she was greeted with the alarming sight of blood staining the spot where her head had laid on the pillow. Yvette touched her right ear. Her fingers felt sticky. She looked at her hand. It was covered in blood. Chapter 4 Even Yvette's hearing aids were stained red. Her pupils contracted, and she quickly grabbed some tissues to wipe her ear. Then, she stripped the bedsheets and washed them. She was afraid that Viola would worry about her if she found out that her illness was worsening. So, she cleaned up the mess and found an excuse to bid goodbye to Viola. Before she left, she placed a part of her savings on the bedside table without telling Viola. Viola walked Yvette to the bus stop and waved goodbye reluctantly. β¦ After Yvette left, Viola couldn't stop thinking about how thin the former was. Unable to just sit by, she called Lane Group. When the secretary heard that Viola was Yvette's nanny and wanted to speak to Xavier, she transferred the call to Xavier's line. It was the third day after Yvette had left Xavier. It was also the first time in three days that he had received a call about her. Sitting behind his desk, he felt exceptionally pleased. Just as he had expected, Yvette wouldn't be able to last more than three days without himβor so he thought. Viola's voice came through the other line, sounding weighed with age. "Mr. Lane, I am Yvvy's nanny. I've been taking care of her since she was a baby. "Please, I beg you, treat her well. Don't hurt her more than you already have. She's not as strong as she seems on the surface. "When she was born, Mrs. Snyder left her in my care because she didn't like that Yvvy is hard of hearing. Yvvy only returned home when she had to start going to school. "The Snyders have never treated her as one of their own. Apart from Mr. Snyder, everyone else treated her like she was a maid. "You and Mr. Snyder are the most important people she has in this world. I'm begging you, please. Please be kind to her." Xavier's mood darkened when he heard what Viola said. "Did she tell you to give me this sob story because she didn't want to face me herself?" he asked coldly. "Why should I care about her life? If you ask me, she deserved everything she got!" That said, he hung up the phone without waiting for an answer. Viola had heard Yvette gushing about how nice Xavier was to her. So, it was only then that she realized the truthβXavier wasn't a good man at all. He wasn't a good husband to Yvette. ... Yvette sat on the bus, heading home. Just then, her phone vibrated. It was a message from Xavier. "You said you wanted to get divorced, right? I'll see you at 10:00 am tomorrow." Yvette stared at the text blankly for a while before replying, "Okay." Just one word. It infuriated Xavier and completely ruined his mood. Unable to work anymore, he called up his friends and invited them out for drinks. Daphne was also at the club when he arrived. "I'm not going home until I'm drunk!" she declared. Tristan sat down beside Xavier. He couldn't help asking curiously, "How's Deaf Yvvy?" Xavier raised an eyebrow at him. "There's no need to talk about her ever again. We're filing for divorce tomorrow." Tristan was stunned. He couldn't believe his ears. "Really?" Beside them, Daphne brightened. She poured out a shot for him. "Congrats on getting back your freedom, Xav!" Xavier drank a lot that night. Daphne offered to send him home, but he rejected her suggestion. "No need. It's not appropriate." If he and Yvette were going to get divorced tomorrow, she might come home that night. Daphne wasn't happy about the rejection. "Why? You're divorcing her anyway. Why wouldn't it be appropriate? Are you still scared that she might find out about our relationship?" Their relationship? Xavier narrowed his eyes. "You're overthinking this." He got into his own car. Out of consideration, he also called a cab to send Daphne home. On the drive home, he kept unlocking his phone to check if Yvette had sent him any messages. She hadn't. When he reached Dewberry Estate, it was dark. With a stormy expression, Xavier opened the door and turned on the light. Yvette was nowhere to be seen. She hadn't come home. The manor was left exactly the way it had been when she had left. Still feeling the effects of the wine, Xavier threw himself heavily onto the couch and soon fell asleep. In his nightmares, Yvette was covered in blood, but there was a smile on her face. "I don't love you anymore, Xav," she said. When Xavier jolted awake, the sky outside had just brightened up. He rubbed his forehead and went to the bathroom to freshen himself up. Then, he changed into a smart suit and made his way to the courthouse. At the entrance of the courthouse, he spotted Yvette standing under a tree not far off. As usual, she was dressed in dark-colored clothes. From the distance, she looked incredibly frail and thin as she stood amid the drizzle. It was as if a single gust of wind could knock her over. Xavier could still remember how young and lively she had been when they had first gotten married. She hadn't been as thin and gloomy back then. Holding an umbrella, he walked toward Yvette. It took her a few moments to notice him. Xiaver hadn't changed much over the last three years. He was as handsome and as confident as ever, with the added hint of matureness that came with age. Yvette was a little dazed. The last three years felt like a blink in time to her, yet she also seemed to have exhausted a whole lifetime. Xavier stalked over to Yvette and gazed at her coldly. He was waiting for her to apologize to him. She had been sulking enough. It was time to put an end to this. However, Yvette just said, "I'm sorry to pull you away from your work. Let's go in." Xavier stiffened, but he quickly recovered. "Don't regret this." With that, he turned and headed into the courthouse. Yvette stared after him sadly. Would she regret this? She didn't know either. In the courthouse, the judge asked them if they were sure about going through with the divorce. Yvette's answer was firm. "Yes." Her determined expression frustrated Xavier. After filing for divorce, they still had to return to the courthouse in a month. If they didn't show up, then the divorce would be considered null. As they left the courthouse, Yvette looked at Xavier, her expression unusually calm. "I'll see you next month. Take care." With that, she stepped out into the rain, hailed a cab, and left. Xavier was left standing on the spot. He didn't know how to feel as he watched her car leave. Relieved, probably. Relieved that he wouldn't need to put up with her any longer or endure others' ridicule for having a disabled wife. ... In the cab, Yvette leaned against the window and stared blankly at the rain droplets on the glass. In the rearview mirror, the driver suddenly saw blood dripping from her ear. He was shocked by the sight. "Miss? Miss!" Yvette didn't answer him. The driver hastily stopped the car. Yvette was confused. They weren't at her destination yet. Why had they stopped? She looked over at the driver and saw him mouthing silently. She realized that she had gone deaf again. "I'm sorry, I can't hear you. What are you saying?" In the end, the driver had to type out what he wanted to say on his phone so that he could tell her about her bleeding ear. Yvette reached out belatedly and felt the warm sensation in her ear. She was used to it now. "It's alright. This happens all the time. I'm fine." She was hard of hearing, but her ears hadn't bled like this before. Two years ago, at a gathering, Tristan had pushed her into a swimming pool. Yvette didn't know how to swim, so she had almost drowned. At the same time, her eardrums had also expanded due to the pressure. She had been sent to the hospital, but the damage had been done. At the time, she had been told that everything was fine. Why was this happening again? The cab driver was still worried, so he dropped her off at the hospital she told him. After thanking him, Yvette went into the hospital on her own. This time, she saw her usual doctor, Tom Jensen. "Dr. Jensen, my memory has been rather bad lately. I kept forgetting what I'm doing," she said. When she had woken up at the hotel that morning, it had taken her a long time to remember that she had to file for divorce with Xavier. Tom looked at her latest report worriedly. "Ms. Snyder, I think you should consider getting tested for other things. Specifically, mental health issues." Mental healthβ¦ Following Tom's recommendation, Yvette went and got a psychiatric diagnosis. She was diagnosed with depression. It turned out that patients with severe depression often experienced memory loss. Before heading back to the hotel, Yvette stopped and bought a notebook and a pen. She wrote down everything that had happened lately. She placed the notebook right beside her bed so that it would be the first thing she saw when she woke up in the morning. News of her and Xavier's divorce spread quickly. That night, Yara called her multiple times, but she didn't hear anything. β¦ When she woke up the next morning, she saw a barrage of texts from Yara. "Where are you?" "Who do you think you are? Even if you're getting a divorce, Xavier should have been the one to ask for it!" "You're such a jinx! Back when you got married, your dad got into a car crash and died. What's going to happen now that you're getting divorced? Do you want Snyder Group to go bankrupt? Is that it?" Yvette stared at the messages. She was used to the verbal bully by now. She typed out a reply. "Mom, it's time that we live by our own merits. We shouldn't depend on others so much." Yara's response was swift. "You're such an ingrate! I shouldn't have given birth to you in the first place!" Yvette didn't bother replying to that. She placed her phone aside. She just had to wait a month. Once the divorce was finalized, she would be able to leave Tirion and start a new life. β¦ Yvette's health worsened over the next few days. She often found herself completely deaf. Sometimes, it took a very long time for her hearing to go back to normal. Her memory was deteriorating too. On the bright side, even though her hearing loss was incurable, at least she could do something about the depression. She tried everything she could to keep herself happy. She busied herself by registering as a volunteer online. She spent time taking care of abandoned old people and orphans. Helping them made her feel like she had a reason to continue living. A few days later, Yvette woke up in the morning and checked her notebook as usual. Then, she got ready to head out to the orphanage. When she picked up her phone, she saw several unread messages. There were messages from Terrance and Yara, as well as Daphne. She opened the texts one by one. Yara: "As you wished, Snyder Group is no more." Terrence: "Keep hiding. You're the most cowardly and cruel person I've ever seen." Daphne: "My condolences, Yvette. Actually, I think Snyder Group would thrive better under Xav." Daphne: "Since your family has helped me so much in the past, do let me know if you need anything. I'll help you if I can." Yvette had no idea what was happening. She closed the messaging app. Almost immediately, she got a notification about the latest news. Chapter 5 Yvette watched the news and saw the press conference held by Lane Group. It was an announcement that Xavier had successfully acquired Snyder Group. James' company no longer existed in the world. β¦ Things on Xavier's end had been extra pleasant lately. He had acquired Snyder Group and gotten his revenge. "The Snyder family finally got what they deserved for tricking you into that marriage three years ago." Tristan chuckled. Yet, he changed the topic in the next instant. He asked Xavier, "Xav, has Deaf Yvvy approached you during the past few days?" Xavier froze halfway through signing a document. He didn't know why, but people around him kept mentioning Yvette these days. "No," he replied coldly. That shocked Tristan. After all, how could Yvette not do anything when something this massive had happened to her family? With that in mind, he spoke again. "Could it be that she's finally come around? I heard her family has been looking everywhere for her. Nobody knows where she's goneβ" He kept blabbering on. Xavier frowned, feeling utterly annoyed. "Get out!" Tristan jolted. That was when he realized that Xavier was furious. Not daring to say another word, Tristan bolted out of the CEO's office. Once outside, he took his phone and called his assistant, Avery Fitzpatrick. "Have you found Yvette?" "Yes, she's in a small hotel in Hexim Pass," answered Avery. Tristan had Avery send him the location before he drove there. He refused to let Yvette off the hook so easily. So what if she was willing to divorce Xavier now? She had already prevented Xavier and Daphne from being together for over three years! Besides, Daphne had saved Tristan's life once, so he owed her. It rained outside. Yvette finished her volunteer work and picked up her medication from the hospital. Then, she held an umbrella while walking back to the hotel. There were very few people on the road. Tristan drove his car but kept his eyes on Yvette's slim back. He deliberately sped up as he drove past her, sending a puddle of rainwater splashing onto her. Yvette shot him a blank stare. Tristan happened to meet her emotionless gaze through his rearview mirror. He didn't know why, but he felt inexplicably nervous. Yvette recognized Tristan's luxurious, dark gray Bugatti. Yet, she retracted her gaze and pretended not to notice him. Even so, Tristan refused to stop there. He deliberately slowed his car and followed her. "Hey, Deaf Yvvy. So, you have a temper now, huh? "You're not even going to greet me now? Didn't you used to love greeting me? Didn't you enjoy tickling my fancy?" Yvette remained stoic while the former mocked her. She used to do everything to win over those around Xavier, including his friends. It was all because she liked him. She had figured that Xavier's family and friends would one day accept her. Alas, it seemed she had been too naΓ―ve. At the previous gathering, Tristan had declared that he was Daphne's friend. He couldn't care less about maintaining his gentlemanly, upper-class image when siding with Daphne. He had insulted Yvette and called her shameless. In the end, he had also thrown her into the pool, leaving her to die. Since then, Yvette had steered clear of him. Upon receiving no reaction or response from Yvette, Tristan stopped the car, opened the door, and strolled toward her. He grabbed her arm and asked, "What stunts are you planning to pull this time?" Yvette's arm hurt, so she looked up at him. "I don't know what you're saying." She wanted to pry his hand off her arm, but he flung her aside. "Don't touch me with your filthy hands!" Tristan bellowed. Yvette stumbled backward before falling to the ground with a loud thud. Tristan froze on the spot in slight disbelief. It baffled him to see Yvette resorting to such tricks. He had only pushed her with a slight force, so how could she fall like that? Seeing people looking their way, he nervously got back into his car. Still, he gave her a warning before driving away. "Don't mess with Daph just because you're a disabled person, Yvette! "She's different from you. It's taken her a lot of effort to get to where she is now, so you'd better not disrupt her and Xav's relationship again!" After driving away, he even told the Snyder family where Yvette was staying. Yvette's hands and knees were scraped when she fell. It hurt so much that she couldn't stand for a long time. Deep down, she didn't understand why Tristan was so blind to what was right and wrong. She recalled risking her life to rescue him from a car that had been about to explode four years ago. His face had been covered in blood, and his eyes hadn't been visible. However, he had spoken in the warmest voice. He had said, "Thank you. I promise I'll repay you someday." Yvette couldn't help but bitterly wonder if this was his way of repaying her. β¦ Once Yvette returned to the hotel, she took a shower and applied medication to her scraped skin. Then, she lay down in a daze. The fall hardened her determination to leave Xavier for good. β¦ The sun was shining brightly outside when Yvette woke up. She got up and headed to the living area, only to see Yara sitting on the couch, wearing a formal dress. Yara didn't seem to care one bit that Yvette had just woken up. She picked the document off the coffee table and handed it to the latter. "Take a good look at this. It's the backup plan I've selected for you." Yvette accepted the document but saw the title "prenuptial agreement" on the cover. She flipped through the pages while reading the contents aloud. "Ms. Yvette Snyder will marry Mr. Liam Lorimer. As his wife, she'll devote herself to him and look after him until the end of his life. Liam will look after Yvette's family, which includes maintaining their quality of life. He'll also provide 300 million as funds for the Snyder family." Following that, the document stated Liam's details. He was an entrepreneur from the older generation in Tirion. He was 78 years old that year. Yvette's mind tensed. At that moment, Yara spoke up again. "Mr. Lorimer has expressed that he doesn't mind that you were married before. "He'll help revive our family's reputation from the ashes, as long as you marry him. Come on, dearest. You wouldn't let me and Terrence down, right?" Yvette's face paled even more. "I can't agree to what you're asking of me." Yara had never imagined that Yvette would reject her so candidly. She blew up in a fit of rage at once. "What right do you have to refuse? I gave you life!" Hearing that, Yvette met Yara's gaze. "How about I return my life to you? Would that mean I no longer owe you?" "What did you say?" Yara shrilled. Yvette's pale lips moved as she said, "If I returned my life to you, would it mean you'd no longer be my mother? And I'll no longer be indebted to you for giving birth to me?" Yara sneered, not believing Yvette would dare do such a thing. "Okay, then. I won't force you to marry Mr. Lorimer if you give your life back to me. But the question is, do you have the guts to do it?" "Give me a month." Yvette seemed determined. In Yara's eyes, Yvette seemed like a crazed person. She warned, "You'd best not threaten me by only saying you'll end your life. We're not that close, so I don't care if you die. However, you must sign this document if you're too afraid to end your life." β¦ Yvette had suppressed all her emotions to the brim and needed to vent somewhere. So, she went to a bar. She sat in a corner, drinking and watching the crowd happily dance in a daze. That was when a dashing man with striking eyes noticed Yvette, who was all alone. He approached and asked, "Yvette?" Yvette stared at the man but didn't recognize him. Still dazed, she asked, "Do you know how one can achieve happiness?" The man was confused. "What did you say?" Yvette continued drinking as she spoke. "The doctor says I'm ill and should try to be happier, but I can't make myself feel happyβ¦" That sparked discomfort in the man, Claude Lander. He wondered if Yvette had forgotten about him. Also, he was confused by what she saidβsomething about being ill and needing to be happier. "You shouldn't be in a place like this if you want to be happy. Why don't I drive you home?" Claude spoke in a gentle tone. A smile curved across Yvette's face as she looked at him. "You're a good person." Complex emotions stirred in Claude when he saw her bitter smile. He wondered what she had been through these past few years. Why did she seem so sorrowful? Meanwhile, Xavier was also at the bar. After settling the divorce papers, he had let himself loose every night. On top of that, he hadn't returned to Dewberry Estate in a long time. It was getting late. When the crowd was about to leave, Daphne noticed a familiar figure in a corner of the bar. She exclaimed, "Isn't that Yvvy?" Xavier glanced in the direction Daphne was staring in and saw a man merrily chatting with Yvette. His expression soured at once. He was disappointed in Yvette for getting drunk at a bar and chatting up another man. He felt like he had thought too highly of her before. "Should we go and check up on her, Xav?" asked Daphne. "No," was all Xavier said before speedily leaving. On the other hand, Yvette declined Claude's offer. "There's no need to trouble yourself. I can go home on my own." Claude was still worried about Yvette, so he ran after her when he noticed her leaving the bar. "Do you really not remember me?" Yvette gazed at him but couldn't recall who he was. "It's Chubbs. Have you forgotten?" Claude reminded her. Only then did Yvette remember her friend, Chubbs, whom she met when she had been living with Viola in the countryside. Back then, Claude had been chubbier and nowhere near Yvette's height. Yet, his six-foot-two-inch frame now towered over her. He had even grown to have handsome features. "I remember now! You've changed so much. I didn't even recognize you!" said Yvette. Meeting an old friend away from home was a pleasant thing. But only a slight smile curved on Yvette's face. That upset Claude. "Come on. I'll drive you home," Claude stated. When he dropped her off, he was shocked to learn she lived in a run-down hotel. Yvette shifted in embarrassment. "Sorry, it's not a glamorous place. Please don't tell Viola I'm living in such a place. I don't want her to worry." Claude nodded. Since it was getting late, it was unwise for him to stay longer. So, he left after telling Yvette he would visit her the next day. He didn't notice the matte black car lingering in a dark area beneath the hotel as he walked out. Now that Claude had left, Yvette felt dizzy and had an upset stomach from drinking too much. That was when someone knocked hard on the door. Yvette had just opened the door when Xavier grabbed her wrist. He exerted so much strength on her slender wrist that it felt close to snapping in half. "You've made me look at you in a new light, Yvette!" Xavier snarled while shutting and locking the door. He then forcefully led her to the couch. He sneered with words as sharp and lethal as a blade, "So, you've already settled on which family you'll marry into next, huh? I knew you wouldn't be so willing to let me go for no reason!" Yvette didn't know why he had come over, nor did she know how he had seen Claude. She was only briefly dazed. Once she snapped out of it, she shot a furious look at Xavier and didn't bother explaining herself to him. The rims of her eyes reddened. "You and I aren't that different from each other." The Snyder family had tricked Xavier into marrying Yvette. However, Xavier had treated her coldly for three years while remaining entangled with his first love. Neither Xavier nor Yvette was a better person than the other. Xavier had also drunk some wine, so he reeked of it. Eyes reddening, he pinched Yvette's chin and spoke with a dangerously low voice. "Who is he? When did you guys meet?" That was the first time Yvette had seen him behave like this. She suddenly chuckled. "Are you jealous?" Xavier's gaze grew tense as he scoffed. "You're unworthy of such a reaction." Yvette became choked up. That was when Xavier leaned in domineeringly and continued interrogating her. "Has he already touched you? Huh?" In her three years of marriage, Yvette had given up on her work and declined to meet her friends whenever they had occasionally invited her out. She had done so to obey the Lane family's rules. But now Xavier was suspicious of her. Relief washed over Yvette just then. She questioned him back, "What do you think?" That utterly angered Xavier, and his heated hands started travelling down her body. | Read freely | 18 | https://facebook.com/61557986570531 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715324400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879770 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410722 | 1723321856 | 995 | 1361528064521212 | 1 | 7.4287710132688E+14 | 1715410800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 250753834794512 | 0 | Read freely | 120208075188720056 | beokn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | β€οΈπWhat happens nextπClick Here to read onπ | https://beokn.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=11230&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717941362 | 2.5075383479451E+14 | Read freely | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/422079631_823590829824839_4719608256142825580_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=X0arSR329ugQ7kNvgFznJUe&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBCybnyEjPstfL-T8Ns-_chW2Zg5909W9W-lMZXE8xwkg&oe=6672CB06 | person_profile | 0 | Read freely | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441057328_1702104656985535_4588455529970348064_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=5anZ9pA6410Q7kNvgG9aKIE&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCRB-k4bkzqrpLp8SCU41jIJSVrD8mXEJ_6VsTi8QlSuA&oe=6672C68A | 0 | 3 | Yvette Snyder stood at the entrance of the hospital, her body frail, clutching a report in her thin hands. Three words on the report stood out: "No conception detected". "You've been married for three years. How are you not conceived?" Her mother, Yara Cadwell, demanded, jabbing a finger in Yvette's face disappointedly. Yara was dressed lavishly and wore high heels. "Why are you so useless? If you don't get conceived soon, the Lanes are going to kick you out of the family. What's going to happen to our family then?" Yvette looked at Yara blankly. She had a lot to say, but the words were stuck in her throat. In the end, all she could manage was, "I'm sorry." "I don't want you to be sorry. I want you to give birth to Xavier's child. Do you understand me?" Yvette's throat felt tight; she didn't know how to answer Yara. In their three years of marriage, her husband, Xavier Lane, had never slept with her. How could she ever have his child? Yara stared at Yvette. The latter's weak demeanor was so unlike her own. Finally, she said coldly before leaving, "If you really can't give him a child, then find him a woman who can. At least he'll appreciate you for that." Yvette stared after Yara's retreating figure in disbelief. Had her own mother just told her to find another woman for her husband to sleep with? ... As Yvette made her journey home, she couldn't stop thinking about Yara's parting words. Suddenly, a loud ringing in her ear drowned out her thoughts. She knew that her condition had worsened. Just then, she received a message on her phone. It was from Xavier, and the content was the same as always. "I'm not coming home tonight." In the past three years they had been married, Xavier had never spent the night at home before. He had never so much as touched Yvette either. Yvette could remember their wedding night three years ago. He had told her, "Since your family is bold enough to trick me into marrying you, you'd better be prepared to spend the rest of your life in loneliness." Three years ago, the Snyder and Lane families had decided to form an alliance through marriage. Both families had agreed to mutually beneficial terms in the agreement. But when the day of the wedding came around, the Snyder family went back on their word and transferred all of their assets away, including the billions that Xavier had paid to marry Yvette. Yvette's eyes dulled at the memory. She replied to Xavier's text with her usual response: "Okay." Without her realizing it, the report she was holding got scrunched up in her hands. When she got home, Yvette tossed the report into the trash can. Every month, around this time, she would feel unusually lethargic. Yvette didn't prepare dinner for herself. She just leaned back on the couch, blearily drifting in and out of sleep. The rumbling in her ear persisted. That was another reason why Xavier hated herβshe was hard of hearing, which, to the rich and powerful, was no better than being crippled. Xavier would never allow her to carry his child. β¦ At 5 o'clock in the morning, the pendulum clock on the wall chimed dully. Xavier would be home in an hour. Yvette realized too late that she had fallen asleep on the couch. She got up hastily and went to the kitchen to prepare Xavier's breakfast. Xavier was a meticulous man who was strict about punctuality, not only with himself but also with the people around him. He arrived home at six o'clock sharp. Xavier was a tall and handsome man. Clad in a smart tailored suit, his demeanor was quiet and reserved, yet undoubtedly masculine. However, to Yvette, he was cold and distant. Xavier didn't even look at Yvette. He walked right past her to look at the food on the table and said with a scoff, "You do this every day. Are you a nanny or what?" Over the past three years, Yvette had been doing the same things over and over again. She wore the same dark clothes and replied to his messages with the same singular word. If it hadn't been for the business alliance and the Snyders' deceit, Xavier would never have married a woman like Yvette. At the word "nanny", the rumbling in Yvette's ears returned. She swallowed, feeling a lump in her throat, and said bravely, "Xav, do you have someone that you like?" Her sudden question surprised Xavier. His eyes darkened. "What do you mean by that?" Yvette raised her head and stared at him, swallowing the bile rising in the back of her throat. "If you love someone else, you can be with herβ" Before she could finish, Xavier interrupted her. "You're mad." ... After Xavier left, Yvette sat on the balcony alone, staring out into the cold rain. The sound of the raindrops drifted in and out of clarity. She took off her hearing aids, letting the world around her fall into silence. A month ago, her doctor had told her, "Ms. Snyder, there's been a pathological change in your auditory nerves and some of your cranial nerves, causing your hearing to worsen. If this goes on, you may lose your hearing completely." Not used to a silent world, Yvette went to the living room and turned on the television. She turned up the volume to the max, which allowed her to hear some sound. By coincidence, the television was showing an interview with Daphne Reyes, an internationally renowned singer known for her love songs. Yvette's hands trembled slightly as she gripped the remote control. Daphne was Xavier's first love. It had been a long time since Yvette had seen her, but Daphne was still as pretty as ever. She was confident and relaxed in front of the cameras, unlike the shy and frightened young woman who had begged the Snyders for sponsorship in the past. When the interviewer asked Daphne why she had returned to her home country, her answer was bold. "I came home to get my first love back." The remote control slipped out of Yvette's hands. Her heart also fell to her stomach. Flustered, Yvette turned off the television and went to the table to clean up the uneaten breakfast. When she got to the kitchen, she found that Xavier had forgotten to take his phone. She picked it up and saw the unread messages on the lock screen. "Xav, you must have been unhappy over the past few years, right?" "I know you don't love her. How about we meet up tonight? I've missed you." Yvette stared blankly at the messages until the screen went dark again. Then, she called a cab to Xavier's office. On the way, she stared out of the window. The rain fell incessantly. It felt like it would never stop. Xavier never liked it when Yvette visited him at his office, so whenever she was there, she would take the service elevator from the loading bay. When Xavier's assistant, Mark Xyrax, saw her, he just greeted her impassively, "Ms. Snyder." No one around Xavier considered Yvette his wife. She was nothing but a smear on his reputation. When Xavier saw Yvette bringing him his phone, he frowned. She was always like this. No matter what he forgot, be it his lunch, his documents, a shirt, or even an umbrella, she would bring them to him. "I thought I told you that you didn't need to deliver my things to me yourself." Yvette froze. "Sorry, I forgot." Since when had her memory been so bad? Maybe she had panicked after seeing Daphne's message and became afraid that Xavier would disappear from her life suddenly. Before she left, she looked back at Xavier. Unable to help herself, she blurted out, "Xav, do you still like Daphne?" Xavier thought that Yvette had been behaving rather strangely lately. She kept forgetting things and asking weird questions. How could a person like her be his wife? Impatiently, he replied, "If you have so much free time, go find yourself something to do." Yvette had tried getting a job before, but Xavier's mother, Shannon Guetta, had reprimanded her without holding back. "Do you want the whole world to know that Xav married a disabled woman with hearing issues?" Therefore, Yvette had given up on finding a job and focused on her fruitless life as "Mrs. Lane" at Dewberry Estate. β¦ At home, she sat alone until nightfall. She couldn't sleep. Just then, the phone on her bedside table rang loudly. It was a call from an unfamiliar number. Yvette picked up the call. A familiar voice, yet one she dreaded, sounded from the other end. "Is this Yvvy? Xav is drunk. Can you come pick him up?" When Yvette arrived at Sternhow Club, she heard loud coaxing and jeering from the wealthy heirs inside the private room. "Daph, didn't you say you came back to get our dear Mr. Lane back into your arms? This is your chance now. Go on, tell him how you feel!" Daphne was a pretty woman who was popular wherever she went. She was also Xavier's first love, so the rich young men of the upper crust were happy to push the two together. Daphne wasn't shy at all. She turned to Xavier and said without any reservations, "I like you, Xav. Please be with me again." That was what Yvette heard when she arrived at the door of the private room. Inside, the other people were urging Xavier to answer Daphne. His best friend, Tristan Shaw, was the most vocal among them. "Xav, you've been waiting for Daphne for three years. She's back now. So, go on, answer her!" Yvette stood frozen outside the door. Her heart was pounding. Just then, one of the men pulled the door open. "Ms. Snyder?" Chapter 2 Everyone in the private room looked over at the door. For a moment, the room was eerily silent. Yvette immediately caught sight of Xavier in the middle of the room. His eyes were clear and bright. He was clearly not drunk. She knew that she had been tricked by Daphne. When Xavier saw Yvette, his pupils constricted. Everyone else in the room looked awkward, including Tristan, who had been the most vocal in getting Xavier to accept Daphne's confession earlier. Yvette shouldn't have gone there. Daphne was the first to break the silence. "Please don't get the wrong idea, Yvvy. Tristan was joking. Xavier and I are just friends." Before Yvette could answer, Xavier stood up impatiently. "There's no need to explain it to her." Then, he stalked over to Yvette. "What are you doing here?" "I thought you were drunk, so I came to take you home," Yvette answered truthfully. Xavier scoffed. "You really didn't retain anything I told you, did you?" Lowering his voice, he said softly so that only she could hear him, "Are you here to remind everyone that I was tricked into marrying you three years ago? Did you think they forgot?" Yvette was stunned. Xavier gave her a cold look. "Stop seeking attention. You're only making me hate you more." With that, he turned away, leaving Yvette standing alone. Yvette stared after his retreating figure, unable to snap out of her shock. None of the other scions in the room took pity on her when they saw Xavier ignoring her. Tristan even had no qualms in telling Daphne, who was feigning distress, "You're too kind, Daphne. You didn't need to explain anything. "If Yvette hadn't scammed Xav, he would've married you in the first place. You wouldn't have needed to suffer abroad as well." Despite the constant ringing in her ears, Yvette could still hear every word clearly. She knew better than anyone that even if Xavier hadn't married her, he wouldn't have married Daphne. Daphne was a nobody with no background, after all. Daphne was well aware of this as well. That was why she had chosen to break up with Xavier and leave the country. How had everything turned out to be Yvette's fault? When Yvette left Sternhow Club with her umbrella, she felt as if she had been enveloped by darkness. Just then, a lithe figure appeared beside her. It was Daphne. She was decked out in fine clothes, complete with high heels. She looked smug. "It's a cold night, isn't it? So, how does it feel to get scoffed at by Xavier after you came all the way here at this time to get him?" Yvette didn't answer her, but Daphne didn't mind her silence. She just continued speaking. "I do pity you, you know. You've never experienced true love before, have you? "Do you know that when I was with Xav, he would cook for me himself? When I was sick, he would drop everything and stay with me. "Has Xav ever told you he loves you? He used to say that to me all the timeβ¦" Yvette listened to Daphne's rambling quietly, her mind going over the past three years she had been married to Xavier. He had never so much as stepped into the kitchen during that time. When she had gotten sick, he had never comforted her. He had never told her he loved her either. β¦ That night, Yvette couldn't fall asleep. She had only just found out that the man she had loved for the past 12 years had once loved another with all his heart, in the spectacular way that only young people could. At that moment, she realized that it was time for her to give him up. She had a sleepless night. The next morning, Xavier returned home. The glare he gave her was cold. "How attached are you to the Lane family's money, to me, your money-making robot?" he demanded. Yvette was stunned. She didn't know what had gotten into him so early in the morning. Instinctively, she said, "I never wanted your money." She had only ever wanted Xavier. Xavier laughed in disdain. "Then, why did your mother come to my office and beg me to give you a child?" Yvette was stunned. She stared into Xavier's eyes. It was only then that she realized that he wasn't angry about what had happened last night. Xavier had no desire to waste his breath on her. "If you want to continue staying with me and keep your family afloat, tell your mother to behave herself!" ... In the end, Yvette didn't need to look for Yara. Yara found Yvette instead. She was no longer cold and distant; she gripped Yvette's hands and said gently, "Yvvy, you should ask Xavier to give you a child. He doesn't have to do it biologically. He could do it through scientific measures." Scientific measures. Yvette stared at Yara in shock as the latter continued, "Daphne told me that Xavier hasn't slept with you in the past three years." That was the last straw for Yvette. She didn't know why Xavier would tell Daphne about that. Maybe he really loved Daphne a lot. With that thought, she suddenly felt relieved. "Just let it go, Mom." Yara paused. She frowned. "What?" "I'm tired. I want to get a divorceβ" Before she could finish, Yara slapped her hard across the face. The kind, motherly facade was gone in an instant. She jabbed a finger at Yvette and gritted out, "You have no right to ask for a divorce! "Without the Lane family, what do you think you're going to do? Who's going to remarry a disabled divorcee like you?" Yvette felt her body go numb. Yara had never liked Yvette, even when the latter had been a child. Yara had been a famous dancer. The fact that she had given birth to a daughter with hearing issues was one of her biggest regrets. Therefore, she had sent Yvette away to be taken care of by a nanny. She had only allowed Yvette to return home when the latter started school. People used to tell Yvette that every mother loved their child. So, she had done everything she could to excel at everything in hopes of making Yara happy. Despite her hearing issues, she had been at the top of her class in dance, music, and art classes. But no matter how hard she tried, Yara still didn't consider her a good daughter. In Yara's words, Yvette wasn't "complete". Not only physically, but also in love and familial relationships. After Yara left, Yvette used some makeup to cover up the red print on her face. Then, she packed her bags quietly. Even after three years of married life, all her personal belongings fit into a single suitcase. After she finished packing up, she gathered her courage and sent Xavier a message. "Are you free tonight? I need to talk to you." Xavier didn't reply to her. Yvette's eyes darkened. She knew that he didn't want to reply to her messages. All she could do was wait for him to come home in the morning. She had thought that he wouldn't come home that night, but he got back at midnight. Yvette wasn't asleep at the time. She went up to him and took his coat and bag from him with familiarity in her actions. It was as if they were a normal married couple. Xavier's cold voice broke the peace. "Don't send me inane texts again." As Yvette held Xavier's coat, her hand trembled slightly. "I won't do it again," she mumbled. Xavier didn't notice anything wrong with her tone. He went straight to his study. Generally, if he came home, he would stay holed up in his study. He probably thought that someone who was hard of hearing would live in a silent world. Either that, or he simply didn't care about Yvette. That would explain why he got straight to discussing his acquisition of Snyder Group in his study as if nothing was wrong. When Yvette brought him some soup, she heard Xavier animatedly discussing work with his employees. He was talking about the acquisition of Snyder Group, her father, James Snyder's company. She didn't know how to feel about that. She knew that her brother, Terrence Synder, was useless at running a business, so it was only a matter of time before Snyder Group fell. However, she had never thought that her own husband would be the first to cause Snyder Group's downfall. "Xav," she interrupted. Xavier was slightly startled. Out of guilt, or maybe some other emotion, he quickly hung up the phone and closed his laptop. Feigning ignorance, Yvette walked into the study and placed the bowl in front of him. "Have some soup, then get to bed soon. Your health is more important than work." For some reason, Xavier felt himself relax when he heard her soft voice. She probably hadn't heard anything. Feeling conflicted, he stopped Yvette before she could leave. "You said you wanted to talk to me. What is it?" Hearing this, Yvette turned back to look at him. Softly, she said, "I just wanted to ask if you're free in the morning so we can go and file for divorce." Chapter 3 Yvette's voice was calm and impassive, as though divorce were a menial matter to her. Xavier's pupils contracted. "What did you just say?" Over the last three years, no matter what he had done, Yvette had never brought up divorce. In truth, Xavier knew that Yvette loved him. Her eyes, which were usually dull and empty, were clear and bright now. "I'm sorry for being a burden over the last few years, Mr. Lane. We should get divorced." Xavier clenched his fists unconsciously. "You heard what I said earlier, didn't you? Snyder Group was already failing; it won't matter whether I buy it or someone else does. What are you trying to do by bringing up divorce? "Is it because you want money? Or a child? Or do you want me to leave Snyder Group alone?" he asked coldly. "Don't forget that I don't love you. Your threats won't work on me!" At that moment, he seemed like a stranger to Yvette. A lump formed in her throat as her ears began throbbing. Even though she was wearing her hearing aids, she could barely hear what Xavier was saying. She could only answer his last question. "I don't want anything." Afraid that he would notice something wrong with her, Yvette left the study in a hurry. As he watched her leave, Xavier felt frustrated for some reason. He had never felt like this before. Not one to hold in his emotions, he flipped the table over. The bowl of soup that Yvette had brought him spilled all over the ground. ... Back in her own room, Yvette forced herself to swallow a handful of pills. She reached up to touch her ear. As she retracted her fingers, she saw crimson blood on them. Thanks to the medicine, her hearing recovered a little by the time it was dawn. Yvette stared blankly at the soft rays of sunlight streaming from the window. "The rain has stopped," she said quietly to herself. Xavier didn't leave the manor that day. He was in the living room bright and early, settled on the couch, waiting for Yvette to apologize and express her regret to him. This wasn't the first time Yvette had lost her temper with him. However, after every tantrum, she would apologize to him before long. Xavier figured that it would be the same this time around. Soon, he saw Yvette coming out of her room, all freshened up. She wore her usual dark-colored clothes. She dragged a suitcase with one hand while holding a piece of paper in the other. She handed the paper to him. It was a divorce agreement. "Let me know when you have time, Xav." With that, she left the manor, pulling her suitcase behind her. It was bright and sunny outside. Yvette felt as if she had gotten a new chance at life. Meanwhile, Xavier sat frozen on the couch, still clutching the divorce agreement in his hand. It took him a long time to come back to his senses. It was Saturday. Usually, around this time of the year, Xavier would take Yvette back to his hometown to pay respects to his ancestors. During this time, they would have to endure strange looks from his extended family. However, he was alone that day, which made him extraordinarily happy. At Lane Mansion, Shannon and the rest of the Lanes were surprised to see him alone. In the past, Yvette had always been the first one to turn up every year and the last to leave since she had been trying to please everyone. Why wasn't she there today? Shanon frowned and asked Xavier, "Where's Yvette, Xav?" Xavier's expression turned cold. "She wanted a divorce and left me." Everyone fell silent in disbelief when he said that. Shannon was shocked. She knew that Yvette probably loved Xavier more than anything in the world, only surpassed by his own parents. Seven years ago, Yvette had even protected Xavier with her own body when someone had attempted to stab him. Four years ago, not long after the two had gotten engaged, something had happened to Xavier while he had been on a business trip in Dibay. Everyone had been convinced that he was dead, but Yvette had refused to believe that. She had dropped everything and gone to the foreign city just to look for him. Then, after they had gotten married, Yvette had taken care of almost everything in his life with meticulous precision, including being polite to everyone around him, even his secretaries. She had always been afraid of offending them. Yvette clearly couldn't live without Xavier. So, why had she suggested getting a divorce? Shannon had no idea, but she was glad that Yvette had finally decided to let Xavier go. "She's not worthy to be your wife anyway. It's a good thing that you're divorcing her. She doesn't deserve you," she said The others immediately chimed in. "Yeah, you're young and handsome, Xav. You're in your best years now. Yvette's been dragging you down all this time!" Instantly, the gathering turned into a slander fest. They spoke of Yvette as if she were an unforgivable criminal. Xavier should have felt happy that they were defending him, but for some reason, he found their words too sharp and crass. He left Lane Mansion earlier than usual and made his way back to Dewberry Estate. The sky was just starting to darken when he arrived home. He opened the door and entered the manor. When he saw nothing but darkness, he remembered, with a start, that Yvette had left. He changed into his house slippers and tossed his coat into the washer. For some reason, he felt unusually exhausted today. He went to the wine cellar to get a bottle of wine so that he could celebrate Yvette's leaving. However, when he got to the wine cellar and saw the locked door, he realized too late that he didn't have the key. He didn't like strangers in his house, so there were no maids or servants at Dewberry Estate. Ever since he had married Yvette, she had been the one taking care of the household affairs. He could only go back to his room. Picking up his phone, he scrolled through his messages only to find work-related texts. Yvette hadn't called or texted him to apologize at all. Tossing his phone aside, he got up and headed over to the kitchen. When he opened the door of the fridge, he was stunned. Apart from food, there were also a lot of supplements. He picked one of the bags up and read the instructions on it. "Take five times a day for incapable of conceived." He took a whiff of the supplement. It smelled disgusting. He recalled that Yvette always smelled strange. So, this was why. He scoffed silently. They had never slept, so no matter how much medicine she took, she would never have gotten conceived. ... Meanwhile, over in a dark and dinky hotel, Yvette opened her eyes blearily. Her head was pounding. The world was silent. She knew, then, that her condition had worsened again. Before this, she had still been able to hear some sounds, even without her hearing aids. She pushed herself up and felt around on the bedside table until she found her medicine. She popped the pills in her mouth, tasting their bitterness. The day before, she had left Dewberry Estate, which had been her home for the past three years. At first, she had gone to her parents' house, Snyder Residence. However, at the door, she had overheard Yara and Terrence discussing how they would marry her off to an old man if the Lanes kicked her out. Yvette had blanked upon hearing that. It was then that she finally realized that she had no place to call home anymore. Even though she hadn't eaten anything in two days, she still didn't feel hungry. However, it was too quiet. The silence scared her. It had been raining more frequently in Tirion this year than it had in previous years. Yvette stared out at the passing pedestrians. Most of them were paired up or in groups. She was the only one alone. She bought a bus ticket heading out of the city. She decided to go to her nanny's house in the countryside. Viola Xenos, her nanny, had taken care of her when she was a child. It was already 9:00 pm when Yvette got there. When Viola saw Yvette, she looked pleasantly surprised. Yvette teared up when she saw Viola's warm smile. She reached out to her and hugged her. "Viola." Due to health issues, Viola had never married and didn't have children of her own. Yvette was closer to her than she was to her own mother. That night, Yvette cuddled up in Viola's embrace, just like she had when she was a child. Viola wrapped her arms around Yvette, only to realize that the latter was very thin. She pressed a hand on the Yvette's bony back, trembling uncontrollably. Forcing herself to calm down, she asked cautiously, "Has Xavier been treating you well, Yvvy?" Yvette felt a sharp pain in her throat when she heard Xavier's name. She wanted to lie to Viola and tell her that Xavier had treated her well, but she knew that Viola wasn't silly. Since she had already made up her mind to leave him, there was no need to lie to herself or to the people who loved her any longer. "The person he loves has returned. I've decided to let him go and divorce him." Viola was stunned. She couldn't believe her ears. Yvette had told her multiple times before that she wanted to spend the rest of her life with Xavier. Not knowing what else to say, she comforted Yvette by telling her that there were plenty of other fish in the sea. There was bound to be one who would love her. Yvette just nodded silently. The buzzing in her ears drowned out Viola's comforting voice. That night, she managed to get a good night's sleep, which was rare. However, when she woke up, she was greeted with the alarming sight of blood staining the spot where her head had laid on the pillow. Yvette touched her right ear. Her fingers felt sticky. She looked at her hand. It was covered in blood. Chapter 4 Even Yvette's hearing aids were stained red. Her pupils contracted, and she quickly grabbed some tissues to wipe her ear. Then, she stripped the bedsheets and washed them. She was afraid that Viola would worry about her if she found out that her illness was worsening. So, she cleaned up the mess and found an excuse to bid goodbye to Viola. Before she left, she placed a part of her savings on the bedside table without telling Viola. Viola walked Yvette to the bus stop and waved goodbye reluctantly. β¦ After Yvette left, Viola couldn't stop thinking about how thin the former was. Unable to just sit by, she called Lane Group. When the secretary heard that Viola was Yvette's nanny and wanted to speak to Xavier, she transferred the call to Xavier's line. It was the third day after Yvette had left Xavier. It was also the first time in three days that he had received a call about her. Sitting behind his desk, he felt exceptionally pleased. Just as he had expected, Yvette wouldn't be able to last more than three days without himβor so he thought. Viola's voice came through the other line, sounding weighed with age. "Mr. Lane, I am Yvvy's nanny. I've been taking care of her since she was a baby. "Please, I beg you, treat her well. Don't hurt her more than you already have. She's not as strong as she seems on the surface. "When she was born, Mrs. Snyder left her in my care because she didn't like that Yvvy is hard of hearing. Yvvy only returned home when she had to start going to school. "The Snyders have never treated her as one of their own. Apart from Mr. Snyder, everyone else treated her like she was a maid. "You and Mr. Snyder are the most important people she has in this world. I'm begging you, please. Please be kind to her." Xavier's mood darkened when he heard what Viola said. "Did she tell you to give me this sob story because she didn't want to face me herself?" he asked coldly. "Why should I care about her life? If you ask me, she deserved everything she got!" That said, he hung up the phone without waiting for an answer. Viola had heard Yvette gushing about how nice Xavier was to her. So, it was only then that she realized the truthβXavier wasn't a good man at all. He wasn't a good husband to Yvette. ... Yvette sat on the bus, heading home. Just then, her phone vibrated. It was a message from Xavier. "You said you wanted to get divorced, right? I'll see you at 10:00 am tomorrow." Yvette stared at the text blankly for a while before replying, "Okay." Just one word. It infuriated Xavier and completely ruined his mood. Unable to work anymore, he called up his friends and invited them out for drinks. Daphne was also at the club when he arrived. "I'm not going home until I'm drunk!" she declared. Tristan sat down beside Xavier. He couldn't help asking curiously, "How's Deaf Yvvy?" Xavier raised an eyebrow at him. "There's no need to talk about her ever again. We're filing for divorce tomorrow." Tristan was stunned. He couldn't believe his ears. "Really?" Beside them, Daphne brightened. She poured out a shot for him. "Congrats on getting back your freedom, Xav!" Xavier drank a lot that night. Daphne offered to send him home, but he rejected her suggestion. "No need. It's not appropriate." If he and Yvette were going to get divorced tomorrow, she might come home that night. Daphne wasn't happy about the rejection. "Why? You're divorcing her anyway. Why wouldn't it be appropriate? Are you still scared that she might find out about our relationship?" Their relationship? Xavier narrowed his eyes. "You're overthinking this." He got into his own car. Out of consideration, he also called a cab to send Daphne home. On the drive home, he kept unlocking his phone to check if Yvette had sent him any messages. She hadn't. When he reached Dewberry Estate, it was dark. With a stormy expression, Xavier opened the door and turned on the light. Yvette was nowhere to be seen. She hadn't come home. The manor was left exactly the way it had been when she had left. Still feeling the effects of the wine, Xavier threw himself heavily onto the couch and soon fell asleep. In his nightmares, Yvette was covered in blood, but there was a smile on her face. "I don't love you anymore, Xav," she said. When Xavier jolted awake, the sky outside had just brightened up. He rubbed his forehead and went to the bathroom to freshen himself up. Then, he changed into a smart suit and made his way to the courthouse. At the entrance of the courthouse, he spotted Yvette standing under a tree not far off. As usual, she was dressed in dark-colored clothes. From the distance, she looked incredibly frail and thin as she stood amid the drizzle. It was as if a single gust of wind could knock her over. Xavier could still remember how young and lively she had been when they had first gotten married. She hadn't been as thin and gloomy back then. Holding an umbrella, he walked toward Yvette. It took her a few moments to notice him. Xiaver hadn't changed much over the last three years. He was as handsome and as confident as ever, with the added hint of matureness that came with age. Yvette was a little dazed. The last three years felt like a blink in time to her, yet she also seemed to have exhausted a whole lifetime. Xavier stalked over to Yvette and gazed at her coldly. He was waiting for her to apologize to him. She had been sulking enough. It was time to put an end to this. However, Yvette just said, "I'm sorry to pull you away from your work. Let's go in." Xavier stiffened, but he quickly recovered. "Don't regret this." With that, he turned and headed into the courthouse. Yvette stared after him sadly. Would she regret this? She didn't know either. In the courthouse, the judge asked them if they were sure about going through with the divorce. Yvette's answer was firm. "Yes." Her determined expression frustrated Xavier. After filing for divorce, they still had to return to the courthouse in a month. If they didn't show up, then the divorce would be considered null. As they left the courthouse, Yvette looked at Xavier, her expression unusually calm. "I'll see you next month. Take care." With that, she stepped out into the rain, hailed a cab, and left. Xavier was left standing on the spot. He didn't know how to feel as he watched her car leave. Relieved, probably. Relieved that he wouldn't need to put up with her any longer or endure others' ridicule for having a disabled wife. ... In the cab, Yvette leaned against the window and stared blankly at the rain droplets on the glass. In the rearview mirror, the driver suddenly saw blood dripping from her ear. He was shocked by the sight. "Miss? Miss!" Yvette didn't answer him. The driver hastily stopped the car. Yvette was confused. They weren't at her destination yet. Why had they stopped? She looked over at the driver and saw him mouthing silently. She realized that she had gone deaf again. "I'm sorry, I can't hear you. What are you saying?" In the end, the driver had to type out what he wanted to say on his phone so that he could tell her about her bleeding ear. Yvette reached out belatedly and felt the warm sensation in her ear. She was used to it now. "It's alright. This happens all the time. I'm fine." She was hard of hearing, but her ears hadn't bled like this before. Two years ago, at a gathering, Tristan had pushed her into a swimming pool. Yvette didn't know how to swim, so she had almost drowned. At the same time, her eardrums had also expanded due to the pressure. She had been sent to the hospital, but the damage had been done. At the time, she had been told that everything was fine. Why was this happening again? The cab driver was still worried, so he dropped her off at the hospital she told him. After thanking him, Yvette went into the hospital on her own. This time, she saw her usual doctor, Tom Jensen. "Dr. Jensen, my memory has been rather bad lately. I kept forgetting what I'm doing," she said. When she had woken up at the hotel that morning, it had taken her a long time to remember that she had to file for divorce with Xavier. Tom looked at her latest report worriedly. "Ms. Snyder, I think you should consider getting tested for other things. Specifically, mental health issues." Mental healthβ¦ Following Tom's recommendation, Yvette went and got a psychiatric diagnosis. She was diagnosed with depression. It turned out that patients with severe depression often experienced memory loss. Before heading back to the hotel, Yvette stopped and bought a notebook and a pen. She wrote down everything that had happened lately. She placed the notebook right beside her bed so that it would be the first thing she saw when she woke up in the morning. News of her and Xavier's divorce spread quickly. That night, Yara called her multiple times, but she didn't hear anything. β¦ When she woke up the next morning, she saw a barrage of texts from Yara. "Where are you?" "Who do you think you are? Even if you're getting a divorce, Xavier should have been the one to ask for it!" "You're such a jinx! Back when you got married, your dad got into a car crash and died. What's going to happen now that you're getting divorced? Do you want Snyder Group to go bankrupt? Is that it?" Yvette stared at the messages. She was used to the verbal bully by now. She typed out a reply. "Mom, it's time that we live by our own merits. We shouldn't depend on others so much." Yara's response was swift. "You're such an ingrate! I shouldn't have given birth to you in the first place!" Yvette didn't bother replying to that. She placed her phone aside. She just had to wait a month. Once the divorce was finalized, she would be able to leave Tirion and start a new life. β¦ Yvette's health worsened over the next few days. She often found herself completely deaf. Sometimes, it took a very long time for her hearing to go back to normal. Her memory was deteriorating too. On the bright side, even though her hearing loss was incurable, at least she could do something about the depression. She tried everything she could to keep herself happy. She busied herself by registering as a volunteer online. She spent time taking care of abandoned old people and orphans. Helping them made her feel like she had a reason to continue living. A few days later, Yvette woke up in the morning and checked her notebook as usual. Then, she got ready to head out to the orphanage. When she picked up her phone, she saw several unread messages. There were messages from Terrance and Yara, as well as Daphne. She opened the texts one by one. Yara: "As you wished, Snyder Group is no more." Terrence: "Keep hiding. You're the most cowardly and cruel person I've ever seen." Daphne: "My condolences, Yvette. Actually, I think Snyder Group would thrive better under Xav." Daphne: "Since your family has helped me so much in the past, do let me know if you need anything. I'll help you if I can." Yvette had no idea what was happening. She closed the messaging app. Almost immediately, she got a notification about the latest news. Chapter 5 Yvette watched the news and saw the press conference held by Lane Group. It was an announcement that Xavier had successfully acquired Snyder Group. James' company no longer existed in the world. β¦ Things on Xavier's end had been extra pleasant lately. He had acquired Snyder Group and gotten his revenge. "The Snyder family finally got what they deserved for tricking you into that marriage three years ago." Tristan chuckled. Yet, he changed the topic in the next instant. He asked Xavier, "Xav, has Deaf Yvvy approached you during the past few days?" Xavier froze halfway through signing a document. He didn't know why, but people around him kept mentioning Yvette these days. "No," he replied coldly. That shocked Tristan. After all, how could Yvette not do anything when something this massive had happened to her family? With that in mind, he spoke again. "Could it be that she's finally come around? I heard her family has been looking everywhere for her. Nobody knows where she's goneβ" He kept blabbering on. Xavier frowned, feeling utterly annoyed. "Get out!" Tristan jolted. That was when he realized that Xavier was furious. Not daring to say another word, Tristan bolted out of the CEO's office. Once outside, he took his phone and called his assistant, Avery Fitzpatrick. "Have you found Yvette?" "Yes, she's in a small hotel in Hexim Pass," answered Avery. Tristan had Avery send him the location before he drove there. He refused to let Yvette off the hook so easily. So what if she was willing to divorce Xavier now? She had already prevented Xavier and Daphne from being together for over three years! Besides, Daphne had saved Tristan's life once, so he owed her. It rained outside. Yvette finished her volunteer work and picked up her medication from the hospital. Then, she held an umbrella while walking back to the hotel. There were very few people on the road. Tristan drove his car but kept his eyes on Yvette's slim back. He deliberately sped up as he drove past her, sending a puddle of rainwater splashing onto her. Yvette shot him a blank stare. Tristan happened to meet her emotionless gaze through his rearview mirror. He didn't know why, but he felt inexplicably nervous. Yvette recognized Tristan's luxurious, dark gray Bugatti. Yet, she retracted her gaze and pretended not to notice him. Even so, Tristan refused to stop there. He deliberately slowed his car and followed her. "Hey, Deaf Yvvy. So, you have a temper now, huh? "You're not even going to greet me now? Didn't you used to love greeting me? Didn't you enjoy tickling my fancy?" Yvette remained stoic while the former mocked her. She used to do everything to win over those around Xavier, including his friends. It was all because she liked him. She had figured that Xavier's family and friends would one day accept her. Alas, it seemed she had been too naΓ―ve. At the previous gathering, Tristan had declared that he was Daphne's friend. He couldn't care less about maintaining his gentlemanly, upper-class image when siding with Daphne. He had insulted Yvette and called her shameless. In the end, he had also thrown her into the pool, leaving her to die. Since then, Yvette had steered clear of him. Upon receiving no reaction or response from Yvette, Tristan stopped the car, opened the door, and strolled toward her. He grabbed her arm and asked, "What stunts are you planning to pull this time?" Yvette's arm hurt, so she looked up at him. "I don't know what you're saying." She wanted to pry his hand off her arm, but he flung her aside. "Don't touch me with your filthy hands!" Tristan bellowed. Yvette stumbled backward before falling to the ground with a loud thud. Tristan froze on the spot in slight disbelief. It baffled him to see Yvette resorting to such tricks. He had only pushed her with a slight force, so how could she fall like that? Seeing people looking their way, he nervously got back into his car. Still, he gave her a warning before driving away. "Don't mess with Daph just because you're a disabled person, Yvette! "She's different from you. It's taken her a lot of effort to get to where she is now, so you'd better not disrupt her and Xav's relationship again!" After driving away, he even told the Snyder family where Yvette was staying. Yvette's hands and knees were scraped when she fell. It hurt so much that she couldn't stand for a long time. Deep down, she didn't understand why Tristan was so blind to what was right and wrong. She recalled risking her life to rescue him from a car that had been about to explode four years ago. His face had been covered in blood, and his eyes hadn't been visible. However, he had spoken in the warmest voice. He had said, "Thank you. I promise I'll repay you someday." Yvette couldn't help but bitterly wonder if this was his way of repaying her. β¦ Once Yvette returned to the hotel, she took a shower and applied medication to her scraped skin. Then, she lay down in a daze. The fall hardened her determination to leave Xavier for good. β¦ The sun was shining brightly outside when Yvette woke up. She got up and headed to the living area, only to see Yara sitting on the couch, wearing a formal dress. Yara didn't seem to care one bit that Yvette had just woken up. She picked the document off the coffee table and handed it to the latter. "Take a good look at this. It's the backup plan I've selected for you." Yvette accepted the document but saw the title "prenuptial agreement" on the cover. She flipped through the pages while reading the contents aloud. "Ms. Yvette Snyder will marry Mr. Liam Lorimer. As his wife, she'll devote herself to him and look after him until the end of his life. Liam will look after Yvette's family, which includes maintaining their quality of life. He'll also provide 300 million as funds for the Snyder family." Following that, the document stated Liam's details. He was an entrepreneur from the older generation in Tirion. He was 78 years old that year. Yvette's mind tensed. At that moment, Yara spoke up again. "Mr. Lorimer has expressed that he doesn't mind that you were married before. "He'll help revive our family's reputation from the ashes, as long as you marry him. Come on, dearest. You wouldn't let me and Terrence down, right?" Yvette's face paled even more. "I can't agree to what you're asking of me." Yara had never imagined that Yvette would reject her so candidly. She blew up in a fit of rage at once. "What right do you have to refuse? I gave you life!" Hearing that, Yvette met Yara's gaze. "How about I return my life to you? Would that mean I no longer owe you?" "What did you say?" Yara shrilled. Yvette's pale lips moved as she said, "If I returned my life to you, would it mean you'd no longer be my mother? And I'll no longer be indebted to you for giving birth to me?" Yara sneered, not believing Yvette would dare do such a thing. "Okay, then. I won't force you to marry Mr. Lorimer if you give your life back to me. But the question is, do you have the guts to do it?" "Give me a month." Yvette seemed determined. In Yara's eyes, Yvette seemed like a crazed person. She warned, "You'd best not threaten me by only saying you'll end your life. We're not that close, so I don't care if you die. However, you must sign this document if you're too afraid to end your life." β¦ Yvette had suppressed all her emotions to the brim and needed to vent somewhere. So, she went to a bar. She sat in a corner, drinking and watching the crowd happily dance in a daze. That was when a dashing man with striking eyes noticed Yvette, who was all alone. He approached and asked, "Yvette?" Yvette stared at the man but didn't recognize him. Still dazed, she asked, "Do you know how one can achieve happiness?" The man was confused. "What did you say?" Yvette continued drinking as she spoke. "The doctor says I'm ill and should try to be happier, but I can't make myself feel happyβ¦" That sparked discomfort in the man, Claude Lander. He wondered if Yvette had forgotten about him. Also, he was confused by what she saidβsomething about being ill and needing to be happier. "You shouldn't be in a place like this if you want to be happy. Why don't I drive you home?" Claude spoke in a gentle tone. A smile curved across Yvette's face as she looked at him. "You're a good person." Complex emotions stirred in Claude when he saw her bitter smile. He wondered what she had been through these past few years. Why did she seem so sorrowful? Meanwhile, Xavier was also at the bar. After settling the divorce papers, he had let himself loose every night. On top of that, he hadn't returned to Dewberry Estate in a long time. It was getting late. When the crowd was about to leave, Daphne noticed a familiar figure in a corner of the bar. She exclaimed, "Isn't that Yvvy?" Xavier glanced in the direction Daphne was staring in and saw a man merrily chatting with Yvette. His expression soured at once. He was disappointed in Yvette for getting drunk at a bar and chatting up another man. He felt like he had thought too highly of her before. "Should we go and check up on her, Xav?" asked Daphne. "No," was all Xavier said before speedily leaving. On the other hand, Yvette declined Claude's offer. "There's no need to trouble yourself. I can go home on my own." Claude was still worried about Yvette, so he ran after her when he noticed her leaving the bar. "Do you really not remember me?" Yvette gazed at him but couldn't recall who he was. "It's Chubbs. Have you forgotten?" Claude reminded her. Only then did Yvette remember her friend, Chubbs, whom she met when she had been living with Viola in the countryside. Back then, Claude had been chubbier and nowhere near Yvette's height. Yet, his six-foot-two-inch frame now towered over her. He had even grown to have handsome features. "I remember now! You've changed so much. I didn't even recognize you!" said Yvette. Meeting an old friend away from home was a pleasant thing. But only a slight smile curved on Yvette's face. That upset Claude. "Come on. I'll drive you home," Claude stated. When he dropped her off, he was shocked to learn she lived in a run-down hotel. Yvette shifted in embarrassment. "Sorry, it's not a glamorous place. Please don't tell Viola I'm living in such a place. I don't want her to worry." Claude nodded. Since it was getting late, it was unwise for him to stay longer. So, he left after telling Yvette he would visit her the next day. He didn't notice the matte black car lingering in a dark area beneath the hotel as he walked out. Now that Claude had left, Yvette felt dizzy and had an upset stomach from drinking too much. That was when someone knocked hard on the door. Yvette had just opened the door when Xavier grabbed her wrist. He exerted so much strength on her slender wrist that it felt close to snapping in half. "You've made me look at you in a new light, Yvette!" Xavier snarled while shutting and locking the door. He then forcefully led her to the couch. He sneered with words as sharp and lethal as a blade, "So, you've already settled on which family you'll marry into next, huh? I knew you wouldn't be so willing to let me go for no reason!" Yvette didn't know why he had come over, nor did she know how he had seen Claude. She was only briefly dazed. Once she snapped out of it, she shot a furious look at Xavier and didn't bother explaining herself to him. The rims of her eyes reddened. "You and I aren't that different from each other." The Snyder family had tricked Xavier into marrying Yvette. However, Xavier had treated her coldly for three years while remaining entangled with his first love. Neither Xavier nor Yvette was a better person than the other. Xavier had also drunk some wine, so he reeked of it. Eyes reddening, he pinched Yvette's chin and spoke with a dangerously low voice. "Who is he? When did you guys meet?" That was the first time Yvette had seen him behave like this. She suddenly chuckled. "Are you jealous?" Xavier's gaze grew tense as he scoffed. "You're unworthy of such a reaction." Yvette became choked up. That was when Xavier leaned in domineeringly and continued interrogating her. "Has he already touched you? Huh?" In her three years of marriage, Yvette had given up on her work and declined to meet her friends whenever they had occasionally invited her out. She had done so to obey the Lane family's rules. But now Xavier was suspicious of her. Relief washed over Yvette just then. She questioned him back, "What do you think?" That utterly angered Xavier, and his heated hands started travelling down her body. | Read freely | 18 | https://facebook.com/61557986570531 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715324400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879771 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410722 | 1723321856 | 995 | 1457265871529992 | 1 | 1.3897169785739E+15 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 294527430678616 | 0 | Servall Martin | 120210487194700370 | servallpestcontrol.com | Contact Us | NONE | carousel | Gutter Solutions For Dry Homes | Gutter guard protection! | https://www.servallpestcontrol.com/ | 1710172974 | 2.9452743067862E+14 | Servall Martin | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/432252311_735374178788446_4142605466614271796_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=CTx34oaYgSoQ7kNvgEJhunK&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBUxhuh9N1YzzO8BAdPPrv8b0WYYrIKRPFpmozz17nb3g&oe=6672B1E4 | person_profile | 0 | Servall Martin | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/432280469_2714175705398879_4118516942423375862_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=rJWzuZvnIUgQ7kNvgHJTzqq&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYA6vMBrv3miKn6a8h0Gawqfdb9JHNQBvSzgIK0MOnEPCQ&oe=66729E38 | 0 | 3 | Gutter guard protection! | Servall Martin | 1238 | https://facebook.com/ServallMartin | 0 | CONTACT_US | 1710572400 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879772 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410722 | 1723321857 | 995 | 1457265871529992 | 1 | 1.3897169785739E+15 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 294527430678616 | 0 | Servall Martin | 120210487194700370 | servallpestcontrol.com | Contact Us | NONE | carousel | Gutter Solutions For Dry Homes | Gutter guard protection! | https://www.servallpestcontrol.com/ | 1710172974 | 2.9452743067862E+14 | Servall Martin | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/432252311_735374178788446_4142605466614271796_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=CTx34oaYgSoQ7kNvgEJhunK&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBUxhuh9N1YzzO8BAdPPrv8b0WYYrIKRPFpmozz17nb3g&oe=6672B1E4 | person_profile | 0 | Servall Martin | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/432280469_2714175705398879_4118516942423375862_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=rJWzuZvnIUgQ7kNvgHJTzqq&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYA6vMBrv3miKn6a8h0Gawqfdb9JHNQBvSzgIK0MOnEPCQ&oe=66729E38 | 0 | 3 | Gutter guard protection! | Servall Martin | 1238 | https://facebook.com/ServallMartin | 0 | CONTACT_US | 1710572400 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879782 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410723 | 1723321857 | 995 | 328628403299992 | 1 | 6.7053029729062E+15 | 1714806000 | person_profile | taken-down | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 321330554388277 | 0 | Start Reading | 120207810472520056 | befant.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | β€οΈπWhat happens nextπClick Here to read onπ | https://befant.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=11192&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1714573086 | 3.2133055438828E+14 | Start Reading | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441206868_1116532276285473_1322182524522961747_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=dVdBCJR8m9IQ7kNvgGxBIHN&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYB7kMrKVOgJ8YW8xzKGRsgCufQFrP2OVnCXBDScENWSEw&oe=6672BD09 | person_profile | 0 | Start Reading | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440418966_448917680872294_3438075365541597509_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=A81_9g5fi4IQ7kNvgGjLewp&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCte60qkl7CLEFTwKWYv-5UrqhAQ7J86fd-7fhXEnOTxA&oe=6672950C | 0 | 3 | Evelynβs POV I sat at the bar, downing drinks and trying to forget about my problems. βPour me another, please,β I said to the bartender. As the omega refilled my glass, I looked at my phone and sighed for the umpteenth time. Still no word from my boyfriend, Alex, and no news from my fatherβs doctor either. Just as Iβd prayed the moon goddess would spare my mother and bring her back to me, I now prayed for my fatherβs life. Out of the blue, heβd slipped into a coma, and a month later, the doctors still had no answers. Meanwhile, I lost hope and my heart broke more with each passing day. The pack wasnβt faring well without their alpha, either. They needed a leader, and as my fatherβs only legitimate child, I would become the next alpha of my pack if he didnβt make it. I sighed again as I wondered if the pack would be better off with my stepbrother Kevin in the role. He was a male with a powerful wolf. Conversely, I was a female with no wolf. If that werenβt bad enough, an ug-ly scar that ran from my cheek to my ear marred my face so prominently that others stared constantly. Even patrons in the bar stared, though I did my best to ignore them. I took a swig, downing the last of my drink. βAnother,β I said to the bartender. βMiss, youβve had quite a lot already. Maybe itβs best to stop and go home for now?β the bartender, an obvious omega said. I looked at her and rolled my eyes. βI donβt want to go home. I want to drink until I forget about life. So give me another, please.β As the bartender hesitated, a waiter approached. βI have the perfect drink for you,β said the omega. βA new brand of whiskey, and itβs strong. Itβll take the edge off and make you forget. I can promise you that.β βIβll take it,β I slurred. The omega waiter nodded. βVery well. Iβll be back in a jiffy.β Once he left, I focused on my phone once again. Still nothing from Alex or my fatherβs doctor. A minute later, the omega waiter approached with an open bottle. βHere you go. Thisβll help you forget all your worries and cares. Dare I say, youβll be in ecstasy for at least forty-eight hours.β βYouβd do well, as a brand ambassador,β I said with a chuckle. βAll right. Let me sample its glories.β The waiter nodded and poured a substantial amount into my tumbler. I tipped the glass back, gulped its contents in a single swig, then slammed the tumbler back onto the bar. I addressed the bartender as I grabbed my bag to retrieve my wallet. βTab, please.β It was time for me to get going. I needed to see my father. The bartender acknowledged my request, then walked to the register. Before the bartender got there, my image wavered. I rubbed my suddenly blurry eyes. βWhat the heck?β I mumbled as I stood. I almost ended up on the barroom floor, barely able to catch myself in time. I gripped the edge of the bar, working to stay upright. The omega waiter rushed to me, grabbing me by the waist to help me. βPrincess, are you okay?β I gently extracted myself from him. βYeah. Fine,β I said, then put a hand to my forehead. Too hot, and my stomach was queasy too. That thought barely registered before blackness engulfed me. Sometime later, I sighed, then opened my eyes. My face twisted in confusion. βThis is not my house. It looked more like a hotel room. What was I doing here? And how did I get here?β I muttered to myself, rubbing my blurry eyes. Before I could think long enough to answer either of those questions, giggling came from the room next door. Then a familiar female voice said, βOh, Alex. Do you know how long Iβve waited for you to touch me?β I covered my mouth to hold back a gasp. Iβd know that voice anywhere. It was my stepmother, Quinn. But what βAlexβ was she talking to? It couldnβt be my Alex. That couldnβt be possible. Even the idea of that was outrageous. Yet, I didnβt know any other Alex, and I didnβt think Quinn did either. Still, there had to be some reasonable explanation. My legs felt like jelly, so I used the roomβs furniture and walls for balance as I staggered to the hotel room door. I opened it and, with blurry vision, looked around. When I didnβt see anyone, I walked to the next door. Quinnβs voice came from the other side. βYouβre not truly going to marry that scarred wench, are you? I mean, she doesnβt even have a wolf. Meanwhile, you could easily have all of this with me.β βTrue,β said a male voiceβAlexβs voice. My Alex! What the hel? How could he? βBut sheβs the heiress,β he said, continuing. βAnd I can always come to your room at night whenever I get bored with her.β Quinn chuckled, and I could barely believe what I was hearing. So it was all about me being the daughter of their alpha. Alex was with me just to get his hands on my fatherβs properties and wealth. βPlease,β Quinn said flippantly. βShe might be Alphaβs daughter, but with that scarred face of hers and no wolf, sheβs no better than a rogue omega. Itβll be my son, Kevin, who ends up with everything, not that weak girl. Besides, youβre too handsome to have such a disgusting wife.β I folded my fists in anger. How evil could Quinn be? And Alexβcould he be more of an ingrate? Still, I couldnβt help but press my ear to the door to hear more. βYou say that like itβs a certainty,β Alex said. βJust remember that, unless I marry Evelyn, Kevin gets nothing.β So they had a plan. Alex intended to marry me to secure the properties and the seat of the pack. Then it seemed he, along with Quinn, intended to ensure everything would somehow be transferred to Quinnβs son, Kevin. Theyβd plotted against me! I had to pick my gaping mouth up off the floor. βBut enough with all that for now,β said Alex. βI want a taste of that fleshy hole of yours.β βOnly if you tell me I can steal you away from that silly girl. She doesnβt deserve you. Youβre too good for her.β Alex laughed. βOf course. Once everythingβs in place, you can do whatever you want with her. In the meantime, you can still have me, especially once me and Evelyn are married, and all of us are living in the same house.β βNo worries about access,β Quinn said with a giggle. βThatβs right,β Alex said. βAnd Iβm looking forward to having constant access to this beautiful succulent body of yours, too.β I couldnβt take any more. I barged into the hotel room, allowing the back of the door to slam against the wall. βHow dare you!β I thundered. Chapter 2 I stare from Quinnβs nonchalant face to Alexβs petrified face. βYou ungrateful slime!β I yelled. I reached for the vase on the roomβs front table and flung it at Alexβs head. He ducked, and the vase hit the wall behind him, shattering. That I missed made me even angrier. Quinn wore a smug smirk as I staggered a few steps into the room. I shook my head. It didnβt feel right. It felt like something more than a hangover, like Iβd been poisoned. Still, I wanted to pounce on these two traitors, so I pressed on, getting dizzier by the step. Quinnβs smirk grew evil as she saw me struggle to keep consciousness. She looked like a villain whose plan was falling into place perfectly. I saw it, the mischievous look in her eyes. It seemed like it had been her plan for Me to get poisoned, and be brought here, so I could find her and Alex in Bed. βWhat can you do about it?β She asked Me and I scoffed, unable to believe the amount of shamelessness I was seeing in Quinn. Then ignored her, turning my attention to Alex. βI fcking trusted you!β I screamed. βHow could you do this? And with my stepmother? Whatβs wrong with you?β βOh, stop being such a drama queen,β Alex said. βWhat if I have an interest in older women? That doesnβt mean I don't love you.β βThatβs my fuking stepmother, Alex! My dadβs wife! This is the height of immorality,β I said, shaking my head. βI can't believe you! Really!β I yelled again. βEve, dear,β Quinn said, βyou need to stop yelling. You donβt seem well.β I glared at her and clenched my fists, wanting to pummel the two of them until they couldnβt feel anything but pain. Instead, I said, βDonβt pretend to care about me. You think I donβt know how much you hate me? Goddess knows, you donβt hesitate to show it. So stop pretending like you really care what happens to me. For all I know, you planned this whole thing so I could see you both, have a heart attack, and die.β Quinn gasped and laughed mockingly. βI am not that creative, Evelyn. Besides, why would I want you to know Alex and I fell in love?β I stared at her in disbelief. βIn love? You conniving snake. It's only been a month since Father slipped into a coma, and youβre claiming to be in love? With my boyfriend?β Alex came over and rubbed my arms. βNow, calm down.β I kept my focus on Quinn as I got away from Alex. βHow shameless can you be? Is your love that fickle? Does it change that fast?β βCome on,β Alex said, drawing my eyes. βIt's no big thing. Hey, maybe you could even join us. What do you think?β I glared at him. βJoinβ¦?β I landed a loud slap on his face. βYou filthy pig. Youβre worse than a rogue. And you donβt think thereβs anything immoral about what youβre suggesting? About what youβre doing? Sleeping with my stepmotherβ¦ your future mother-in-law?β Alexβs face contorted into a frown. βOh, stop being such a goody two shoes.β Alex grabbed my elbows. I pulled away from him. βDonβt touch me! To think I wanted to be your wife. Ever since the day I met you, I wanted that, too. How silly of me. I should have heeded the warnings about you.β βDonβt be disrespectful, Eve,β Quinn said. βIβm still your fatherβs wife and head of this pack. And I will not tolerate it.β βLeader of the pack? Is that so? You havenβt even done anything to find out why my father, your husband, ended up in a coma. Pfft. Youβre a terrible excuse for a leaderβ¦ and a mother.β βExcuse me?β Quinn rose from the bed and approached with her eyes narrowed. βAre you undermining me?β I shook my head. βSimply stating the bitter truth. Ever since you came into my fatherβs house, thereβs been nothing but pain and discomfort. I wish it was you instead of my dad in that coma.β Quinn slapped me hard across the face. βThatβs for your insolence.β She slapped me again just as hard. βThatβs for hitting Alex.β She slapped me once more. βAnd thatβs for wishing me dead.β Alex grabbed her hand. βQuinn, please. Thatβs enough.β Quinn glared at him. βThis young lady is a spoiled brat. She needs to be taught a lesson.β She turned back to me. βIβm in charge of this pack and also your legal guardian, and Iβve had it up to my guts with your tantrums.β I stared at her in disbelief. βWake the fvck up, Eve,β Quinn yelled. βI make the rules now, and you will do as I say. Do you hear me, you worthless omega?β I wished I had a wolf so I could shift and have it out with this crazy bit-ch. But maybe not having a wolf was what allowed me to remain calm, despite the fact that Iβd never been hit in the face before. Either way, I kept my cool while I stared into my adulterous stepmotherβs eyes. Eventually, I shook her head and said, βYou disgust me,β then turned and left the room. As the door closed behind me, tears came to my eyes. What a betrayal. As if it werenβt bad enough that Alex cheated on me, he chose to do it with my stepmother. Why? Why me, of all people? I aimlessly headed back to the room I came from, still staggering to get my things. I opened the door and then stopped, wondering why she was bothering to go back there. Everything was a blur, and I wasnβt sure if it was because of my welling eyes or the pill Iβd obviously been given. But then I felt a presence behind me. Chapter 3 βWho are you?β I asked, as I tried to shake off the wave of discomfort and dizziness that had suddenly hit me. I wiped my eyes. βYou!β I exclaimed, looking at the omega waiter from the bar. βWhat are you doing here?β Nerves crept up my spine as I stared at the man who had given me the drinkβthe drink that had obviously been dru-gged. βOh, come on Princess.β He stepped forward, forcing me to go back up into the room. βYou know why Iβm here,β he said with a wicked grin. βAnd your body wants it. I know it does.β I wanted to puke, βPlease let me go home. I need to go home to my dad.β βIβll let you go homeββhe started to unclasp his beltββas soon as you give me what I want.β I backed up another step. βIt will be over soon, Princess. I promise.β βWhy?β I asked, still seeing him through blurry eyes and wondering if there was any way I could escape him. He gave me a perverted smile, then wagged his brows. βWell, your body is a nice prize on its own, but there are better reasons.β I didnβt need him to tell me those reasons. If he took my first time, I'd be forced to marry him, which would damage my reputation and leave utterly no chance of becoming an Alpha heir. I couldnβt bear the thought of sleep with him, let alone marrying him. I had to find a way out. But the blurry vision was making me dizzy. All I thought to do was plead. βI need to get home immediately,β I said as authoritatively as I could in my current condition. βIt's late.β The omega smirked. βYou know I canβt let you leave, Princess. Not without a taste of the forbidden fruit.β He approached. As soon as he got within range, I slapped him hard with all the strength I could find. His face twisted in rage. βThis isn't the fuking palace.β He hit me back so hard that he knocked me onto the bed. βThis is my turf. I do as I wish.β Alex POV βWe need to get Eve,β I said. βShe didnβt look too good.β Quinn stared at me in disgust. βAre you really worrying about her right now?β I looked at my phone, biting my finger as I saw all of Eveβs messages for the first time. And now, she wasnβt responding to me. What if she went off and slept with some other guy? I turned to Quinn. βIβm just worried. She didnβt look well. She seemed off, like she was sick or something.β Quinn rose from the bed and sauntered to a table in the corner, where she picked up a bottle of booze and poured a glass. With the glass in hand, she strutted seductively back to me. βHere. Drink this. It would help calm you.β I accepted the drink and took a gulp, then walked to the window. Quinn approached from behind and wrapped her arms around my bare waist. βI fear she isn't okay,β I said. Quinn sighed in irritation. βShe was drunk. Thatβs how she is these days. She gets drunk, and I don't even know her whereabouts. She probably goes out sleeping around. Maybe sheβs out sleeping with some omega right now,β she said with mischief in her voice. I spun around, squinting at her. βWait a second. Did youβ¦? Was this your idea, when you said I should be your sneaky link? You know I can't afford to lose Eve.β Quinn sighed. βWas what my idea? To get her drunk and have her brought to our hotel? Pfft. Donβt accuse me of such outrageous things. Yes, I wanted her to find out about us, but I didnβt do that.β I ran my hands through my hair, unsure whether I should believe her. βAnd why are you so worried about her sleeping around?β Quinn asked. βWhy should you care what she does?β βFuk,β I whispered. I always knew this play-boy attitude of mine would get me into a ton of trouble one day, but I never expected it to be with a girl I actually cared about. Yes, I was using her for her inheritance, but that didnβt mean I had no feelings for her. βListen,β Quinn said. βIβm sure you feel like sheβll betray you because you betrayed her. But do you really think sheβll risk it, knowing sheβll have to marry anyone she sleeps with? Not only that, in her position, Eve would lose her dignity in the community, too. Sheβd end up begging you to take her back.β βAre you sure about that?β Quinn took the glass from me and kissed me slowly. Once she drew her li-ps away from mine, she peered at me. βIβm here to help you,β she said. βSo even if she doesnβt beg for you, I can always ensure you end up owning some Carson family properties. Iβm married to Alpha Carson after all.β She bit her li-ps seductively. βSo be a good boy and come undress me.β Something pricked in the back of my mind, a warning I couldnβt put into words. But it was something that told me to resist her, that I couldnβt trust her. But I wanted her, so I put a lid on that warning, and a few minutes later, my tongue grazed her vagi-na. Chapter 4 Evelyn POV I struggled to keep my head straight, as I fought for consciousness. I heard footsteps and I knew that the weird omega was back. I staggered up, reaching for a weapon. My hand found the neck of an empty wine bottle. I swung it in an arc and hit him across the head. He went down with a thud, and I ran out of the room and directly into a man. βI'm sorry,β I mumbled as I tried to scoot past him. βMiss, are you alright?β he asked. I turned and saw the omega coming after me. βHelp me,β I said, with panicked eyes and a voice filled with urgency. The stranger saw the omega, grabbed my wrist, then dragged me into his room. In one smooth motion, he slammed the door shut, locked it, then spun me into his che-st With fear of the omega still overwhelming me, I buried my face in his arms and whimpered weakly, latching onto his trousers to steady myself. βHeβs gone,β said the stranger. I raised my head from his bare front body and peered at him. Despite my blurry vision, I could tell he was handsome. βWhatβs your name?β I whispered. He chuckled, then backed away and walked to his table. βSuppose I told you, would you remember? You seem a little drunk.β I shook my head. βI was poisoned. And there's still quite some amount in my system. But Iβll try to remember. Please, whatβs your name?β βMy name isn't important. You look exhausted. I need to get you home.β I chuckled. βIβd feel safer staying hereβ¦ with you.β He walked toward me. βI am a wolf in heat. You know what that means.β It meant he wanted a woman se-xually. Any woman. βI can do just the same that omega could do to you. Are you still not afraid of me?β I chuckled. βI just found my fiancΓ©e cheating on me with my fatherβs wife. YouββI rested my palm on his body the other hand, seem like an honorable person. I'd rather sleep with you than with that cheat or a creepy omega. Besides, you don't seem all that scary.β I held his face, looking into his blue eyes. βA person with a story and many secrets, yes, but not scary.β βYour li-ps are so beautiful, Evelyn,β he said, and I looked up at him. βHow did you know my name?β He chuckled and gestured to my necklace. βYour necklace says it. Am I wrong?β βAh, right. Silly me. And here I thought you were one of those crazy stalkers I have.β βAnd if I was? Would you run away?β βNo,β I whispered, and the stranger kissed me. I returned his kiss with a fervent passsion, and we gnawed at each otherβs li-ps, each trying to outdo the otherβs needs. I moaned as he kissed me. His hands wandered, touching me gently. A flicker of apprehension came to my mind, but I pushed it back, telling myself this was right. This was what I wanted. He struggled to unbutton my blouse while continuing to steal kisses from my li-ps. I sighed in pleasure when, moments later, his touch landed on my body and he latched hungrily at it. βOh, the goddess,β I moaned as I wrapped my hands around his head. I felt the heat in my pusssy. βTo the moon goddess,β he said, βyou have the most gorgeous body and eyes I have ever seen.β He approached and wrapped his hands around my waist. He picked me up bridal style and carried me to the bed. There, he laid me on the mattress and kissed me again. With his tongue, he languidly strolled down my body to my mound, then inserted a finger. βSo tight,β he growled. I moaned and squirmed under his touch, parting my legs further. He moaned in approval and then shifted, placing himself at my entrance. I flinched in fear when I saw the size of him. He noticed my apprehension and he stopped. βAre you all right?β he asked. βDo you want me to stop?β I shook my head. βNo. Itβs just that it's my first time.β He chuckled and patted my hair. βIβll be gentle,β he said and kissed me pass-ionately. My body soon became receptive, and he got into me slowly. I squirmed as he filled me, the sensation painful at first. He sighed in pleasure. βSo tight. So wet,β he whispered, then kissed my forehead and drove his full length into me. I grabbed him and cried out. βShh. Shh. It's alright. Itβll feel good in a minute,β he said and started moving inside me. Slowly, my body adjusted to his size, and I loosened my grip on his shoulders. As I relaxed around him, he could feel my calmness and he increased his pace. His growls and my moans filled the room, the both of us reaching the peak of ecstasy in unison. βI need to take a shower,β I said after the climax subsided. He nodded and lifted me, taking me to the bathroom where he washed me. As he kissed me deeply with the water pouring over our bodies, mating tension rose between us againβ¦ I woke early the next morning, feeling sore all over from the previous nightβs activities. The handsome stranger with whom I enjoyed those activities was still asleep. So I rose from the bed and went for my bag, leaving behind an envelope that contained a check. Then I got dressed and tiptoed out of the room, closing the door quietly behind me. Chapter 5 I stirred in my sleep, my body sore from the business of last night. Suddenly my eyes shot open, when I heard my bedroom door open, and in walked Quinn. I glared at her and shut my eyes. βSign of bad luck. I open my eyes and I see the adulterous stepmother of mine.β I said sarcastically. Quinn glared at me and she opened my curtain window. βYou should get up. It's time for breakfast.β I peered at her. βYou never care if I eat or not. Is this your guilty consciousness getting to you?β Quinn studied me, and I squirmed uncomfortably under her intense gaze. βDid you have se-x last night?β Quinn asked. I shot her a surprised look. βHmm. Seems like you did.β Quinn said and I looked away. βI have no idea what you are talking about. Get out of my room.β I said and Quinn walked towards me. She didnβt look convinced. βWeβll talk about this later,β she said. βFor now, you have a pack function to attend, so come down for breakfast,β Quinn said and walked out of the bedroom. I stared at my closed door and I wondered why all of a sudden, Quinn was so nice to me. I'd find out at breakfast. I got up to shower with the events of the previous night running through my mind. Wouldnβt it be nice if that was all I had to think about? A short while later, I went to the dining room where Kevin, my stepbrother, was seated at the tablet at Quinnβs right hand. But what caught my attention was Alex. βWhat are you doing here?βI clenched my fists in rage. βDonβt make a scene,β Quinn said. βJust sit and have breakfast quietly.β βI refuse to share a table with this scumbag,β I said. βGet him out of here. Or rather, I wouldnβt want to disturb your happy family, so Iβd rather have my breakfast in my bedroom.β Alex stood and held my hands. βEve, let's talk in private.β Kevinβs gaze shifted from me to Quinn, to Alex. βWhatβs going on here? Is there something that I don't know about?β Kelvin asked. He and Alex had been very good buddies and that's how he and I met. I kept my focus on Alex. βLet go of me. I have nothing to say to you.β Alex simply stared at me. βI asked you not to make a fuss at breakfast,β Quinn said. βWhy can't you obey simple instructions, hmm?β I stared at Quinn in disbelief. βMaybe I would have yesterday when I still respected you. But not after my discovery last night.β Kevin straightened in his chair and addressed me, βI can take anything you do, but I won't accept you insulting my mom, Evelyn. Just sit down if you are asked to.β I shot him a glare. βYou stay out of this,β I said and looked at Quinn. βOr would you like for me to tell your son about your shameful acts?β βShut your trap,β Quinn said, banging her hand on the table. I chuckled at Quinnβs discomfort. She obviously didnβt want her son knowing about her escapade. I pulled out of Alexβs grasp. βI am going to check on my father,β I announced to the room, then turned to the kitchen maid. βI'll have breakfast in my bedroom, Sophia,β I said and turned to walk upstairs. βPrepare yourself,β Quinn called out. βYour engagement is in four days.β I paused and looked back at her. βExcuse me?β I asked, my eyes strained and narrowed. Quinn folded her hands. βYou heard me. Prepare for your engagement ceremony in four days. Bring the omega you slept with last night.β I gaped at her. βWhat do you mean, the omega she slept with?β Kevin asked. βHer fiancΓ©e is standing right in front of her.β He shifted his gaze from his mother to me. βWhat is going on, Eve?β βAlex cheated on me with your mother, and I caught them in the act, so our engagement is off.β Kevin turned to his mom with disbelief etched into his features. βYour mother is a despicable woman,β I added. βOne who sleeps with her stepdaughterβs fiancΓ©e. Thatβs how dirty and disgusting she is. Now, you must understand why I refuse to cower under her authority?β I said, looking Quinn directly in the eye. βEvelyn Carson!β Quinn yelled as she sprang from her chair. βShut up.β βLet's talk about this in private,β Alex implored. βIt can be solved.β I curled my li-p in disgust. βBold of you to assume Iβm still interested in being your wife. You think because I have no wolf and am deemed a worthless omega that I would settle for a man who doesnβt know the line between family and se-xual relationships?β βOh, come on now. Get rid of your pride. Nobody will want to marry someone who already slept with a man,β Alex said. βPfft.β I scoffed. βYou're finally showing your true colors. I wish I'd never been with you. β I turned to Quinn. βAnd about that engagement party. Fine. Set it up. Iβll bring him home that day. Ensure you send out invitations. I'd rather be married quickly to this stranger than marry a cheat.β I nodded toward the kitchen maid. βSophia, breakfast to my bedroom, please,β I said, then left the room. Kevin turned to Quinn and asked, βWhat was she talking about, Mom?β I heard Kelvin say. βShut up, and eat your breakfast,β she said. I know she's planning to get rid of me but I would make sure she's thrown out before she can even achieve her aim. I'll prove to her that the Alpha's blood runs in my veins. Three days passed since I and Quinn had fought over the engagement ceremony. Immediately after their argument, I uploaded a profile on a dating site, expressing my need for a contract husband just for the engagement ceremony. I continuously pressed the refresh button on my computer but had no bites, and I was running out of time. The engagement ceremony was tomorrow. While I was in the bathroom, a notification bell sounded on my computer. I rushed to it to check the message. It was from an anonymous commenter and said, βI have time tomorrow. How much would I be paid? Hit me up.β Chapter 6 The next morning, Sophia knocked on my door. βMadam Evelyn. It's morning. Please wake up.β I turned in my bed, then rose and stretched with a smile. It was my engagement day and Quinn and Alex were in for a surprise. I was almost giddy with the prospect, especially since Iβv done my own investigation and learned that the omega waiter whoβd poisoned me five nights ago had done it under the commands of one of the βhigher upsβ. It turned out that higher up had been Quinn. I smirked in bliss as my mind went back to the message I had received from the anonymous man whoβd agreed to take part in my engagement today. We had agreed on his entrance to the engagement party and how much I would pay him for his appearance, while I figured out the best way to get rid of my adulterous stepmom and treacherous ex-fiancΓ©e. Sophia pulled me from my thoughts, saying, βYour breakfast is served downstairs.β I looked at her. βWhy downstairs? I do not want to have breakfast while seeing their faces. I made sure I made myself clear a few days back.β I said with my eyebrows raised. βI apologize,β said Sophia, bowing her head. βThe madam wanted you to have breakfast with the family downstairs.β I rubbed my temple. βAll right. Iβll join them.β Only because I didnβt want them to ruin this beautiful morning for me. βJust run my bath for me.β Sophia nodded and headed to the bathroom. Thirty minutes later, I walked down the stairs confidently, even with the long scar running across my face.. Alex stared, looking pained, as I walked into the room. Too bad youβre not marrying me, huh, as-shole? He stabbed at his sausages, likely angry at himself for ruining his plan to inherit the Carson fortune, using me, was now thwarted badly. Quinn noticed Alexβs face and she cleared her throat βWelcome to the table, Eve,β she said to me. I looked at her, said nothing and sat down beside my step brother. βCongratulations on your engagement party, Sis,β said Kevin, handing me a small box. I nodded curtly and took the box from him. I opened it and saw a small bracelet. βThank you,β I said and went back to eating. Silence permeated the breakfast table. Afterward, Alex left the room, looking like he was going to go brood. Quinn seemed excited about the prospect of marrying me off, probably figuring she could finally have Alex, Carson, and the house to herself. She was in for a serious surprise. I had plans to make their lives miserable for making a fool of me. Kevin was the only one who seemed neutral. As the preparations for the engagement party began in earnest, I left to go upstairs and battle with my hair, clothes, and makeup. A short while later, after my hair had been arranged with pins and diamond hair accessories, I heard a soft knock on my bedroom door. βCan I come in?β I heard Kelvin ask. βYeah sure.β I said and he walked in. His face held surprise when he saw me, then gulped and looked away. I looked extremely attractive today, so he was probably wondering if they had all looked down on me because I was always dressed plainly. βI donβt have all day, Kevin,β I said as he continued to stand there mute. βSo spill it.β He sighed. βI'm sorry about what my mom did to you, and I know it's shameless of me to ask, but can you please let it go? If the elders find out this party isn't an engagement ceremony for you and Alex, and it's because he cheated on you with my mom, my mom will lose her dignity and respect as a woman in our pack.β βI have no plans to tell the elders why Alex and I arenβt getting married, and you shouldnβt be begging for forgiveness on your momβs behalf. If she needed it, she would have asked for it herself. Now, is that all you wanted? And why are you suddenly so humble and calm toward me when youβre normally so cold and arrogant?β Kevin shrugged, then turned to the room, glancing back once before he walked out. My attendants went back to preparing me for the party. After a couple of more hours, I was ready, but filled with nerves because my arranged partner hadnβt yet arrived. Quinn texted me, βYou should come down with that omega now. The partyβs about to begin.β I bit my fingers in fright. But then my phone pinged with a text message from my anonymous partner. βIβm here,β it said. I let out a sigh of relief. With renewed confidence, I strutted out of my room and down to the party pavilion. I texted him to walk into the compound and go to the pavilion, then raced to meet him. When I arrived at the entrance, Quinn and Alex were already there. Only that the stranger who exited the car wasnβt a complete stranger. He approached me. βHello, my love,β he said, then locked kiss on my li-ps. I was shocked, though my body remained rigid as my brain tried to figure out what was happening. When our li-ps separated, he said, βAre you happy to see me?β He smiled and leaned in toward my ear. βWasnβt very nice of you to leave the other night, and without even bothering to ask my name, too. It's Kian, by the way, Kian Sylvester,β he whispered. βHow did you find me?β I whispered back. βCoincidence, or maybe youβd call it fate, my beautiful. But before we continue our banter, won't you introduce me to your family?β I straightened myself. βOf course,β I said, still trying to absorb the fact that my paid partner for the day was the man I had spent my very first night with. I turned and took in my stepmotherβs expression. The look of shock there in her face satisfied me. I smiled. Anybody could see Kian wasn't just a random omega. Even though I knew little about him, I could feel his powerful aura. I shifted my gaze from Quinn to encompass everyone there. βElders, Mother, Brother, this is Kian Sylvester, the man Iβm set to marry,β I announced with a small smile. βWhat is the meaning of this?β Quinn asked. βWho is this good-for-nothing man you have brought home to marry?β Silence descended on the crowd. βDo not say another insulting word toward my woman,β Kian said in an authoritative voice. βDo you hear me?β He scoffed. βYou call me a nobody? Well, ask Alex here who I am.β He turned to Alex. βWonβt you tell them, Brother?β he asked with a smile. Wait, I don't remember Alex having a brother. Did he??? Alex folded his hands into fists. βWhat are you doing here?β he asked through clenched teeth. βI thought that was clearβ¦ Iβm here to ask for my womanβs hand in marriage.β He smirked mischievously. βOh, Iβm sorry. Did you think I wouldnβt amount to anything after Father kicked me out?β Alex glared at him. βGo back to wherever youβve been hiding all these years before I tear your fcking face off.β βYou will not address our Alpha in such a manner, you scumbag.β Kianβs aide inserted himself between Kian and Alex. He turned to face the now murmuring crowd. I stood transfixed. He was an alpha? And Alexβs brother? Oh, the moon goddess! βThis is Alpha Kian Sylvester of the Blood Moon Pack, the strongest pack on this continent. Pay your respects properly.β Kianβs aide addressed the crowd. | Start Reading | 1 | https://facebook.com/61558999080853 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1714719600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879783 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410723 | 1723321857 | 995 | 328628403299992 | 1 | 6.7053029729062E+15 | 1714806000 | person_profile | taken-down | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 321330554388277 | 0 | Start Reading | 120207810472520056 | befant.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | β€οΈπWhat happens nextπClick Here to read onπ | https://befant.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=11192&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1714573086 | 3.2133055438828E+14 | Start Reading | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441206868_1116532276285473_1322182524522961747_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=dVdBCJR8m9IQ7kNvgGxBIHN&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYB7kMrKVOgJ8YW8xzKGRsgCufQFrP2OVnCXBDScENWSEw&oe=6672BD09 | person_profile | 0 | Start Reading | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440418966_448917680872294_3438075365541597509_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=A81_9g5fi4IQ7kNvgGjLewp&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCte60qkl7CLEFTwKWYv-5UrqhAQ7J86fd-7fhXEnOTxA&oe=6672950C | 0 | 3 | Evelynβs POV I sat at the bar, downing drinks and trying to forget about my problems. βPour me another, please,β I said to the bartender. As the omega refilled my glass, I looked at my phone and sighed for the umpteenth time. Still no word from my boyfriend, Alex, and no news from my fatherβs doctor either. Just as Iβd prayed the moon goddess would spare my mother and bring her back to me, I now prayed for my fatherβs life. Out of the blue, heβd slipped into a coma, and a month later, the doctors still had no answers. Meanwhile, I lost hope and my heart broke more with each passing day. The pack wasnβt faring well without their alpha, either. They needed a leader, and as my fatherβs only legitimate child, I would become the next alpha of my pack if he didnβt make it. I sighed again as I wondered if the pack would be better off with my stepbrother Kevin in the role. He was a male with a powerful wolf. Conversely, I was a female with no wolf. If that werenβt bad enough, an ug-ly scar that ran from my cheek to my ear marred my face so prominently that others stared constantly. Even patrons in the bar stared, though I did my best to ignore them. I took a swig, downing the last of my drink. βAnother,β I said to the bartender. βMiss, youβve had quite a lot already. Maybe itβs best to stop and go home for now?β the bartender, an obvious omega said. I looked at her and rolled my eyes. βI donβt want to go home. I want to drink until I forget about life. So give me another, please.β As the bartender hesitated, a waiter approached. βI have the perfect drink for you,β said the omega. βA new brand of whiskey, and itβs strong. Itβll take the edge off and make you forget. I can promise you that.β βIβll take it,β I slurred. The omega waiter nodded. βVery well. Iβll be back in a jiffy.β Once he left, I focused on my phone once again. Still nothing from Alex or my fatherβs doctor. A minute later, the omega waiter approached with an open bottle. βHere you go. Thisβll help you forget all your worries and cares. Dare I say, youβll be in ecstasy for at least forty-eight hours.β βYouβd do well, as a brand ambassador,β I said with a chuckle. βAll right. Let me sample its glories.β The waiter nodded and poured a substantial amount into my tumbler. I tipped the glass back, gulped its contents in a single swig, then slammed the tumbler back onto the bar. I addressed the bartender as I grabbed my bag to retrieve my wallet. βTab, please.β It was time for me to get going. I needed to see my father. The bartender acknowledged my request, then walked to the register. Before the bartender got there, my image wavered. I rubbed my suddenly blurry eyes. βWhat the heck?β I mumbled as I stood. I almost ended up on the barroom floor, barely able to catch myself in time. I gripped the edge of the bar, working to stay upright. The omega waiter rushed to me, grabbing me by the waist to help me. βPrincess, are you okay?β I gently extracted myself from him. βYeah. Fine,β I said, then put a hand to my forehead. Too hot, and my stomach was queasy too. That thought barely registered before blackness engulfed me. Sometime later, I sighed, then opened my eyes. My face twisted in confusion. βThis is not my house. It looked more like a hotel room. What was I doing here? And how did I get here?β I muttered to myself, rubbing my blurry eyes. Before I could think long enough to answer either of those questions, giggling came from the room next door. Then a familiar female voice said, βOh, Alex. Do you know how long Iβve waited for you to touch me?β I covered my mouth to hold back a gasp. Iβd know that voice anywhere. It was my stepmother, Quinn. But what βAlexβ was she talking to? It couldnβt be my Alex. That couldnβt be possible. Even the idea of that was outrageous. Yet, I didnβt know any other Alex, and I didnβt think Quinn did either. Still, there had to be some reasonable explanation. My legs felt like jelly, so I used the roomβs furniture and walls for balance as I staggered to the hotel room door. I opened it and, with blurry vision, looked around. When I didnβt see anyone, I walked to the next door. Quinnβs voice came from the other side. βYouβre not truly going to marry that scarred wench, are you? I mean, she doesnβt even have a wolf. Meanwhile, you could easily have all of this with me.β βTrue,β said a male voiceβAlexβs voice. My Alex! What the hel? How could he? βBut sheβs the heiress,β he said, continuing. βAnd I can always come to your room at night whenever I get bored with her.β Quinn chuckled, and I could barely believe what I was hearing. So it was all about me being the daughter of their alpha. Alex was with me just to get his hands on my fatherβs properties and wealth. βPlease,β Quinn said flippantly. βShe might be Alphaβs daughter, but with that scarred face of hers and no wolf, sheβs no better than a rogue omega. Itβll be my son, Kevin, who ends up with everything, not that weak girl. Besides, youβre too handsome to have such a disgusting wife.β I folded my fists in anger. How evil could Quinn be? And Alexβcould he be more of an ingrate? Still, I couldnβt help but press my ear to the door to hear more. βYou say that like itβs a certainty,β Alex said. βJust remember that, unless I marry Evelyn, Kevin gets nothing.β So they had a plan. Alex intended to marry me to secure the properties and the seat of the pack. Then it seemed he, along with Quinn, intended to ensure everything would somehow be transferred to Quinnβs son, Kevin. Theyβd plotted against me! I had to pick my gaping mouth up off the floor. βBut enough with all that for now,β said Alex. βI want a taste of that fleshy hole of yours.β βOnly if you tell me I can steal you away from that silly girl. She doesnβt deserve you. Youβre too good for her.β Alex laughed. βOf course. Once everythingβs in place, you can do whatever you want with her. In the meantime, you can still have me, especially once me and Evelyn are married, and all of us are living in the same house.β βNo worries about access,β Quinn said with a giggle. βThatβs right,β Alex said. βAnd Iβm looking forward to having constant access to this beautiful succulent body of yours, too.β I couldnβt take any more. I barged into the hotel room, allowing the back of the door to slam against the wall. βHow dare you!β I thundered. Chapter 2 I stare from Quinnβs nonchalant face to Alexβs petrified face. βYou ungrateful slime!β I yelled. I reached for the vase on the roomβs front table and flung it at Alexβs head. He ducked, and the vase hit the wall behind him, shattering. That I missed made me even angrier. Quinn wore a smug smirk as I staggered a few steps into the room. I shook my head. It didnβt feel right. It felt like something more than a hangover, like Iβd been poisoned. Still, I wanted to pounce on these two traitors, so I pressed on, getting dizzier by the step. Quinnβs smirk grew evil as she saw me struggle to keep consciousness. She looked like a villain whose plan was falling into place perfectly. I saw it, the mischievous look in her eyes. It seemed like it had been her plan for Me to get poisoned, and be brought here, so I could find her and Alex in Bed. βWhat can you do about it?β She asked Me and I scoffed, unable to believe the amount of shamelessness I was seeing in Quinn. Then ignored her, turning my attention to Alex. βI fcking trusted you!β I screamed. βHow could you do this? And with my stepmother? Whatβs wrong with you?β βOh, stop being such a drama queen,β Alex said. βWhat if I have an interest in older women? That doesnβt mean I don't love you.β βThatβs my fuking stepmother, Alex! My dadβs wife! This is the height of immorality,β I said, shaking my head. βI can't believe you! Really!β I yelled again. βEve, dear,β Quinn said, βyou need to stop yelling. You donβt seem well.β I glared at her and clenched my fists, wanting to pummel the two of them until they couldnβt feel anything but pain. Instead, I said, βDonβt pretend to care about me. You think I donβt know how much you hate me? Goddess knows, you donβt hesitate to show it. So stop pretending like you really care what happens to me. For all I know, you planned this whole thing so I could see you both, have a heart attack, and die.β Quinn gasped and laughed mockingly. βI am not that creative, Evelyn. Besides, why would I want you to know Alex and I fell in love?β I stared at her in disbelief. βIn love? You conniving snake. It's only been a month since Father slipped into a coma, and youβre claiming to be in love? With my boyfriend?β Alex came over and rubbed my arms. βNow, calm down.β I kept my focus on Quinn as I got away from Alex. βHow shameless can you be? Is your love that fickle? Does it change that fast?β βCome on,β Alex said, drawing my eyes. βIt's no big thing. Hey, maybe you could even join us. What do you think?β I glared at him. βJoinβ¦?β I landed a loud slap on his face. βYou filthy pig. Youβre worse than a rogue. And you donβt think thereβs anything immoral about what youβre suggesting? About what youβre doing? Sleeping with my stepmotherβ¦ your future mother-in-law?β Alexβs face contorted into a frown. βOh, stop being such a goody two shoes.β Alex grabbed my elbows. I pulled away from him. βDonβt touch me! To think I wanted to be your wife. Ever since the day I met you, I wanted that, too. How silly of me. I should have heeded the warnings about you.β βDonβt be disrespectful, Eve,β Quinn said. βIβm still your fatherβs wife and head of this pack. And I will not tolerate it.β βLeader of the pack? Is that so? You havenβt even done anything to find out why my father, your husband, ended up in a coma. Pfft. Youβre a terrible excuse for a leaderβ¦ and a mother.β βExcuse me?β Quinn rose from the bed and approached with her eyes narrowed. βAre you undermining me?β I shook my head. βSimply stating the bitter truth. Ever since you came into my fatherβs house, thereβs been nothing but pain and discomfort. I wish it was you instead of my dad in that coma.β Quinn slapped me hard across the face. βThatβs for your insolence.β She slapped me again just as hard. βThatβs for hitting Alex.β She slapped me once more. βAnd thatβs for wishing me dead.β Alex grabbed her hand. βQuinn, please. Thatβs enough.β Quinn glared at him. βThis young lady is a spoiled brat. She needs to be taught a lesson.β She turned back to me. βIβm in charge of this pack and also your legal guardian, and Iβve had it up to my guts with your tantrums.β I stared at her in disbelief. βWake the fvck up, Eve,β Quinn yelled. βI make the rules now, and you will do as I say. Do you hear me, you worthless omega?β I wished I had a wolf so I could shift and have it out with this crazy bit-ch. But maybe not having a wolf was what allowed me to remain calm, despite the fact that Iβd never been hit in the face before. Either way, I kept my cool while I stared into my adulterous stepmotherβs eyes. Eventually, I shook her head and said, βYou disgust me,β then turned and left the room. As the door closed behind me, tears came to my eyes. What a betrayal. As if it werenβt bad enough that Alex cheated on me, he chose to do it with my stepmother. Why? Why me, of all people? I aimlessly headed back to the room I came from, still staggering to get my things. I opened the door and then stopped, wondering why she was bothering to go back there. Everything was a blur, and I wasnβt sure if it was because of my welling eyes or the pill Iβd obviously been given. But then I felt a presence behind me. Chapter 3 βWho are you?β I asked, as I tried to shake off the wave of discomfort and dizziness that had suddenly hit me. I wiped my eyes. βYou!β I exclaimed, looking at the omega waiter from the bar. βWhat are you doing here?β Nerves crept up my spine as I stared at the man who had given me the drinkβthe drink that had obviously been dru-gged. βOh, come on Princess.β He stepped forward, forcing me to go back up into the room. βYou know why Iβm here,β he said with a wicked grin. βAnd your body wants it. I know it does.β I wanted to puke, βPlease let me go home. I need to go home to my dad.β βIβll let you go homeββhe started to unclasp his beltββas soon as you give me what I want.β I backed up another step. βIt will be over soon, Princess. I promise.β βWhy?β I asked, still seeing him through blurry eyes and wondering if there was any way I could escape him. He gave me a perverted smile, then wagged his brows. βWell, your body is a nice prize on its own, but there are better reasons.β I didnβt need him to tell me those reasons. If he took my first time, I'd be forced to marry him, which would damage my reputation and leave utterly no chance of becoming an Alpha heir. I couldnβt bear the thought of sleep with him, let alone marrying him. I had to find a way out. But the blurry vision was making me dizzy. All I thought to do was plead. βI need to get home immediately,β I said as authoritatively as I could in my current condition. βIt's late.β The omega smirked. βYou know I canβt let you leave, Princess. Not without a taste of the forbidden fruit.β He approached. As soon as he got within range, I slapped him hard with all the strength I could find. His face twisted in rage. βThis isn't the fuking palace.β He hit me back so hard that he knocked me onto the bed. βThis is my turf. I do as I wish.β Alex POV βWe need to get Eve,β I said. βShe didnβt look too good.β Quinn stared at me in disgust. βAre you really worrying about her right now?β I looked at my phone, biting my finger as I saw all of Eveβs messages for the first time. And now, she wasnβt responding to me. What if she went off and slept with some other guy? I turned to Quinn. βIβm just worried. She didnβt look well. She seemed off, like she was sick or something.β Quinn rose from the bed and sauntered to a table in the corner, where she picked up a bottle of booze and poured a glass. With the glass in hand, she strutted seductively back to me. βHere. Drink this. It would help calm you.β I accepted the drink and took a gulp, then walked to the window. Quinn approached from behind and wrapped her arms around my bare waist. βI fear she isn't okay,β I said. Quinn sighed in irritation. βShe was drunk. Thatβs how she is these days. She gets drunk, and I don't even know her whereabouts. She probably goes out sleeping around. Maybe sheβs out sleeping with some omega right now,β she said with mischief in her voice. I spun around, squinting at her. βWait a second. Did youβ¦? Was this your idea, when you said I should be your sneaky link? You know I can't afford to lose Eve.β Quinn sighed. βWas what my idea? To get her drunk and have her brought to our hotel? Pfft. Donβt accuse me of such outrageous things. Yes, I wanted her to find out about us, but I didnβt do that.β I ran my hands through my hair, unsure whether I should believe her. βAnd why are you so worried about her sleeping around?β Quinn asked. βWhy should you care what she does?β βFuk,β I whispered. I always knew this play-boy attitude of mine would get me into a ton of trouble one day, but I never expected it to be with a girl I actually cared about. Yes, I was using her for her inheritance, but that didnβt mean I had no feelings for her. βListen,β Quinn said. βIβm sure you feel like sheβll betray you because you betrayed her. But do you really think sheβll risk it, knowing sheβll have to marry anyone she sleeps with? Not only that, in her position, Eve would lose her dignity in the community, too. Sheβd end up begging you to take her back.β βAre you sure about that?β Quinn took the glass from me and kissed me slowly. Once she drew her li-ps away from mine, she peered at me. βIβm here to help you,β she said. βSo even if she doesnβt beg for you, I can always ensure you end up owning some Carson family properties. Iβm married to Alpha Carson after all.β She bit her li-ps seductively. βSo be a good boy and come undress me.β Something pricked in the back of my mind, a warning I couldnβt put into words. But it was something that told me to resist her, that I couldnβt trust her. But I wanted her, so I put a lid on that warning, and a few minutes later, my tongue grazed her vagi-na. Chapter 4 Evelyn POV I struggled to keep my head straight, as I fought for consciousness. I heard footsteps and I knew that the weird omega was back. I staggered up, reaching for a weapon. My hand found the neck of an empty wine bottle. I swung it in an arc and hit him across the head. He went down with a thud, and I ran out of the room and directly into a man. βI'm sorry,β I mumbled as I tried to scoot past him. βMiss, are you alright?β he asked. I turned and saw the omega coming after me. βHelp me,β I said, with panicked eyes and a voice filled with urgency. The stranger saw the omega, grabbed my wrist, then dragged me into his room. In one smooth motion, he slammed the door shut, locked it, then spun me into his che-st With fear of the omega still overwhelming me, I buried my face in his arms and whimpered weakly, latching onto his trousers to steady myself. βHeβs gone,β said the stranger. I raised my head from his bare front body and peered at him. Despite my blurry vision, I could tell he was handsome. βWhatβs your name?β I whispered. He chuckled, then backed away and walked to his table. βSuppose I told you, would you remember? You seem a little drunk.β I shook my head. βI was poisoned. And there's still quite some amount in my system. But Iβll try to remember. Please, whatβs your name?β βMy name isn't important. You look exhausted. I need to get you home.β I chuckled. βIβd feel safer staying hereβ¦ with you.β He walked toward me. βI am a wolf in heat. You know what that means.β It meant he wanted a woman se-xually. Any woman. βI can do just the same that omega could do to you. Are you still not afraid of me?β I chuckled. βI just found my fiancΓ©e cheating on me with my fatherβs wife. YouββI rested my palm on his body the other hand, seem like an honorable person. I'd rather sleep with you than with that cheat or a creepy omega. Besides, you don't seem all that scary.β I held his face, looking into his blue eyes. βA person with a story and many secrets, yes, but not scary.β βYour li-ps are so beautiful, Evelyn,β he said, and I looked up at him. βHow did you know my name?β He chuckled and gestured to my necklace. βYour necklace says it. Am I wrong?β βAh, right. Silly me. And here I thought you were one of those crazy stalkers I have.β βAnd if I was? Would you run away?β βNo,β I whispered, and the stranger kissed me. I returned his kiss with a fervent passsion, and we gnawed at each otherβs li-ps, each trying to outdo the otherβs needs. I moaned as he kissed me. His hands wandered, touching me gently. A flicker of apprehension came to my mind, but I pushed it back, telling myself this was right. This was what I wanted. He struggled to unbutton my blouse while continuing to steal kisses from my li-ps. I sighed in pleasure when, moments later, his touch landed on my body and he latched hungrily at it. βOh, the goddess,β I moaned as I wrapped my hands around his head. I felt the heat in my pusssy. βTo the moon goddess,β he said, βyou have the most gorgeous body and eyes I have ever seen.β He approached and wrapped his hands around my waist. He picked me up bridal style and carried me to the bed. There, he laid me on the mattress and kissed me again. With his tongue, he languidly strolled down my body to my mound, then inserted a finger. βSo tight,β he growled. I moaned and squirmed under his touch, parting my legs further. He moaned in approval and then shifted, placing himself at my entrance. I flinched in fear when I saw the size of him. He noticed my apprehension and he stopped. βAre you all right?β he asked. βDo you want me to stop?β I shook my head. βNo. Itβs just that it's my first time.β He chuckled and patted my hair. βIβll be gentle,β he said and kissed me pass-ionately. My body soon became receptive, and he got into me slowly. I squirmed as he filled me, the sensation painful at first. He sighed in pleasure. βSo tight. So wet,β he whispered, then kissed my forehead and drove his full length into me. I grabbed him and cried out. βShh. Shh. It's alright. Itβll feel good in a minute,β he said and started moving inside me. Slowly, my body adjusted to his size, and I loosened my grip on his shoulders. As I relaxed around him, he could feel my calmness and he increased his pace. His growls and my moans filled the room, the both of us reaching the peak of ecstasy in unison. βI need to take a shower,β I said after the climax subsided. He nodded and lifted me, taking me to the bathroom where he washed me. As he kissed me deeply with the water pouring over our bodies, mating tension rose between us againβ¦ I woke early the next morning, feeling sore all over from the previous nightβs activities. The handsome stranger with whom I enjoyed those activities was still asleep. So I rose from the bed and went for my bag, leaving behind an envelope that contained a check. Then I got dressed and tiptoed out of the room, closing the door quietly behind me. Chapter 5 I stirred in my sleep, my body sore from the business of last night. Suddenly my eyes shot open, when I heard my bedroom door open, and in walked Quinn. I glared at her and shut my eyes. βSign of bad luck. I open my eyes and I see the adulterous stepmother of mine.β I said sarcastically. Quinn glared at me and she opened my curtain window. βYou should get up. It's time for breakfast.β I peered at her. βYou never care if I eat or not. Is this your guilty consciousness getting to you?β Quinn studied me, and I squirmed uncomfortably under her intense gaze. βDid you have se-x last night?β Quinn asked. I shot her a surprised look. βHmm. Seems like you did.β Quinn said and I looked away. βI have no idea what you are talking about. Get out of my room.β I said and Quinn walked towards me. She didnβt look convinced. βWeβll talk about this later,β she said. βFor now, you have a pack function to attend, so come down for breakfast,β Quinn said and walked out of the bedroom. I stared at my closed door and I wondered why all of a sudden, Quinn was so nice to me. I'd find out at breakfast. I got up to shower with the events of the previous night running through my mind. Wouldnβt it be nice if that was all I had to think about? A short while later, I went to the dining room where Kevin, my stepbrother, was seated at the tablet at Quinnβs right hand. But what caught my attention was Alex. βWhat are you doing here?βI clenched my fists in rage. βDonβt make a scene,β Quinn said. βJust sit and have breakfast quietly.β βI refuse to share a table with this scumbag,β I said. βGet him out of here. Or rather, I wouldnβt want to disturb your happy family, so Iβd rather have my breakfast in my bedroom.β Alex stood and held my hands. βEve, let's talk in private.β Kevinβs gaze shifted from me to Quinn, to Alex. βWhatβs going on here? Is there something that I don't know about?β Kelvin asked. He and Alex had been very good buddies and that's how he and I met. I kept my focus on Alex. βLet go of me. I have nothing to say to you.β Alex simply stared at me. βI asked you not to make a fuss at breakfast,β Quinn said. βWhy can't you obey simple instructions, hmm?β I stared at Quinn in disbelief. βMaybe I would have yesterday when I still respected you. But not after my discovery last night.β Kevin straightened in his chair and addressed me, βI can take anything you do, but I won't accept you insulting my mom, Evelyn. Just sit down if you are asked to.β I shot him a glare. βYou stay out of this,β I said and looked at Quinn. βOr would you like for me to tell your son about your shameful acts?β βShut your trap,β Quinn said, banging her hand on the table. I chuckled at Quinnβs discomfort. She obviously didnβt want her son knowing about her escapade. I pulled out of Alexβs grasp. βI am going to check on my father,β I announced to the room, then turned to the kitchen maid. βI'll have breakfast in my bedroom, Sophia,β I said and turned to walk upstairs. βPrepare yourself,β Quinn called out. βYour engagement is in four days.β I paused and looked back at her. βExcuse me?β I asked, my eyes strained and narrowed. Quinn folded her hands. βYou heard me. Prepare for your engagement ceremony in four days. Bring the omega you slept with last night.β I gaped at her. βWhat do you mean, the omega she slept with?β Kevin asked. βHer fiancΓ©e is standing right in front of her.β He shifted his gaze from his mother to me. βWhat is going on, Eve?β βAlex cheated on me with your mother, and I caught them in the act, so our engagement is off.β Kevin turned to his mom with disbelief etched into his features. βYour mother is a despicable woman,β I added. βOne who sleeps with her stepdaughterβs fiancΓ©e. Thatβs how dirty and disgusting she is. Now, you must understand why I refuse to cower under her authority?β I said, looking Quinn directly in the eye. βEvelyn Carson!β Quinn yelled as she sprang from her chair. βShut up.β βLet's talk about this in private,β Alex implored. βIt can be solved.β I curled my li-p in disgust. βBold of you to assume Iβm still interested in being your wife. You think because I have no wolf and am deemed a worthless omega that I would settle for a man who doesnβt know the line between family and se-xual relationships?β βOh, come on now. Get rid of your pride. Nobody will want to marry someone who already slept with a man,β Alex said. βPfft.β I scoffed. βYou're finally showing your true colors. I wish I'd never been with you. β I turned to Quinn. βAnd about that engagement party. Fine. Set it up. Iβll bring him home that day. Ensure you send out invitations. I'd rather be married quickly to this stranger than marry a cheat.β I nodded toward the kitchen maid. βSophia, breakfast to my bedroom, please,β I said, then left the room. Kevin turned to Quinn and asked, βWhat was she talking about, Mom?β I heard Kelvin say. βShut up, and eat your breakfast,β she said. I know she's planning to get rid of me but I would make sure she's thrown out before she can even achieve her aim. I'll prove to her that the Alpha's blood runs in my veins. Three days passed since I and Quinn had fought over the engagement ceremony. Immediately after their argument, I uploaded a profile on a dating site, expressing my need for a contract husband just for the engagement ceremony. I continuously pressed the refresh button on my computer but had no bites, and I was running out of time. The engagement ceremony was tomorrow. While I was in the bathroom, a notification bell sounded on my computer. I rushed to it to check the message. It was from an anonymous commenter and said, βI have time tomorrow. How much would I be paid? Hit me up.β Chapter 6 The next morning, Sophia knocked on my door. βMadam Evelyn. It's morning. Please wake up.β I turned in my bed, then rose and stretched with a smile. It was my engagement day and Quinn and Alex were in for a surprise. I was almost giddy with the prospect, especially since Iβv done my own investigation and learned that the omega waiter whoβd poisoned me five nights ago had done it under the commands of one of the βhigher upsβ. It turned out that higher up had been Quinn. I smirked in bliss as my mind went back to the message I had received from the anonymous man whoβd agreed to take part in my engagement today. We had agreed on his entrance to the engagement party and how much I would pay him for his appearance, while I figured out the best way to get rid of my adulterous stepmom and treacherous ex-fiancΓ©e. Sophia pulled me from my thoughts, saying, βYour breakfast is served downstairs.β I looked at her. βWhy downstairs? I do not want to have breakfast while seeing their faces. I made sure I made myself clear a few days back.β I said with my eyebrows raised. βI apologize,β said Sophia, bowing her head. βThe madam wanted you to have breakfast with the family downstairs.β I rubbed my temple. βAll right. Iβll join them.β Only because I didnβt want them to ruin this beautiful morning for me. βJust run my bath for me.β Sophia nodded and headed to the bathroom. Thirty minutes later, I walked down the stairs confidently, even with the long scar running across my face.. Alex stared, looking pained, as I walked into the room. Too bad youβre not marrying me, huh, as-shole? He stabbed at his sausages, likely angry at himself for ruining his plan to inherit the Carson fortune, using me, was now thwarted badly. Quinn noticed Alexβs face and she cleared her throat βWelcome to the table, Eve,β she said to me. I looked at her, said nothing and sat down beside my step brother. βCongratulations on your engagement party, Sis,β said Kevin, handing me a small box. I nodded curtly and took the box from him. I opened it and saw a small bracelet. βThank you,β I said and went back to eating. Silence permeated the breakfast table. Afterward, Alex left the room, looking like he was going to go brood. Quinn seemed excited about the prospect of marrying me off, probably figuring she could finally have Alex, Carson, and the house to herself. She was in for a serious surprise. I had plans to make their lives miserable for making a fool of me. Kevin was the only one who seemed neutral. As the preparations for the engagement party began in earnest, I left to go upstairs and battle with my hair, clothes, and makeup. A short while later, after my hair had been arranged with pins and diamond hair accessories, I heard a soft knock on my bedroom door. βCan I come in?β I heard Kelvin ask. βYeah sure.β I said and he walked in. His face held surprise when he saw me, then gulped and looked away. I looked extremely attractive today, so he was probably wondering if they had all looked down on me because I was always dressed plainly. βI donβt have all day, Kevin,β I said as he continued to stand there mute. βSo spill it.β He sighed. βI'm sorry about what my mom did to you, and I know it's shameless of me to ask, but can you please let it go? If the elders find out this party isn't an engagement ceremony for you and Alex, and it's because he cheated on you with my mom, my mom will lose her dignity and respect as a woman in our pack.β βI have no plans to tell the elders why Alex and I arenβt getting married, and you shouldnβt be begging for forgiveness on your momβs behalf. If she needed it, she would have asked for it herself. Now, is that all you wanted? And why are you suddenly so humble and calm toward me when youβre normally so cold and arrogant?β Kevin shrugged, then turned to the room, glancing back once before he walked out. My attendants went back to preparing me for the party. After a couple of more hours, I was ready, but filled with nerves because my arranged partner hadnβt yet arrived. Quinn texted me, βYou should come down with that omega now. The partyβs about to begin.β I bit my fingers in fright. But then my phone pinged with a text message from my anonymous partner. βIβm here,β it said. I let out a sigh of relief. With renewed confidence, I strutted out of my room and down to the party pavilion. I texted him to walk into the compound and go to the pavilion, then raced to meet him. When I arrived at the entrance, Quinn and Alex were already there. Only that the stranger who exited the car wasnβt a complete stranger. He approached me. βHello, my love,β he said, then locked kiss on my li-ps. I was shocked, though my body remained rigid as my brain tried to figure out what was happening. When our li-ps separated, he said, βAre you happy to see me?β He smiled and leaned in toward my ear. βWasnβt very nice of you to leave the other night, and without even bothering to ask my name, too. It's Kian, by the way, Kian Sylvester,β he whispered. βHow did you find me?β I whispered back. βCoincidence, or maybe youβd call it fate, my beautiful. But before we continue our banter, won't you introduce me to your family?β I straightened myself. βOf course,β I said, still trying to absorb the fact that my paid partner for the day was the man I had spent my very first night with. I turned and took in my stepmotherβs expression. The look of shock there in her face satisfied me. I smiled. Anybody could see Kian wasn't just a random omega. Even though I knew little about him, I could feel his powerful aura. I shifted my gaze from Quinn to encompass everyone there. βElders, Mother, Brother, this is Kian Sylvester, the man Iβm set to marry,β I announced with a small smile. βWhat is the meaning of this?β Quinn asked. βWho is this good-for-nothing man you have brought home to marry?β Silence descended on the crowd. βDo not say another insulting word toward my woman,β Kian said in an authoritative voice. βDo you hear me?β He scoffed. βYou call me a nobody? Well, ask Alex here who I am.β He turned to Alex. βWonβt you tell them, Brother?β he asked with a smile. Wait, I don't remember Alex having a brother. Did he??? Alex folded his hands into fists. βWhat are you doing here?β he asked through clenched teeth. βI thought that was clearβ¦ Iβm here to ask for my womanβs hand in marriage.β He smirked mischievously. βOh, Iβm sorry. Did you think I wouldnβt amount to anything after Father kicked me out?β Alex glared at him. βGo back to wherever youβve been hiding all these years before I tear your fcking face off.β βYou will not address our Alpha in such a manner, you scumbag.β Kianβs aide inserted himself between Kian and Alex. He turned to face the now murmuring crowd. I stood transfixed. He was an alpha? And Alexβs brother? Oh, the moon goddess! βThis is Alpha Kian Sylvester of the Blood Moon Pack, the strongest pack on this continent. Pay your respects properly.β Kianβs aide addressed the crowd. | Start Reading | 1 | https://facebook.com/61558999080853 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1714719600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879784 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410724 | 1723321857 | 995 | 328628403299992 | 1 | 6.7053029729062E+15 | 1714806000 | person_profile | taken-down | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 321330554388277 | 0 | Start Reading | 120207810472520056 | befant.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | β€οΈπWhat happens nextπClick Here to read onπ | https://befant.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=11192&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1714573086 | 3.2133055438828E+14 | Start Reading | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441206868_1116532276285473_1322182524522961747_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=dVdBCJR8m9IQ7kNvgGxBIHN&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYB7kMrKVOgJ8YW8xzKGRsgCufQFrP2OVnCXBDScENWSEw&oe=6672BD09 | person_profile | 0 | Start Reading | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440418966_448917680872294_3438075365541597509_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=A81_9g5fi4IQ7kNvgGjLewp&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCte60qkl7CLEFTwKWYv-5UrqhAQ7J86fd-7fhXEnOTxA&oe=6672950C | 0 | 3 | Evelynβs POV I sat at the bar, downing drinks and trying to forget about my problems. βPour me another, please,β I said to the bartender. As the omega refilled my glass, I looked at my phone and sighed for the umpteenth time. Still no word from my boyfriend, Alex, and no news from my fatherβs doctor either. Just as Iβd prayed the moon goddess would spare my mother and bring her back to me, I now prayed for my fatherβs life. Out of the blue, heβd slipped into a coma, and a month later, the doctors still had no answers. Meanwhile, I lost hope and my heart broke more with each passing day. The pack wasnβt faring well without their alpha, either. They needed a leader, and as my fatherβs only legitimate child, I would become the next alpha of my pack if he didnβt make it. I sighed again as I wondered if the pack would be better off with my stepbrother Kevin in the role. He was a male with a powerful wolf. Conversely, I was a female with no wolf. If that werenβt bad enough, an ug-ly scar that ran from my cheek to my ear marred my face so prominently that others stared constantly. Even patrons in the bar stared, though I did my best to ignore them. I took a swig, downing the last of my drink. βAnother,β I said to the bartender. βMiss, youβve had quite a lot already. Maybe itβs best to stop and go home for now?β the bartender, an obvious omega said. I looked at her and rolled my eyes. βI donβt want to go home. I want to drink until I forget about life. So give me another, please.β As the bartender hesitated, a waiter approached. βI have the perfect drink for you,β said the omega. βA new brand of whiskey, and itβs strong. Itβll take the edge off and make you forget. I can promise you that.β βIβll take it,β I slurred. The omega waiter nodded. βVery well. Iβll be back in a jiffy.β Once he left, I focused on my phone once again. Still nothing from Alex or my fatherβs doctor. A minute later, the omega waiter approached with an open bottle. βHere you go. Thisβll help you forget all your worries and cares. Dare I say, youβll be in ecstasy for at least forty-eight hours.β βYouβd do well, as a brand ambassador,β I said with a chuckle. βAll right. Let me sample its glories.β The waiter nodded and poured a substantial amount into my tumbler. I tipped the glass back, gulped its contents in a single swig, then slammed the tumbler back onto the bar. I addressed the bartender as I grabbed my bag to retrieve my wallet. βTab, please.β It was time for me to get going. I needed to see my father. The bartender acknowledged my request, then walked to the register. Before the bartender got there, my image wavered. I rubbed my suddenly blurry eyes. βWhat the heck?β I mumbled as I stood. I almost ended up on the barroom floor, barely able to catch myself in time. I gripped the edge of the bar, working to stay upright. The omega waiter rushed to me, grabbing me by the waist to help me. βPrincess, are you okay?β I gently extracted myself from him. βYeah. Fine,β I said, then put a hand to my forehead. Too hot, and my stomach was queasy too. That thought barely registered before blackness engulfed me. Sometime later, I sighed, then opened my eyes. My face twisted in confusion. βThis is not my house. It looked more like a hotel room. What was I doing here? And how did I get here?β I muttered to myself, rubbing my blurry eyes. Before I could think long enough to answer either of those questions, giggling came from the room next door. Then a familiar female voice said, βOh, Alex. Do you know how long Iβve waited for you to touch me?β I covered my mouth to hold back a gasp. Iβd know that voice anywhere. It was my stepmother, Quinn. But what βAlexβ was she talking to? It couldnβt be my Alex. That couldnβt be possible. Even the idea of that was outrageous. Yet, I didnβt know any other Alex, and I didnβt think Quinn did either. Still, there had to be some reasonable explanation. My legs felt like jelly, so I used the roomβs furniture and walls for balance as I staggered to the hotel room door. I opened it and, with blurry vision, looked around. When I didnβt see anyone, I walked to the next door. Quinnβs voice came from the other side. βYouβre not truly going to marry that scarred wench, are you? I mean, she doesnβt even have a wolf. Meanwhile, you could easily have all of this with me.β βTrue,β said a male voiceβAlexβs voice. My Alex! What the hel? How could he? βBut sheβs the heiress,β he said, continuing. βAnd I can always come to your room at night whenever I get bored with her.β Quinn chuckled, and I could barely believe what I was hearing. So it was all about me being the daughter of their alpha. Alex was with me just to get his hands on my fatherβs properties and wealth. βPlease,β Quinn said flippantly. βShe might be Alphaβs daughter, but with that scarred face of hers and no wolf, sheβs no better than a rogue omega. Itβll be my son, Kevin, who ends up with everything, not that weak girl. Besides, youβre too handsome to have such a disgusting wife.β I folded my fists in anger. How evil could Quinn be? And Alexβcould he be more of an ingrate? Still, I couldnβt help but press my ear to the door to hear more. βYou say that like itβs a certainty,β Alex said. βJust remember that, unless I marry Evelyn, Kevin gets nothing.β So they had a plan. Alex intended to marry me to secure the properties and the seat of the pack. Then it seemed he, along with Quinn, intended to ensure everything would somehow be transferred to Quinnβs son, Kevin. Theyβd plotted against me! I had to pick my gaping mouth up off the floor. βBut enough with all that for now,β said Alex. βI want a taste of that fleshy hole of yours.β βOnly if you tell me I can steal you away from that silly girl. She doesnβt deserve you. Youβre too good for her.β Alex laughed. βOf course. Once everythingβs in place, you can do whatever you want with her. In the meantime, you can still have me, especially once me and Evelyn are married, and all of us are living in the same house.β βNo worries about access,β Quinn said with a giggle. βThatβs right,β Alex said. βAnd Iβm looking forward to having constant access to this beautiful succulent body of yours, too.β I couldnβt take any more. I barged into the hotel room, allowing the back of the door to slam against the wall. βHow dare you!β I thundered. Chapter 2 I stare from Quinnβs nonchalant face to Alexβs petrified face. βYou ungrateful slime!β I yelled. I reached for the vase on the roomβs front table and flung it at Alexβs head. He ducked, and the vase hit the wall behind him, shattering. That I missed made me even angrier. Quinn wore a smug smirk as I staggered a few steps into the room. I shook my head. It didnβt feel right. It felt like something more than a hangover, like Iβd been poisoned. Still, I wanted to pounce on these two traitors, so I pressed on, getting dizzier by the step. Quinnβs smirk grew evil as she saw me struggle to keep consciousness. She looked like a villain whose plan was falling into place perfectly. I saw it, the mischievous look in her eyes. It seemed like it had been her plan for Me to get poisoned, and be brought here, so I could find her and Alex in Bed. βWhat can you do about it?β She asked Me and I scoffed, unable to believe the amount of shamelessness I was seeing in Quinn. Then ignored her, turning my attention to Alex. βI fcking trusted you!β I screamed. βHow could you do this? And with my stepmother? Whatβs wrong with you?β βOh, stop being such a drama queen,β Alex said. βWhat if I have an interest in older women? That doesnβt mean I don't love you.β βThatβs my fuking stepmother, Alex! My dadβs wife! This is the height of immorality,β I said, shaking my head. βI can't believe you! Really!β I yelled again. βEve, dear,β Quinn said, βyou need to stop yelling. You donβt seem well.β I glared at her and clenched my fists, wanting to pummel the two of them until they couldnβt feel anything but pain. Instead, I said, βDonβt pretend to care about me. You think I donβt know how much you hate me? Goddess knows, you donβt hesitate to show it. So stop pretending like you really care what happens to me. For all I know, you planned this whole thing so I could see you both, have a heart attack, and die.β Quinn gasped and laughed mockingly. βI am not that creative, Evelyn. Besides, why would I want you to know Alex and I fell in love?β I stared at her in disbelief. βIn love? You conniving snake. It's only been a month since Father slipped into a coma, and youβre claiming to be in love? With my boyfriend?β Alex came over and rubbed my arms. βNow, calm down.β I kept my focus on Quinn as I got away from Alex. βHow shameless can you be? Is your love that fickle? Does it change that fast?β βCome on,β Alex said, drawing my eyes. βIt's no big thing. Hey, maybe you could even join us. What do you think?β I glared at him. βJoinβ¦?β I landed a loud slap on his face. βYou filthy pig. Youβre worse than a rogue. And you donβt think thereβs anything immoral about what youβre suggesting? About what youβre doing? Sleeping with my stepmotherβ¦ your future mother-in-law?β Alexβs face contorted into a frown. βOh, stop being such a goody two shoes.β Alex grabbed my elbows. I pulled away from him. βDonβt touch me! To think I wanted to be your wife. Ever since the day I met you, I wanted that, too. How silly of me. I should have heeded the warnings about you.β βDonβt be disrespectful, Eve,β Quinn said. βIβm still your fatherβs wife and head of this pack. And I will not tolerate it.β βLeader of the pack? Is that so? You havenβt even done anything to find out why my father, your husband, ended up in a coma. Pfft. Youβre a terrible excuse for a leaderβ¦ and a mother.β βExcuse me?β Quinn rose from the bed and approached with her eyes narrowed. βAre you undermining me?β I shook my head. βSimply stating the bitter truth. Ever since you came into my fatherβs house, thereβs been nothing but pain and discomfort. I wish it was you instead of my dad in that coma.β Quinn slapped me hard across the face. βThatβs for your insolence.β She slapped me again just as hard. βThatβs for hitting Alex.β She slapped me once more. βAnd thatβs for wishing me dead.β Alex grabbed her hand. βQuinn, please. Thatβs enough.β Quinn glared at him. βThis young lady is a spoiled brat. She needs to be taught a lesson.β She turned back to me. βIβm in charge of this pack and also your legal guardian, and Iβve had it up to my guts with your tantrums.β I stared at her in disbelief. βWake the fvck up, Eve,β Quinn yelled. βI make the rules now, and you will do as I say. Do you hear me, you worthless omega?β I wished I had a wolf so I could shift and have it out with this crazy bit-ch. But maybe not having a wolf was what allowed me to remain calm, despite the fact that Iβd never been hit in the face before. Either way, I kept my cool while I stared into my adulterous stepmotherβs eyes. Eventually, I shook her head and said, βYou disgust me,β then turned and left the room. As the door closed behind me, tears came to my eyes. What a betrayal. As if it werenβt bad enough that Alex cheated on me, he chose to do it with my stepmother. Why? Why me, of all people? I aimlessly headed back to the room I came from, still staggering to get my things. I opened the door and then stopped, wondering why she was bothering to go back there. Everything was a blur, and I wasnβt sure if it was because of my welling eyes or the pill Iβd obviously been given. But then I felt a presence behind me. Chapter 3 βWho are you?β I asked, as I tried to shake off the wave of discomfort and dizziness that had suddenly hit me. I wiped my eyes. βYou!β I exclaimed, looking at the omega waiter from the bar. βWhat are you doing here?β Nerves crept up my spine as I stared at the man who had given me the drinkβthe drink that had obviously been dru-gged. βOh, come on Princess.β He stepped forward, forcing me to go back up into the room. βYou know why Iβm here,β he said with a wicked grin. βAnd your body wants it. I know it does.β I wanted to puke, βPlease let me go home. I need to go home to my dad.β βIβll let you go homeββhe started to unclasp his beltββas soon as you give me what I want.β I backed up another step. βIt will be over soon, Princess. I promise.β βWhy?β I asked, still seeing him through blurry eyes and wondering if there was any way I could escape him. He gave me a perverted smile, then wagged his brows. βWell, your body is a nice prize on its own, but there are better reasons.β I didnβt need him to tell me those reasons. If he took my first time, I'd be forced to marry him, which would damage my reputation and leave utterly no chance of becoming an Alpha heir. I couldnβt bear the thought of sleep with him, let alone marrying him. I had to find a way out. But the blurry vision was making me dizzy. All I thought to do was plead. βI need to get home immediately,β I said as authoritatively as I could in my current condition. βIt's late.β The omega smirked. βYou know I canβt let you leave, Princess. Not without a taste of the forbidden fruit.β He approached. As soon as he got within range, I slapped him hard with all the strength I could find. His face twisted in rage. βThis isn't the fuking palace.β He hit me back so hard that he knocked me onto the bed. βThis is my turf. I do as I wish.β Alex POV βWe need to get Eve,β I said. βShe didnβt look too good.β Quinn stared at me in disgust. βAre you really worrying about her right now?β I looked at my phone, biting my finger as I saw all of Eveβs messages for the first time. And now, she wasnβt responding to me. What if she went off and slept with some other guy? I turned to Quinn. βIβm just worried. She didnβt look well. She seemed off, like she was sick or something.β Quinn rose from the bed and sauntered to a table in the corner, where she picked up a bottle of booze and poured a glass. With the glass in hand, she strutted seductively back to me. βHere. Drink this. It would help calm you.β I accepted the drink and took a gulp, then walked to the window. Quinn approached from behind and wrapped her arms around my bare waist. βI fear she isn't okay,β I said. Quinn sighed in irritation. βShe was drunk. Thatβs how she is these days. She gets drunk, and I don't even know her whereabouts. She probably goes out sleeping around. Maybe sheβs out sleeping with some omega right now,β she said with mischief in her voice. I spun around, squinting at her. βWait a second. Did youβ¦? Was this your idea, when you said I should be your sneaky link? You know I can't afford to lose Eve.β Quinn sighed. βWas what my idea? To get her drunk and have her brought to our hotel? Pfft. Donβt accuse me of such outrageous things. Yes, I wanted her to find out about us, but I didnβt do that.β I ran my hands through my hair, unsure whether I should believe her. βAnd why are you so worried about her sleeping around?β Quinn asked. βWhy should you care what she does?β βFuk,β I whispered. I always knew this play-boy attitude of mine would get me into a ton of trouble one day, but I never expected it to be with a girl I actually cared about. Yes, I was using her for her inheritance, but that didnβt mean I had no feelings for her. βListen,β Quinn said. βIβm sure you feel like sheβll betray you because you betrayed her. But do you really think sheβll risk it, knowing sheβll have to marry anyone she sleeps with? Not only that, in her position, Eve would lose her dignity in the community, too. Sheβd end up begging you to take her back.β βAre you sure about that?β Quinn took the glass from me and kissed me slowly. Once she drew her li-ps away from mine, she peered at me. βIβm here to help you,β she said. βSo even if she doesnβt beg for you, I can always ensure you end up owning some Carson family properties. Iβm married to Alpha Carson after all.β She bit her li-ps seductively. βSo be a good boy and come undress me.β Something pricked in the back of my mind, a warning I couldnβt put into words. But it was something that told me to resist her, that I couldnβt trust her. But I wanted her, so I put a lid on that warning, and a few minutes later, my tongue grazed her vagi-na. Chapter 4 Evelyn POV I struggled to keep my head straight, as I fought for consciousness. I heard footsteps and I knew that the weird omega was back. I staggered up, reaching for a weapon. My hand found the neck of an empty wine bottle. I swung it in an arc and hit him across the head. He went down with a thud, and I ran out of the room and directly into a man. βI'm sorry,β I mumbled as I tried to scoot past him. βMiss, are you alright?β he asked. I turned and saw the omega coming after me. βHelp me,β I said, with panicked eyes and a voice filled with urgency. The stranger saw the omega, grabbed my wrist, then dragged me into his room. In one smooth motion, he slammed the door shut, locked it, then spun me into his che-st With fear of the omega still overwhelming me, I buried my face in his arms and whimpered weakly, latching onto his trousers to steady myself. βHeβs gone,β said the stranger. I raised my head from his bare front body and peered at him. Despite my blurry vision, I could tell he was handsome. βWhatβs your name?β I whispered. He chuckled, then backed away and walked to his table. βSuppose I told you, would you remember? You seem a little drunk.β I shook my head. βI was poisoned. And there's still quite some amount in my system. But Iβll try to remember. Please, whatβs your name?β βMy name isn't important. You look exhausted. I need to get you home.β I chuckled. βIβd feel safer staying hereβ¦ with you.β He walked toward me. βI am a wolf in heat. You know what that means.β It meant he wanted a woman se-xually. Any woman. βI can do just the same that omega could do to you. Are you still not afraid of me?β I chuckled. βI just found my fiancΓ©e cheating on me with my fatherβs wife. YouββI rested my palm on his body the other hand, seem like an honorable person. I'd rather sleep with you than with that cheat or a creepy omega. Besides, you don't seem all that scary.β I held his face, looking into his blue eyes. βA person with a story and many secrets, yes, but not scary.β βYour li-ps are so beautiful, Evelyn,β he said, and I looked up at him. βHow did you know my name?β He chuckled and gestured to my necklace. βYour necklace says it. Am I wrong?β βAh, right. Silly me. And here I thought you were one of those crazy stalkers I have.β βAnd if I was? Would you run away?β βNo,β I whispered, and the stranger kissed me. I returned his kiss with a fervent passsion, and we gnawed at each otherβs li-ps, each trying to outdo the otherβs needs. I moaned as he kissed me. His hands wandered, touching me gently. A flicker of apprehension came to my mind, but I pushed it back, telling myself this was right. This was what I wanted. He struggled to unbutton my blouse while continuing to steal kisses from my li-ps. I sighed in pleasure when, moments later, his touch landed on my body and he latched hungrily at it. βOh, the goddess,β I moaned as I wrapped my hands around his head. I felt the heat in my pusssy. βTo the moon goddess,β he said, βyou have the most gorgeous body and eyes I have ever seen.β He approached and wrapped his hands around my waist. He picked me up bridal style and carried me to the bed. There, he laid me on the mattress and kissed me again. With his tongue, he languidly strolled down my body to my mound, then inserted a finger. βSo tight,β he growled. I moaned and squirmed under his touch, parting my legs further. He moaned in approval and then shifted, placing himself at my entrance. I flinched in fear when I saw the size of him. He noticed my apprehension and he stopped. βAre you all right?β he asked. βDo you want me to stop?β I shook my head. βNo. Itβs just that it's my first time.β He chuckled and patted my hair. βIβll be gentle,β he said and kissed me pass-ionately. My body soon became receptive, and he got into me slowly. I squirmed as he filled me, the sensation painful at first. He sighed in pleasure. βSo tight. So wet,β he whispered, then kissed my forehead and drove his full length into me. I grabbed him and cried out. βShh. Shh. It's alright. Itβll feel good in a minute,β he said and started moving inside me. Slowly, my body adjusted to his size, and I loosened my grip on his shoulders. As I relaxed around him, he could feel my calmness and he increased his pace. His growls and my moans filled the room, the both of us reaching the peak of ecstasy in unison. βI need to take a shower,β I said after the climax subsided. He nodded and lifted me, taking me to the bathroom where he washed me. As he kissed me deeply with the water pouring over our bodies, mating tension rose between us againβ¦ I woke early the next morning, feeling sore all over from the previous nightβs activities. The handsome stranger with whom I enjoyed those activities was still asleep. So I rose from the bed and went for my bag, leaving behind an envelope that contained a check. Then I got dressed and tiptoed out of the room, closing the door quietly behind me. Chapter 5 I stirred in my sleep, my body sore from the business of last night. Suddenly my eyes shot open, when I heard my bedroom door open, and in walked Quinn. I glared at her and shut my eyes. βSign of bad luck. I open my eyes and I see the adulterous stepmother of mine.β I said sarcastically. Quinn glared at me and she opened my curtain window. βYou should get up. It's time for breakfast.β I peered at her. βYou never care if I eat or not. Is this your guilty consciousness getting to you?β Quinn studied me, and I squirmed uncomfortably under her intense gaze. βDid you have se-x last night?β Quinn asked. I shot her a surprised look. βHmm. Seems like you did.β Quinn said and I looked away. βI have no idea what you are talking about. Get out of my room.β I said and Quinn walked towards me. She didnβt look convinced. βWeβll talk about this later,β she said. βFor now, you have a pack function to attend, so come down for breakfast,β Quinn said and walked out of the bedroom. I stared at my closed door and I wondered why all of a sudden, Quinn was so nice to me. I'd find out at breakfast. I got up to shower with the events of the previous night running through my mind. Wouldnβt it be nice if that was all I had to think about? A short while later, I went to the dining room where Kevin, my stepbrother, was seated at the tablet at Quinnβs right hand. But what caught my attention was Alex. βWhat are you doing here?βI clenched my fists in rage. βDonβt make a scene,β Quinn said. βJust sit and have breakfast quietly.β βI refuse to share a table with this scumbag,β I said. βGet him out of here. Or rather, I wouldnβt want to disturb your happy family, so Iβd rather have my breakfast in my bedroom.β Alex stood and held my hands. βEve, let's talk in private.β Kevinβs gaze shifted from me to Quinn, to Alex. βWhatβs going on here? Is there something that I don't know about?β Kelvin asked. He and Alex had been very good buddies and that's how he and I met. I kept my focus on Alex. βLet go of me. I have nothing to say to you.β Alex simply stared at me. βI asked you not to make a fuss at breakfast,β Quinn said. βWhy can't you obey simple instructions, hmm?β I stared at Quinn in disbelief. βMaybe I would have yesterday when I still respected you. But not after my discovery last night.β Kevin straightened in his chair and addressed me, βI can take anything you do, but I won't accept you insulting my mom, Evelyn. Just sit down if you are asked to.β I shot him a glare. βYou stay out of this,β I said and looked at Quinn. βOr would you like for me to tell your son about your shameful acts?β βShut your trap,β Quinn said, banging her hand on the table. I chuckled at Quinnβs discomfort. She obviously didnβt want her son knowing about her escapade. I pulled out of Alexβs grasp. βI am going to check on my father,β I announced to the room, then turned to the kitchen maid. βI'll have breakfast in my bedroom, Sophia,β I said and turned to walk upstairs. βPrepare yourself,β Quinn called out. βYour engagement is in four days.β I paused and looked back at her. βExcuse me?β I asked, my eyes strained and narrowed. Quinn folded her hands. βYou heard me. Prepare for your engagement ceremony in four days. Bring the omega you slept with last night.β I gaped at her. βWhat do you mean, the omega she slept with?β Kevin asked. βHer fiancΓ©e is standing right in front of her.β He shifted his gaze from his mother to me. βWhat is going on, Eve?β βAlex cheated on me with your mother, and I caught them in the act, so our engagement is off.β Kevin turned to his mom with disbelief etched into his features. βYour mother is a despicable woman,β I added. βOne who sleeps with her stepdaughterβs fiancΓ©e. Thatβs how dirty and disgusting she is. Now, you must understand why I refuse to cower under her authority?β I said, looking Quinn directly in the eye. βEvelyn Carson!β Quinn yelled as she sprang from her chair. βShut up.β βLet's talk about this in private,β Alex implored. βIt can be solved.β I curled my li-p in disgust. βBold of you to assume Iβm still interested in being your wife. You think because I have no wolf and am deemed a worthless omega that I would settle for a man who doesnβt know the line between family and se-xual relationships?β βOh, come on now. Get rid of your pride. Nobody will want to marry someone who already slept with a man,β Alex said. βPfft.β I scoffed. βYou're finally showing your true colors. I wish I'd never been with you. β I turned to Quinn. βAnd about that engagement party. Fine. Set it up. Iβll bring him home that day. Ensure you send out invitations. I'd rather be married quickly to this stranger than marry a cheat.β I nodded toward the kitchen maid. βSophia, breakfast to my bedroom, please,β I said, then left the room. Kevin turned to Quinn and asked, βWhat was she talking about, Mom?β I heard Kelvin say. βShut up, and eat your breakfast,β she said. I know she's planning to get rid of me but I would make sure she's thrown out before she can even achieve her aim. I'll prove to her that the Alpha's blood runs in my veins. Three days passed since I and Quinn had fought over the engagement ceremony. Immediately after their argument, I uploaded a profile on a dating site, expressing my need for a contract husband just for the engagement ceremony. I continuously pressed the refresh button on my computer but had no bites, and I was running out of time. The engagement ceremony was tomorrow. While I was in the bathroom, a notification bell sounded on my computer. I rushed to it to check the message. It was from an anonymous commenter and said, βI have time tomorrow. How much would I be paid? Hit me up.β Chapter 6 The next morning, Sophia knocked on my door. βMadam Evelyn. It's morning. Please wake up.β I turned in my bed, then rose and stretched with a smile. It was my engagement day and Quinn and Alex were in for a surprise. I was almost giddy with the prospect, especially since Iβv done my own investigation and learned that the omega waiter whoβd poisoned me five nights ago had done it under the commands of one of the βhigher upsβ. It turned out that higher up had been Quinn. I smirked in bliss as my mind went back to the message I had received from the anonymous man whoβd agreed to take part in my engagement today. We had agreed on his entrance to the engagement party and how much I would pay him for his appearance, while I figured out the best way to get rid of my adulterous stepmom and treacherous ex-fiancΓ©e. Sophia pulled me from my thoughts, saying, βYour breakfast is served downstairs.β I looked at her. βWhy downstairs? I do not want to have breakfast while seeing their faces. I made sure I made myself clear a few days back.β I said with my eyebrows raised. βI apologize,β said Sophia, bowing her head. βThe madam wanted you to have breakfast with the family downstairs.β I rubbed my temple. βAll right. Iβll join them.β Only because I didnβt want them to ruin this beautiful morning for me. βJust run my bath for me.β Sophia nodded and headed to the bathroom. Thirty minutes later, I walked down the stairs confidently, even with the long scar running across my face.. Alex stared, looking pained, as I walked into the room. Too bad youβre not marrying me, huh, as-shole? He stabbed at his sausages, likely angry at himself for ruining his plan to inherit the Carson fortune, using me, was now thwarted badly. Quinn noticed Alexβs face and she cleared her throat βWelcome to the table, Eve,β she said to me. I looked at her, said nothing and sat down beside my step brother. βCongratulations on your engagement party, Sis,β said Kevin, handing me a small box. I nodded curtly and took the box from him. I opened it and saw a small bracelet. βThank you,β I said and went back to eating. Silence permeated the breakfast table. Afterward, Alex left the room, looking like he was going to go brood. Quinn seemed excited about the prospect of marrying me off, probably figuring she could finally have Alex, Carson, and the house to herself. She was in for a serious surprise. I had plans to make their lives miserable for making a fool of me. Kevin was the only one who seemed neutral. As the preparations for the engagement party began in earnest, I left to go upstairs and battle with my hair, clothes, and makeup. A short while later, after my hair had been arranged with pins and diamond hair accessories, I heard a soft knock on my bedroom door. βCan I come in?β I heard Kelvin ask. βYeah sure.β I said and he walked in. His face held surprise when he saw me, then gulped and looked away. I looked extremely attractive today, so he was probably wondering if they had all looked down on me because I was always dressed plainly. βI donβt have all day, Kevin,β I said as he continued to stand there mute. βSo spill it.β He sighed. βI'm sorry about what my mom did to you, and I know it's shameless of me to ask, but can you please let it go? If the elders find out this party isn't an engagement ceremony for you and Alex, and it's because he cheated on you with my mom, my mom will lose her dignity and respect as a woman in our pack.β βI have no plans to tell the elders why Alex and I arenβt getting married, and you shouldnβt be begging for forgiveness on your momβs behalf. If she needed it, she would have asked for it herself. Now, is that all you wanted? And why are you suddenly so humble and calm toward me when youβre normally so cold and arrogant?β Kevin shrugged, then turned to the room, glancing back once before he walked out. My attendants went back to preparing me for the party. After a couple of more hours, I was ready, but filled with nerves because my arranged partner hadnβt yet arrived. Quinn texted me, βYou should come down with that omega now. The partyβs about to begin.β I bit my fingers in fright. But then my phone pinged with a text message from my anonymous partner. βIβm here,β it said. I let out a sigh of relief. With renewed confidence, I strutted out of my room and down to the party pavilion. I texted him to walk into the compound and go to the pavilion, then raced to meet him. When I arrived at the entrance, Quinn and Alex were already there. Only that the stranger who exited the car wasnβt a complete stranger. He approached me. βHello, my love,β he said, then locked kiss on my li-ps. I was shocked, though my body remained rigid as my brain tried to figure out what was happening. When our li-ps separated, he said, βAre you happy to see me?β He smiled and leaned in toward my ear. βWasnβt very nice of you to leave the other night, and without even bothering to ask my name, too. It's Kian, by the way, Kian Sylvester,β he whispered. βHow did you find me?β I whispered back. βCoincidence, or maybe youβd call it fate, my beautiful. But before we continue our banter, won't you introduce me to your family?β I straightened myself. βOf course,β I said, still trying to absorb the fact that my paid partner for the day was the man I had spent my very first night with. I turned and took in my stepmotherβs expression. The look of shock there in her face satisfied me. I smiled. Anybody could see Kian wasn't just a random omega. Even though I knew little about him, I could feel his powerful aura. I shifted my gaze from Quinn to encompass everyone there. βElders, Mother, Brother, this is Kian Sylvester, the man Iβm set to marry,β I announced with a small smile. βWhat is the meaning of this?β Quinn asked. βWho is this good-for-nothing man you have brought home to marry?β Silence descended on the crowd. βDo not say another insulting word toward my woman,β Kian said in an authoritative voice. βDo you hear me?β He scoffed. βYou call me a nobody? Well, ask Alex here who I am.β He turned to Alex. βWonβt you tell them, Brother?β he asked with a smile. Wait, I don't remember Alex having a brother. Did he??? Alex folded his hands into fists. βWhat are you doing here?β he asked through clenched teeth. βI thought that was clearβ¦ Iβm here to ask for my womanβs hand in marriage.β He smirked mischievously. βOh, Iβm sorry. Did you think I wouldnβt amount to anything after Father kicked me out?β Alex glared at him. βGo back to wherever youβve been hiding all these years before I tear your fcking face off.β βYou will not address our Alpha in such a manner, you scumbag.β Kianβs aide inserted himself between Kian and Alex. He turned to face the now murmuring crowd. I stood transfixed. He was an alpha? And Alexβs brother? Oh, the moon goddess! βThis is Alpha Kian Sylvester of the Blood Moon Pack, the strongest pack on this continent. Pay your respects properly.β Kianβs aide addressed the crowd. | Start Reading | 1 | https://facebook.com/61558999080853 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1714719600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879785 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410724 | 1723321858 | 995 | 328628403299992 | 1 | 6.7053029729062E+15 | 1714806000 | person_profile | taken-down | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 321330554388277 | 0 | Start Reading | 120207810472520056 | befant.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | β€οΈπWhat happens nextπClick Here to read onπ | https://befant.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=11192&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1714573086 | 3.2133055438828E+14 | Start Reading | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441206868_1116532276285473_1322182524522961747_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=dVdBCJR8m9IQ7kNvgGxBIHN&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYB7kMrKVOgJ8YW8xzKGRsgCufQFrP2OVnCXBDScENWSEw&oe=6672BD09 | person_profile | 0 | Start Reading | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440418966_448917680872294_3438075365541597509_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=A81_9g5fi4IQ7kNvgGjLewp&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCte60qkl7CLEFTwKWYv-5UrqhAQ7J86fd-7fhXEnOTxA&oe=6672950C | 0 | 3 | Evelynβs POV I sat at the bar, downing drinks and trying to forget about my problems. βPour me another, please,β I said to the bartender. As the omega refilled my glass, I looked at my phone and sighed for the umpteenth time. Still no word from my boyfriend, Alex, and no news from my fatherβs doctor either. Just as Iβd prayed the moon goddess would spare my mother and bring her back to me, I now prayed for my fatherβs life. Out of the blue, heβd slipped into a coma, and a month later, the doctors still had no answers. Meanwhile, I lost hope and my heart broke more with each passing day. The pack wasnβt faring well without their alpha, either. They needed a leader, and as my fatherβs only legitimate child, I would become the next alpha of my pack if he didnβt make it. I sighed again as I wondered if the pack would be better off with my stepbrother Kevin in the role. He was a male with a powerful wolf. Conversely, I was a female with no wolf. If that werenβt bad enough, an ug-ly scar that ran from my cheek to my ear marred my face so prominently that others stared constantly. Even patrons in the bar stared, though I did my best to ignore them. I took a swig, downing the last of my drink. βAnother,β I said to the bartender. βMiss, youβve had quite a lot already. Maybe itβs best to stop and go home for now?β the bartender, an obvious omega said. I looked at her and rolled my eyes. βI donβt want to go home. I want to drink until I forget about life. So give me another, please.β As the bartender hesitated, a waiter approached. βI have the perfect drink for you,β said the omega. βA new brand of whiskey, and itβs strong. Itβll take the edge off and make you forget. I can promise you that.β βIβll take it,β I slurred. The omega waiter nodded. βVery well. Iβll be back in a jiffy.β Once he left, I focused on my phone once again. Still nothing from Alex or my fatherβs doctor. A minute later, the omega waiter approached with an open bottle. βHere you go. Thisβll help you forget all your worries and cares. Dare I say, youβll be in ecstasy for at least forty-eight hours.β βYouβd do well, as a brand ambassador,β I said with a chuckle. βAll right. Let me sample its glories.β The waiter nodded and poured a substantial amount into my tumbler. I tipped the glass back, gulped its contents in a single swig, then slammed the tumbler back onto the bar. I addressed the bartender as I grabbed my bag to retrieve my wallet. βTab, please.β It was time for me to get going. I needed to see my father. The bartender acknowledged my request, then walked to the register. Before the bartender got there, my image wavered. I rubbed my suddenly blurry eyes. βWhat the heck?β I mumbled as I stood. I almost ended up on the barroom floor, barely able to catch myself in time. I gripped the edge of the bar, working to stay upright. The omega waiter rushed to me, grabbing me by the waist to help me. βPrincess, are you okay?β I gently extracted myself from him. βYeah. Fine,β I said, then put a hand to my forehead. Too hot, and my stomach was queasy too. That thought barely registered before blackness engulfed me. Sometime later, I sighed, then opened my eyes. My face twisted in confusion. βThis is not my house. It looked more like a hotel room. What was I doing here? And how did I get here?β I muttered to myself, rubbing my blurry eyes. Before I could think long enough to answer either of those questions, giggling came from the room next door. Then a familiar female voice said, βOh, Alex. Do you know how long Iβve waited for you to touch me?β I covered my mouth to hold back a gasp. Iβd know that voice anywhere. It was my stepmother, Quinn. But what βAlexβ was she talking to? It couldnβt be my Alex. That couldnβt be possible. Even the idea of that was outrageous. Yet, I didnβt know any other Alex, and I didnβt think Quinn did either. Still, there had to be some reasonable explanation. My legs felt like jelly, so I used the roomβs furniture and walls for balance as I staggered to the hotel room door. I opened it and, with blurry vision, looked around. When I didnβt see anyone, I walked to the next door. Quinnβs voice came from the other side. βYouβre not truly going to marry that scarred wench, are you? I mean, she doesnβt even have a wolf. Meanwhile, you could easily have all of this with me.β βTrue,β said a male voiceβAlexβs voice. My Alex! What the hel? How could he? βBut sheβs the heiress,β he said, continuing. βAnd I can always come to your room at night whenever I get bored with her.β Quinn chuckled, and I could barely believe what I was hearing. So it was all about me being the daughter of their alpha. Alex was with me just to get his hands on my fatherβs properties and wealth. βPlease,β Quinn said flippantly. βShe might be Alphaβs daughter, but with that scarred face of hers and no wolf, sheβs no better than a rogue omega. Itβll be my son, Kevin, who ends up with everything, not that weak girl. Besides, youβre too handsome to have such a disgusting wife.β I folded my fists in anger. How evil could Quinn be? And Alexβcould he be more of an ingrate? Still, I couldnβt help but press my ear to the door to hear more. βYou say that like itβs a certainty,β Alex said. βJust remember that, unless I marry Evelyn, Kevin gets nothing.β So they had a plan. Alex intended to marry me to secure the properties and the seat of the pack. Then it seemed he, along with Quinn, intended to ensure everything would somehow be transferred to Quinnβs son, Kevin. Theyβd plotted against me! I had to pick my gaping mouth up off the floor. βBut enough with all that for now,β said Alex. βI want a taste of that fleshy hole of yours.β βOnly if you tell me I can steal you away from that silly girl. She doesnβt deserve you. Youβre too good for her.β Alex laughed. βOf course. Once everythingβs in place, you can do whatever you want with her. In the meantime, you can still have me, especially once me and Evelyn are married, and all of us are living in the same house.β βNo worries about access,β Quinn said with a giggle. βThatβs right,β Alex said. βAnd Iβm looking forward to having constant access to this beautiful succulent body of yours, too.β I couldnβt take any more. I barged into the hotel room, allowing the back of the door to slam against the wall. βHow dare you!β I thundered. Chapter 2 I stare from Quinnβs nonchalant face to Alexβs petrified face. βYou ungrateful slime!β I yelled. I reached for the vase on the roomβs front table and flung it at Alexβs head. He ducked, and the vase hit the wall behind him, shattering. That I missed made me even angrier. Quinn wore a smug smirk as I staggered a few steps into the room. I shook my head. It didnβt feel right. It felt like something more than a hangover, like Iβd been poisoned. Still, I wanted to pounce on these two traitors, so I pressed on, getting dizzier by the step. Quinnβs smirk grew evil as she saw me struggle to keep consciousness. She looked like a villain whose plan was falling into place perfectly. I saw it, the mischievous look in her eyes. It seemed like it had been her plan for Me to get poisoned, and be brought here, so I could find her and Alex in Bed. βWhat can you do about it?β She asked Me and I scoffed, unable to believe the amount of shamelessness I was seeing in Quinn. Then ignored her, turning my attention to Alex. βI fcking trusted you!β I screamed. βHow could you do this? And with my stepmother? Whatβs wrong with you?β βOh, stop being such a drama queen,β Alex said. βWhat if I have an interest in older women? That doesnβt mean I don't love you.β βThatβs my fuking stepmother, Alex! My dadβs wife! This is the height of immorality,β I said, shaking my head. βI can't believe you! Really!β I yelled again. βEve, dear,β Quinn said, βyou need to stop yelling. You donβt seem well.β I glared at her and clenched my fists, wanting to pummel the two of them until they couldnβt feel anything but pain. Instead, I said, βDonβt pretend to care about me. You think I donβt know how much you hate me? Goddess knows, you donβt hesitate to show it. So stop pretending like you really care what happens to me. For all I know, you planned this whole thing so I could see you both, have a heart attack, and die.β Quinn gasped and laughed mockingly. βI am not that creative, Evelyn. Besides, why would I want you to know Alex and I fell in love?β I stared at her in disbelief. βIn love? You conniving snake. It's only been a month since Father slipped into a coma, and youβre claiming to be in love? With my boyfriend?β Alex came over and rubbed my arms. βNow, calm down.β I kept my focus on Quinn as I got away from Alex. βHow shameless can you be? Is your love that fickle? Does it change that fast?β βCome on,β Alex said, drawing my eyes. βIt's no big thing. Hey, maybe you could even join us. What do you think?β I glared at him. βJoinβ¦?β I landed a loud slap on his face. βYou filthy pig. Youβre worse than a rogue. And you donβt think thereβs anything immoral about what youβre suggesting? About what youβre doing? Sleeping with my stepmotherβ¦ your future mother-in-law?β Alexβs face contorted into a frown. βOh, stop being such a goody two shoes.β Alex grabbed my elbows. I pulled away from him. βDonβt touch me! To think I wanted to be your wife. Ever since the day I met you, I wanted that, too. How silly of me. I should have heeded the warnings about you.β βDonβt be disrespectful, Eve,β Quinn said. βIβm still your fatherβs wife and head of this pack. And I will not tolerate it.β βLeader of the pack? Is that so? You havenβt even done anything to find out why my father, your husband, ended up in a coma. Pfft. Youβre a terrible excuse for a leaderβ¦ and a mother.β βExcuse me?β Quinn rose from the bed and approached with her eyes narrowed. βAre you undermining me?β I shook my head. βSimply stating the bitter truth. Ever since you came into my fatherβs house, thereβs been nothing but pain and discomfort. I wish it was you instead of my dad in that coma.β Quinn slapped me hard across the face. βThatβs for your insolence.β She slapped me again just as hard. βThatβs for hitting Alex.β She slapped me once more. βAnd thatβs for wishing me dead.β Alex grabbed her hand. βQuinn, please. Thatβs enough.β Quinn glared at him. βThis young lady is a spoiled brat. She needs to be taught a lesson.β She turned back to me. βIβm in charge of this pack and also your legal guardian, and Iβve had it up to my guts with your tantrums.β I stared at her in disbelief. βWake the fvck up, Eve,β Quinn yelled. βI make the rules now, and you will do as I say. Do you hear me, you worthless omega?β I wished I had a wolf so I could shift and have it out with this crazy bit-ch. But maybe not having a wolf was what allowed me to remain calm, despite the fact that Iβd never been hit in the face before. Either way, I kept my cool while I stared into my adulterous stepmotherβs eyes. Eventually, I shook her head and said, βYou disgust me,β then turned and left the room. As the door closed behind me, tears came to my eyes. What a betrayal. As if it werenβt bad enough that Alex cheated on me, he chose to do it with my stepmother. Why? Why me, of all people? I aimlessly headed back to the room I came from, still staggering to get my things. I opened the door and then stopped, wondering why she was bothering to go back there. Everything was a blur, and I wasnβt sure if it was because of my welling eyes or the pill Iβd obviously been given. But then I felt a presence behind me. Chapter 3 βWho are you?β I asked, as I tried to shake off the wave of discomfort and dizziness that had suddenly hit me. I wiped my eyes. βYou!β I exclaimed, looking at the omega waiter from the bar. βWhat are you doing here?β Nerves crept up my spine as I stared at the man who had given me the drinkβthe drink that had obviously been dru-gged. βOh, come on Princess.β He stepped forward, forcing me to go back up into the room. βYou know why Iβm here,β he said with a wicked grin. βAnd your body wants it. I know it does.β I wanted to puke, βPlease let me go home. I need to go home to my dad.β βIβll let you go homeββhe started to unclasp his beltββas soon as you give me what I want.β I backed up another step. βIt will be over soon, Princess. I promise.β βWhy?β I asked, still seeing him through blurry eyes and wondering if there was any way I could escape him. He gave me a perverted smile, then wagged his brows. βWell, your body is a nice prize on its own, but there are better reasons.β I didnβt need him to tell me those reasons. If he took my first time, I'd be forced to marry him, which would damage my reputation and leave utterly no chance of becoming an Alpha heir. I couldnβt bear the thought of sleep with him, let alone marrying him. I had to find a way out. But the blurry vision was making me dizzy. All I thought to do was plead. βI need to get home immediately,β I said as authoritatively as I could in my current condition. βIt's late.β The omega smirked. βYou know I canβt let you leave, Princess. Not without a taste of the forbidden fruit.β He approached. As soon as he got within range, I slapped him hard with all the strength I could find. His face twisted in rage. βThis isn't the fuking palace.β He hit me back so hard that he knocked me onto the bed. βThis is my turf. I do as I wish.β Alex POV βWe need to get Eve,β I said. βShe didnβt look too good.β Quinn stared at me in disgust. βAre you really worrying about her right now?β I looked at my phone, biting my finger as I saw all of Eveβs messages for the first time. And now, she wasnβt responding to me. What if she went off and slept with some other guy? I turned to Quinn. βIβm just worried. She didnβt look well. She seemed off, like she was sick or something.β Quinn rose from the bed and sauntered to a table in the corner, where she picked up a bottle of booze and poured a glass. With the glass in hand, she strutted seductively back to me. βHere. Drink this. It would help calm you.β I accepted the drink and took a gulp, then walked to the window. Quinn approached from behind and wrapped her arms around my bare waist. βI fear she isn't okay,β I said. Quinn sighed in irritation. βShe was drunk. Thatβs how she is these days. She gets drunk, and I don't even know her whereabouts. She probably goes out sleeping around. Maybe sheβs out sleeping with some omega right now,β she said with mischief in her voice. I spun around, squinting at her. βWait a second. Did youβ¦? Was this your idea, when you said I should be your sneaky link? You know I can't afford to lose Eve.β Quinn sighed. βWas what my idea? To get her drunk and have her brought to our hotel? Pfft. Donβt accuse me of such outrageous things. Yes, I wanted her to find out about us, but I didnβt do that.β I ran my hands through my hair, unsure whether I should believe her. βAnd why are you so worried about her sleeping around?β Quinn asked. βWhy should you care what she does?β βFuk,β I whispered. I always knew this play-boy attitude of mine would get me into a ton of trouble one day, but I never expected it to be with a girl I actually cared about. Yes, I was using her for her inheritance, but that didnβt mean I had no feelings for her. βListen,β Quinn said. βIβm sure you feel like sheβll betray you because you betrayed her. But do you really think sheβll risk it, knowing sheβll have to marry anyone she sleeps with? Not only that, in her position, Eve would lose her dignity in the community, too. Sheβd end up begging you to take her back.β βAre you sure about that?β Quinn took the glass from me and kissed me slowly. Once she drew her li-ps away from mine, she peered at me. βIβm here to help you,β she said. βSo even if she doesnβt beg for you, I can always ensure you end up owning some Carson family properties. Iβm married to Alpha Carson after all.β She bit her li-ps seductively. βSo be a good boy and come undress me.β Something pricked in the back of my mind, a warning I couldnβt put into words. But it was something that told me to resist her, that I couldnβt trust her. But I wanted her, so I put a lid on that warning, and a few minutes later, my tongue grazed her vagi-na. Chapter 4 Evelyn POV I struggled to keep my head straight, as I fought for consciousness. I heard footsteps and I knew that the weird omega was back. I staggered up, reaching for a weapon. My hand found the neck of an empty wine bottle. I swung it in an arc and hit him across the head. He went down with a thud, and I ran out of the room and directly into a man. βI'm sorry,β I mumbled as I tried to scoot past him. βMiss, are you alright?β he asked. I turned and saw the omega coming after me. βHelp me,β I said, with panicked eyes and a voice filled with urgency. The stranger saw the omega, grabbed my wrist, then dragged me into his room. In one smooth motion, he slammed the door shut, locked it, then spun me into his che-st With fear of the omega still overwhelming me, I buried my face in his arms and whimpered weakly, latching onto his trousers to steady myself. βHeβs gone,β said the stranger. I raised my head from his bare front body and peered at him. Despite my blurry vision, I could tell he was handsome. βWhatβs your name?β I whispered. He chuckled, then backed away and walked to his table. βSuppose I told you, would you remember? You seem a little drunk.β I shook my head. βI was poisoned. And there's still quite some amount in my system. But Iβll try to remember. Please, whatβs your name?β βMy name isn't important. You look exhausted. I need to get you home.β I chuckled. βIβd feel safer staying hereβ¦ with you.β He walked toward me. βI am a wolf in heat. You know what that means.β It meant he wanted a woman se-xually. Any woman. βI can do just the same that omega could do to you. Are you still not afraid of me?β I chuckled. βI just found my fiancΓ©e cheating on me with my fatherβs wife. YouββI rested my palm on his body the other hand, seem like an honorable person. I'd rather sleep with you than with that cheat or a creepy omega. Besides, you don't seem all that scary.β I held his face, looking into his blue eyes. βA person with a story and many secrets, yes, but not scary.β βYour li-ps are so beautiful, Evelyn,β he said, and I looked up at him. βHow did you know my name?β He chuckled and gestured to my necklace. βYour necklace says it. Am I wrong?β βAh, right. Silly me. And here I thought you were one of those crazy stalkers I have.β βAnd if I was? Would you run away?β βNo,β I whispered, and the stranger kissed me. I returned his kiss with a fervent passsion, and we gnawed at each otherβs li-ps, each trying to outdo the otherβs needs. I moaned as he kissed me. His hands wandered, touching me gently. A flicker of apprehension came to my mind, but I pushed it back, telling myself this was right. This was what I wanted. He struggled to unbutton my blouse while continuing to steal kisses from my li-ps. I sighed in pleasure when, moments later, his touch landed on my body and he latched hungrily at it. βOh, the goddess,β I moaned as I wrapped my hands around his head. I felt the heat in my pusssy. βTo the moon goddess,β he said, βyou have the most gorgeous body and eyes I have ever seen.β He approached and wrapped his hands around my waist. He picked me up bridal style and carried me to the bed. There, he laid me on the mattress and kissed me again. With his tongue, he languidly strolled down my body to my mound, then inserted a finger. βSo tight,β he growled. I moaned and squirmed under his touch, parting my legs further. He moaned in approval and then shifted, placing himself at my entrance. I flinched in fear when I saw the size of him. He noticed my apprehension and he stopped. βAre you all right?β he asked. βDo you want me to stop?β I shook my head. βNo. Itβs just that it's my first time.β He chuckled and patted my hair. βIβll be gentle,β he said and kissed me pass-ionately. My body soon became receptive, and he got into me slowly. I squirmed as he filled me, the sensation painful at first. He sighed in pleasure. βSo tight. So wet,β he whispered, then kissed my forehead and drove his full length into me. I grabbed him and cried out. βShh. Shh. It's alright. Itβll feel good in a minute,β he said and started moving inside me. Slowly, my body adjusted to his size, and I loosened my grip on his shoulders. As I relaxed around him, he could feel my calmness and he increased his pace. His growls and my moans filled the room, the both of us reaching the peak of ecstasy in unison. βI need to take a shower,β I said after the climax subsided. He nodded and lifted me, taking me to the bathroom where he washed me. As he kissed me deeply with the water pouring over our bodies, mating tension rose between us againβ¦ I woke early the next morning, feeling sore all over from the previous nightβs activities. The handsome stranger with whom I enjoyed those activities was still asleep. So I rose from the bed and went for my bag, leaving behind an envelope that contained a check. Then I got dressed and tiptoed out of the room, closing the door quietly behind me. Chapter 5 I stirred in my sleep, my body sore from the business of last night. Suddenly my eyes shot open, when I heard my bedroom door open, and in walked Quinn. I glared at her and shut my eyes. βSign of bad luck. I open my eyes and I see the adulterous stepmother of mine.β I said sarcastically. Quinn glared at me and she opened my curtain window. βYou should get up. It's time for breakfast.β I peered at her. βYou never care if I eat or not. Is this your guilty consciousness getting to you?β Quinn studied me, and I squirmed uncomfortably under her intense gaze. βDid you have se-x last night?β Quinn asked. I shot her a surprised look. βHmm. Seems like you did.β Quinn said and I looked away. βI have no idea what you are talking about. Get out of my room.β I said and Quinn walked towards me. She didnβt look convinced. βWeβll talk about this later,β she said. βFor now, you have a pack function to attend, so come down for breakfast,β Quinn said and walked out of the bedroom. I stared at my closed door and I wondered why all of a sudden, Quinn was so nice to me. I'd find out at breakfast. I got up to shower with the events of the previous night running through my mind. Wouldnβt it be nice if that was all I had to think about? A short while later, I went to the dining room where Kevin, my stepbrother, was seated at the tablet at Quinnβs right hand. But what caught my attention was Alex. βWhat are you doing here?βI clenched my fists in rage. βDonβt make a scene,β Quinn said. βJust sit and have breakfast quietly.β βI refuse to share a table with this scumbag,β I said. βGet him out of here. Or rather, I wouldnβt want to disturb your happy family, so Iβd rather have my breakfast in my bedroom.β Alex stood and held my hands. βEve, let's talk in private.β Kevinβs gaze shifted from me to Quinn, to Alex. βWhatβs going on here? Is there something that I don't know about?β Kelvin asked. He and Alex had been very good buddies and that's how he and I met. I kept my focus on Alex. βLet go of me. I have nothing to say to you.β Alex simply stared at me. βI asked you not to make a fuss at breakfast,β Quinn said. βWhy can't you obey simple instructions, hmm?β I stared at Quinn in disbelief. βMaybe I would have yesterday when I still respected you. But not after my discovery last night.β Kevin straightened in his chair and addressed me, βI can take anything you do, but I won't accept you insulting my mom, Evelyn. Just sit down if you are asked to.β I shot him a glare. βYou stay out of this,β I said and looked at Quinn. βOr would you like for me to tell your son about your shameful acts?β βShut your trap,β Quinn said, banging her hand on the table. I chuckled at Quinnβs discomfort. She obviously didnβt want her son knowing about her escapade. I pulled out of Alexβs grasp. βI am going to check on my father,β I announced to the room, then turned to the kitchen maid. βI'll have breakfast in my bedroom, Sophia,β I said and turned to walk upstairs. βPrepare yourself,β Quinn called out. βYour engagement is in four days.β I paused and looked back at her. βExcuse me?β I asked, my eyes strained and narrowed. Quinn folded her hands. βYou heard me. Prepare for your engagement ceremony in four days. Bring the omega you slept with last night.β I gaped at her. βWhat do you mean, the omega she slept with?β Kevin asked. βHer fiancΓ©e is standing right in front of her.β He shifted his gaze from his mother to me. βWhat is going on, Eve?β βAlex cheated on me with your mother, and I caught them in the act, so our engagement is off.β Kevin turned to his mom with disbelief etched into his features. βYour mother is a despicable woman,β I added. βOne who sleeps with her stepdaughterβs fiancΓ©e. Thatβs how dirty and disgusting she is. Now, you must understand why I refuse to cower under her authority?β I said, looking Quinn directly in the eye. βEvelyn Carson!β Quinn yelled as she sprang from her chair. βShut up.β βLet's talk about this in private,β Alex implored. βIt can be solved.β I curled my li-p in disgust. βBold of you to assume Iβm still interested in being your wife. You think because I have no wolf and am deemed a worthless omega that I would settle for a man who doesnβt know the line between family and se-xual relationships?β βOh, come on now. Get rid of your pride. Nobody will want to marry someone who already slept with a man,β Alex said. βPfft.β I scoffed. βYou're finally showing your true colors. I wish I'd never been with you. β I turned to Quinn. βAnd about that engagement party. Fine. Set it up. Iβll bring him home that day. Ensure you send out invitations. I'd rather be married quickly to this stranger than marry a cheat.β I nodded toward the kitchen maid. βSophia, breakfast to my bedroom, please,β I said, then left the room. Kevin turned to Quinn and asked, βWhat was she talking about, Mom?β I heard Kelvin say. βShut up, and eat your breakfast,β she said. I know she's planning to get rid of me but I would make sure she's thrown out before she can even achieve her aim. I'll prove to her that the Alpha's blood runs in my veins. Three days passed since I and Quinn had fought over the engagement ceremony. Immediately after their argument, I uploaded a profile on a dating site, expressing my need for a contract husband just for the engagement ceremony. I continuously pressed the refresh button on my computer but had no bites, and I was running out of time. The engagement ceremony was tomorrow. While I was in the bathroom, a notification bell sounded on my computer. I rushed to it to check the message. It was from an anonymous commenter and said, βI have time tomorrow. How much would I be paid? Hit me up.β Chapter 6 The next morning, Sophia knocked on my door. βMadam Evelyn. It's morning. Please wake up.β I turned in my bed, then rose and stretched with a smile. It was my engagement day and Quinn and Alex were in for a surprise. I was almost giddy with the prospect, especially since Iβv done my own investigation and learned that the omega waiter whoβd poisoned me five nights ago had done it under the commands of one of the βhigher upsβ. It turned out that higher up had been Quinn. I smirked in bliss as my mind went back to the message I had received from the anonymous man whoβd agreed to take part in my engagement today. We had agreed on his entrance to the engagement party and how much I would pay him for his appearance, while I figured out the best way to get rid of my adulterous stepmom and treacherous ex-fiancΓ©e. Sophia pulled me from my thoughts, saying, βYour breakfast is served downstairs.β I looked at her. βWhy downstairs? I do not want to have breakfast while seeing their faces. I made sure I made myself clear a few days back.β I said with my eyebrows raised. βI apologize,β said Sophia, bowing her head. βThe madam wanted you to have breakfast with the family downstairs.β I rubbed my temple. βAll right. Iβll join them.β Only because I didnβt want them to ruin this beautiful morning for me. βJust run my bath for me.β Sophia nodded and headed to the bathroom. Thirty minutes later, I walked down the stairs confidently, even with the long scar running across my face.. Alex stared, looking pained, as I walked into the room. Too bad youβre not marrying me, huh, as-shole? He stabbed at his sausages, likely angry at himself for ruining his plan to inherit the Carson fortune, using me, was now thwarted badly. Quinn noticed Alexβs face and she cleared her throat βWelcome to the table, Eve,β she said to me. I looked at her, said nothing and sat down beside my step brother. βCongratulations on your engagement party, Sis,β said Kevin, handing me a small box. I nodded curtly and took the box from him. I opened it and saw a small bracelet. βThank you,β I said and went back to eating. Silence permeated the breakfast table. Afterward, Alex left the room, looking like he was going to go brood. Quinn seemed excited about the prospect of marrying me off, probably figuring she could finally have Alex, Carson, and the house to herself. She was in for a serious surprise. I had plans to make their lives miserable for making a fool of me. Kevin was the only one who seemed neutral. As the preparations for the engagement party began in earnest, I left to go upstairs and battle with my hair, clothes, and makeup. A short while later, after my hair had been arranged with pins and diamond hair accessories, I heard a soft knock on my bedroom door. βCan I come in?β I heard Kelvin ask. βYeah sure.β I said and he walked in. His face held surprise when he saw me, then gulped and looked away. I looked extremely attractive today, so he was probably wondering if they had all looked down on me because I was always dressed plainly. βI donβt have all day, Kevin,β I said as he continued to stand there mute. βSo spill it.β He sighed. βI'm sorry about what my mom did to you, and I know it's shameless of me to ask, but can you please let it go? If the elders find out this party isn't an engagement ceremony for you and Alex, and it's because he cheated on you with my mom, my mom will lose her dignity and respect as a woman in our pack.β βI have no plans to tell the elders why Alex and I arenβt getting married, and you shouldnβt be begging for forgiveness on your momβs behalf. If she needed it, she would have asked for it herself. Now, is that all you wanted? And why are you suddenly so humble and calm toward me when youβre normally so cold and arrogant?β Kevin shrugged, then turned to the room, glancing back once before he walked out. My attendants went back to preparing me for the party. After a couple of more hours, I was ready, but filled with nerves because my arranged partner hadnβt yet arrived. Quinn texted me, βYou should come down with that omega now. The partyβs about to begin.β I bit my fingers in fright. But then my phone pinged with a text message from my anonymous partner. βIβm here,β it said. I let out a sigh of relief. With renewed confidence, I strutted out of my room and down to the party pavilion. I texted him to walk into the compound and go to the pavilion, then raced to meet him. When I arrived at the entrance, Quinn and Alex were already there. Only that the stranger who exited the car wasnβt a complete stranger. He approached me. βHello, my love,β he said, then locked kiss on my li-ps. I was shocked, though my body remained rigid as my brain tried to figure out what was happening. When our li-ps separated, he said, βAre you happy to see me?β He smiled and leaned in toward my ear. βWasnβt very nice of you to leave the other night, and without even bothering to ask my name, too. It's Kian, by the way, Kian Sylvester,β he whispered. βHow did you find me?β I whispered back. βCoincidence, or maybe youβd call it fate, my beautiful. But before we continue our banter, won't you introduce me to your family?β I straightened myself. βOf course,β I said, still trying to absorb the fact that my paid partner for the day was the man I had spent my very first night with. I turned and took in my stepmotherβs expression. The look of shock there in her face satisfied me. I smiled. Anybody could see Kian wasn't just a random omega. Even though I knew little about him, I could feel his powerful aura. I shifted my gaze from Quinn to encompass everyone there. βElders, Mother, Brother, this is Kian Sylvester, the man Iβm set to marry,β I announced with a small smile. βWhat is the meaning of this?β Quinn asked. βWho is this good-for-nothing man you have brought home to marry?β Silence descended on the crowd. βDo not say another insulting word toward my woman,β Kian said in an authoritative voice. βDo you hear me?β He scoffed. βYou call me a nobody? Well, ask Alex here who I am.β He turned to Alex. βWonβt you tell them, Brother?β he asked with a smile. Wait, I don't remember Alex having a brother. Did he??? Alex folded his hands into fists. βWhat are you doing here?β he asked through clenched teeth. βI thought that was clearβ¦ Iβm here to ask for my womanβs hand in marriage.β He smirked mischievously. βOh, Iβm sorry. Did you think I wouldnβt amount to anything after Father kicked me out?β Alex glared at him. βGo back to wherever youβve been hiding all these years before I tear your fcking face off.β βYou will not address our Alpha in such a manner, you scumbag.β Kianβs aide inserted himself between Kian and Alex. He turned to face the now murmuring crowd. I stood transfixed. He was an alpha? And Alexβs brother? Oh, the moon goddess! βThis is Alpha Kian Sylvester of the Blood Moon Pack, the strongest pack on this continent. Pay your respects properly.β Kianβs aide addressed the crowd. | Start Reading | 1 | https://facebook.com/61558999080853 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1714719600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879786 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410724 | 1723321858 | 995 | 328628403299992 | 1 | 6.7053029729062E+15 | 1714806000 | person_profile | taken-down | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 321330554388277 | 0 | Start Reading | 120207810472520056 | befant.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | β€οΈπWhat happens nextπClick Here to read onπ | https://befant.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=11192&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1714573086 | 3.2133055438828E+14 | Start Reading | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441206868_1116532276285473_1322182524522961747_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=dVdBCJR8m9IQ7kNvgGxBIHN&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYB7kMrKVOgJ8YW8xzKGRsgCufQFrP2OVnCXBDScENWSEw&oe=6672BD09 | person_profile | 0 | Start Reading | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440418966_448917680872294_3438075365541597509_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=A81_9g5fi4IQ7kNvgGjLewp&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCte60qkl7CLEFTwKWYv-5UrqhAQ7J86fd-7fhXEnOTxA&oe=6672950C | 0 | 3 | Evelynβs POV I sat at the bar, downing drinks and trying to forget about my problems. βPour me another, please,β I said to the bartender. As the omega refilled my glass, I looked at my phone and sighed for the umpteenth time. Still no word from my boyfriend, Alex, and no news from my fatherβs doctor either. Just as Iβd prayed the moon goddess would spare my mother and bring her back to me, I now prayed for my fatherβs life. Out of the blue, heβd slipped into a coma, and a month later, the doctors still had no answers. Meanwhile, I lost hope and my heart broke more with each passing day. The pack wasnβt faring well without their alpha, either. They needed a leader, and as my fatherβs only legitimate child, I would become the next alpha of my pack if he didnβt make it. I sighed again as I wondered if the pack would be better off with my stepbrother Kevin in the role. He was a male with a powerful wolf. Conversely, I was a female with no wolf. If that werenβt bad enough, an ug-ly scar that ran from my cheek to my ear marred my face so prominently that others stared constantly. Even patrons in the bar stared, though I did my best to ignore them. I took a swig, downing the last of my drink. βAnother,β I said to the bartender. βMiss, youβve had quite a lot already. Maybe itβs best to stop and go home for now?β the bartender, an obvious omega said. I looked at her and rolled my eyes. βI donβt want to go home. I want to drink until I forget about life. So give me another, please.β As the bartender hesitated, a waiter approached. βI have the perfect drink for you,β said the omega. βA new brand of whiskey, and itβs strong. Itβll take the edge off and make you forget. I can promise you that.β βIβll take it,β I slurred. The omega waiter nodded. βVery well. Iβll be back in a jiffy.β Once he left, I focused on my phone once again. Still nothing from Alex or my fatherβs doctor. A minute later, the omega waiter approached with an open bottle. βHere you go. Thisβll help you forget all your worries and cares. Dare I say, youβll be in ecstasy for at least forty-eight hours.β βYouβd do well, as a brand ambassador,β I said with a chuckle. βAll right. Let me sample its glories.β The waiter nodded and poured a substantial amount into my tumbler. I tipped the glass back, gulped its contents in a single swig, then slammed the tumbler back onto the bar. I addressed the bartender as I grabbed my bag to retrieve my wallet. βTab, please.β It was time for me to get going. I needed to see my father. The bartender acknowledged my request, then walked to the register. Before the bartender got there, my image wavered. I rubbed my suddenly blurry eyes. βWhat the heck?β I mumbled as I stood. I almost ended up on the barroom floor, barely able to catch myself in time. I gripped the edge of the bar, working to stay upright. The omega waiter rushed to me, grabbing me by the waist to help me. βPrincess, are you okay?β I gently extracted myself from him. βYeah. Fine,β I said, then put a hand to my forehead. Too hot, and my stomach was queasy too. That thought barely registered before blackness engulfed me. Sometime later, I sighed, then opened my eyes. My face twisted in confusion. βThis is not my house. It looked more like a hotel room. What was I doing here? And how did I get here?β I muttered to myself, rubbing my blurry eyes. Before I could think long enough to answer either of those questions, giggling came from the room next door. Then a familiar female voice said, βOh, Alex. Do you know how long Iβve waited for you to touch me?β I covered my mouth to hold back a gasp. Iβd know that voice anywhere. It was my stepmother, Quinn. But what βAlexβ was she talking to? It couldnβt be my Alex. That couldnβt be possible. Even the idea of that was outrageous. Yet, I didnβt know any other Alex, and I didnβt think Quinn did either. Still, there had to be some reasonable explanation. My legs felt like jelly, so I used the roomβs furniture and walls for balance as I staggered to the hotel room door. I opened it and, with blurry vision, looked around. When I didnβt see anyone, I walked to the next door. Quinnβs voice came from the other side. βYouβre not truly going to marry that scarred wench, are you? I mean, she doesnβt even have a wolf. Meanwhile, you could easily have all of this with me.β βTrue,β said a male voiceβAlexβs voice. My Alex! What the hel? How could he? βBut sheβs the heiress,β he said, continuing. βAnd I can always come to your room at night whenever I get bored with her.β Quinn chuckled, and I could barely believe what I was hearing. So it was all about me being the daughter of their alpha. Alex was with me just to get his hands on my fatherβs properties and wealth. βPlease,β Quinn said flippantly. βShe might be Alphaβs daughter, but with that scarred face of hers and no wolf, sheβs no better than a rogue omega. Itβll be my son, Kevin, who ends up with everything, not that weak girl. Besides, youβre too handsome to have such a disgusting wife.β I folded my fists in anger. How evil could Quinn be? And Alexβcould he be more of an ingrate? Still, I couldnβt help but press my ear to the door to hear more. βYou say that like itβs a certainty,β Alex said. βJust remember that, unless I marry Evelyn, Kevin gets nothing.β So they had a plan. Alex intended to marry me to secure the properties and the seat of the pack. Then it seemed he, along with Quinn, intended to ensure everything would somehow be transferred to Quinnβs son, Kevin. Theyβd plotted against me! I had to pick my gaping mouth up off the floor. βBut enough with all that for now,β said Alex. βI want a taste of that fleshy hole of yours.β βOnly if you tell me I can steal you away from that silly girl. She doesnβt deserve you. Youβre too good for her.β Alex laughed. βOf course. Once everythingβs in place, you can do whatever you want with her. In the meantime, you can still have me, especially once me and Evelyn are married, and all of us are living in the same house.β βNo worries about access,β Quinn said with a giggle. βThatβs right,β Alex said. βAnd Iβm looking forward to having constant access to this beautiful succulent body of yours, too.β I couldnβt take any more. I barged into the hotel room, allowing the back of the door to slam against the wall. βHow dare you!β I thundered. Chapter 2 I stare from Quinnβs nonchalant face to Alexβs petrified face. βYou ungrateful slime!β I yelled. I reached for the vase on the roomβs front table and flung it at Alexβs head. He ducked, and the vase hit the wall behind him, shattering. That I missed made me even angrier. Quinn wore a smug smirk as I staggered a few steps into the room. I shook my head. It didnβt feel right. It felt like something more than a hangover, like Iβd been poisoned. Still, I wanted to pounce on these two traitors, so I pressed on, getting dizzier by the step. Quinnβs smirk grew evil as she saw me struggle to keep consciousness. She looked like a villain whose plan was falling into place perfectly. I saw it, the mischievous look in her eyes. It seemed like it had been her plan for Me to get poisoned, and be brought here, so I could find her and Alex in Bed. βWhat can you do about it?β She asked Me and I scoffed, unable to believe the amount of shamelessness I was seeing in Quinn. Then ignored her, turning my attention to Alex. βI fcking trusted you!β I screamed. βHow could you do this? And with my stepmother? Whatβs wrong with you?β βOh, stop being such a drama queen,β Alex said. βWhat if I have an interest in older women? That doesnβt mean I don't love you.β βThatβs my fuking stepmother, Alex! My dadβs wife! This is the height of immorality,β I said, shaking my head. βI can't believe you! Really!β I yelled again. βEve, dear,β Quinn said, βyou need to stop yelling. You donβt seem well.β I glared at her and clenched my fists, wanting to pummel the two of them until they couldnβt feel anything but pain. Instead, I said, βDonβt pretend to care about me. You think I donβt know how much you hate me? Goddess knows, you donβt hesitate to show it. So stop pretending like you really care what happens to me. For all I know, you planned this whole thing so I could see you both, have a heart attack, and die.β Quinn gasped and laughed mockingly. βI am not that creative, Evelyn. Besides, why would I want you to know Alex and I fell in love?β I stared at her in disbelief. βIn love? You conniving snake. It's only been a month since Father slipped into a coma, and youβre claiming to be in love? With my boyfriend?β Alex came over and rubbed my arms. βNow, calm down.β I kept my focus on Quinn as I got away from Alex. βHow shameless can you be? Is your love that fickle? Does it change that fast?β βCome on,β Alex said, drawing my eyes. βIt's no big thing. Hey, maybe you could even join us. What do you think?β I glared at him. βJoinβ¦?β I landed a loud slap on his face. βYou filthy pig. Youβre worse than a rogue. And you donβt think thereβs anything immoral about what youβre suggesting? About what youβre doing? Sleeping with my stepmotherβ¦ your future mother-in-law?β Alexβs face contorted into a frown. βOh, stop being such a goody two shoes.β Alex grabbed my elbows. I pulled away from him. βDonβt touch me! To think I wanted to be your wife. Ever since the day I met you, I wanted that, too. How silly of me. I should have heeded the warnings about you.β βDonβt be disrespectful, Eve,β Quinn said. βIβm still your fatherβs wife and head of this pack. And I will not tolerate it.β βLeader of the pack? Is that so? You havenβt even done anything to find out why my father, your husband, ended up in a coma. Pfft. Youβre a terrible excuse for a leaderβ¦ and a mother.β βExcuse me?β Quinn rose from the bed and approached with her eyes narrowed. βAre you undermining me?β I shook my head. βSimply stating the bitter truth. Ever since you came into my fatherβs house, thereβs been nothing but pain and discomfort. I wish it was you instead of my dad in that coma.β Quinn slapped me hard across the face. βThatβs for your insolence.β She slapped me again just as hard. βThatβs for hitting Alex.β She slapped me once more. βAnd thatβs for wishing me dead.β Alex grabbed her hand. βQuinn, please. Thatβs enough.β Quinn glared at him. βThis young lady is a spoiled brat. She needs to be taught a lesson.β She turned back to me. βIβm in charge of this pack and also your legal guardian, and Iβve had it up to my guts with your tantrums.β I stared at her in disbelief. βWake the fvck up, Eve,β Quinn yelled. βI make the rules now, and you will do as I say. Do you hear me, you worthless omega?β I wished I had a wolf so I could shift and have it out with this crazy bit-ch. But maybe not having a wolf was what allowed me to remain calm, despite the fact that Iβd never been hit in the face before. Either way, I kept my cool while I stared into my adulterous stepmotherβs eyes. Eventually, I shook her head and said, βYou disgust me,β then turned and left the room. As the door closed behind me, tears came to my eyes. What a betrayal. As if it werenβt bad enough that Alex cheated on me, he chose to do it with my stepmother. Why? Why me, of all people? I aimlessly headed back to the room I came from, still staggering to get my things. I opened the door and then stopped, wondering why she was bothering to go back there. Everything was a blur, and I wasnβt sure if it was because of my welling eyes or the pill Iβd obviously been given. But then I felt a presence behind me. Chapter 3 βWho are you?β I asked, as I tried to shake off the wave of discomfort and dizziness that had suddenly hit me. I wiped my eyes. βYou!β I exclaimed, looking at the omega waiter from the bar. βWhat are you doing here?β Nerves crept up my spine as I stared at the man who had given me the drinkβthe drink that had obviously been dru-gged. βOh, come on Princess.β He stepped forward, forcing me to go back up into the room. βYou know why Iβm here,β he said with a wicked grin. βAnd your body wants it. I know it does.β I wanted to puke, βPlease let me go home. I need to go home to my dad.β βIβll let you go homeββhe started to unclasp his beltββas soon as you give me what I want.β I backed up another step. βIt will be over soon, Princess. I promise.β βWhy?β I asked, still seeing him through blurry eyes and wondering if there was any way I could escape him. He gave me a perverted smile, then wagged his brows. βWell, your body is a nice prize on its own, but there are better reasons.β I didnβt need him to tell me those reasons. If he took my first time, I'd be forced to marry him, which would damage my reputation and leave utterly no chance of becoming an Alpha heir. I couldnβt bear the thought of sleep with him, let alone marrying him. I had to find a way out. But the blurry vision was making me dizzy. All I thought to do was plead. βI need to get home immediately,β I said as authoritatively as I could in my current condition. βIt's late.β The omega smirked. βYou know I canβt let you leave, Princess. Not without a taste of the forbidden fruit.β He approached. As soon as he got within range, I slapped him hard with all the strength I could find. His face twisted in rage. βThis isn't the fuking palace.β He hit me back so hard that he knocked me onto the bed. βThis is my turf. I do as I wish.β Alex POV βWe need to get Eve,β I said. βShe didnβt look too good.β Quinn stared at me in disgust. βAre you really worrying about her right now?β I looked at my phone, biting my finger as I saw all of Eveβs messages for the first time. And now, she wasnβt responding to me. What if she went off and slept with some other guy? I turned to Quinn. βIβm just worried. She didnβt look well. She seemed off, like she was sick or something.β Quinn rose from the bed and sauntered to a table in the corner, where she picked up a bottle of booze and poured a glass. With the glass in hand, she strutted seductively back to me. βHere. Drink this. It would help calm you.β I accepted the drink and took a gulp, then walked to the window. Quinn approached from behind and wrapped her arms around my bare waist. βI fear she isn't okay,β I said. Quinn sighed in irritation. βShe was drunk. Thatβs how she is these days. She gets drunk, and I don't even know her whereabouts. She probably goes out sleeping around. Maybe sheβs out sleeping with some omega right now,β she said with mischief in her voice. I spun around, squinting at her. βWait a second. Did youβ¦? Was this your idea, when you said I should be your sneaky link? You know I can't afford to lose Eve.β Quinn sighed. βWas what my idea? To get her drunk and have her brought to our hotel? Pfft. Donβt accuse me of such outrageous things. Yes, I wanted her to find out about us, but I didnβt do that.β I ran my hands through my hair, unsure whether I should believe her. βAnd why are you so worried about her sleeping around?β Quinn asked. βWhy should you care what she does?β βFuk,β I whispered. I always knew this play-boy attitude of mine would get me into a ton of trouble one day, but I never expected it to be with a girl I actually cared about. Yes, I was using her for her inheritance, but that didnβt mean I had no feelings for her. βListen,β Quinn said. βIβm sure you feel like sheβll betray you because you betrayed her. But do you really think sheβll risk it, knowing sheβll have to marry anyone she sleeps with? Not only that, in her position, Eve would lose her dignity in the community, too. Sheβd end up begging you to take her back.β βAre you sure about that?β Quinn took the glass from me and kissed me slowly. Once she drew her li-ps away from mine, she peered at me. βIβm here to help you,β she said. βSo even if she doesnβt beg for you, I can always ensure you end up owning some Carson family properties. Iβm married to Alpha Carson after all.β She bit her li-ps seductively. βSo be a good boy and come undress me.β Something pricked in the back of my mind, a warning I couldnβt put into words. But it was something that told me to resist her, that I couldnβt trust her. But I wanted her, so I put a lid on that warning, and a few minutes later, my tongue grazed her vagi-na. Chapter 4 Evelyn POV I struggled to keep my head straight, as I fought for consciousness. I heard footsteps and I knew that the weird omega was back. I staggered up, reaching for a weapon. My hand found the neck of an empty wine bottle. I swung it in an arc and hit him across the head. He went down with a thud, and I ran out of the room and directly into a man. βI'm sorry,β I mumbled as I tried to scoot past him. βMiss, are you alright?β he asked. I turned and saw the omega coming after me. βHelp me,β I said, with panicked eyes and a voice filled with urgency. The stranger saw the omega, grabbed my wrist, then dragged me into his room. In one smooth motion, he slammed the door shut, locked it, then spun me into his che-st With fear of the omega still overwhelming me, I buried my face in his arms and whimpered weakly, latching onto his trousers to steady myself. βHeβs gone,β said the stranger. I raised my head from his bare front body and peered at him. Despite my blurry vision, I could tell he was handsome. βWhatβs your name?β I whispered. He chuckled, then backed away and walked to his table. βSuppose I told you, would you remember? You seem a little drunk.β I shook my head. βI was poisoned. And there's still quite some amount in my system. But Iβll try to remember. Please, whatβs your name?β βMy name isn't important. You look exhausted. I need to get you home.β I chuckled. βIβd feel safer staying hereβ¦ with you.β He walked toward me. βI am a wolf in heat. You know what that means.β It meant he wanted a woman se-xually. Any woman. βI can do just the same that omega could do to you. Are you still not afraid of me?β I chuckled. βI just found my fiancΓ©e cheating on me with my fatherβs wife. YouββI rested my palm on his body the other hand, seem like an honorable person. I'd rather sleep with you than with that cheat or a creepy omega. Besides, you don't seem all that scary.β I held his face, looking into his blue eyes. βA person with a story and many secrets, yes, but not scary.β βYour li-ps are so beautiful, Evelyn,β he said, and I looked up at him. βHow did you know my name?β He chuckled and gestured to my necklace. βYour necklace says it. Am I wrong?β βAh, right. Silly me. And here I thought you were one of those crazy stalkers I have.β βAnd if I was? Would you run away?β βNo,β I whispered, and the stranger kissed me. I returned his kiss with a fervent passsion, and we gnawed at each otherβs li-ps, each trying to outdo the otherβs needs. I moaned as he kissed me. His hands wandered, touching me gently. A flicker of apprehension came to my mind, but I pushed it back, telling myself this was right. This was what I wanted. He struggled to unbutton my blouse while continuing to steal kisses from my li-ps. I sighed in pleasure when, moments later, his touch landed on my body and he latched hungrily at it. βOh, the goddess,β I moaned as I wrapped my hands around his head. I felt the heat in my pusssy. βTo the moon goddess,β he said, βyou have the most gorgeous body and eyes I have ever seen.β He approached and wrapped his hands around my waist. He picked me up bridal style and carried me to the bed. There, he laid me on the mattress and kissed me again. With his tongue, he languidly strolled down my body to my mound, then inserted a finger. βSo tight,β he growled. I moaned and squirmed under his touch, parting my legs further. He moaned in approval and then shifted, placing himself at my entrance. I flinched in fear when I saw the size of him. He noticed my apprehension and he stopped. βAre you all right?β he asked. βDo you want me to stop?β I shook my head. βNo. Itβs just that it's my first time.β He chuckled and patted my hair. βIβll be gentle,β he said and kissed me pass-ionately. My body soon became receptive, and he got into me slowly. I squirmed as he filled me, the sensation painful at first. He sighed in pleasure. βSo tight. So wet,β he whispered, then kissed my forehead and drove his full length into me. I grabbed him and cried out. βShh. Shh. It's alright. Itβll feel good in a minute,β he said and started moving inside me. Slowly, my body adjusted to his size, and I loosened my grip on his shoulders. As I relaxed around him, he could feel my calmness and he increased his pace. His growls and my moans filled the room, the both of us reaching the peak of ecstasy in unison. βI need to take a shower,β I said after the climax subsided. He nodded and lifted me, taking me to the bathroom where he washed me. As he kissed me deeply with the water pouring over our bodies, mating tension rose between us againβ¦ I woke early the next morning, feeling sore all over from the previous nightβs activities. The handsome stranger with whom I enjoyed those activities was still asleep. So I rose from the bed and went for my bag, leaving behind an envelope that contained a check. Then I got dressed and tiptoed out of the room, closing the door quietly behind me. Chapter 5 I stirred in my sleep, my body sore from the business of last night. Suddenly my eyes shot open, when I heard my bedroom door open, and in walked Quinn. I glared at her and shut my eyes. βSign of bad luck. I open my eyes and I see the adulterous stepmother of mine.β I said sarcastically. Quinn glared at me and she opened my curtain window. βYou should get up. It's time for breakfast.β I peered at her. βYou never care if I eat or not. Is this your guilty consciousness getting to you?β Quinn studied me, and I squirmed uncomfortably under her intense gaze. βDid you have se-x last night?β Quinn asked. I shot her a surprised look. βHmm. Seems like you did.β Quinn said and I looked away. βI have no idea what you are talking about. Get out of my room.β I said and Quinn walked towards me. She didnβt look convinced. βWeβll talk about this later,β she said. βFor now, you have a pack function to attend, so come down for breakfast,β Quinn said and walked out of the bedroom. I stared at my closed door and I wondered why all of a sudden, Quinn was so nice to me. I'd find out at breakfast. I got up to shower with the events of the previous night running through my mind. Wouldnβt it be nice if that was all I had to think about? A short while later, I went to the dining room where Kevin, my stepbrother, was seated at the tablet at Quinnβs right hand. But what caught my attention was Alex. βWhat are you doing here?βI clenched my fists in rage. βDonβt make a scene,β Quinn said. βJust sit and have breakfast quietly.β βI refuse to share a table with this scumbag,β I said. βGet him out of here. Or rather, I wouldnβt want to disturb your happy family, so Iβd rather have my breakfast in my bedroom.β Alex stood and held my hands. βEve, let's talk in private.β Kevinβs gaze shifted from me to Quinn, to Alex. βWhatβs going on here? Is there something that I don't know about?β Kelvin asked. He and Alex had been very good buddies and that's how he and I met. I kept my focus on Alex. βLet go of me. I have nothing to say to you.β Alex simply stared at me. βI asked you not to make a fuss at breakfast,β Quinn said. βWhy can't you obey simple instructions, hmm?β I stared at Quinn in disbelief. βMaybe I would have yesterday when I still respected you. But not after my discovery last night.β Kevin straightened in his chair and addressed me, βI can take anything you do, but I won't accept you insulting my mom, Evelyn. Just sit down if you are asked to.β I shot him a glare. βYou stay out of this,β I said and looked at Quinn. βOr would you like for me to tell your son about your shameful acts?β βShut your trap,β Quinn said, banging her hand on the table. I chuckled at Quinnβs discomfort. She obviously didnβt want her son knowing about her escapade. I pulled out of Alexβs grasp. βI am going to check on my father,β I announced to the room, then turned to the kitchen maid. βI'll have breakfast in my bedroom, Sophia,β I said and turned to walk upstairs. βPrepare yourself,β Quinn called out. βYour engagement is in four days.β I paused and looked back at her. βExcuse me?β I asked, my eyes strained and narrowed. Quinn folded her hands. βYou heard me. Prepare for your engagement ceremony in four days. Bring the omega you slept with last night.β I gaped at her. βWhat do you mean, the omega she slept with?β Kevin asked. βHer fiancΓ©e is standing right in front of her.β He shifted his gaze from his mother to me. βWhat is going on, Eve?β βAlex cheated on me with your mother, and I caught them in the act, so our engagement is off.β Kevin turned to his mom with disbelief etched into his features. βYour mother is a despicable woman,β I added. βOne who sleeps with her stepdaughterβs fiancΓ©e. Thatβs how dirty and disgusting she is. Now, you must understand why I refuse to cower under her authority?β I said, looking Quinn directly in the eye. βEvelyn Carson!β Quinn yelled as she sprang from her chair. βShut up.β βLet's talk about this in private,β Alex implored. βIt can be solved.β I curled my li-p in disgust. βBold of you to assume Iβm still interested in being your wife. You think because I have no wolf and am deemed a worthless omega that I would settle for a man who doesnβt know the line between family and se-xual relationships?β βOh, come on now. Get rid of your pride. Nobody will want to marry someone who already slept with a man,β Alex said. βPfft.β I scoffed. βYou're finally showing your true colors. I wish I'd never been with you. β I turned to Quinn. βAnd about that engagement party. Fine. Set it up. Iβll bring him home that day. Ensure you send out invitations. I'd rather be married quickly to this stranger than marry a cheat.β I nodded toward the kitchen maid. βSophia, breakfast to my bedroom, please,β I said, then left the room. Kevin turned to Quinn and asked, βWhat was she talking about, Mom?β I heard Kelvin say. βShut up, and eat your breakfast,β she said. I know she's planning to get rid of me but I would make sure she's thrown out before she can even achieve her aim. I'll prove to her that the Alpha's blood runs in my veins. Three days passed since I and Quinn had fought over the engagement ceremony. Immediately after their argument, I uploaded a profile on a dating site, expressing my need for a contract husband just for the engagement ceremony. I continuously pressed the refresh button on my computer but had no bites, and I was running out of time. The engagement ceremony was tomorrow. While I was in the bathroom, a notification bell sounded on my computer. I rushed to it to check the message. It was from an anonymous commenter and said, βI have time tomorrow. How much would I be paid? Hit me up.β Chapter 6 The next morning, Sophia knocked on my door. βMadam Evelyn. It's morning. Please wake up.β I turned in my bed, then rose and stretched with a smile. It was my engagement day and Quinn and Alex were in for a surprise. I was almost giddy with the prospect, especially since Iβv done my own investigation and learned that the omega waiter whoβd poisoned me five nights ago had done it under the commands of one of the βhigher upsβ. It turned out that higher up had been Quinn. I smirked in bliss as my mind went back to the message I had received from the anonymous man whoβd agreed to take part in my engagement today. We had agreed on his entrance to the engagement party and how much I would pay him for his appearance, while I figured out the best way to get rid of my adulterous stepmom and treacherous ex-fiancΓ©e. Sophia pulled me from my thoughts, saying, βYour breakfast is served downstairs.β I looked at her. βWhy downstairs? I do not want to have breakfast while seeing their faces. I made sure I made myself clear a few days back.β I said with my eyebrows raised. βI apologize,β said Sophia, bowing her head. βThe madam wanted you to have breakfast with the family downstairs.β I rubbed my temple. βAll right. Iβll join them.β Only because I didnβt want them to ruin this beautiful morning for me. βJust run my bath for me.β Sophia nodded and headed to the bathroom. Thirty minutes later, I walked down the stairs confidently, even with the long scar running across my face.. Alex stared, looking pained, as I walked into the room. Too bad youβre not marrying me, huh, as-shole? He stabbed at his sausages, likely angry at himself for ruining his plan to inherit the Carson fortune, using me, was now thwarted badly. Quinn noticed Alexβs face and she cleared her throat βWelcome to the table, Eve,β she said to me. I looked at her, said nothing and sat down beside my step brother. βCongratulations on your engagement party, Sis,β said Kevin, handing me a small box. I nodded curtly and took the box from him. I opened it and saw a small bracelet. βThank you,β I said and went back to eating. Silence permeated the breakfast table. Afterward, Alex left the room, looking like he was going to go brood. Quinn seemed excited about the prospect of marrying me off, probably figuring she could finally have Alex, Carson, and the house to herself. She was in for a serious surprise. I had plans to make their lives miserable for making a fool of me. Kevin was the only one who seemed neutral. As the preparations for the engagement party began in earnest, I left to go upstairs and battle with my hair, clothes, and makeup. A short while later, after my hair had been arranged with pins and diamond hair accessories, I heard a soft knock on my bedroom door. βCan I come in?β I heard Kelvin ask. βYeah sure.β I said and he walked in. His face held surprise when he saw me, then gulped and looked away. I looked extremely attractive today, so he was probably wondering if they had all looked down on me because I was always dressed plainly. βI donβt have all day, Kevin,β I said as he continued to stand there mute. βSo spill it.β He sighed. βI'm sorry about what my mom did to you, and I know it's shameless of me to ask, but can you please let it go? If the elders find out this party isn't an engagement ceremony for you and Alex, and it's because he cheated on you with my mom, my mom will lose her dignity and respect as a woman in our pack.β βI have no plans to tell the elders why Alex and I arenβt getting married, and you shouldnβt be begging for forgiveness on your momβs behalf. If she needed it, she would have asked for it herself. Now, is that all you wanted? And why are you suddenly so humble and calm toward me when youβre normally so cold and arrogant?β Kevin shrugged, then turned to the room, glancing back once before he walked out. My attendants went back to preparing me for the party. After a couple of more hours, I was ready, but filled with nerves because my arranged partner hadnβt yet arrived. Quinn texted me, βYou should come down with that omega now. The partyβs about to begin.β I bit my fingers in fright. But then my phone pinged with a text message from my anonymous partner. βIβm here,β it said. I let out a sigh of relief. With renewed confidence, I strutted out of my room and down to the party pavilion. I texted him to walk into the compound and go to the pavilion, then raced to meet him. When I arrived at the entrance, Quinn and Alex were already there. Only that the stranger who exited the car wasnβt a complete stranger. He approached me. βHello, my love,β he said, then locked kiss on my li-ps. I was shocked, though my body remained rigid as my brain tried to figure out what was happening. When our li-ps separated, he said, βAre you happy to see me?β He smiled and leaned in toward my ear. βWasnβt very nice of you to leave the other night, and without even bothering to ask my name, too. It's Kian, by the way, Kian Sylvester,β he whispered. βHow did you find me?β I whispered back. βCoincidence, or maybe youβd call it fate, my beautiful. But before we continue our banter, won't you introduce me to your family?β I straightened myself. βOf course,β I said, still trying to absorb the fact that my paid partner for the day was the man I had spent my very first night with. I turned and took in my stepmotherβs expression. The look of shock there in her face satisfied me. I smiled. Anybody could see Kian wasn't just a random omega. Even though I knew little about him, I could feel his powerful aura. I shifted my gaze from Quinn to encompass everyone there. βElders, Mother, Brother, this is Kian Sylvester, the man Iβm set to marry,β I announced with a small smile. βWhat is the meaning of this?β Quinn asked. βWho is this good-for-nothing man you have brought home to marry?β Silence descended on the crowd. βDo not say another insulting word toward my woman,β Kian said in an authoritative voice. βDo you hear me?β He scoffed. βYou call me a nobody? Well, ask Alex here who I am.β He turned to Alex. βWonβt you tell them, Brother?β he asked with a smile. Wait, I don't remember Alex having a brother. Did he??? Alex folded his hands into fists. βWhat are you doing here?β he asked through clenched teeth. βI thought that was clearβ¦ Iβm here to ask for my womanβs hand in marriage.β He smirked mischievously. βOh, Iβm sorry. Did you think I wouldnβt amount to anything after Father kicked me out?β Alex glared at him. βGo back to wherever youβve been hiding all these years before I tear your fcking face off.β βYou will not address our Alpha in such a manner, you scumbag.β Kianβs aide inserted himself between Kian and Alex. He turned to face the now murmuring crowd. I stood transfixed. He was an alpha? And Alexβs brother? Oh, the moon goddess! βThis is Alpha Kian Sylvester of the Blood Moon Pack, the strongest pack on this continent. Pay your respects properly.β Kianβs aide addressed the crowd. | Start Reading | 1 | https://facebook.com/61558999080853 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1714719600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879832 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410728 | 1723321858 | 995 | 480124741257496 | 1 | 1.7277413576323E+15 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 219004054622622 | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | 120209611805750689 | wwwedb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πAttention! Do not read in publicοΌπ | https://wwwedb.com/market/meganovel/13?lpid=11783&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717743552 | 2.1900405462262E+14 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447260728_1518945155389917_2874266976111342341_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=g0H6jXhQP3sQ7kNvgGXGGZL&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYD5RKLxmmvz3_WMQm6M7TyxkgQmm5IfWgwhhyK_F2vFIg&oe=6672BD2F | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447272334_8058147917584464_4203412527007476159_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ookoAxwxG_QQ7kNvgE9thCo&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCeO_9K7nk0lXXIJiyjXCwWONM-nS-S5ZtufKX8Y6JJ9A&oe=6672A008 | 0 | 3 | One Neah βWhere the heck is she?β I hear the Beta scream. I already knew Beta Kyle was talking about me, the only servant of the house. I groan and get to my feet, grabbing the cleaning basket and taking it with me. The moment Beta Kyle sees me, he strides towards me and his hand slices against my cheek. I donβt make a sound. Years of experience has taught me to keep my mouth shut at all times and only speak when spoken too, even if what they are doing to me hurts. βAlpha Trey and I are expecting company and you still have not cleaned the office like you were asked.β Beta Kyle spits at me I nod my head and my hand tightens on the cleaning basket. If I could just find the courage to swing it at his head, it would make my day. I resisted, he was stronger than me and I didnβt need locking up for another week with no food. My stomach already hurt enough. βWe are trying to make a good impression on Alpha Dane. Do you not understand how important it is for us to join ourselves with his pack?!β I donβt answer, I know it's a trick, to try and get me to say something so that he can give himself a reason to punish me. I keep my eyes low so that I didnβt have to look at his face. Alpha Dane, I had only ever heard rumours about him. Words exchanged between the other pack members when I was in the room. From what I gathered, he was a ruthless man, a Wolf feared by others. He didnβt mess around and he had the largest pack. βHe is the Alpha of Black Shadow, the biggest pack in the world, we need him!β Beta Kyle continues. Yet he doesnβt tell me why. We had never been attacked and we had never attacked anyone, so why did we need another pack to help us? He places his hands on my shoulders, digging his nails into my thinning skin and turns me around, kicking me in the but as he shoves me towards the office. βUseless Wolf.β He mutters as he moves away. Quietly closing the door, I lean back against it, observing the already clean office. There was nothing out of place, it looked perfectly fine for a meeting with this so-called powerful Alpha. Closing my eyes, I slide down to the floor. I hated this house. I thought that when I turned eighteen, I could finally escape, but four years later, here I still am, a slave in my own home. Doing all the dirty tasks for my brother, Alpha Trey and the pack. While my ex mate, Beta Kyle waltzes around reminding me of how worthless I am. Someone clears their throat and I freeze, I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair, just around the corner. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of drink. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that donβt quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door as my heart pounded. βIs this the way you greet all Alphaβs?β His deep voice rumbles through the room, there was an edge of amusement to his tone. βIβm sorry.β I whisper, getting to my feet. βIβ¦I thought I was alone.β I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. He doesnβt introduce himself either, why should he? βCome forward.β He orders and I already feel a lump forming in my throat. Alpha Trey was going to finish me. I step around the corner, doing as Iβm told, allowing him to see me properly. I close my eyes, expecting the worst. βYou smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?β I nod, though I couldnβt tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they found out about me. βI would prefer it if you spoke to me.β He growls, βIβm not in the mood to play games.β βYes.β I whisper. I couldnβt help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? βWhy do you smell strange? And how is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.β βIβ¦..β I hated the question. βSpit it out, I havenβt got all day!β He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldnβt scent him. I knew why I hadnβt been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever wanted or liked to do. They never let me tell my side of the story. All they do is laugh and mock me. βYou should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. Itβs rude to not look at them. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?β His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them, there was no way I was making eye contact. βMy Wolf abilities were bound,β I mutter. Twice, I wanted to add. Twice my abilities were bound. But he probably wasnβt interested in that part. He leans forward, carefully placing his glass on the small table next to the chair. I could feel him staring at me, βWhy would someone do that?β If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. βIt was a punishment.β I whisper. It wasnβt far from the entire truth but it was the simplest answer I could give. Thereβs a twitch in his cheek. Was he angry to hear of such a punishment? Or maybe, just like the others, he was amused by it. I couldnβt tell. The door swings open and my brother screeches at me βNeah, what the heck are you doing in my office?β He turns to the crimson eyed man. βI am so sorry that my sister is bothering you, Alpha Dane.β Crap, it was him. My brother spins around, his hand stretching out to hit me. I close my eyes, bracing myself, ready to feel the burn. βI wouldnβt do that if I were you.β Alpha Daneβs voice rumbles through the room. Peeking through slits, I see Alpha Dane has risen to his feet, his hand coiled around my brother's wrist. He was taller than my brother, more muscly too. βNeah,β My name rolls off of his tongue, βwas kindly showing me to your office, Alpha Trey, as you failed to meet me at the front of your house like I requested. I was lucky someone was present, at least someone understands the importance of this deal.β What? I had no idea what he was talking about. And he had no reason to lie for me. My brother glares at me, clenching his jaw tight. I was going to pay for this later. I would have to try and steal some food. βGo and get Beta Kyle.β Alpha Trey seethes. βTell him that our guest is here.β I nod my head and hurry from the room, the last thing I wanted was to be caught between bickering men. βBeta Kyle,β I whisper as I enter the dining hall. He instantly glares at me with his dark eyes. I had spoken without being spoken to. βAlpha Trey is in the office with Alpha Dane. I was sent to inform you.β He slams the newspaper down on the table and glares at me as he walks by. βYouβre lucky that the Alpha sent you to get me, otherwise you wouldn't be seeing sunlight for a few days.β Pausing behind me, he yanks my head back, locking his fingers in my hair, leaning in close to me, I feel his hot breath on my skin. He doesnβt speak, it was just his way of proving that he could do what he wants when he wants. I try to keep myself busy so I can stay as far away from the office as possible. My peace doesnβt last long when I hear my brother calling out to me. Quietly, I pad towards the office and plaster a smile on my face as I open the door. βNeah, go get the champagne and some glasses, we are celebrating.β I bow my head and hurry to the drinks cabinet. Quickly finding what my brother has asked for. As I re-enter the office, I can feel Alpha Dane watching my every move, even the hairs on the back of my neck stand up. No one ever watches me this closely. Approaching the small table by Alpha Danes chair, I start to fill the glasses. He takes the champagne bottle from me, telling me he is more than capable of filling his own glass. I feel my cheeks flame, not from embarrassment, but because I knew that I would be punished for this. I should have been quicker. I should have filled the glasses before entering the office. I should haveβ¦. My brain freezes when I see my brother glaring at me. βNeah is your sister, correct?β Alpha Dane questions my brother. βShe is.β Alpha Trey mutters with disgust. He looks away from me to focus on the man asking questions. βWhy do you treat her like vermin?β Straight to the point, my brother wouldnβt like that. He only liked sharing information on his terms. No one had spoken to my brother about his treatment of me because everyone took great joy in beating me. I didnβt know what to do. I couldnβt move but I knew I had to get out of there. If this deal goes to pot because of me, then that would be my fault too. βNeah was responsible for our parents' death.β Alpha Trey spits I closed my eyes, battling back the tears that were threatening to break free. βResponsible how?β Alpha Daneβs voice rumbles through me. He was definitely angry. βShe served them Wolfsbane.β Two Neah Donβt make a sound. Donβt make a sound. I knew Alpha Dane was studying me. They all did, no one could ever quite believe how someone could do something so disgusting as poisoning their own parents. I stood there, with my head hanging low, wishing for the ground to open up and suck me in. There are movements around me. He was standing directly in front of me. With a rough finger he tilts my face up towards his, forcing me to look at him. Slowly, his hand latches onto my throat but he doesnβt squeeze. βYou poisoned your parents?β βI was six.β I splutter. βI just made them lemonade.β My voice comes out all squeaky as I try to defend myself. I could barely remember my parents, but I could remember all the guilt I had been made to feel since that day. His crimson eyes flash to my brothers. βHardly seems fair to blame a six year old.β βA six year old should know the difference between plants.β Alpha Trey snaps βSounds to me like she was set up.β Alpha Dane shrugs his shoulders, letting go of my throat. βWe all know that standard wolfsbane doesnβt affect us anymore. We evolved from that thing centuries ago.β What? What did he mean? Wolfsbane wasnβt lethal. It had been drummed into me since I could walk. βWhich only leaves Blood of Wolfsbane.β Alpha Dane mutters βYou werenβt there, Alpha Dane.β My brother muttered through gritted teeth as his eyes narrowed to slits. βIt was Wolfsbane.β He nods his head. βYou are right, I was not present.β Great, now there was someone else who could remind me of something I had done by accident, years ago. βBut tell me this, where would a six year old get Blood of Wolfsbane?β βI didnβt ask you here to talk about my slave!β Alpha Trey spits. βOr what happened to my parents.β Alpha Dane grabs his leather jacket from the chair. Unlike other Alphaβs he seemed to dress more casually. A simple black tee and jeans covered his huge frame. And unlike other Alphaβs, his arms are bare of tattoos, not a single bit of ink poked out anywhere. βYouβre right and now I have a few things to mull over.β βI thought we agreed.β My brother exclaims βNothing has been signed. Now I will show myself out.β The moment he is out of the office, both my brother and Beta Kyle round on me. βWhat the heck did you say to him?β My brother demands, slamming a hand into my stomach. βN..nothing. Well, he just asked me why I smelled funny.β βDid you tell him?β Beta Kyle demands. He was practically spitting in my face. I hated him. I hated him so much that I had vowed to one day get my revenge and rip his stomach out through his mouth. βWELL?β My brother yells when I donβt immediately respond and smacks me across the side of the head. My head involuntarily moves up and down. βBut I didnβt say it was you.β I tried to sound strong and confident but it just comes out as a whisper. If they werenβt Wolves, they probably wouldnβt have heard me. My brother's hand locks into my black hair as he yanks my head back, sending a shooting pain through my skull. βIf you have ruined this, you wonβt see daylight again.β He drags me by my hair from the office and down the hallway towards the basement door. βPleaseβ¦.β I beg. βHe was an Alphaβ¦Iβ¦ I had to answer him.β My cheeks burn with my tears as he flings the door open. On the other side of the door is Alpha Dane. He is leaning against the wall with his arms folded, staring out at us. My brother's hand falls from my hair, relieving the pressure on the back of my skull.. βAlpha Dane, I thought you had left.β Alpha Trey murmurs angrily. βI said I would show myself out. I thought I had found the door, but instead I find a basement, riddled in your sister's strange scent. Is this how you treat your family?β βAs I said,β my brother holds his ground, βShe is responsible for the death of my parents, so yes, this is what she deserves.β βYou should keep your nose out of other packs' business!β Beta Kyle adds. Alpha Dane laughs. βIf I agree to this deal, everything about your business becomes my business. So tell me, what would your punishment be for her? No food, locked away for a week, beatings?β βWe donβtβ¦.β βReally?β He cocks a brow, βYou really expect me to believe that you would have just let her sleep? I have already stopped you from hitting her once. " His eyes roam over me. "She is underfed, bags hover under her tired blue eyes. For a sister of an Alpha, she is certainly not treated like one. Regardless of what she allegedly did when she was a pup.β βShe did do it!β Alpha Trey seethes βAnd she has nothing to do with our deal.β βThatβs for me to decide.β His crimson eyes flicker around the hallway. βWhere is your mate? I would be interested to know how she feels about this.β I close my eyes, silently begging my brother not to call his Luna. Luna Cassandra is worse than Beta Kyle and Alpha Trey together. βOn second thoughts, why bother her. Iβm certain she is just as vile as you.β He sneers I peer through slits to see his crimson eyes on me. There was no reason for him to defend me and yet he was. I was a nobody, no one special. Just who everyone called a traitor. Only instead of being given a death sentence, my brother had decided to make me spend my life suffering. βI have a proposition for you, Alpha Trey.β Alpha Dane is smirking at my brother βWe have already agreed on terms.β βWell, Iβm adding one. And if you donβt agree, you will not get my help. Instead, you will become my enemy. And we both know, you donβt want that.β βI take it that your new terms have something to do with her?β Alpha Trey mutters through clenched teeth. βYou would be correct. Let me take her away to my pack and then you, Trey will have a deal.β Me? Why would he want me? As my brother and his Beta discuss me, Alpha Dane is still studying me. His look made me nervous. What could someone like him possibly want with me? βDeal.β Alpha Trey sticks out his hand for Alpha Dane to shake. He doesnβt take it, instead his crimson eyes shift from me to my brother. βI will have paperwork drawn up and will return tomorrow.β He reaches a hand out and cups my face, βEnsure you have everything packed.β He drags his thumb across my bottom lip and strides to the opposite end of the hallway and straight to the front door. He knew exactly where the front door was, so what was he up to? He pauses at the door. βIf I find out any one of you has laid a hand on her. The contract will be the last thing you need to worry about.β He struts out, slamming the door behind him. βGet out of my sight!β My brother snaps at me. Hurrying away, I make my way up the stairs and into my tiny bedroom. It was practically empty, the only things I had were a few changes of clothes. It would take me less than a minute to pack By morning, I hadnβt slept. Alpha Danes questions were on repeat and why was I so interesting to a Wolf like him. There was a reason he had the biggest pack. They were known for their fighting abilities, thatβs why my brother wanted to link Moonshine with Alpha Danes pack, but where did I fit in to all this? And what o earth is Blood of Wolfsbane? Three Dane βTenth brideβs the charm.β Jenson mocks as the driver pulls up in front of Moonshines packhouse. βShut up!β Eric snaps at him βBoth of you shut your mouths. Before you say something you regret!β βHe will never learn.β My wolf, Aero muses. The driver pulls open the door. βJust give me a second, I need to speak to my men.β The door closes and neither one of them speaks. βShe isnβt like the others. Donβt speak to her, donβt look at her. And you Jenson, keep your hands to yourself or you might just lose them this time.β I was more rattled than usual. Neah was different to the previous selected mates. I didnβt know what it was or whether it was because I was used to confident women, but there was something about her. And Aero appeared to like her too, more than any of the others. I had to have her. βI mean it!β I snap at Jenson's smug face, βBeing my brother wonβt change my mind!β He runs his fingers over his lips as though he was zipping them shut. They follow me from the car. Standing in front of the old packhouse, all three of us stare up at it. Because until a month ago, I knew nothing about them and even after my visit, all I had learned was the Alpha is a beast. My knuckles hammer on the door. Itβs barely open an inch when I force myself through making his Beta stumble back. I spot her straight away, hiding herself behind a corner. βAre you ready?β I call out. βIf you just want toβ¦..β Beta Kyle starts. βI was not talking to you. I was speaking to Neah.β The expression on Beta Kyleβs face was a picture. His jaw hung open and his eyes are wide. He clearly had never been told what to do, even by his Alpha. Neah steps out from her hiding spot, clutching a barely full carrier bag. She drags her teeth across her bottom lip and nods her head. βWhere are the rest of your things? I told you everything needs to be packedβ βThatβs all she has.β Trey snorts as he makes his appearance. βThatβs it?β I stare at him. βThatβs all her belongings? Sheβs what, in her early twenties and thatβs all she has?β βWhat more does she need?!β His Beta sneers. βKill him, let me rip out his throat and he will regret the day he crossed us.β βWhat are you waiting for?β I hear a horrible shrill voice that seems to vibrate through the floors. Looking away from the Beta, I see a woman holding on to a statue of herself that sat at the bottom of the stairs. Her blonde hair hung in waves around her face as her green eyes studied me and she sways her hips as she moves to Trey. I noticed Neahβs reaction yesterday. When I asked Trey where his mate was. Her whole body had tensed up in fear. She was afraid of this woman and I wanted to know why. βTake her Alpha Dane. Iβm sure she will be as useful a slave to you as she is to us.β Her shrill voice goes straight through me. βLook at the silly girl, sheβs going to pass out.β The blonde bimbo laughs βYou donβt get to talk about her like that anymore.β I glare at the blonde, βShe is not your toy. She is not your slave and I suggest that you, Alpha Trey keep your wife in check. There is only so much disobedience that I will tolerate.β βDISOBEDIENCE!β The woman screeches just as Neahβs hip hits the floor. βHow dare you! If anyone is disobedient, itβs that rat in the corner.β βWho the heck is she calling a rat?β Aero growls βYou should make yourself familiar with our agreement.β I snap. βIt seems your mate has not told you everything.β Waving Eric forward, he pulls a thick wad of paper from the folder under his arm. The contract that I have drawn up. βAll that for your help?β His mateβs eyes are wide βI donβt do half-witted contracts.β Taking the contract from Eric, I shove it against Treyβs chest βShall we go to the office?β Trey leads the way with his mate clinging on to him and his Beta hurrying behind. My men follow them while I stay behind to check on my new mate. βYou are more than welcome to join us, after all, you are involved in this deal. Or my car is outfront, you can take your stuff and wait there for me.β βAre those my only options?β she whispers, keeping her eyes low βFor now. Personally, I think you should sit in with us. It will give me great pleasure in pissing off that mate of your brothers.β She keeps her blue eyes low as she continues to clutch that bag of hers. This close to her, I could really see how ill she looked. Even her heart beat is slow, like itβs fighting to hang on to life. βSo what will it be?β βIβ¦.β Her head rotates between the front door and the direction of the office. βIβ¦.. The office I guess.β βGood choice.β I hold out a hand for her but she doesnβt take it. Pushing herself up to her feet. She wobbles a little, but steadies herself. Walking a few steps behind her, I see the evil glares she receives from Trey and the other two idiots as she enters the office.. βTake a seat.β I whisper as I walk past her. My hand grazes her lower back and she immediately tenses up. She stands, frozen to the spot. Only her eyes dart about when she shakes her head. βSit!β I say it a little louder βShe doesnβt have that privilege here!β The blonde snaps, with her lips curved up in amusement βSitting is not a privilege.β I growl, wondering what else they were forcing her to do. I couldnβt see any bruises on her arms or legs, a good sign, I hoped. βIt better be!β Aero paces in my head. He wanted her out of this place as much as I did. The blonde physically recoils in her seat. Her mouth falls wide open, shocked that I had said something. βAnd I suggest,β I look at Trey, βYou tell your mate to keep her mouth shut. Or I can shut it for her.β βAlpha Dane, you are in my homeβ¦..β βAnd you want my help, correct?β The three of them were fuming. No one liked being told what to do in their own home, yet they were doing just that to Neah. I point to the empty chair between Jenson and Eric and she finally sits down. βLetβs just get this done.β Trey snaps, βThe sooner she is gone, the happier I can be.β βYou should read the contract.β I muse βI agreed that you could take her as part of our deal.β βIdiot!β Eric murmurs. He knew as well as I did that contracts should be read before they are signed They sign without reading and practically throw the contract back at me. βDone.β Trey mutters βGood, you can get her out of my house.β Treyβs mate screeches. If I had it my way, I would just take Neah, then I wouldnβt have to put up with the twidles, but this way, they canβt have her back. Even if they begged. A contract was a contract and it was impossible for them to get out of. Getting to my feet, I hold a hand out to Neah, βCome, we are leaving this rat hole before I lose my temper.β Her warm fingers slip into my hand as she rises to her feet. Her other hand clutches the bag to her chest as she walks with me to the front door. She doesnβt even look back to say goodbye and that confirmed everything I needed to know. She hated them as much as they hated her. She pauses at the open front door, her hand falling from mine. Her blue eyes are wide as she stares at the limo. βCome.β I instruct Eric and Jenson are standing behind her, watching her curiously. βIs she okay?β Eric links me. βNeah?β I step in front of her and she doesnβt move. She seems to be staring right through me. βItβs time to go.β βOkay.β Her lips barely move She takes a step forward, almost as if she is in slow motion. Her hands grip the door frame, her knuckles turn white as her heartbeat increases. Her lips part a little and her hand falls from the door frame just as her eyes roll to the back of her head. βIβve got you.β I mutter, catching her just before she hits the floor. Her entire body tenses up as I lift her and carry her to the car. She was so weak and was even lighter than I expected. She probably didnβt weigh much more than a small child. Jenson and Eric get in the car first. Jenson cocks his eyebrow at me and has a smirk plastered to his face as I slide in with Neah on my lap. βKeep your thoughts to yourself, Jenson!β I hold her close, listening to her breathe and her heart as it slowed. Letting my fingers comb through her dark hair as she becomes a little more with it. Suddenly, she sits up right, moving away from me and trying to make herself as small as possible. Deciding not to force her to do anything, I keep my attention on my Beta and my brother, talking about pack stuff while casting a glance over to her every so often to make sure she was alright. βCome.β I mutter as the limo comes to a stop. I donβt wait for the driver and get out myself, holding a hand out for her. βIβm fine.β She speaks at last while glancing at the others and shuffles herself forward to the open door. She stares up at my home, gasping a little. It was easily three times the size of her previous home and I hoped that she would be happy here. That I could provide her with a life that was better than her last. βLet me give you a tour.β I suggest as she continues to clutch that carrier bag to her chest. She follows me in, not speaking a word. I had no idea if she was listening to what I was saying or not βThe omegas swap out on a rotational basis. Good for the youngsters to learn some responsibilities before they get proper jobs.β I tell her while showing her the dining hall with a table long enough to fit twenty people around. We move through to the kitchen. Where I point out a board on the wall. βIf there is anything you need, you just add it to the board and it will be ordered in.β Her brow furrows and still she says nothing. Picking up a pen, I smile. Maybe she felt intimidated by me. βSo tell me, what do you need because there is no way you are living under my roof with just the things that are in that bag.β Her dazzling blue eyes dart around the room βWell?β I ask. βI donβt need anything.β She whispers Sighing, I start scribbling things down. Underwear, jeans, workout clothes, dresses, shoes, anything I can think of that will cover her for a few days. Holding the pen between my teeth, I grab her around the waist. My thumbs meet just above her belly button and my fingers touch her spine. She was so thin, how was she even alive? Four Dane She looked like a deer caught in headlights as I write her size down. She was tinier than I thought. Skin and bone. If I had moved my hands up any higher, I would have felt every rib sticking out. It sickened me, she should be strong, powerful, she had Alpha blood running through her veins. I also saw how she scrunched her face up when I measured her. It wasnβt fear, it was pain. She was hiding something underneath the baggy maids dress. βI know you want to say something, so just say it. Iβm not interested in the crap Trey drummed into you. You donβt have to wait until someone asks you a question. You are free to say what you want. Are you injured?" "No." She was lying, I could feel it. She shakes her head as if it would confirm her answer and a lock of her black hair falls from the band that was supposed to be holding it back. Neah was going to be a tough girl to crack. A life of being starved had made her quite protective over herself. I will make Trey pay for what he has done to her. βYou have to say something, Neah. I cannot read your mind. When I mark you, at least I will know what you are feeling.β βMark me?β I didnβt think her eyes could get any wider. βYes, I will mark you.β She was completely and utterly shocked by the idea. Her pink lips part a little as she continues to stare at me. I thought she knew. I thought that was why she came so willingly. My Beta had kept asking me if I was certain I wanted her as my bride. There was no doubt about it, she had a strange scent but something was luring me to her. I couldnβt take my eyes off of her when I first saw her. My Wolf Aero was going mad for her too. Though he hadnβt said a word about her. Annoyed with me for not taking her home with us yesterday. βYouβ¦.You brought me so that you could mark me.β She takes a step back, walking into the kitchen island. She winces a little and quickly covers up her pain, relaxing her face.. βIf Trey had bothered reading the contract, he would have discovered that you are to be my bride, not a slave. He would also have read that if he or his ridiculously silly mate tried doing anything to you going forward, that pack would become mine, or rather, yours. I never bought you, Neah, you were always destined to be mine.β βIβm a murderer.β She gasps. βWhy would someone like you want me for a bride?β βBloodβ Aero growls interrupting my thoughts. I glance down at her baggy dress. A blood stain had appeared right where I had my hands wrapped around her. βWhatβs that? Are you injured?β I demand, I had barely touched her. She covers the stain with her hand. βItβs nothing. Itβs just a cut that I keep knocking and it opens up again. I forget itβs there.β Forget? How could she forget a wound? βWhy isnβt she healing?β I feel Aeroβs panic. βSheβs been with us less than two hours and already she has some form of injury.β His need to protect her was strong. It hadnβt occurred to me that her lack of abilities included not being able to heal. I would have to find someone who could reverse the binding and soon. βShow me!β βItβs fine.β She mumbles I was already so sick of hearing that phrase. βItβs not optional.β I mutter. βIf you wonβt show me, I will have to find a way to look, myself.β Her heart skips a beat. She looks around the kitchen. βCan.... can we go somewhere more private?β βPrivate?β I didnβt really do privacy. What Wolf did?! She bobs her head but still keeps her focus slightly off of me. Almost afraid to look me directly in the eyes. βOffice,β Aero mutters. βI was just going to suggest that!β I snap back at my Wolf. I feel his eyes roll as he retreats to some dark corner of my mind. βThis way.β I gesture to the door. Neah waits for me and follows closely behind. The scent of blood steadily grew stronger, it was more than just a cut. I already knew that. In the office, I hit the remote and the blinds start to drop, blocking out the sunlight. Neah hesitates and slowly begins to unfasten the buttons of the dress but only where the large blood stain was. Keeping everything else covered from me. She pulls the dress to one side. The wound was about four inches long and already fairly infected. βSee, itβs fine.β she whispers. βYou need to stop saying that.β She closes her mouth and starts to fasten the buttons. βNo,β I grabbed her hands, I had caught sight of another bruise. βLet me see the rest of them.β It wasnβt optional. She gasps as my fingers rip apart the rest of the buttons. Her sports bra had seen better days, just the same as her underwear. But it was the bruising I was most concerned about. Bruise upon bruise, scars that had come from whips. Her hip bones and ribs stuck out too. Turning her around, and pulling the dress from her, I find that her back is just the same. Yet interestingly, there was nothing above her chest and nothing below her thighs. Her arms were completely bare of wounds too. There was only one reason why someone would do that. To either hide what they were doing to someone, or to keep up appearances. They didnβt want guests to see. More importantly, they didnβt want me to see, considering the meeting was arranged over a month ago. She fumbles with the dress, pulling it tightly around her thin frame. βYou need to see a doctor.β βItβs β¦..β she trails off when she sees the anger on my face. βIt always heals, eventually.β βDid Trey do this?β I mutter with my teeth gritted and gesture to her body She lowers her blue eyes. βCassandra?β She still doesnβt answer me. βThat prick that follows Trey around? All three of them?β She pulls her dress tighter around her and silently nods. She brings her hand up to her face, brushing her cheek, wiping away an escaped tear. βAnyone else?β βThe pack.β She whispers. βIβm going to kill them all.β Aero growls. He will have to get in line, βBecause of what you allegedly did to your parents.β She nods. βI donβt believe you were responsible.β She tilts her head up towards me, her brow knits together as her eyes finally find mine. βBecause of Blood of Wolfsbane?" Five Neah βIβ¦I donβt know what Blood of Wolfsbane is?β I whisper He frowns at me. βYour brother said you knew the difference between plants.β βIβ¦β I didnβt have an answer. I couldnβt remember, not fully. βBlood of Wolfsbane is Wolfsbane fed by our blood. The leaves will have a red hue to them. I canβt imagine a child would know what it is because it is not freely grown. Your brotherβs story doesnβt add up.β βOh.β βI wonβt stop until I find out who did this, Neah.β His crimson eyes narrow. βI will make them pay for the suffering you have endured.β He sits on the edge of his desk, studying me. βRight now, you do need to see someone about the infection.β I kept my mouth closed, I was still trying to process his news of me being set up. Why had my brother never considered it? βCome, I will show you our bedroom. You can shower before we see the pack doctor.β Frozen to the spot, I donβt move. Did he just say βour bedroom,β? As in, we are sharing a bedroom? I guess he thinks he can mke love with me whenever he wants if Iβm his contract bride. A shiver runs down my spine at the thought. Glancing up, I see him watching me. He is stood at the open door, waiting for me. Ensuring my dress has me covered, I step out into the hallway. No one was around and the hallways were quiet. As we moved, Alpha Dane would tell me what each room was, but he seemed more focussed on getting me to the bedroom. His bedroom is huge, with massive windows, just like the rest of the house. The bed sat pressed up against the wall. All around it, thin drapes hung from the ceiling, but they were tied back at each bed post. What surprised me the most was that the bath and the shower were in the same room. Only the toilet was in a small room to the side of the shower. No privacy, whatsoever. Though, he didnβt seem to care about that. He makes me jump when I feel his warm breath on my skin. βYou donβt need to be afraid.β I may not be able to smell him, but he would be able to scent the changes in my emotions. Crossing the room, he pulls open the glass door to the shower and turns it on. The moment he closes the door, the steam of the shower quickly fogs up the glass. And still, I find myself afraid. He gave me no clue as to what he was expecting from me. βHey,β His rough fingers tip my face up. βItβs just you and me and for now, I will let you shower in peace.β Walking away, he pulls his phone out of his pocket and messes around with it before placing it on the bedside table. βThe alarm is set for ten minutes. I will come back then. I will bring you something to wear so just stay in the towel. Understand?β He stares at me, waiting for an answer and I just nod. A ten minute shower. I was lucky if I got a minute shower back home and the water was always cold. He moves to the door and with his hand resting on the door knob he looks back over his shoulder at me. βI really wish you would talk more, Neah.β Alpha Dane leaves me in peace and I make a mad dash for the shower as if Iβm in some kind of fantasy land and this was all a dream. Maybe it was, maybe I was about to wake up in the basement of my home. The smells of the soaps and shampoos are divine as I lather them into myself. And my hair has never felt so clean. The wound on my stomach stung as the hot water hit it, but I didnβt care, it was worth it. Someone in the room clears their throat and I freeze. Thanking the steam for keeping me semi hidden. βNeah, are you done? The alarm went off five minutes ago.β Alpha Daneβs voice seems louder in here. I had been so caught up in the freedom of a simple shower that I hadnβt even heard the alarm or the Alpha come back into the room. βComing.β I mutter, turning off the water and pulling a towel around me to hide the hideousness underneath. Stepping out, I already see that my ripped dress, underwear and worn sandals had been removed from the floor. Alpha Dane sits on the end of the bed with what looked like folded clothes on his lap and a pair of trainers. βItβs not much, as we donβt have anyone with as small a waist as you.β He smiles as he hands over the clothes. A matching navy blue sweatshirt and joggers. βYou will have to make do without the underwear for now. Should be here first thing tomorrow.β He watches me with a cocked eyebrow as I pull the joggers on and tug the sweatshirt over my head before removing the towel. Maybe he was used to the women parading themselves in front of him, or throwing themselves at him because he has power, but I wasnβt like that. βLetβs go.β He rises to his feet and this time, I follow him. Something told me that if I didnβt get this wound looked at, it would put him in a bad mood. The pack doctor was young, unlike the one back home who was old and afraid to let anyone take over from him. She smiles at us as we enter the pack hospital and rewraps her dark hair into a bun. βRaven, this is Neah.β Alpha Dane introduces me with a grin. I keep my eyes low as I hear Raven say, βAlpha Dane, what seems to be the problem apart from the strange smell she has brought with her.β It didnβt sound like a hurtful comment like I was used to, but more a comment of curiosity. βShe will tell you herself when she finds her tongue.β βI have a wound.β I whisper. βAnd you are not healing?β Raven asks, confused βI donβt have my Wolf.β I hated saying it. It was just a constant reminder that I did not fit in. βHer Wolf was bound when she was a kid.β Alpha Dane tells her. βThatβs why her scent is strange. Her Wolf is there, locked away, waiting to be freed.β My eyes flicker up only to find him staring straight back at me. I had always believed that my Wolf was gone. Not that she was trapped. Ravenβs dark eyes hover on me. βWow, okay.β She grabs my hand. βThis way, letβs take a look at this wound of yours.β She leads me into an empty room and asks me to lay on the bed and to show her my wound. Pulling up the sweatshirt, just enough for her to see the wound. Her eyes widen, a flicker of rage passing over them as she takes in the infected wound and the bruising that surrounds it. Her fingers carefully press around the wound. βHow long ago?β βA few days.β I mutter, though I wasnβt sure. Every beating blurred into another one. Any day that I wasnβt hit was a good day. Raven shakes her head. βThis is longer than a few days ago, the infection has had at least a week to develop.β βNeah, you need to tell us the truth.β Alpha Dane orders βI donβt know.β βNEAH!β His deep voice rumbles through me and I close my eyes, fearing his anger. Anger brought punishment, punishment brought pain. βI swear, I donβt know. The beatings, they happen so often that they just kind ofβ¦. Iβm never not bruised.β Thereβs silence and I was too afraid to open my eyes. Alpha Trey had said it over and over, that if anyone found out, he would make my life a misery, more than it already was. I used to wonder who would ever find out that didnβt already know. Now here I was, sitting in another packβs hospital, revealing the truth. βHeal her!β Alpha Dane shouts after what seems like forever. He storms from the room, pulling a phone out of his pocket. βYou will have to forgive my brother. His temper is short, especially when it comes to things like this.β Raven mutters as she gently inspects my wound βYour brother?β I whisper, opening my eyes βAh, I see he informed you. Iβm guessing he didnβt tell you that Jenson is our brother too?β I shake my head, Iβm guessing Jenson was one of the men that came to my brother's house. She chuckles. βJenson is considered to be our brotherβs Gamma.β βGamma?β I had never heard of the term. βYep and Alpha Dane has a love/hate for me working here. He wants me to represent our family, but he knows this is what Iβm good at.β She grabs a pot of cream from the cupboard. βNow this needs to be applied three times a day. It should clear up the infection, if it hasnβt changed in a couple of days, I will take another look. My brother is waiting for you out front.β βThanks.β I mumble, taking the pot of cream from her. I looked at the label, but couldnβt read it. I had never learned to read. She bobs her head at me as I hurry out to find Alpha Dane on his phone, snapping at someone. He hangs up as soon as he sees me and asks what Raven said. βCream, three times a day.β I show him the pot and he takes it from me. βGood, come.β He strides off and I have to run to keep up with him. I follow him through the house and into the office. βShow me.β He orders, pulling the lid off the pot. It wasnβt going to be negotiable, not when he had used the same tone moments before he ripped my dress open earlier. Slowly lifting my sweatshirt, he crouches down in front of me and gently smothers the wound in the cold cream. βI donβt want you to lie to me, Neah. Not ever. If you canβt remember, that is what you need to tell me. Is that clear? I donβt want to have to guess what you mean.β βOkay.β I couldnβt say anything else, I was too focussed on the warmth of his hands. One presses against my lower back, holding me steady while the other gently rubs cream into my wound. The only touch I had received from another man was a beating. βStop holding your breath.β He tells me, getting to his feet. βI am not going to hurt you.β It seemed impossible to believe given my history. The act, the words coming from him, it just didnβt feel real. | Galaxy in the Story | 301 | https://facebook.com/61555427913037 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717743600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879833 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410728 | 1723321858 | 995 | 480124741257496 | 1 | 1.7277413576323E+15 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 219004054622622 | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | 120209611805750689 | wwwedb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πAttention! Do not read in publicοΌπ | https://wwwedb.com/market/meganovel/13?lpid=11783&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717743552 | 2.1900405462262E+14 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447260728_1518945155389917_2874266976111342341_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=g0H6jXhQP3sQ7kNvgGXGGZL&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYD5RKLxmmvz3_WMQm6M7TyxkgQmm5IfWgwhhyK_F2vFIg&oe=6672BD2F | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447272334_8058147917584464_4203412527007476159_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ookoAxwxG_QQ7kNvgE9thCo&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCeO_9K7nk0lXXIJiyjXCwWONM-nS-S5ZtufKX8Y6JJ9A&oe=6672A008 | 0 | 3 | One Neah βWhere the heck is she?β I hear the Beta scream. I already knew Beta Kyle was talking about me, the only servant of the house. I groan and get to my feet, grabbing the cleaning basket and taking it with me. The moment Beta Kyle sees me, he strides towards me and his hand slices against my cheek. I donβt make a sound. Years of experience has taught me to keep my mouth shut at all times and only speak when spoken too, even if what they are doing to me hurts. βAlpha Trey and I are expecting company and you still have not cleaned the office like you were asked.β Beta Kyle spits at me I nod my head and my hand tightens on the cleaning basket. If I could just find the courage to swing it at his head, it would make my day. I resisted, he was stronger than me and I didnβt need locking up for another week with no food. My stomach already hurt enough. βWe are trying to make a good impression on Alpha Dane. Do you not understand how important it is for us to join ourselves with his pack?!β I donβt answer, I know it's a trick, to try and get me to say something so that he can give himself a reason to punish me. I keep my eyes low so that I didnβt have to look at his face. Alpha Dane, I had only ever heard rumours about him. Words exchanged between the other pack members when I was in the room. From what I gathered, he was a ruthless man, a Wolf feared by others. He didnβt mess around and he had the largest pack. βHe is the Alpha of Black Shadow, the biggest pack in the world, we need him!β Beta Kyle continues. Yet he doesnβt tell me why. We had never been attacked and we had never attacked anyone, so why did we need another pack to help us? He places his hands on my shoulders, digging his nails into my thinning skin and turns me around, kicking me in the but as he shoves me towards the office. βUseless Wolf.β He mutters as he moves away. Quietly closing the door, I lean back against it, observing the already clean office. There was nothing out of place, it looked perfectly fine for a meeting with this so-called powerful Alpha. Closing my eyes, I slide down to the floor. I hated this house. I thought that when I turned eighteen, I could finally escape, but four years later, here I still am, a slave in my own home. Doing all the dirty tasks for my brother, Alpha Trey and the pack. While my ex mate, Beta Kyle waltzes around reminding me of how worthless I am. Someone clears their throat and I freeze, I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair, just around the corner. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of drink. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that donβt quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door as my heart pounded. βIs this the way you greet all Alphaβs?β His deep voice rumbles through the room, there was an edge of amusement to his tone. βIβm sorry.β I whisper, getting to my feet. βIβ¦I thought I was alone.β I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. He doesnβt introduce himself either, why should he? βCome forward.β He orders and I already feel a lump forming in my throat. Alpha Trey was going to finish me. I step around the corner, doing as Iβm told, allowing him to see me properly. I close my eyes, expecting the worst. βYou smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?β I nod, though I couldnβt tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they found out about me. βI would prefer it if you spoke to me.β He growls, βIβm not in the mood to play games.β βYes.β I whisper. I couldnβt help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? βWhy do you smell strange? And how is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.β βIβ¦..β I hated the question. βSpit it out, I havenβt got all day!β He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldnβt scent him. I knew why I hadnβt been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever wanted or liked to do. They never let me tell my side of the story. All they do is laugh and mock me. βYou should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. Itβs rude to not look at them. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?β His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them, there was no way I was making eye contact. βMy Wolf abilities were bound,β I mutter. Twice, I wanted to add. Twice my abilities were bound. But he probably wasnβt interested in that part. He leans forward, carefully placing his glass on the small table next to the chair. I could feel him staring at me, βWhy would someone do that?β If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. βIt was a punishment.β I whisper. It wasnβt far from the entire truth but it was the simplest answer I could give. Thereβs a twitch in his cheek. Was he angry to hear of such a punishment? Or maybe, just like the others, he was amused by it. I couldnβt tell. The door swings open and my brother screeches at me βNeah, what the heck are you doing in my office?β He turns to the crimson eyed man. βI am so sorry that my sister is bothering you, Alpha Dane.β Crap, it was him. My brother spins around, his hand stretching out to hit me. I close my eyes, bracing myself, ready to feel the burn. βI wouldnβt do that if I were you.β Alpha Daneβs voice rumbles through the room. Peeking through slits, I see Alpha Dane has risen to his feet, his hand coiled around my brother's wrist. He was taller than my brother, more muscly too. βNeah,β My name rolls off of his tongue, βwas kindly showing me to your office, Alpha Trey, as you failed to meet me at the front of your house like I requested. I was lucky someone was present, at least someone understands the importance of this deal.β What? I had no idea what he was talking about. And he had no reason to lie for me. My brother glares at me, clenching his jaw tight. I was going to pay for this later. I would have to try and steal some food. βGo and get Beta Kyle.β Alpha Trey seethes. βTell him that our guest is here.β I nod my head and hurry from the room, the last thing I wanted was to be caught between bickering men. βBeta Kyle,β I whisper as I enter the dining hall. He instantly glares at me with his dark eyes. I had spoken without being spoken to. βAlpha Trey is in the office with Alpha Dane. I was sent to inform you.β He slams the newspaper down on the table and glares at me as he walks by. βYouβre lucky that the Alpha sent you to get me, otherwise you wouldn't be seeing sunlight for a few days.β Pausing behind me, he yanks my head back, locking his fingers in my hair, leaning in close to me, I feel his hot breath on my skin. He doesnβt speak, it was just his way of proving that he could do what he wants when he wants. I try to keep myself busy so I can stay as far away from the office as possible. My peace doesnβt last long when I hear my brother calling out to me. Quietly, I pad towards the office and plaster a smile on my face as I open the door. βNeah, go get the champagne and some glasses, we are celebrating.β I bow my head and hurry to the drinks cabinet. Quickly finding what my brother has asked for. As I re-enter the office, I can feel Alpha Dane watching my every move, even the hairs on the back of my neck stand up. No one ever watches me this closely. Approaching the small table by Alpha Danes chair, I start to fill the glasses. He takes the champagne bottle from me, telling me he is more than capable of filling his own glass. I feel my cheeks flame, not from embarrassment, but because I knew that I would be punished for this. I should have been quicker. I should have filled the glasses before entering the office. I should haveβ¦. My brain freezes when I see my brother glaring at me. βNeah is your sister, correct?β Alpha Dane questions my brother. βShe is.β Alpha Trey mutters with disgust. He looks away from me to focus on the man asking questions. βWhy do you treat her like vermin?β Straight to the point, my brother wouldnβt like that. He only liked sharing information on his terms. No one had spoken to my brother about his treatment of me because everyone took great joy in beating me. I didnβt know what to do. I couldnβt move but I knew I had to get out of there. If this deal goes to pot because of me, then that would be my fault too. βNeah was responsible for our parents' death.β Alpha Trey spits I closed my eyes, battling back the tears that were threatening to break free. βResponsible how?β Alpha Daneβs voice rumbles through me. He was definitely angry. βShe served them Wolfsbane.β Two Neah Donβt make a sound. Donβt make a sound. I knew Alpha Dane was studying me. They all did, no one could ever quite believe how someone could do something so disgusting as poisoning their own parents. I stood there, with my head hanging low, wishing for the ground to open up and suck me in. There are movements around me. He was standing directly in front of me. With a rough finger he tilts my face up towards his, forcing me to look at him. Slowly, his hand latches onto my throat but he doesnβt squeeze. βYou poisoned your parents?β βI was six.β I splutter. βI just made them lemonade.β My voice comes out all squeaky as I try to defend myself. I could barely remember my parents, but I could remember all the guilt I had been made to feel since that day. His crimson eyes flash to my brothers. βHardly seems fair to blame a six year old.β βA six year old should know the difference between plants.β Alpha Trey snaps βSounds to me like she was set up.β Alpha Dane shrugs his shoulders, letting go of my throat. βWe all know that standard wolfsbane doesnβt affect us anymore. We evolved from that thing centuries ago.β What? What did he mean? Wolfsbane wasnβt lethal. It had been drummed into me since I could walk. βWhich only leaves Blood of Wolfsbane.β Alpha Dane mutters βYou werenβt there, Alpha Dane.β My brother muttered through gritted teeth as his eyes narrowed to slits. βIt was Wolfsbane.β He nods his head. βYou are right, I was not present.β Great, now there was someone else who could remind me of something I had done by accident, years ago. βBut tell me this, where would a six year old get Blood of Wolfsbane?β βI didnβt ask you here to talk about my slave!β Alpha Trey spits. βOr what happened to my parents.β Alpha Dane grabs his leather jacket from the chair. Unlike other Alphaβs he seemed to dress more casually. A simple black tee and jeans covered his huge frame. And unlike other Alphaβs, his arms are bare of tattoos, not a single bit of ink poked out anywhere. βYouβre right and now I have a few things to mull over.β βI thought we agreed.β My brother exclaims βNothing has been signed. Now I will show myself out.β The moment he is out of the office, both my brother and Beta Kyle round on me. βWhat the heck did you say to him?β My brother demands, slamming a hand into my stomach. βN..nothing. Well, he just asked me why I smelled funny.β βDid you tell him?β Beta Kyle demands. He was practically spitting in my face. I hated him. I hated him so much that I had vowed to one day get my revenge and rip his stomach out through his mouth. βWELL?β My brother yells when I donβt immediately respond and smacks me across the side of the head. My head involuntarily moves up and down. βBut I didnβt say it was you.β I tried to sound strong and confident but it just comes out as a whisper. If they werenβt Wolves, they probably wouldnβt have heard me. My brother's hand locks into my black hair as he yanks my head back, sending a shooting pain through my skull. βIf you have ruined this, you wonβt see daylight again.β He drags me by my hair from the office and down the hallway towards the basement door. βPleaseβ¦.β I beg. βHe was an Alphaβ¦Iβ¦ I had to answer him.β My cheeks burn with my tears as he flings the door open. On the other side of the door is Alpha Dane. He is leaning against the wall with his arms folded, staring out at us. My brother's hand falls from my hair, relieving the pressure on the back of my skull.. βAlpha Dane, I thought you had left.β Alpha Trey murmurs angrily. βI said I would show myself out. I thought I had found the door, but instead I find a basement, riddled in your sister's strange scent. Is this how you treat your family?β βAs I said,β my brother holds his ground, βShe is responsible for the death of my parents, so yes, this is what she deserves.β βYou should keep your nose out of other packs' business!β Beta Kyle adds. Alpha Dane laughs. βIf I agree to this deal, everything about your business becomes my business. So tell me, what would your punishment be for her? No food, locked away for a week, beatings?β βWe donβtβ¦.β βReally?β He cocks a brow, βYou really expect me to believe that you would have just let her sleep? I have already stopped you from hitting her once. " His eyes roam over me. "She is underfed, bags hover under her tired blue eyes. For a sister of an Alpha, she is certainly not treated like one. Regardless of what she allegedly did when she was a pup.β βShe did do it!β Alpha Trey seethes βAnd she has nothing to do with our deal.β βThatβs for me to decide.β His crimson eyes flicker around the hallway. βWhere is your mate? I would be interested to know how she feels about this.β I close my eyes, silently begging my brother not to call his Luna. Luna Cassandra is worse than Beta Kyle and Alpha Trey together. βOn second thoughts, why bother her. Iβm certain she is just as vile as you.β He sneers I peer through slits to see his crimson eyes on me. There was no reason for him to defend me and yet he was. I was a nobody, no one special. Just who everyone called a traitor. Only instead of being given a death sentence, my brother had decided to make me spend my life suffering. βI have a proposition for you, Alpha Trey.β Alpha Dane is smirking at my brother βWe have already agreed on terms.β βWell, Iβm adding one. And if you donβt agree, you will not get my help. Instead, you will become my enemy. And we both know, you donβt want that.β βI take it that your new terms have something to do with her?β Alpha Trey mutters through clenched teeth. βYou would be correct. Let me take her away to my pack and then you, Trey will have a deal.β Me? Why would he want me? As my brother and his Beta discuss me, Alpha Dane is still studying me. His look made me nervous. What could someone like him possibly want with me? βDeal.β Alpha Trey sticks out his hand for Alpha Dane to shake. He doesnβt take it, instead his crimson eyes shift from me to my brother. βI will have paperwork drawn up and will return tomorrow.β He reaches a hand out and cups my face, βEnsure you have everything packed.β He drags his thumb across my bottom lip and strides to the opposite end of the hallway and straight to the front door. He knew exactly where the front door was, so what was he up to? He pauses at the door. βIf I find out any one of you has laid a hand on her. The contract will be the last thing you need to worry about.β He struts out, slamming the door behind him. βGet out of my sight!β My brother snaps at me. Hurrying away, I make my way up the stairs and into my tiny bedroom. It was practically empty, the only things I had were a few changes of clothes. It would take me less than a minute to pack By morning, I hadnβt slept. Alpha Danes questions were on repeat and why was I so interesting to a Wolf like him. There was a reason he had the biggest pack. They were known for their fighting abilities, thatβs why my brother wanted to link Moonshine with Alpha Danes pack, but where did I fit in to all this? And what o earth is Blood of Wolfsbane? Three Dane βTenth brideβs the charm.β Jenson mocks as the driver pulls up in front of Moonshines packhouse. βShut up!β Eric snaps at him βBoth of you shut your mouths. Before you say something you regret!β βHe will never learn.β My wolf, Aero muses. The driver pulls open the door. βJust give me a second, I need to speak to my men.β The door closes and neither one of them speaks. βShe isnβt like the others. Donβt speak to her, donβt look at her. And you Jenson, keep your hands to yourself or you might just lose them this time.β I was more rattled than usual. Neah was different to the previous selected mates. I didnβt know what it was or whether it was because I was used to confident women, but there was something about her. And Aero appeared to like her too, more than any of the others. I had to have her. βI mean it!β I snap at Jenson's smug face, βBeing my brother wonβt change my mind!β He runs his fingers over his lips as though he was zipping them shut. They follow me from the car. Standing in front of the old packhouse, all three of us stare up at it. Because until a month ago, I knew nothing about them and even after my visit, all I had learned was the Alpha is a beast. My knuckles hammer on the door. Itβs barely open an inch when I force myself through making his Beta stumble back. I spot her straight away, hiding herself behind a corner. βAre you ready?β I call out. βIf you just want toβ¦..β Beta Kyle starts. βI was not talking to you. I was speaking to Neah.β The expression on Beta Kyleβs face was a picture. His jaw hung open and his eyes are wide. He clearly had never been told what to do, even by his Alpha. Neah steps out from her hiding spot, clutching a barely full carrier bag. She drags her teeth across her bottom lip and nods her head. βWhere are the rest of your things? I told you everything needs to be packedβ βThatβs all she has.β Trey snorts as he makes his appearance. βThatβs it?β I stare at him. βThatβs all her belongings? Sheβs what, in her early twenties and thatβs all she has?β βWhat more does she need?!β His Beta sneers. βKill him, let me rip out his throat and he will regret the day he crossed us.β βWhat are you waiting for?β I hear a horrible shrill voice that seems to vibrate through the floors. Looking away from the Beta, I see a woman holding on to a statue of herself that sat at the bottom of the stairs. Her blonde hair hung in waves around her face as her green eyes studied me and she sways her hips as she moves to Trey. I noticed Neahβs reaction yesterday. When I asked Trey where his mate was. Her whole body had tensed up in fear. She was afraid of this woman and I wanted to know why. βTake her Alpha Dane. Iβm sure she will be as useful a slave to you as she is to us.β Her shrill voice goes straight through me. βLook at the silly girl, sheβs going to pass out.β The blonde bimbo laughs βYou donβt get to talk about her like that anymore.β I glare at the blonde, βShe is not your toy. She is not your slave and I suggest that you, Alpha Trey keep your wife in check. There is only so much disobedience that I will tolerate.β βDISOBEDIENCE!β The woman screeches just as Neahβs hip hits the floor. βHow dare you! If anyone is disobedient, itβs that rat in the corner.β βWho the heck is she calling a rat?β Aero growls βYou should make yourself familiar with our agreement.β I snap. βIt seems your mate has not told you everything.β Waving Eric forward, he pulls a thick wad of paper from the folder under his arm. The contract that I have drawn up. βAll that for your help?β His mateβs eyes are wide βI donβt do half-witted contracts.β Taking the contract from Eric, I shove it against Treyβs chest βShall we go to the office?β Trey leads the way with his mate clinging on to him and his Beta hurrying behind. My men follow them while I stay behind to check on my new mate. βYou are more than welcome to join us, after all, you are involved in this deal. Or my car is outfront, you can take your stuff and wait there for me.β βAre those my only options?β she whispers, keeping her eyes low βFor now. Personally, I think you should sit in with us. It will give me great pleasure in pissing off that mate of your brothers.β She keeps her blue eyes low as she continues to clutch that bag of hers. This close to her, I could really see how ill she looked. Even her heart beat is slow, like itβs fighting to hang on to life. βSo what will it be?β βIβ¦.β Her head rotates between the front door and the direction of the office. βIβ¦.. The office I guess.β βGood choice.β I hold out a hand for her but she doesnβt take it. Pushing herself up to her feet. She wobbles a little, but steadies herself. Walking a few steps behind her, I see the evil glares she receives from Trey and the other two idiots as she enters the office.. βTake a seat.β I whisper as I walk past her. My hand grazes her lower back and she immediately tenses up. She stands, frozen to the spot. Only her eyes dart about when she shakes her head. βSit!β I say it a little louder βShe doesnβt have that privilege here!β The blonde snaps, with her lips curved up in amusement βSitting is not a privilege.β I growl, wondering what else they were forcing her to do. I couldnβt see any bruises on her arms or legs, a good sign, I hoped. βIt better be!β Aero paces in my head. He wanted her out of this place as much as I did. The blonde physically recoils in her seat. Her mouth falls wide open, shocked that I had said something. βAnd I suggest,β I look at Trey, βYou tell your mate to keep her mouth shut. Or I can shut it for her.β βAlpha Dane, you are in my homeβ¦..β βAnd you want my help, correct?β The three of them were fuming. No one liked being told what to do in their own home, yet they were doing just that to Neah. I point to the empty chair between Jenson and Eric and she finally sits down. βLetβs just get this done.β Trey snaps, βThe sooner she is gone, the happier I can be.β βYou should read the contract.β I muse βI agreed that you could take her as part of our deal.β βIdiot!β Eric murmurs. He knew as well as I did that contracts should be read before they are signed They sign without reading and practically throw the contract back at me. βDone.β Trey mutters βGood, you can get her out of my house.β Treyβs mate screeches. If I had it my way, I would just take Neah, then I wouldnβt have to put up with the twidles, but this way, they canβt have her back. Even if they begged. A contract was a contract and it was impossible for them to get out of. Getting to my feet, I hold a hand out to Neah, βCome, we are leaving this rat hole before I lose my temper.β Her warm fingers slip into my hand as she rises to her feet. Her other hand clutches the bag to her chest as she walks with me to the front door. She doesnβt even look back to say goodbye and that confirmed everything I needed to know. She hated them as much as they hated her. She pauses at the open front door, her hand falling from mine. Her blue eyes are wide as she stares at the limo. βCome.β I instruct Eric and Jenson are standing behind her, watching her curiously. βIs she okay?β Eric links me. βNeah?β I step in front of her and she doesnβt move. She seems to be staring right through me. βItβs time to go.β βOkay.β Her lips barely move She takes a step forward, almost as if she is in slow motion. Her hands grip the door frame, her knuckles turn white as her heartbeat increases. Her lips part a little and her hand falls from the door frame just as her eyes roll to the back of her head. βIβve got you.β I mutter, catching her just before she hits the floor. Her entire body tenses up as I lift her and carry her to the car. She was so weak and was even lighter than I expected. She probably didnβt weigh much more than a small child. Jenson and Eric get in the car first. Jenson cocks his eyebrow at me and has a smirk plastered to his face as I slide in with Neah on my lap. βKeep your thoughts to yourself, Jenson!β I hold her close, listening to her breathe and her heart as it slowed. Letting my fingers comb through her dark hair as she becomes a little more with it. Suddenly, she sits up right, moving away from me and trying to make herself as small as possible. Deciding not to force her to do anything, I keep my attention on my Beta and my brother, talking about pack stuff while casting a glance over to her every so often to make sure she was alright. βCome.β I mutter as the limo comes to a stop. I donβt wait for the driver and get out myself, holding a hand out for her. βIβm fine.β She speaks at last while glancing at the others and shuffles herself forward to the open door. She stares up at my home, gasping a little. It was easily three times the size of her previous home and I hoped that she would be happy here. That I could provide her with a life that was better than her last. βLet me give you a tour.β I suggest as she continues to clutch that carrier bag to her chest. She follows me in, not speaking a word. I had no idea if she was listening to what I was saying or not βThe omegas swap out on a rotational basis. Good for the youngsters to learn some responsibilities before they get proper jobs.β I tell her while showing her the dining hall with a table long enough to fit twenty people around. We move through to the kitchen. Where I point out a board on the wall. βIf there is anything you need, you just add it to the board and it will be ordered in.β Her brow furrows and still she says nothing. Picking up a pen, I smile. Maybe she felt intimidated by me. βSo tell me, what do you need because there is no way you are living under my roof with just the things that are in that bag.β Her dazzling blue eyes dart around the room βWell?β I ask. βI donβt need anything.β She whispers Sighing, I start scribbling things down. Underwear, jeans, workout clothes, dresses, shoes, anything I can think of that will cover her for a few days. Holding the pen between my teeth, I grab her around the waist. My thumbs meet just above her belly button and my fingers touch her spine. She was so thin, how was she even alive? Four Dane She looked like a deer caught in headlights as I write her size down. She was tinier than I thought. Skin and bone. If I had moved my hands up any higher, I would have felt every rib sticking out. It sickened me, she should be strong, powerful, she had Alpha blood running through her veins. I also saw how she scrunched her face up when I measured her. It wasnβt fear, it was pain. She was hiding something underneath the baggy maids dress. βI know you want to say something, so just say it. Iβm not interested in the crap Trey drummed into you. You donβt have to wait until someone asks you a question. You are free to say what you want. Are you injured?" "No." She was lying, I could feel it. She shakes her head as if it would confirm her answer and a lock of her black hair falls from the band that was supposed to be holding it back. Neah was going to be a tough girl to crack. A life of being starved had made her quite protective over herself. I will make Trey pay for what he has done to her. βYou have to say something, Neah. I cannot read your mind. When I mark you, at least I will know what you are feeling.β βMark me?β I didnβt think her eyes could get any wider. βYes, I will mark you.β She was completely and utterly shocked by the idea. Her pink lips part a little as she continues to stare at me. I thought she knew. I thought that was why she came so willingly. My Beta had kept asking me if I was certain I wanted her as my bride. There was no doubt about it, she had a strange scent but something was luring me to her. I couldnβt take my eyes off of her when I first saw her. My Wolf Aero was going mad for her too. Though he hadnβt said a word about her. Annoyed with me for not taking her home with us yesterday. βYouβ¦.You brought me so that you could mark me.β She takes a step back, walking into the kitchen island. She winces a little and quickly covers up her pain, relaxing her face.. βIf Trey had bothered reading the contract, he would have discovered that you are to be my bride, not a slave. He would also have read that if he or his ridiculously silly mate tried doing anything to you going forward, that pack would become mine, or rather, yours. I never bought you, Neah, you were always destined to be mine.β βIβm a murderer.β She gasps. βWhy would someone like you want me for a bride?β βBloodβ Aero growls interrupting my thoughts. I glance down at her baggy dress. A blood stain had appeared right where I had my hands wrapped around her. βWhatβs that? Are you injured?β I demand, I had barely touched her. She covers the stain with her hand. βItβs nothing. Itβs just a cut that I keep knocking and it opens up again. I forget itβs there.β Forget? How could she forget a wound? βWhy isnβt she healing?β I feel Aeroβs panic. βSheβs been with us less than two hours and already she has some form of injury.β His need to protect her was strong. It hadnβt occurred to me that her lack of abilities included not being able to heal. I would have to find someone who could reverse the binding and soon. βShow me!β βItβs fine.β She mumbles I was already so sick of hearing that phrase. βItβs not optional.β I mutter. βIf you wonβt show me, I will have to find a way to look, myself.β Her heart skips a beat. She looks around the kitchen. βCan.... can we go somewhere more private?β βPrivate?β I didnβt really do privacy. What Wolf did?! She bobs her head but still keeps her focus slightly off of me. Almost afraid to look me directly in the eyes. βOffice,β Aero mutters. βI was just going to suggest that!β I snap back at my Wolf. I feel his eyes roll as he retreats to some dark corner of my mind. βThis way.β I gesture to the door. Neah waits for me and follows closely behind. The scent of blood steadily grew stronger, it was more than just a cut. I already knew that. In the office, I hit the remote and the blinds start to drop, blocking out the sunlight. Neah hesitates and slowly begins to unfasten the buttons of the dress but only where the large blood stain was. Keeping everything else covered from me. She pulls the dress to one side. The wound was about four inches long and already fairly infected. βSee, itβs fine.β she whispers. βYou need to stop saying that.β She closes her mouth and starts to fasten the buttons. βNo,β I grabbed her hands, I had caught sight of another bruise. βLet me see the rest of them.β It wasnβt optional. She gasps as my fingers rip apart the rest of the buttons. Her sports bra had seen better days, just the same as her underwear. But it was the bruising I was most concerned about. Bruise upon bruise, scars that had come from whips. Her hip bones and ribs stuck out too. Turning her around, and pulling the dress from her, I find that her back is just the same. Yet interestingly, there was nothing above her chest and nothing below her thighs. Her arms were completely bare of wounds too. There was only one reason why someone would do that. To either hide what they were doing to someone, or to keep up appearances. They didnβt want guests to see. More importantly, they didnβt want me to see, considering the meeting was arranged over a month ago. She fumbles with the dress, pulling it tightly around her thin frame. βYou need to see a doctor.β βItβs β¦..β she trails off when she sees the anger on my face. βIt always heals, eventually.β βDid Trey do this?β I mutter with my teeth gritted and gesture to her body She lowers her blue eyes. βCassandra?β She still doesnβt answer me. βThat prick that follows Trey around? All three of them?β She pulls her dress tighter around her and silently nods. She brings her hand up to her face, brushing her cheek, wiping away an escaped tear. βAnyone else?β βThe pack.β She whispers. βIβm going to kill them all.β Aero growls. He will have to get in line, βBecause of what you allegedly did to your parents.β She nods. βI donβt believe you were responsible.β She tilts her head up towards me, her brow knits together as her eyes finally find mine. βBecause of Blood of Wolfsbane?" Five Neah βIβ¦I donβt know what Blood of Wolfsbane is?β I whisper He frowns at me. βYour brother said you knew the difference between plants.β βIβ¦β I didnβt have an answer. I couldnβt remember, not fully. βBlood of Wolfsbane is Wolfsbane fed by our blood. The leaves will have a red hue to them. I canβt imagine a child would know what it is because it is not freely grown. Your brotherβs story doesnβt add up.β βOh.β βI wonβt stop until I find out who did this, Neah.β His crimson eyes narrow. βI will make them pay for the suffering you have endured.β He sits on the edge of his desk, studying me. βRight now, you do need to see someone about the infection.β I kept my mouth closed, I was still trying to process his news of me being set up. Why had my brother never considered it? βCome, I will show you our bedroom. You can shower before we see the pack doctor.β Frozen to the spot, I donβt move. Did he just say βour bedroom,β? As in, we are sharing a bedroom? I guess he thinks he can mke love with me whenever he wants if Iβm his contract bride. A shiver runs down my spine at the thought. Glancing up, I see him watching me. He is stood at the open door, waiting for me. Ensuring my dress has me covered, I step out into the hallway. No one was around and the hallways were quiet. As we moved, Alpha Dane would tell me what each room was, but he seemed more focussed on getting me to the bedroom. His bedroom is huge, with massive windows, just like the rest of the house. The bed sat pressed up against the wall. All around it, thin drapes hung from the ceiling, but they were tied back at each bed post. What surprised me the most was that the bath and the shower were in the same room. Only the toilet was in a small room to the side of the shower. No privacy, whatsoever. Though, he didnβt seem to care about that. He makes me jump when I feel his warm breath on my skin. βYou donβt need to be afraid.β I may not be able to smell him, but he would be able to scent the changes in my emotions. Crossing the room, he pulls open the glass door to the shower and turns it on. The moment he closes the door, the steam of the shower quickly fogs up the glass. And still, I find myself afraid. He gave me no clue as to what he was expecting from me. βHey,β His rough fingers tip my face up. βItβs just you and me and for now, I will let you shower in peace.β Walking away, he pulls his phone out of his pocket and messes around with it before placing it on the bedside table. βThe alarm is set for ten minutes. I will come back then. I will bring you something to wear so just stay in the towel. Understand?β He stares at me, waiting for an answer and I just nod. A ten minute shower. I was lucky if I got a minute shower back home and the water was always cold. He moves to the door and with his hand resting on the door knob he looks back over his shoulder at me. βI really wish you would talk more, Neah.β Alpha Dane leaves me in peace and I make a mad dash for the shower as if Iβm in some kind of fantasy land and this was all a dream. Maybe it was, maybe I was about to wake up in the basement of my home. The smells of the soaps and shampoos are divine as I lather them into myself. And my hair has never felt so clean. The wound on my stomach stung as the hot water hit it, but I didnβt care, it was worth it. Someone in the room clears their throat and I freeze. Thanking the steam for keeping me semi hidden. βNeah, are you done? The alarm went off five minutes ago.β Alpha Daneβs voice seems louder in here. I had been so caught up in the freedom of a simple shower that I hadnβt even heard the alarm or the Alpha come back into the room. βComing.β I mutter, turning off the water and pulling a towel around me to hide the hideousness underneath. Stepping out, I already see that my ripped dress, underwear and worn sandals had been removed from the floor. Alpha Dane sits on the end of the bed with what looked like folded clothes on his lap and a pair of trainers. βItβs not much, as we donβt have anyone with as small a waist as you.β He smiles as he hands over the clothes. A matching navy blue sweatshirt and joggers. βYou will have to make do without the underwear for now. Should be here first thing tomorrow.β He watches me with a cocked eyebrow as I pull the joggers on and tug the sweatshirt over my head before removing the towel. Maybe he was used to the women parading themselves in front of him, or throwing themselves at him because he has power, but I wasnβt like that. βLetβs go.β He rises to his feet and this time, I follow him. Something told me that if I didnβt get this wound looked at, it would put him in a bad mood. The pack doctor was young, unlike the one back home who was old and afraid to let anyone take over from him. She smiles at us as we enter the pack hospital and rewraps her dark hair into a bun. βRaven, this is Neah.β Alpha Dane introduces me with a grin. I keep my eyes low as I hear Raven say, βAlpha Dane, what seems to be the problem apart from the strange smell she has brought with her.β It didnβt sound like a hurtful comment like I was used to, but more a comment of curiosity. βShe will tell you herself when she finds her tongue.β βI have a wound.β I whisper. βAnd you are not healing?β Raven asks, confused βI donβt have my Wolf.β I hated saying it. It was just a constant reminder that I did not fit in. βHer Wolf was bound when she was a kid.β Alpha Dane tells her. βThatβs why her scent is strange. Her Wolf is there, locked away, waiting to be freed.β My eyes flicker up only to find him staring straight back at me. I had always believed that my Wolf was gone. Not that she was trapped. Ravenβs dark eyes hover on me. βWow, okay.β She grabs my hand. βThis way, letβs take a look at this wound of yours.β She leads me into an empty room and asks me to lay on the bed and to show her my wound. Pulling up the sweatshirt, just enough for her to see the wound. Her eyes widen, a flicker of rage passing over them as she takes in the infected wound and the bruising that surrounds it. Her fingers carefully press around the wound. βHow long ago?β βA few days.β I mutter, though I wasnβt sure. Every beating blurred into another one. Any day that I wasnβt hit was a good day. Raven shakes her head. βThis is longer than a few days ago, the infection has had at least a week to develop.β βNeah, you need to tell us the truth.β Alpha Dane orders βI donβt know.β βNEAH!β His deep voice rumbles through me and I close my eyes, fearing his anger. Anger brought punishment, punishment brought pain. βI swear, I donβt know. The beatings, they happen so often that they just kind ofβ¦. Iβm never not bruised.β Thereβs silence and I was too afraid to open my eyes. Alpha Trey had said it over and over, that if anyone found out, he would make my life a misery, more than it already was. I used to wonder who would ever find out that didnβt already know. Now here I was, sitting in another packβs hospital, revealing the truth. βHeal her!β Alpha Dane shouts after what seems like forever. He storms from the room, pulling a phone out of his pocket. βYou will have to forgive my brother. His temper is short, especially when it comes to things like this.β Raven mutters as she gently inspects my wound βYour brother?β I whisper, opening my eyes βAh, I see he informed you. Iβm guessing he didnβt tell you that Jenson is our brother too?β I shake my head, Iβm guessing Jenson was one of the men that came to my brother's house. She chuckles. βJenson is considered to be our brotherβs Gamma.β βGamma?β I had never heard of the term. βYep and Alpha Dane has a love/hate for me working here. He wants me to represent our family, but he knows this is what Iβm good at.β She grabs a pot of cream from the cupboard. βNow this needs to be applied three times a day. It should clear up the infection, if it hasnβt changed in a couple of days, I will take another look. My brother is waiting for you out front.β βThanks.β I mumble, taking the pot of cream from her. I looked at the label, but couldnβt read it. I had never learned to read. She bobs her head at me as I hurry out to find Alpha Dane on his phone, snapping at someone. He hangs up as soon as he sees me and asks what Raven said. βCream, three times a day.β I show him the pot and he takes it from me. βGood, come.β He strides off and I have to run to keep up with him. I follow him through the house and into the office. βShow me.β He orders, pulling the lid off the pot. It wasnβt going to be negotiable, not when he had used the same tone moments before he ripped my dress open earlier. Slowly lifting my sweatshirt, he crouches down in front of me and gently smothers the wound in the cold cream. βI donβt want you to lie to me, Neah. Not ever. If you canβt remember, that is what you need to tell me. Is that clear? I donβt want to have to guess what you mean.β βOkay.β I couldnβt say anything else, I was too focussed on the warmth of his hands. One presses against my lower back, holding me steady while the other gently rubs cream into my wound. The only touch I had received from another man was a beating. βStop holding your breath.β He tells me, getting to his feet. βI am not going to hurt you.β It seemed impossible to believe given my history. The act, the words coming from him, it just didnβt feel real. | Galaxy in the Story | 301 | https://facebook.com/61555427913037 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717743600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879834 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410728 | 1723321858 | 995 | 480124741257496 | 1 | 1.7277413576323E+15 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 219004054622622 | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | 120209611805750689 | wwwedb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πAttention! Do not read in publicοΌπ | https://wwwedb.com/market/meganovel/13?lpid=11783&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717743552 | 2.1900405462262E+14 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447260728_1518945155389917_2874266976111342341_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=g0H6jXhQP3sQ7kNvgGXGGZL&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYD5RKLxmmvz3_WMQm6M7TyxkgQmm5IfWgwhhyK_F2vFIg&oe=6672BD2F | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447272334_8058147917584464_4203412527007476159_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ookoAxwxG_QQ7kNvgE9thCo&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCeO_9K7nk0lXXIJiyjXCwWONM-nS-S5ZtufKX8Y6JJ9A&oe=6672A008 | 0 | 3 | One Neah βWhere the heck is she?β I hear the Beta scream. I already knew Beta Kyle was talking about me, the only servant of the house. I groan and get to my feet, grabbing the cleaning basket and taking it with me. The moment Beta Kyle sees me, he strides towards me and his hand slices against my cheek. I donβt make a sound. Years of experience has taught me to keep my mouth shut at all times and only speak when spoken too, even if what they are doing to me hurts. βAlpha Trey and I are expecting company and you still have not cleaned the office like you were asked.β Beta Kyle spits at me I nod my head and my hand tightens on the cleaning basket. If I could just find the courage to swing it at his head, it would make my day. I resisted, he was stronger than me and I didnβt need locking up for another week with no food. My stomach already hurt enough. βWe are trying to make a good impression on Alpha Dane. Do you not understand how important it is for us to join ourselves with his pack?!β I donβt answer, I know it's a trick, to try and get me to say something so that he can give himself a reason to punish me. I keep my eyes low so that I didnβt have to look at his face. Alpha Dane, I had only ever heard rumours about him. Words exchanged between the other pack members when I was in the room. From what I gathered, he was a ruthless man, a Wolf feared by others. He didnβt mess around and he had the largest pack. βHe is the Alpha of Black Shadow, the biggest pack in the world, we need him!β Beta Kyle continues. Yet he doesnβt tell me why. We had never been attacked and we had never attacked anyone, so why did we need another pack to help us? He places his hands on my shoulders, digging his nails into my thinning skin and turns me around, kicking me in the but as he shoves me towards the office. βUseless Wolf.β He mutters as he moves away. Quietly closing the door, I lean back against it, observing the already clean office. There was nothing out of place, it looked perfectly fine for a meeting with this so-called powerful Alpha. Closing my eyes, I slide down to the floor. I hated this house. I thought that when I turned eighteen, I could finally escape, but four years later, here I still am, a slave in my own home. Doing all the dirty tasks for my brother, Alpha Trey and the pack. While my ex mate, Beta Kyle waltzes around reminding me of how worthless I am. Someone clears their throat and I freeze, I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair, just around the corner. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of drink. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that donβt quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door as my heart pounded. βIs this the way you greet all Alphaβs?β His deep voice rumbles through the room, there was an edge of amusement to his tone. βIβm sorry.β I whisper, getting to my feet. βIβ¦I thought I was alone.β I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. He doesnβt introduce himself either, why should he? βCome forward.β He orders and I already feel a lump forming in my throat. Alpha Trey was going to finish me. I step around the corner, doing as Iβm told, allowing him to see me properly. I close my eyes, expecting the worst. βYou smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?β I nod, though I couldnβt tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they found out about me. βI would prefer it if you spoke to me.β He growls, βIβm not in the mood to play games.β βYes.β I whisper. I couldnβt help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? βWhy do you smell strange? And how is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.β βIβ¦..β I hated the question. βSpit it out, I havenβt got all day!β He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldnβt scent him. I knew why I hadnβt been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever wanted or liked to do. They never let me tell my side of the story. All they do is laugh and mock me. βYou should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. Itβs rude to not look at them. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?β His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them, there was no way I was making eye contact. βMy Wolf abilities were bound,β I mutter. Twice, I wanted to add. Twice my abilities were bound. But he probably wasnβt interested in that part. He leans forward, carefully placing his glass on the small table next to the chair. I could feel him staring at me, βWhy would someone do that?β If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. βIt was a punishment.β I whisper. It wasnβt far from the entire truth but it was the simplest answer I could give. Thereβs a twitch in his cheek. Was he angry to hear of such a punishment? Or maybe, just like the others, he was amused by it. I couldnβt tell. The door swings open and my brother screeches at me βNeah, what the heck are you doing in my office?β He turns to the crimson eyed man. βI am so sorry that my sister is bothering you, Alpha Dane.β Crap, it was him. My brother spins around, his hand stretching out to hit me. I close my eyes, bracing myself, ready to feel the burn. βI wouldnβt do that if I were you.β Alpha Daneβs voice rumbles through the room. Peeking through slits, I see Alpha Dane has risen to his feet, his hand coiled around my brother's wrist. He was taller than my brother, more muscly too. βNeah,β My name rolls off of his tongue, βwas kindly showing me to your office, Alpha Trey, as you failed to meet me at the front of your house like I requested. I was lucky someone was present, at least someone understands the importance of this deal.β What? I had no idea what he was talking about. And he had no reason to lie for me. My brother glares at me, clenching his jaw tight. I was going to pay for this later. I would have to try and steal some food. βGo and get Beta Kyle.β Alpha Trey seethes. βTell him that our guest is here.β I nod my head and hurry from the room, the last thing I wanted was to be caught between bickering men. βBeta Kyle,β I whisper as I enter the dining hall. He instantly glares at me with his dark eyes. I had spoken without being spoken to. βAlpha Trey is in the office with Alpha Dane. I was sent to inform you.β He slams the newspaper down on the table and glares at me as he walks by. βYouβre lucky that the Alpha sent you to get me, otherwise you wouldn't be seeing sunlight for a few days.β Pausing behind me, he yanks my head back, locking his fingers in my hair, leaning in close to me, I feel his hot breath on my skin. He doesnβt speak, it was just his way of proving that he could do what he wants when he wants. I try to keep myself busy so I can stay as far away from the office as possible. My peace doesnβt last long when I hear my brother calling out to me. Quietly, I pad towards the office and plaster a smile on my face as I open the door. βNeah, go get the champagne and some glasses, we are celebrating.β I bow my head and hurry to the drinks cabinet. Quickly finding what my brother has asked for. As I re-enter the office, I can feel Alpha Dane watching my every move, even the hairs on the back of my neck stand up. No one ever watches me this closely. Approaching the small table by Alpha Danes chair, I start to fill the glasses. He takes the champagne bottle from me, telling me he is more than capable of filling his own glass. I feel my cheeks flame, not from embarrassment, but because I knew that I would be punished for this. I should have been quicker. I should have filled the glasses before entering the office. I should haveβ¦. My brain freezes when I see my brother glaring at me. βNeah is your sister, correct?β Alpha Dane questions my brother. βShe is.β Alpha Trey mutters with disgust. He looks away from me to focus on the man asking questions. βWhy do you treat her like vermin?β Straight to the point, my brother wouldnβt like that. He only liked sharing information on his terms. No one had spoken to my brother about his treatment of me because everyone took great joy in beating me. I didnβt know what to do. I couldnβt move but I knew I had to get out of there. If this deal goes to pot because of me, then that would be my fault too. βNeah was responsible for our parents' death.β Alpha Trey spits I closed my eyes, battling back the tears that were threatening to break free. βResponsible how?β Alpha Daneβs voice rumbles through me. He was definitely angry. βShe served them Wolfsbane.β Two Neah Donβt make a sound. Donβt make a sound. I knew Alpha Dane was studying me. They all did, no one could ever quite believe how someone could do something so disgusting as poisoning their own parents. I stood there, with my head hanging low, wishing for the ground to open up and suck me in. There are movements around me. He was standing directly in front of me. With a rough finger he tilts my face up towards his, forcing me to look at him. Slowly, his hand latches onto my throat but he doesnβt squeeze. βYou poisoned your parents?β βI was six.β I splutter. βI just made them lemonade.β My voice comes out all squeaky as I try to defend myself. I could barely remember my parents, but I could remember all the guilt I had been made to feel since that day. His crimson eyes flash to my brothers. βHardly seems fair to blame a six year old.β βA six year old should know the difference between plants.β Alpha Trey snaps βSounds to me like she was set up.β Alpha Dane shrugs his shoulders, letting go of my throat. βWe all know that standard wolfsbane doesnβt affect us anymore. We evolved from that thing centuries ago.β What? What did he mean? Wolfsbane wasnβt lethal. It had been drummed into me since I could walk. βWhich only leaves Blood of Wolfsbane.β Alpha Dane mutters βYou werenβt there, Alpha Dane.β My brother muttered through gritted teeth as his eyes narrowed to slits. βIt was Wolfsbane.β He nods his head. βYou are right, I was not present.β Great, now there was someone else who could remind me of something I had done by accident, years ago. βBut tell me this, where would a six year old get Blood of Wolfsbane?β βI didnβt ask you here to talk about my slave!β Alpha Trey spits. βOr what happened to my parents.β Alpha Dane grabs his leather jacket from the chair. Unlike other Alphaβs he seemed to dress more casually. A simple black tee and jeans covered his huge frame. And unlike other Alphaβs, his arms are bare of tattoos, not a single bit of ink poked out anywhere. βYouβre right and now I have a few things to mull over.β βI thought we agreed.β My brother exclaims βNothing has been signed. Now I will show myself out.β The moment he is out of the office, both my brother and Beta Kyle round on me. βWhat the heck did you say to him?β My brother demands, slamming a hand into my stomach. βN..nothing. Well, he just asked me why I smelled funny.β βDid you tell him?β Beta Kyle demands. He was practically spitting in my face. I hated him. I hated him so much that I had vowed to one day get my revenge and rip his stomach out through his mouth. βWELL?β My brother yells when I donβt immediately respond and smacks me across the side of the head. My head involuntarily moves up and down. βBut I didnβt say it was you.β I tried to sound strong and confident but it just comes out as a whisper. If they werenβt Wolves, they probably wouldnβt have heard me. My brother's hand locks into my black hair as he yanks my head back, sending a shooting pain through my skull. βIf you have ruined this, you wonβt see daylight again.β He drags me by my hair from the office and down the hallway towards the basement door. βPleaseβ¦.β I beg. βHe was an Alphaβ¦Iβ¦ I had to answer him.β My cheeks burn with my tears as he flings the door open. On the other side of the door is Alpha Dane. He is leaning against the wall with his arms folded, staring out at us. My brother's hand falls from my hair, relieving the pressure on the back of my skull.. βAlpha Dane, I thought you had left.β Alpha Trey murmurs angrily. βI said I would show myself out. I thought I had found the door, but instead I find a basement, riddled in your sister's strange scent. Is this how you treat your family?β βAs I said,β my brother holds his ground, βShe is responsible for the death of my parents, so yes, this is what she deserves.β βYou should keep your nose out of other packs' business!β Beta Kyle adds. Alpha Dane laughs. βIf I agree to this deal, everything about your business becomes my business. So tell me, what would your punishment be for her? No food, locked away for a week, beatings?β βWe donβtβ¦.β βReally?β He cocks a brow, βYou really expect me to believe that you would have just let her sleep? I have already stopped you from hitting her once. " His eyes roam over me. "She is underfed, bags hover under her tired blue eyes. For a sister of an Alpha, she is certainly not treated like one. Regardless of what she allegedly did when she was a pup.β βShe did do it!β Alpha Trey seethes βAnd she has nothing to do with our deal.β βThatβs for me to decide.β His crimson eyes flicker around the hallway. βWhere is your mate? I would be interested to know how she feels about this.β I close my eyes, silently begging my brother not to call his Luna. Luna Cassandra is worse than Beta Kyle and Alpha Trey together. βOn second thoughts, why bother her. Iβm certain she is just as vile as you.β He sneers I peer through slits to see his crimson eyes on me. There was no reason for him to defend me and yet he was. I was a nobody, no one special. Just who everyone called a traitor. Only instead of being given a death sentence, my brother had decided to make me spend my life suffering. βI have a proposition for you, Alpha Trey.β Alpha Dane is smirking at my brother βWe have already agreed on terms.β βWell, Iβm adding one. And if you donβt agree, you will not get my help. Instead, you will become my enemy. And we both know, you donβt want that.β βI take it that your new terms have something to do with her?β Alpha Trey mutters through clenched teeth. βYou would be correct. Let me take her away to my pack and then you, Trey will have a deal.β Me? Why would he want me? As my brother and his Beta discuss me, Alpha Dane is still studying me. His look made me nervous. What could someone like him possibly want with me? βDeal.β Alpha Trey sticks out his hand for Alpha Dane to shake. He doesnβt take it, instead his crimson eyes shift from me to my brother. βI will have paperwork drawn up and will return tomorrow.β He reaches a hand out and cups my face, βEnsure you have everything packed.β He drags his thumb across my bottom lip and strides to the opposite end of the hallway and straight to the front door. He knew exactly where the front door was, so what was he up to? He pauses at the door. βIf I find out any one of you has laid a hand on her. The contract will be the last thing you need to worry about.β He struts out, slamming the door behind him. βGet out of my sight!β My brother snaps at me. Hurrying away, I make my way up the stairs and into my tiny bedroom. It was practically empty, the only things I had were a few changes of clothes. It would take me less than a minute to pack By morning, I hadnβt slept. Alpha Danes questions were on repeat and why was I so interesting to a Wolf like him. There was a reason he had the biggest pack. They were known for their fighting abilities, thatβs why my brother wanted to link Moonshine with Alpha Danes pack, but where did I fit in to all this? And what o earth is Blood of Wolfsbane? Three Dane βTenth brideβs the charm.β Jenson mocks as the driver pulls up in front of Moonshines packhouse. βShut up!β Eric snaps at him βBoth of you shut your mouths. Before you say something you regret!β βHe will never learn.β My wolf, Aero muses. The driver pulls open the door. βJust give me a second, I need to speak to my men.β The door closes and neither one of them speaks. βShe isnβt like the others. Donβt speak to her, donβt look at her. And you Jenson, keep your hands to yourself or you might just lose them this time.β I was more rattled than usual. Neah was different to the previous selected mates. I didnβt know what it was or whether it was because I was used to confident women, but there was something about her. And Aero appeared to like her too, more than any of the others. I had to have her. βI mean it!β I snap at Jenson's smug face, βBeing my brother wonβt change my mind!β He runs his fingers over his lips as though he was zipping them shut. They follow me from the car. Standing in front of the old packhouse, all three of us stare up at it. Because until a month ago, I knew nothing about them and even after my visit, all I had learned was the Alpha is a beast. My knuckles hammer on the door. Itβs barely open an inch when I force myself through making his Beta stumble back. I spot her straight away, hiding herself behind a corner. βAre you ready?β I call out. βIf you just want toβ¦..β Beta Kyle starts. βI was not talking to you. I was speaking to Neah.β The expression on Beta Kyleβs face was a picture. His jaw hung open and his eyes are wide. He clearly had never been told what to do, even by his Alpha. Neah steps out from her hiding spot, clutching a barely full carrier bag. She drags her teeth across her bottom lip and nods her head. βWhere are the rest of your things? I told you everything needs to be packedβ βThatβs all she has.β Trey snorts as he makes his appearance. βThatβs it?β I stare at him. βThatβs all her belongings? Sheβs what, in her early twenties and thatβs all she has?β βWhat more does she need?!β His Beta sneers. βKill him, let me rip out his throat and he will regret the day he crossed us.β βWhat are you waiting for?β I hear a horrible shrill voice that seems to vibrate through the floors. Looking away from the Beta, I see a woman holding on to a statue of herself that sat at the bottom of the stairs. Her blonde hair hung in waves around her face as her green eyes studied me and she sways her hips as she moves to Trey. I noticed Neahβs reaction yesterday. When I asked Trey where his mate was. Her whole body had tensed up in fear. She was afraid of this woman and I wanted to know why. βTake her Alpha Dane. Iβm sure she will be as useful a slave to you as she is to us.β Her shrill voice goes straight through me. βLook at the silly girl, sheβs going to pass out.β The blonde bimbo laughs βYou donβt get to talk about her like that anymore.β I glare at the blonde, βShe is not your toy. She is not your slave and I suggest that you, Alpha Trey keep your wife in check. There is only so much disobedience that I will tolerate.β βDISOBEDIENCE!β The woman screeches just as Neahβs hip hits the floor. βHow dare you! If anyone is disobedient, itβs that rat in the corner.β βWho the heck is she calling a rat?β Aero growls βYou should make yourself familiar with our agreement.β I snap. βIt seems your mate has not told you everything.β Waving Eric forward, he pulls a thick wad of paper from the folder under his arm. The contract that I have drawn up. βAll that for your help?β His mateβs eyes are wide βI donβt do half-witted contracts.β Taking the contract from Eric, I shove it against Treyβs chest βShall we go to the office?β Trey leads the way with his mate clinging on to him and his Beta hurrying behind. My men follow them while I stay behind to check on my new mate. βYou are more than welcome to join us, after all, you are involved in this deal. Or my car is outfront, you can take your stuff and wait there for me.β βAre those my only options?β she whispers, keeping her eyes low βFor now. Personally, I think you should sit in with us. It will give me great pleasure in pissing off that mate of your brothers.β She keeps her blue eyes low as she continues to clutch that bag of hers. This close to her, I could really see how ill she looked. Even her heart beat is slow, like itβs fighting to hang on to life. βSo what will it be?β βIβ¦.β Her head rotates between the front door and the direction of the office. βIβ¦.. The office I guess.β βGood choice.β I hold out a hand for her but she doesnβt take it. Pushing herself up to her feet. She wobbles a little, but steadies herself. Walking a few steps behind her, I see the evil glares she receives from Trey and the other two idiots as she enters the office.. βTake a seat.β I whisper as I walk past her. My hand grazes her lower back and she immediately tenses up. She stands, frozen to the spot. Only her eyes dart about when she shakes her head. βSit!β I say it a little louder βShe doesnβt have that privilege here!β The blonde snaps, with her lips curved up in amusement βSitting is not a privilege.β I growl, wondering what else they were forcing her to do. I couldnβt see any bruises on her arms or legs, a good sign, I hoped. βIt better be!β Aero paces in my head. He wanted her out of this place as much as I did. The blonde physically recoils in her seat. Her mouth falls wide open, shocked that I had said something. βAnd I suggest,β I look at Trey, βYou tell your mate to keep her mouth shut. Or I can shut it for her.β βAlpha Dane, you are in my homeβ¦..β βAnd you want my help, correct?β The three of them were fuming. No one liked being told what to do in their own home, yet they were doing just that to Neah. I point to the empty chair between Jenson and Eric and she finally sits down. βLetβs just get this done.β Trey snaps, βThe sooner she is gone, the happier I can be.β βYou should read the contract.β I muse βI agreed that you could take her as part of our deal.β βIdiot!β Eric murmurs. He knew as well as I did that contracts should be read before they are signed They sign without reading and practically throw the contract back at me. βDone.β Trey mutters βGood, you can get her out of my house.β Treyβs mate screeches. If I had it my way, I would just take Neah, then I wouldnβt have to put up with the twidles, but this way, they canβt have her back. Even if they begged. A contract was a contract and it was impossible for them to get out of. Getting to my feet, I hold a hand out to Neah, βCome, we are leaving this rat hole before I lose my temper.β Her warm fingers slip into my hand as she rises to her feet. Her other hand clutches the bag to her chest as she walks with me to the front door. She doesnβt even look back to say goodbye and that confirmed everything I needed to know. She hated them as much as they hated her. She pauses at the open front door, her hand falling from mine. Her blue eyes are wide as she stares at the limo. βCome.β I instruct Eric and Jenson are standing behind her, watching her curiously. βIs she okay?β Eric links me. βNeah?β I step in front of her and she doesnβt move. She seems to be staring right through me. βItβs time to go.β βOkay.β Her lips barely move She takes a step forward, almost as if she is in slow motion. Her hands grip the door frame, her knuckles turn white as her heartbeat increases. Her lips part a little and her hand falls from the door frame just as her eyes roll to the back of her head. βIβve got you.β I mutter, catching her just before she hits the floor. Her entire body tenses up as I lift her and carry her to the car. She was so weak and was even lighter than I expected. She probably didnβt weigh much more than a small child. Jenson and Eric get in the car first. Jenson cocks his eyebrow at me and has a smirk plastered to his face as I slide in with Neah on my lap. βKeep your thoughts to yourself, Jenson!β I hold her close, listening to her breathe and her heart as it slowed. Letting my fingers comb through her dark hair as she becomes a little more with it. Suddenly, she sits up right, moving away from me and trying to make herself as small as possible. Deciding not to force her to do anything, I keep my attention on my Beta and my brother, talking about pack stuff while casting a glance over to her every so often to make sure she was alright. βCome.β I mutter as the limo comes to a stop. I donβt wait for the driver and get out myself, holding a hand out for her. βIβm fine.β She speaks at last while glancing at the others and shuffles herself forward to the open door. She stares up at my home, gasping a little. It was easily three times the size of her previous home and I hoped that she would be happy here. That I could provide her with a life that was better than her last. βLet me give you a tour.β I suggest as she continues to clutch that carrier bag to her chest. She follows me in, not speaking a word. I had no idea if she was listening to what I was saying or not βThe omegas swap out on a rotational basis. Good for the youngsters to learn some responsibilities before they get proper jobs.β I tell her while showing her the dining hall with a table long enough to fit twenty people around. We move through to the kitchen. Where I point out a board on the wall. βIf there is anything you need, you just add it to the board and it will be ordered in.β Her brow furrows and still she says nothing. Picking up a pen, I smile. Maybe she felt intimidated by me. βSo tell me, what do you need because there is no way you are living under my roof with just the things that are in that bag.β Her dazzling blue eyes dart around the room βWell?β I ask. βI donβt need anything.β She whispers Sighing, I start scribbling things down. Underwear, jeans, workout clothes, dresses, shoes, anything I can think of that will cover her for a few days. Holding the pen between my teeth, I grab her around the waist. My thumbs meet just above her belly button and my fingers touch her spine. She was so thin, how was she even alive? Four Dane She looked like a deer caught in headlights as I write her size down. She was tinier than I thought. Skin and bone. If I had moved my hands up any higher, I would have felt every rib sticking out. It sickened me, she should be strong, powerful, she had Alpha blood running through her veins. I also saw how she scrunched her face up when I measured her. It wasnβt fear, it was pain. She was hiding something underneath the baggy maids dress. βI know you want to say something, so just say it. Iβm not interested in the crap Trey drummed into you. You donβt have to wait until someone asks you a question. You are free to say what you want. Are you injured?" "No." She was lying, I could feel it. She shakes her head as if it would confirm her answer and a lock of her black hair falls from the band that was supposed to be holding it back. Neah was going to be a tough girl to crack. A life of being starved had made her quite protective over herself. I will make Trey pay for what he has done to her. βYou have to say something, Neah. I cannot read your mind. When I mark you, at least I will know what you are feeling.β βMark me?β I didnβt think her eyes could get any wider. βYes, I will mark you.β She was completely and utterly shocked by the idea. Her pink lips part a little as she continues to stare at me. I thought she knew. I thought that was why she came so willingly. My Beta had kept asking me if I was certain I wanted her as my bride. There was no doubt about it, she had a strange scent but something was luring me to her. I couldnβt take my eyes off of her when I first saw her. My Wolf Aero was going mad for her too. Though he hadnβt said a word about her. Annoyed with me for not taking her home with us yesterday. βYouβ¦.You brought me so that you could mark me.β She takes a step back, walking into the kitchen island. She winces a little and quickly covers up her pain, relaxing her face.. βIf Trey had bothered reading the contract, he would have discovered that you are to be my bride, not a slave. He would also have read that if he or his ridiculously silly mate tried doing anything to you going forward, that pack would become mine, or rather, yours. I never bought you, Neah, you were always destined to be mine.β βIβm a murderer.β She gasps. βWhy would someone like you want me for a bride?β βBloodβ Aero growls interrupting my thoughts. I glance down at her baggy dress. A blood stain had appeared right where I had my hands wrapped around her. βWhatβs that? Are you injured?β I demand, I had barely touched her. She covers the stain with her hand. βItβs nothing. Itβs just a cut that I keep knocking and it opens up again. I forget itβs there.β Forget? How could she forget a wound? βWhy isnβt she healing?β I feel Aeroβs panic. βSheβs been with us less than two hours and already she has some form of injury.β His need to protect her was strong. It hadnβt occurred to me that her lack of abilities included not being able to heal. I would have to find someone who could reverse the binding and soon. βShow me!β βItβs fine.β She mumbles I was already so sick of hearing that phrase. βItβs not optional.β I mutter. βIf you wonβt show me, I will have to find a way to look, myself.β Her heart skips a beat. She looks around the kitchen. βCan.... can we go somewhere more private?β βPrivate?β I didnβt really do privacy. What Wolf did?! She bobs her head but still keeps her focus slightly off of me. Almost afraid to look me directly in the eyes. βOffice,β Aero mutters. βI was just going to suggest that!β I snap back at my Wolf. I feel his eyes roll as he retreats to some dark corner of my mind. βThis way.β I gesture to the door. Neah waits for me and follows closely behind. The scent of blood steadily grew stronger, it was more than just a cut. I already knew that. In the office, I hit the remote and the blinds start to drop, blocking out the sunlight. Neah hesitates and slowly begins to unfasten the buttons of the dress but only where the large blood stain was. Keeping everything else covered from me. She pulls the dress to one side. The wound was about four inches long and already fairly infected. βSee, itβs fine.β she whispers. βYou need to stop saying that.β She closes her mouth and starts to fasten the buttons. βNo,β I grabbed her hands, I had caught sight of another bruise. βLet me see the rest of them.β It wasnβt optional. She gasps as my fingers rip apart the rest of the buttons. Her sports bra had seen better days, just the same as her underwear. But it was the bruising I was most concerned about. Bruise upon bruise, scars that had come from whips. Her hip bones and ribs stuck out too. Turning her around, and pulling the dress from her, I find that her back is just the same. Yet interestingly, there was nothing above her chest and nothing below her thighs. Her arms were completely bare of wounds too. There was only one reason why someone would do that. To either hide what they were doing to someone, or to keep up appearances. They didnβt want guests to see. More importantly, they didnβt want me to see, considering the meeting was arranged over a month ago. She fumbles with the dress, pulling it tightly around her thin frame. βYou need to see a doctor.β βItβs β¦..β she trails off when she sees the anger on my face. βIt always heals, eventually.β βDid Trey do this?β I mutter with my teeth gritted and gesture to her body She lowers her blue eyes. βCassandra?β She still doesnβt answer me. βThat prick that follows Trey around? All three of them?β She pulls her dress tighter around her and silently nods. She brings her hand up to her face, brushing her cheek, wiping away an escaped tear. βAnyone else?β βThe pack.β She whispers. βIβm going to kill them all.β Aero growls. He will have to get in line, βBecause of what you allegedly did to your parents.β She nods. βI donβt believe you were responsible.β She tilts her head up towards me, her brow knits together as her eyes finally find mine. βBecause of Blood of Wolfsbane?" Five Neah βIβ¦I donβt know what Blood of Wolfsbane is?β I whisper He frowns at me. βYour brother said you knew the difference between plants.β βIβ¦β I didnβt have an answer. I couldnβt remember, not fully. βBlood of Wolfsbane is Wolfsbane fed by our blood. The leaves will have a red hue to them. I canβt imagine a child would know what it is because it is not freely grown. Your brotherβs story doesnβt add up.β βOh.β βI wonβt stop until I find out who did this, Neah.β His crimson eyes narrow. βI will make them pay for the suffering you have endured.β He sits on the edge of his desk, studying me. βRight now, you do need to see someone about the infection.β I kept my mouth closed, I was still trying to process his news of me being set up. Why had my brother never considered it? βCome, I will show you our bedroom. You can shower before we see the pack doctor.β Frozen to the spot, I donβt move. Did he just say βour bedroom,β? As in, we are sharing a bedroom? I guess he thinks he can mke love with me whenever he wants if Iβm his contract bride. A shiver runs down my spine at the thought. Glancing up, I see him watching me. He is stood at the open door, waiting for me. Ensuring my dress has me covered, I step out into the hallway. No one was around and the hallways were quiet. As we moved, Alpha Dane would tell me what each room was, but he seemed more focussed on getting me to the bedroom. His bedroom is huge, with massive windows, just like the rest of the house. The bed sat pressed up against the wall. All around it, thin drapes hung from the ceiling, but they were tied back at each bed post. What surprised me the most was that the bath and the shower were in the same room. Only the toilet was in a small room to the side of the shower. No privacy, whatsoever. Though, he didnβt seem to care about that. He makes me jump when I feel his warm breath on my skin. βYou donβt need to be afraid.β I may not be able to smell him, but he would be able to scent the changes in my emotions. Crossing the room, he pulls open the glass door to the shower and turns it on. The moment he closes the door, the steam of the shower quickly fogs up the glass. And still, I find myself afraid. He gave me no clue as to what he was expecting from me. βHey,β His rough fingers tip my face up. βItβs just you and me and for now, I will let you shower in peace.β Walking away, he pulls his phone out of his pocket and messes around with it before placing it on the bedside table. βThe alarm is set for ten minutes. I will come back then. I will bring you something to wear so just stay in the towel. Understand?β He stares at me, waiting for an answer and I just nod. A ten minute shower. I was lucky if I got a minute shower back home and the water was always cold. He moves to the door and with his hand resting on the door knob he looks back over his shoulder at me. βI really wish you would talk more, Neah.β Alpha Dane leaves me in peace and I make a mad dash for the shower as if Iβm in some kind of fantasy land and this was all a dream. Maybe it was, maybe I was about to wake up in the basement of my home. The smells of the soaps and shampoos are divine as I lather them into myself. And my hair has never felt so clean. The wound on my stomach stung as the hot water hit it, but I didnβt care, it was worth it. Someone in the room clears their throat and I freeze. Thanking the steam for keeping me semi hidden. βNeah, are you done? The alarm went off five minutes ago.β Alpha Daneβs voice seems louder in here. I had been so caught up in the freedom of a simple shower that I hadnβt even heard the alarm or the Alpha come back into the room. βComing.β I mutter, turning off the water and pulling a towel around me to hide the hideousness underneath. Stepping out, I already see that my ripped dress, underwear and worn sandals had been removed from the floor. Alpha Dane sits on the end of the bed with what looked like folded clothes on his lap and a pair of trainers. βItβs not much, as we donβt have anyone with as small a waist as you.β He smiles as he hands over the clothes. A matching navy blue sweatshirt and joggers. βYou will have to make do without the underwear for now. Should be here first thing tomorrow.β He watches me with a cocked eyebrow as I pull the joggers on and tug the sweatshirt over my head before removing the towel. Maybe he was used to the women parading themselves in front of him, or throwing themselves at him because he has power, but I wasnβt like that. βLetβs go.β He rises to his feet and this time, I follow him. Something told me that if I didnβt get this wound looked at, it would put him in a bad mood. The pack doctor was young, unlike the one back home who was old and afraid to let anyone take over from him. She smiles at us as we enter the pack hospital and rewraps her dark hair into a bun. βRaven, this is Neah.β Alpha Dane introduces me with a grin. I keep my eyes low as I hear Raven say, βAlpha Dane, what seems to be the problem apart from the strange smell she has brought with her.β It didnβt sound like a hurtful comment like I was used to, but more a comment of curiosity. βShe will tell you herself when she finds her tongue.β βI have a wound.β I whisper. βAnd you are not healing?β Raven asks, confused βI donβt have my Wolf.β I hated saying it. It was just a constant reminder that I did not fit in. βHer Wolf was bound when she was a kid.β Alpha Dane tells her. βThatβs why her scent is strange. Her Wolf is there, locked away, waiting to be freed.β My eyes flicker up only to find him staring straight back at me. I had always believed that my Wolf was gone. Not that she was trapped. Ravenβs dark eyes hover on me. βWow, okay.β She grabs my hand. βThis way, letβs take a look at this wound of yours.β She leads me into an empty room and asks me to lay on the bed and to show her my wound. Pulling up the sweatshirt, just enough for her to see the wound. Her eyes widen, a flicker of rage passing over them as she takes in the infected wound and the bruising that surrounds it. Her fingers carefully press around the wound. βHow long ago?β βA few days.β I mutter, though I wasnβt sure. Every beating blurred into another one. Any day that I wasnβt hit was a good day. Raven shakes her head. βThis is longer than a few days ago, the infection has had at least a week to develop.β βNeah, you need to tell us the truth.β Alpha Dane orders βI donβt know.β βNEAH!β His deep voice rumbles through me and I close my eyes, fearing his anger. Anger brought punishment, punishment brought pain. βI swear, I donβt know. The beatings, they happen so often that they just kind ofβ¦. Iβm never not bruised.β Thereβs silence and I was too afraid to open my eyes. Alpha Trey had said it over and over, that if anyone found out, he would make my life a misery, more than it already was. I used to wonder who would ever find out that didnβt already know. Now here I was, sitting in another packβs hospital, revealing the truth. βHeal her!β Alpha Dane shouts after what seems like forever. He storms from the room, pulling a phone out of his pocket. βYou will have to forgive my brother. His temper is short, especially when it comes to things like this.β Raven mutters as she gently inspects my wound βYour brother?β I whisper, opening my eyes βAh, I see he informed you. Iβm guessing he didnβt tell you that Jenson is our brother too?β I shake my head, Iβm guessing Jenson was one of the men that came to my brother's house. She chuckles. βJenson is considered to be our brotherβs Gamma.β βGamma?β I had never heard of the term. βYep and Alpha Dane has a love/hate for me working here. He wants me to represent our family, but he knows this is what Iβm good at.β She grabs a pot of cream from the cupboard. βNow this needs to be applied three times a day. It should clear up the infection, if it hasnβt changed in a couple of days, I will take another look. My brother is waiting for you out front.β βThanks.β I mumble, taking the pot of cream from her. I looked at the label, but couldnβt read it. I had never learned to read. She bobs her head at me as I hurry out to find Alpha Dane on his phone, snapping at someone. He hangs up as soon as he sees me and asks what Raven said. βCream, three times a day.β I show him the pot and he takes it from me. βGood, come.β He strides off and I have to run to keep up with him. I follow him through the house and into the office. βShow me.β He orders, pulling the lid off the pot. It wasnβt going to be negotiable, not when he had used the same tone moments before he ripped my dress open earlier. Slowly lifting my sweatshirt, he crouches down in front of me and gently smothers the wound in the cold cream. βI donβt want you to lie to me, Neah. Not ever. If you canβt remember, that is what you need to tell me. Is that clear? I donβt want to have to guess what you mean.β βOkay.β I couldnβt say anything else, I was too focussed on the warmth of his hands. One presses against my lower back, holding me steady while the other gently rubs cream into my wound. The only touch I had received from another man was a beating. βStop holding your breath.β He tells me, getting to his feet. βI am not going to hurt you.β It seemed impossible to believe given my history. The act, the words coming from him, it just didnβt feel real. | Galaxy in the Story | 301 | https://facebook.com/61555427913037 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717743600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879835 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410728 | 1723321858 | 995 | 480124741257496 | 1 | 1.7277413576323E+15 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 219004054622622 | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | 120209611805750689 | wwwedb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πAttention! Do not read in publicοΌπ | https://wwwedb.com/market/meganovel/13?lpid=11783&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717743552 | 2.1900405462262E+14 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447260728_1518945155389917_2874266976111342341_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=g0H6jXhQP3sQ7kNvgGXGGZL&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYD5RKLxmmvz3_WMQm6M7TyxkgQmm5IfWgwhhyK_F2vFIg&oe=6672BD2F | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447272334_8058147917584464_4203412527007476159_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ookoAxwxG_QQ7kNvgE9thCo&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCeO_9K7nk0lXXIJiyjXCwWONM-nS-S5ZtufKX8Y6JJ9A&oe=6672A008 | 0 | 3 | One Neah βWhere the heck is she?β I hear the Beta scream. I already knew Beta Kyle was talking about me, the only servant of the house. I groan and get to my feet, grabbing the cleaning basket and taking it with me. The moment Beta Kyle sees me, he strides towards me and his hand slices against my cheek. I donβt make a sound. Years of experience has taught me to keep my mouth shut at all times and only speak when spoken too, even if what they are doing to me hurts. βAlpha Trey and I are expecting company and you still have not cleaned the office like you were asked.β Beta Kyle spits at me I nod my head and my hand tightens on the cleaning basket. If I could just find the courage to swing it at his head, it would make my day. I resisted, he was stronger than me and I didnβt need locking up for another week with no food. My stomach already hurt enough. βWe are trying to make a good impression on Alpha Dane. Do you not understand how important it is for us to join ourselves with his pack?!β I donβt answer, I know it's a trick, to try and get me to say something so that he can give himself a reason to punish me. I keep my eyes low so that I didnβt have to look at his face. Alpha Dane, I had only ever heard rumours about him. Words exchanged between the other pack members when I was in the room. From what I gathered, he was a ruthless man, a Wolf feared by others. He didnβt mess around and he had the largest pack. βHe is the Alpha of Black Shadow, the biggest pack in the world, we need him!β Beta Kyle continues. Yet he doesnβt tell me why. We had never been attacked and we had never attacked anyone, so why did we need another pack to help us? He places his hands on my shoulders, digging his nails into my thinning skin and turns me around, kicking me in the but as he shoves me towards the office. βUseless Wolf.β He mutters as he moves away. Quietly closing the door, I lean back against it, observing the already clean office. There was nothing out of place, it looked perfectly fine for a meeting with this so-called powerful Alpha. Closing my eyes, I slide down to the floor. I hated this house. I thought that when I turned eighteen, I could finally escape, but four years later, here I still am, a slave in my own home. Doing all the dirty tasks for my brother, Alpha Trey and the pack. While my ex mate, Beta Kyle waltzes around reminding me of how worthless I am. Someone clears their throat and I freeze, I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair, just around the corner. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of drink. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that donβt quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door as my heart pounded. βIs this the way you greet all Alphaβs?β His deep voice rumbles through the room, there was an edge of amusement to his tone. βIβm sorry.β I whisper, getting to my feet. βIβ¦I thought I was alone.β I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. He doesnβt introduce himself either, why should he? βCome forward.β He orders and I already feel a lump forming in my throat. Alpha Trey was going to finish me. I step around the corner, doing as Iβm told, allowing him to see me properly. I close my eyes, expecting the worst. βYou smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?β I nod, though I couldnβt tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they found out about me. βI would prefer it if you spoke to me.β He growls, βIβm not in the mood to play games.β βYes.β I whisper. I couldnβt help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? βWhy do you smell strange? And how is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.β βIβ¦..β I hated the question. βSpit it out, I havenβt got all day!β He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldnβt scent him. I knew why I hadnβt been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever wanted or liked to do. They never let me tell my side of the story. All they do is laugh and mock me. βYou should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. Itβs rude to not look at them. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?β His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them, there was no way I was making eye contact. βMy Wolf abilities were bound,β I mutter. Twice, I wanted to add. Twice my abilities were bound. But he probably wasnβt interested in that part. He leans forward, carefully placing his glass on the small table next to the chair. I could feel him staring at me, βWhy would someone do that?β If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. βIt was a punishment.β I whisper. It wasnβt far from the entire truth but it was the simplest answer I could give. Thereβs a twitch in his cheek. Was he angry to hear of such a punishment? Or maybe, just like the others, he was amused by it. I couldnβt tell. The door swings open and my brother screeches at me βNeah, what the heck are you doing in my office?β He turns to the crimson eyed man. βI am so sorry that my sister is bothering you, Alpha Dane.β Crap, it was him. My brother spins around, his hand stretching out to hit me. I close my eyes, bracing myself, ready to feel the burn. βI wouldnβt do that if I were you.β Alpha Daneβs voice rumbles through the room. Peeking through slits, I see Alpha Dane has risen to his feet, his hand coiled around my brother's wrist. He was taller than my brother, more muscly too. βNeah,β My name rolls off of his tongue, βwas kindly showing me to your office, Alpha Trey, as you failed to meet me at the front of your house like I requested. I was lucky someone was present, at least someone understands the importance of this deal.β What? I had no idea what he was talking about. And he had no reason to lie for me. My brother glares at me, clenching his jaw tight. I was going to pay for this later. I would have to try and steal some food. βGo and get Beta Kyle.β Alpha Trey seethes. βTell him that our guest is here.β I nod my head and hurry from the room, the last thing I wanted was to be caught between bickering men. βBeta Kyle,β I whisper as I enter the dining hall. He instantly glares at me with his dark eyes. I had spoken without being spoken to. βAlpha Trey is in the office with Alpha Dane. I was sent to inform you.β He slams the newspaper down on the table and glares at me as he walks by. βYouβre lucky that the Alpha sent you to get me, otherwise you wouldn't be seeing sunlight for a few days.β Pausing behind me, he yanks my head back, locking his fingers in my hair, leaning in close to me, I feel his hot breath on my skin. He doesnβt speak, it was just his way of proving that he could do what he wants when he wants. I try to keep myself busy so I can stay as far away from the office as possible. My peace doesnβt last long when I hear my brother calling out to me. Quietly, I pad towards the office and plaster a smile on my face as I open the door. βNeah, go get the champagne and some glasses, we are celebrating.β I bow my head and hurry to the drinks cabinet. Quickly finding what my brother has asked for. As I re-enter the office, I can feel Alpha Dane watching my every move, even the hairs on the back of my neck stand up. No one ever watches me this closely. Approaching the small table by Alpha Danes chair, I start to fill the glasses. He takes the champagne bottle from me, telling me he is more than capable of filling his own glass. I feel my cheeks flame, not from embarrassment, but because I knew that I would be punished for this. I should have been quicker. I should have filled the glasses before entering the office. I should haveβ¦. My brain freezes when I see my brother glaring at me. βNeah is your sister, correct?β Alpha Dane questions my brother. βShe is.β Alpha Trey mutters with disgust. He looks away from me to focus on the man asking questions. βWhy do you treat her like vermin?β Straight to the point, my brother wouldnβt like that. He only liked sharing information on his terms. No one had spoken to my brother about his treatment of me because everyone took great joy in beating me. I didnβt know what to do. I couldnβt move but I knew I had to get out of there. If this deal goes to pot because of me, then that would be my fault too. βNeah was responsible for our parents' death.β Alpha Trey spits I closed my eyes, battling back the tears that were threatening to break free. βResponsible how?β Alpha Daneβs voice rumbles through me. He was definitely angry. βShe served them Wolfsbane.β Two Neah Donβt make a sound. Donβt make a sound. I knew Alpha Dane was studying me. They all did, no one could ever quite believe how someone could do something so disgusting as poisoning their own parents. I stood there, with my head hanging low, wishing for the ground to open up and suck me in. There are movements around me. He was standing directly in front of me. With a rough finger he tilts my face up towards his, forcing me to look at him. Slowly, his hand latches onto my throat but he doesnβt squeeze. βYou poisoned your parents?β βI was six.β I splutter. βI just made them lemonade.β My voice comes out all squeaky as I try to defend myself. I could barely remember my parents, but I could remember all the guilt I had been made to feel since that day. His crimson eyes flash to my brothers. βHardly seems fair to blame a six year old.β βA six year old should know the difference between plants.β Alpha Trey snaps βSounds to me like she was set up.β Alpha Dane shrugs his shoulders, letting go of my throat. βWe all know that standard wolfsbane doesnβt affect us anymore. We evolved from that thing centuries ago.β What? What did he mean? Wolfsbane wasnβt lethal. It had been drummed into me since I could walk. βWhich only leaves Blood of Wolfsbane.β Alpha Dane mutters βYou werenβt there, Alpha Dane.β My brother muttered through gritted teeth as his eyes narrowed to slits. βIt was Wolfsbane.β He nods his head. βYou are right, I was not present.β Great, now there was someone else who could remind me of something I had done by accident, years ago. βBut tell me this, where would a six year old get Blood of Wolfsbane?β βI didnβt ask you here to talk about my slave!β Alpha Trey spits. βOr what happened to my parents.β Alpha Dane grabs his leather jacket from the chair. Unlike other Alphaβs he seemed to dress more casually. A simple black tee and jeans covered his huge frame. And unlike other Alphaβs, his arms are bare of tattoos, not a single bit of ink poked out anywhere. βYouβre right and now I have a few things to mull over.β βI thought we agreed.β My brother exclaims βNothing has been signed. Now I will show myself out.β The moment he is out of the office, both my brother and Beta Kyle round on me. βWhat the heck did you say to him?β My brother demands, slamming a hand into my stomach. βN..nothing. Well, he just asked me why I smelled funny.β βDid you tell him?β Beta Kyle demands. He was practically spitting in my face. I hated him. I hated him so much that I had vowed to one day get my revenge and rip his stomach out through his mouth. βWELL?β My brother yells when I donβt immediately respond and smacks me across the side of the head. My head involuntarily moves up and down. βBut I didnβt say it was you.β I tried to sound strong and confident but it just comes out as a whisper. If they werenβt Wolves, they probably wouldnβt have heard me. My brother's hand locks into my black hair as he yanks my head back, sending a shooting pain through my skull. βIf you have ruined this, you wonβt see daylight again.β He drags me by my hair from the office and down the hallway towards the basement door. βPleaseβ¦.β I beg. βHe was an Alphaβ¦Iβ¦ I had to answer him.β My cheeks burn with my tears as he flings the door open. On the other side of the door is Alpha Dane. He is leaning against the wall with his arms folded, staring out at us. My brother's hand falls from my hair, relieving the pressure on the back of my skull.. βAlpha Dane, I thought you had left.β Alpha Trey murmurs angrily. βI said I would show myself out. I thought I had found the door, but instead I find a basement, riddled in your sister's strange scent. Is this how you treat your family?β βAs I said,β my brother holds his ground, βShe is responsible for the death of my parents, so yes, this is what she deserves.β βYou should keep your nose out of other packs' business!β Beta Kyle adds. Alpha Dane laughs. βIf I agree to this deal, everything about your business becomes my business. So tell me, what would your punishment be for her? No food, locked away for a week, beatings?β βWe donβtβ¦.β βReally?β He cocks a brow, βYou really expect me to believe that you would have just let her sleep? I have already stopped you from hitting her once. " His eyes roam over me. "She is underfed, bags hover under her tired blue eyes. For a sister of an Alpha, she is certainly not treated like one. Regardless of what she allegedly did when she was a pup.β βShe did do it!β Alpha Trey seethes βAnd she has nothing to do with our deal.β βThatβs for me to decide.β His crimson eyes flicker around the hallway. βWhere is your mate? I would be interested to know how she feels about this.β I close my eyes, silently begging my brother not to call his Luna. Luna Cassandra is worse than Beta Kyle and Alpha Trey together. βOn second thoughts, why bother her. Iβm certain she is just as vile as you.β He sneers I peer through slits to see his crimson eyes on me. There was no reason for him to defend me and yet he was. I was a nobody, no one special. Just who everyone called a traitor. Only instead of being given a death sentence, my brother had decided to make me spend my life suffering. βI have a proposition for you, Alpha Trey.β Alpha Dane is smirking at my brother βWe have already agreed on terms.β βWell, Iβm adding one. And if you donβt agree, you will not get my help. Instead, you will become my enemy. And we both know, you donβt want that.β βI take it that your new terms have something to do with her?β Alpha Trey mutters through clenched teeth. βYou would be correct. Let me take her away to my pack and then you, Trey will have a deal.β Me? Why would he want me? As my brother and his Beta discuss me, Alpha Dane is still studying me. His look made me nervous. What could someone like him possibly want with me? βDeal.β Alpha Trey sticks out his hand for Alpha Dane to shake. He doesnβt take it, instead his crimson eyes shift from me to my brother. βI will have paperwork drawn up and will return tomorrow.β He reaches a hand out and cups my face, βEnsure you have everything packed.β He drags his thumb across my bottom lip and strides to the opposite end of the hallway and straight to the front door. He knew exactly where the front door was, so what was he up to? He pauses at the door. βIf I find out any one of you has laid a hand on her. The contract will be the last thing you need to worry about.β He struts out, slamming the door behind him. βGet out of my sight!β My brother snaps at me. Hurrying away, I make my way up the stairs and into my tiny bedroom. It was practically empty, the only things I had were a few changes of clothes. It would take me less than a minute to pack By morning, I hadnβt slept. Alpha Danes questions were on repeat and why was I so interesting to a Wolf like him. There was a reason he had the biggest pack. They were known for their fighting abilities, thatβs why my brother wanted to link Moonshine with Alpha Danes pack, but where did I fit in to all this? And what o earth is Blood of Wolfsbane? Three Dane βTenth brideβs the charm.β Jenson mocks as the driver pulls up in front of Moonshines packhouse. βShut up!β Eric snaps at him βBoth of you shut your mouths. Before you say something you regret!β βHe will never learn.β My wolf, Aero muses. The driver pulls open the door. βJust give me a second, I need to speak to my men.β The door closes and neither one of them speaks. βShe isnβt like the others. Donβt speak to her, donβt look at her. And you Jenson, keep your hands to yourself or you might just lose them this time.β I was more rattled than usual. Neah was different to the previous selected mates. I didnβt know what it was or whether it was because I was used to confident women, but there was something about her. And Aero appeared to like her too, more than any of the others. I had to have her. βI mean it!β I snap at Jenson's smug face, βBeing my brother wonβt change my mind!β He runs his fingers over his lips as though he was zipping them shut. They follow me from the car. Standing in front of the old packhouse, all three of us stare up at it. Because until a month ago, I knew nothing about them and even after my visit, all I had learned was the Alpha is a beast. My knuckles hammer on the door. Itβs barely open an inch when I force myself through making his Beta stumble back. I spot her straight away, hiding herself behind a corner. βAre you ready?β I call out. βIf you just want toβ¦..β Beta Kyle starts. βI was not talking to you. I was speaking to Neah.β The expression on Beta Kyleβs face was a picture. His jaw hung open and his eyes are wide. He clearly had never been told what to do, even by his Alpha. Neah steps out from her hiding spot, clutching a barely full carrier bag. She drags her teeth across her bottom lip and nods her head. βWhere are the rest of your things? I told you everything needs to be packedβ βThatβs all she has.β Trey snorts as he makes his appearance. βThatβs it?β I stare at him. βThatβs all her belongings? Sheβs what, in her early twenties and thatβs all she has?β βWhat more does she need?!β His Beta sneers. βKill him, let me rip out his throat and he will regret the day he crossed us.β βWhat are you waiting for?β I hear a horrible shrill voice that seems to vibrate through the floors. Looking away from the Beta, I see a woman holding on to a statue of herself that sat at the bottom of the stairs. Her blonde hair hung in waves around her face as her green eyes studied me and she sways her hips as she moves to Trey. I noticed Neahβs reaction yesterday. When I asked Trey where his mate was. Her whole body had tensed up in fear. She was afraid of this woman and I wanted to know why. βTake her Alpha Dane. Iβm sure she will be as useful a slave to you as she is to us.β Her shrill voice goes straight through me. βLook at the silly girl, sheβs going to pass out.β The blonde bimbo laughs βYou donβt get to talk about her like that anymore.β I glare at the blonde, βShe is not your toy. She is not your slave and I suggest that you, Alpha Trey keep your wife in check. There is only so much disobedience that I will tolerate.β βDISOBEDIENCE!β The woman screeches just as Neahβs hip hits the floor. βHow dare you! If anyone is disobedient, itβs that rat in the corner.β βWho the heck is she calling a rat?β Aero growls βYou should make yourself familiar with our agreement.β I snap. βIt seems your mate has not told you everything.β Waving Eric forward, he pulls a thick wad of paper from the folder under his arm. The contract that I have drawn up. βAll that for your help?β His mateβs eyes are wide βI donβt do half-witted contracts.β Taking the contract from Eric, I shove it against Treyβs chest βShall we go to the office?β Trey leads the way with his mate clinging on to him and his Beta hurrying behind. My men follow them while I stay behind to check on my new mate. βYou are more than welcome to join us, after all, you are involved in this deal. Or my car is outfront, you can take your stuff and wait there for me.β βAre those my only options?β she whispers, keeping her eyes low βFor now. Personally, I think you should sit in with us. It will give me great pleasure in pissing off that mate of your brothers.β She keeps her blue eyes low as she continues to clutch that bag of hers. This close to her, I could really see how ill she looked. Even her heart beat is slow, like itβs fighting to hang on to life. βSo what will it be?β βIβ¦.β Her head rotates between the front door and the direction of the office. βIβ¦.. The office I guess.β βGood choice.β I hold out a hand for her but she doesnβt take it. Pushing herself up to her feet. She wobbles a little, but steadies herself. Walking a few steps behind her, I see the evil glares she receives from Trey and the other two idiots as she enters the office.. βTake a seat.β I whisper as I walk past her. My hand grazes her lower back and she immediately tenses up. She stands, frozen to the spot. Only her eyes dart about when she shakes her head. βSit!β I say it a little louder βShe doesnβt have that privilege here!β The blonde snaps, with her lips curved up in amusement βSitting is not a privilege.β I growl, wondering what else they were forcing her to do. I couldnβt see any bruises on her arms or legs, a good sign, I hoped. βIt better be!β Aero paces in my head. He wanted her out of this place as much as I did. The blonde physically recoils in her seat. Her mouth falls wide open, shocked that I had said something. βAnd I suggest,β I look at Trey, βYou tell your mate to keep her mouth shut. Or I can shut it for her.β βAlpha Dane, you are in my homeβ¦..β βAnd you want my help, correct?β The three of them were fuming. No one liked being told what to do in their own home, yet they were doing just that to Neah. I point to the empty chair between Jenson and Eric and she finally sits down. βLetβs just get this done.β Trey snaps, βThe sooner she is gone, the happier I can be.β βYou should read the contract.β I muse βI agreed that you could take her as part of our deal.β βIdiot!β Eric murmurs. He knew as well as I did that contracts should be read before they are signed They sign without reading and practically throw the contract back at me. βDone.β Trey mutters βGood, you can get her out of my house.β Treyβs mate screeches. If I had it my way, I would just take Neah, then I wouldnβt have to put up with the twidles, but this way, they canβt have her back. Even if they begged. A contract was a contract and it was impossible for them to get out of. Getting to my feet, I hold a hand out to Neah, βCome, we are leaving this rat hole before I lose my temper.β Her warm fingers slip into my hand as she rises to her feet. Her other hand clutches the bag to her chest as she walks with me to the front door. She doesnβt even look back to say goodbye and that confirmed everything I needed to know. She hated them as much as they hated her. She pauses at the open front door, her hand falling from mine. Her blue eyes are wide as she stares at the limo. βCome.β I instruct Eric and Jenson are standing behind her, watching her curiously. βIs she okay?β Eric links me. βNeah?β I step in front of her and she doesnβt move. She seems to be staring right through me. βItβs time to go.β βOkay.β Her lips barely move She takes a step forward, almost as if she is in slow motion. Her hands grip the door frame, her knuckles turn white as her heartbeat increases. Her lips part a little and her hand falls from the door frame just as her eyes roll to the back of her head. βIβve got you.β I mutter, catching her just before she hits the floor. Her entire body tenses up as I lift her and carry her to the car. She was so weak and was even lighter than I expected. She probably didnβt weigh much more than a small child. Jenson and Eric get in the car first. Jenson cocks his eyebrow at me and has a smirk plastered to his face as I slide in with Neah on my lap. βKeep your thoughts to yourself, Jenson!β I hold her close, listening to her breathe and her heart as it slowed. Letting my fingers comb through her dark hair as she becomes a little more with it. Suddenly, she sits up right, moving away from me and trying to make herself as small as possible. Deciding not to force her to do anything, I keep my attention on my Beta and my brother, talking about pack stuff while casting a glance over to her every so often to make sure she was alright. βCome.β I mutter as the limo comes to a stop. I donβt wait for the driver and get out myself, holding a hand out for her. βIβm fine.β She speaks at last while glancing at the others and shuffles herself forward to the open door. She stares up at my home, gasping a little. It was easily three times the size of her previous home and I hoped that she would be happy here. That I could provide her with a life that was better than her last. βLet me give you a tour.β I suggest as she continues to clutch that carrier bag to her chest. She follows me in, not speaking a word. I had no idea if she was listening to what I was saying or not βThe omegas swap out on a rotational basis. Good for the youngsters to learn some responsibilities before they get proper jobs.β I tell her while showing her the dining hall with a table long enough to fit twenty people around. We move through to the kitchen. Where I point out a board on the wall. βIf there is anything you need, you just add it to the board and it will be ordered in.β Her brow furrows and still she says nothing. Picking up a pen, I smile. Maybe she felt intimidated by me. βSo tell me, what do you need because there is no way you are living under my roof with just the things that are in that bag.β Her dazzling blue eyes dart around the room βWell?β I ask. βI donβt need anything.β She whispers Sighing, I start scribbling things down. Underwear, jeans, workout clothes, dresses, shoes, anything I can think of that will cover her for a few days. Holding the pen between my teeth, I grab her around the waist. My thumbs meet just above her belly button and my fingers touch her spine. She was so thin, how was she even alive? Four Dane She looked like a deer caught in headlights as I write her size down. She was tinier than I thought. Skin and bone. If I had moved my hands up any higher, I would have felt every rib sticking out. It sickened me, she should be strong, powerful, she had Alpha blood running through her veins. I also saw how she scrunched her face up when I measured her. It wasnβt fear, it was pain. She was hiding something underneath the baggy maids dress. βI know you want to say something, so just say it. Iβm not interested in the crap Trey drummed into you. You donβt have to wait until someone asks you a question. You are free to say what you want. Are you injured?" "No." She was lying, I could feel it. She shakes her head as if it would confirm her answer and a lock of her black hair falls from the band that was supposed to be holding it back. Neah was going to be a tough girl to crack. A life of being starved had made her quite protective over herself. I will make Trey pay for what he has done to her. βYou have to say something, Neah. I cannot read your mind. When I mark you, at least I will know what you are feeling.β βMark me?β I didnβt think her eyes could get any wider. βYes, I will mark you.β She was completely and utterly shocked by the idea. Her pink lips part a little as she continues to stare at me. I thought she knew. I thought that was why she came so willingly. My Beta had kept asking me if I was certain I wanted her as my bride. There was no doubt about it, she had a strange scent but something was luring me to her. I couldnβt take my eyes off of her when I first saw her. My Wolf Aero was going mad for her too. Though he hadnβt said a word about her. Annoyed with me for not taking her home with us yesterday. βYouβ¦.You brought me so that you could mark me.β She takes a step back, walking into the kitchen island. She winces a little and quickly covers up her pain, relaxing her face.. βIf Trey had bothered reading the contract, he would have discovered that you are to be my bride, not a slave. He would also have read that if he or his ridiculously silly mate tried doing anything to you going forward, that pack would become mine, or rather, yours. I never bought you, Neah, you were always destined to be mine.β βIβm a murderer.β She gasps. βWhy would someone like you want me for a bride?β βBloodβ Aero growls interrupting my thoughts. I glance down at her baggy dress. A blood stain had appeared right where I had my hands wrapped around her. βWhatβs that? Are you injured?β I demand, I had barely touched her. She covers the stain with her hand. βItβs nothing. Itβs just a cut that I keep knocking and it opens up again. I forget itβs there.β Forget? How could she forget a wound? βWhy isnβt she healing?β I feel Aeroβs panic. βSheβs been with us less than two hours and already she has some form of injury.β His need to protect her was strong. It hadnβt occurred to me that her lack of abilities included not being able to heal. I would have to find someone who could reverse the binding and soon. βShow me!β βItβs fine.β She mumbles I was already so sick of hearing that phrase. βItβs not optional.β I mutter. βIf you wonβt show me, I will have to find a way to look, myself.β Her heart skips a beat. She looks around the kitchen. βCan.... can we go somewhere more private?β βPrivate?β I didnβt really do privacy. What Wolf did?! She bobs her head but still keeps her focus slightly off of me. Almost afraid to look me directly in the eyes. βOffice,β Aero mutters. βI was just going to suggest that!β I snap back at my Wolf. I feel his eyes roll as he retreats to some dark corner of my mind. βThis way.β I gesture to the door. Neah waits for me and follows closely behind. The scent of blood steadily grew stronger, it was more than just a cut. I already knew that. In the office, I hit the remote and the blinds start to drop, blocking out the sunlight. Neah hesitates and slowly begins to unfasten the buttons of the dress but only where the large blood stain was. Keeping everything else covered from me. She pulls the dress to one side. The wound was about four inches long and already fairly infected. βSee, itβs fine.β she whispers. βYou need to stop saying that.β She closes her mouth and starts to fasten the buttons. βNo,β I grabbed her hands, I had caught sight of another bruise. βLet me see the rest of them.β It wasnβt optional. She gasps as my fingers rip apart the rest of the buttons. Her sports bra had seen better days, just the same as her underwear. But it was the bruising I was most concerned about. Bruise upon bruise, scars that had come from whips. Her hip bones and ribs stuck out too. Turning her around, and pulling the dress from her, I find that her back is just the same. Yet interestingly, there was nothing above her chest and nothing below her thighs. Her arms were completely bare of wounds too. There was only one reason why someone would do that. To either hide what they were doing to someone, or to keep up appearances. They didnβt want guests to see. More importantly, they didnβt want me to see, considering the meeting was arranged over a month ago. She fumbles with the dress, pulling it tightly around her thin frame. βYou need to see a doctor.β βItβs β¦..β she trails off when she sees the anger on my face. βIt always heals, eventually.β βDid Trey do this?β I mutter with my teeth gritted and gesture to her body She lowers her blue eyes. βCassandra?β She still doesnβt answer me. βThat prick that follows Trey around? All three of them?β She pulls her dress tighter around her and silently nods. She brings her hand up to her face, brushing her cheek, wiping away an escaped tear. βAnyone else?β βThe pack.β She whispers. βIβm going to kill them all.β Aero growls. He will have to get in line, βBecause of what you allegedly did to your parents.β She nods. βI donβt believe you were responsible.β She tilts her head up towards me, her brow knits together as her eyes finally find mine. βBecause of Blood of Wolfsbane?" Five Neah βIβ¦I donβt know what Blood of Wolfsbane is?β I whisper He frowns at me. βYour brother said you knew the difference between plants.β βIβ¦β I didnβt have an answer. I couldnβt remember, not fully. βBlood of Wolfsbane is Wolfsbane fed by our blood. The leaves will have a red hue to them. I canβt imagine a child would know what it is because it is not freely grown. Your brotherβs story doesnβt add up.β βOh.β βI wonβt stop until I find out who did this, Neah.β His crimson eyes narrow. βI will make them pay for the suffering you have endured.β He sits on the edge of his desk, studying me. βRight now, you do need to see someone about the infection.β I kept my mouth closed, I was still trying to process his news of me being set up. Why had my brother never considered it? βCome, I will show you our bedroom. You can shower before we see the pack doctor.β Frozen to the spot, I donβt move. Did he just say βour bedroom,β? As in, we are sharing a bedroom? I guess he thinks he can mke love with me whenever he wants if Iβm his contract bride. A shiver runs down my spine at the thought. Glancing up, I see him watching me. He is stood at the open door, waiting for me. Ensuring my dress has me covered, I step out into the hallway. No one was around and the hallways were quiet. As we moved, Alpha Dane would tell me what each room was, but he seemed more focussed on getting me to the bedroom. His bedroom is huge, with massive windows, just like the rest of the house. The bed sat pressed up against the wall. All around it, thin drapes hung from the ceiling, but they were tied back at each bed post. What surprised me the most was that the bath and the shower were in the same room. Only the toilet was in a small room to the side of the shower. No privacy, whatsoever. Though, he didnβt seem to care about that. He makes me jump when I feel his warm breath on my skin. βYou donβt need to be afraid.β I may not be able to smell him, but he would be able to scent the changes in my emotions. Crossing the room, he pulls open the glass door to the shower and turns it on. The moment he closes the door, the steam of the shower quickly fogs up the glass. And still, I find myself afraid. He gave me no clue as to what he was expecting from me. βHey,β His rough fingers tip my face up. βItβs just you and me and for now, I will let you shower in peace.β Walking away, he pulls his phone out of his pocket and messes around with it before placing it on the bedside table. βThe alarm is set for ten minutes. I will come back then. I will bring you something to wear so just stay in the towel. Understand?β He stares at me, waiting for an answer and I just nod. A ten minute shower. I was lucky if I got a minute shower back home and the water was always cold. He moves to the door and with his hand resting on the door knob he looks back over his shoulder at me. βI really wish you would talk more, Neah.β Alpha Dane leaves me in peace and I make a mad dash for the shower as if Iβm in some kind of fantasy land and this was all a dream. Maybe it was, maybe I was about to wake up in the basement of my home. The smells of the soaps and shampoos are divine as I lather them into myself. And my hair has never felt so clean. The wound on my stomach stung as the hot water hit it, but I didnβt care, it was worth it. Someone in the room clears their throat and I freeze. Thanking the steam for keeping me semi hidden. βNeah, are you done? The alarm went off five minutes ago.β Alpha Daneβs voice seems louder in here. I had been so caught up in the freedom of a simple shower that I hadnβt even heard the alarm or the Alpha come back into the room. βComing.β I mutter, turning off the water and pulling a towel around me to hide the hideousness underneath. Stepping out, I already see that my ripped dress, underwear and worn sandals had been removed from the floor. Alpha Dane sits on the end of the bed with what looked like folded clothes on his lap and a pair of trainers. βItβs not much, as we donβt have anyone with as small a waist as you.β He smiles as he hands over the clothes. A matching navy blue sweatshirt and joggers. βYou will have to make do without the underwear for now. Should be here first thing tomorrow.β He watches me with a cocked eyebrow as I pull the joggers on and tug the sweatshirt over my head before removing the towel. Maybe he was used to the women parading themselves in front of him, or throwing themselves at him because he has power, but I wasnβt like that. βLetβs go.β He rises to his feet and this time, I follow him. Something told me that if I didnβt get this wound looked at, it would put him in a bad mood. The pack doctor was young, unlike the one back home who was old and afraid to let anyone take over from him. She smiles at us as we enter the pack hospital and rewraps her dark hair into a bun. βRaven, this is Neah.β Alpha Dane introduces me with a grin. I keep my eyes low as I hear Raven say, βAlpha Dane, what seems to be the problem apart from the strange smell she has brought with her.β It didnβt sound like a hurtful comment like I was used to, but more a comment of curiosity. βShe will tell you herself when she finds her tongue.β βI have a wound.β I whisper. βAnd you are not healing?β Raven asks, confused βI donβt have my Wolf.β I hated saying it. It was just a constant reminder that I did not fit in. βHer Wolf was bound when she was a kid.β Alpha Dane tells her. βThatβs why her scent is strange. Her Wolf is there, locked away, waiting to be freed.β My eyes flicker up only to find him staring straight back at me. I had always believed that my Wolf was gone. Not that she was trapped. Ravenβs dark eyes hover on me. βWow, okay.β She grabs my hand. βThis way, letβs take a look at this wound of yours.β She leads me into an empty room and asks me to lay on the bed and to show her my wound. Pulling up the sweatshirt, just enough for her to see the wound. Her eyes widen, a flicker of rage passing over them as she takes in the infected wound and the bruising that surrounds it. Her fingers carefully press around the wound. βHow long ago?β βA few days.β I mutter, though I wasnβt sure. Every beating blurred into another one. Any day that I wasnβt hit was a good day. Raven shakes her head. βThis is longer than a few days ago, the infection has had at least a week to develop.β βNeah, you need to tell us the truth.β Alpha Dane orders βI donβt know.β βNEAH!β His deep voice rumbles through me and I close my eyes, fearing his anger. Anger brought punishment, punishment brought pain. βI swear, I donβt know. The beatings, they happen so often that they just kind ofβ¦. Iβm never not bruised.β Thereβs silence and I was too afraid to open my eyes. Alpha Trey had said it over and over, that if anyone found out, he would make my life a misery, more than it already was. I used to wonder who would ever find out that didnβt already know. Now here I was, sitting in another packβs hospital, revealing the truth. βHeal her!β Alpha Dane shouts after what seems like forever. He storms from the room, pulling a phone out of his pocket. βYou will have to forgive my brother. His temper is short, especially when it comes to things like this.β Raven mutters as she gently inspects my wound βYour brother?β I whisper, opening my eyes βAh, I see he informed you. Iβm guessing he didnβt tell you that Jenson is our brother too?β I shake my head, Iβm guessing Jenson was one of the men that came to my brother's house. She chuckles. βJenson is considered to be our brotherβs Gamma.β βGamma?β I had never heard of the term. βYep and Alpha Dane has a love/hate for me working here. He wants me to represent our family, but he knows this is what Iβm good at.β She grabs a pot of cream from the cupboard. βNow this needs to be applied three times a day. It should clear up the infection, if it hasnβt changed in a couple of days, I will take another look. My brother is waiting for you out front.β βThanks.β I mumble, taking the pot of cream from her. I looked at the label, but couldnβt read it. I had never learned to read. She bobs her head at me as I hurry out to find Alpha Dane on his phone, snapping at someone. He hangs up as soon as he sees me and asks what Raven said. βCream, three times a day.β I show him the pot and he takes it from me. βGood, come.β He strides off and I have to run to keep up with him. I follow him through the house and into the office. βShow me.β He orders, pulling the lid off the pot. It wasnβt going to be negotiable, not when he had used the same tone moments before he ripped my dress open earlier. Slowly lifting my sweatshirt, he crouches down in front of me and gently smothers the wound in the cold cream. βI donβt want you to lie to me, Neah. Not ever. If you canβt remember, that is what you need to tell me. Is that clear? I donβt want to have to guess what you mean.β βOkay.β I couldnβt say anything else, I was too focussed on the warmth of his hands. One presses against my lower back, holding me steady while the other gently rubs cream into my wound. The only touch I had received from another man was a beating. βStop holding your breath.β He tells me, getting to his feet. βI am not going to hurt you.β It seemed impossible to believe given my history. The act, the words coming from him, it just didnβt feel real. | Galaxy in the Story | 301 | https://facebook.com/61555427913037 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717743600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879836 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410729 | 1723321858 | 995 | 480124741257496 | 1 | 1.7277413576323E+15 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 219004054622622 | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | 120209611805750689 | wwwedb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πAttention! Do not read in publicοΌπ | https://wwwedb.com/market/meganovel/13?lpid=11783&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717743552 | 2.1900405462262E+14 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447260728_1518945155389917_2874266976111342341_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=g0H6jXhQP3sQ7kNvgGXGGZL&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYD5RKLxmmvz3_WMQm6M7TyxkgQmm5IfWgwhhyK_F2vFIg&oe=6672BD2F | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447272334_8058147917584464_4203412527007476159_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ookoAxwxG_QQ7kNvgE9thCo&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCeO_9K7nk0lXXIJiyjXCwWONM-nS-S5ZtufKX8Y6JJ9A&oe=6672A008 | 0 | 3 | One Neah βWhere the heck is she?β I hear the Beta scream. I already knew Beta Kyle was talking about me, the only servant of the house. I groan and get to my feet, grabbing the cleaning basket and taking it with me. The moment Beta Kyle sees me, he strides towards me and his hand slices against my cheek. I donβt make a sound. Years of experience has taught me to keep my mouth shut at all times and only speak when spoken too, even if what they are doing to me hurts. βAlpha Trey and I are expecting company and you still have not cleaned the office like you were asked.β Beta Kyle spits at me I nod my head and my hand tightens on the cleaning basket. If I could just find the courage to swing it at his head, it would make my day. I resisted, he was stronger than me and I didnβt need locking up for another week with no food. My stomach already hurt enough. βWe are trying to make a good impression on Alpha Dane. Do you not understand how important it is for us to join ourselves with his pack?!β I donβt answer, I know it's a trick, to try and get me to say something so that he can give himself a reason to punish me. I keep my eyes low so that I didnβt have to look at his face. Alpha Dane, I had only ever heard rumours about him. Words exchanged between the other pack members when I was in the room. From what I gathered, he was a ruthless man, a Wolf feared by others. He didnβt mess around and he had the largest pack. βHe is the Alpha of Black Shadow, the biggest pack in the world, we need him!β Beta Kyle continues. Yet he doesnβt tell me why. We had never been attacked and we had never attacked anyone, so why did we need another pack to help us? He places his hands on my shoulders, digging his nails into my thinning skin and turns me around, kicking me in the but as he shoves me towards the office. βUseless Wolf.β He mutters as he moves away. Quietly closing the door, I lean back against it, observing the already clean office. There was nothing out of place, it looked perfectly fine for a meeting with this so-called powerful Alpha. Closing my eyes, I slide down to the floor. I hated this house. I thought that when I turned eighteen, I could finally escape, but four years later, here I still am, a slave in my own home. Doing all the dirty tasks for my brother, Alpha Trey and the pack. While my ex mate, Beta Kyle waltzes around reminding me of how worthless I am. Someone clears their throat and I freeze, I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair, just around the corner. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of drink. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that donβt quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door as my heart pounded. βIs this the way you greet all Alphaβs?β His deep voice rumbles through the room, there was an edge of amusement to his tone. βIβm sorry.β I whisper, getting to my feet. βIβ¦I thought I was alone.β I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. He doesnβt introduce himself either, why should he? βCome forward.β He orders and I already feel a lump forming in my throat. Alpha Trey was going to finish me. I step around the corner, doing as Iβm told, allowing him to see me properly. I close my eyes, expecting the worst. βYou smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?β I nod, though I couldnβt tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they found out about me. βI would prefer it if you spoke to me.β He growls, βIβm not in the mood to play games.β βYes.β I whisper. I couldnβt help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? βWhy do you smell strange? And how is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.β βIβ¦..β I hated the question. βSpit it out, I havenβt got all day!β He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldnβt scent him. I knew why I hadnβt been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever wanted or liked to do. They never let me tell my side of the story. All they do is laugh and mock me. βYou should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. Itβs rude to not look at them. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?β His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them, there was no way I was making eye contact. βMy Wolf abilities were bound,β I mutter. Twice, I wanted to add. Twice my abilities were bound. But he probably wasnβt interested in that part. He leans forward, carefully placing his glass on the small table next to the chair. I could feel him staring at me, βWhy would someone do that?β If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. βIt was a punishment.β I whisper. It wasnβt far from the entire truth but it was the simplest answer I could give. Thereβs a twitch in his cheek. Was he angry to hear of such a punishment? Or maybe, just like the others, he was amused by it. I couldnβt tell. The door swings open and my brother screeches at me βNeah, what the heck are you doing in my office?β He turns to the crimson eyed man. βI am so sorry that my sister is bothering you, Alpha Dane.β Crap, it was him. My brother spins around, his hand stretching out to hit me. I close my eyes, bracing myself, ready to feel the burn. βI wouldnβt do that if I were you.β Alpha Daneβs voice rumbles through the room. Peeking through slits, I see Alpha Dane has risen to his feet, his hand coiled around my brother's wrist. He was taller than my brother, more muscly too. βNeah,β My name rolls off of his tongue, βwas kindly showing me to your office, Alpha Trey, as you failed to meet me at the front of your house like I requested. I was lucky someone was present, at least someone understands the importance of this deal.β What? I had no idea what he was talking about. And he had no reason to lie for me. My brother glares at me, clenching his jaw tight. I was going to pay for this later. I would have to try and steal some food. βGo and get Beta Kyle.β Alpha Trey seethes. βTell him that our guest is here.β I nod my head and hurry from the room, the last thing I wanted was to be caught between bickering men. βBeta Kyle,β I whisper as I enter the dining hall. He instantly glares at me with his dark eyes. I had spoken without being spoken to. βAlpha Trey is in the office with Alpha Dane. I was sent to inform you.β He slams the newspaper down on the table and glares at me as he walks by. βYouβre lucky that the Alpha sent you to get me, otherwise you wouldn't be seeing sunlight for a few days.β Pausing behind me, he yanks my head back, locking his fingers in my hair, leaning in close to me, I feel his hot breath on my skin. He doesnβt speak, it was just his way of proving that he could do what he wants when he wants. I try to keep myself busy so I can stay as far away from the office as possible. My peace doesnβt last long when I hear my brother calling out to me. Quietly, I pad towards the office and plaster a smile on my face as I open the door. βNeah, go get the champagne and some glasses, we are celebrating.β I bow my head and hurry to the drinks cabinet. Quickly finding what my brother has asked for. As I re-enter the office, I can feel Alpha Dane watching my every move, even the hairs on the back of my neck stand up. No one ever watches me this closely. Approaching the small table by Alpha Danes chair, I start to fill the glasses. He takes the champagne bottle from me, telling me he is more than capable of filling his own glass. I feel my cheeks flame, not from embarrassment, but because I knew that I would be punished for this. I should have been quicker. I should have filled the glasses before entering the office. I should haveβ¦. My brain freezes when I see my brother glaring at me. βNeah is your sister, correct?β Alpha Dane questions my brother. βShe is.β Alpha Trey mutters with disgust. He looks away from me to focus on the man asking questions. βWhy do you treat her like vermin?β Straight to the point, my brother wouldnβt like that. He only liked sharing information on his terms. No one had spoken to my brother about his treatment of me because everyone took great joy in beating me. I didnβt know what to do. I couldnβt move but I knew I had to get out of there. If this deal goes to pot because of me, then that would be my fault too. βNeah was responsible for our parents' death.β Alpha Trey spits I closed my eyes, battling back the tears that were threatening to break free. βResponsible how?β Alpha Daneβs voice rumbles through me. He was definitely angry. βShe served them Wolfsbane.β Two Neah Donβt make a sound. Donβt make a sound. I knew Alpha Dane was studying me. They all did, no one could ever quite believe how someone could do something so disgusting as poisoning their own parents. I stood there, with my head hanging low, wishing for the ground to open up and suck me in. There are movements around me. He was standing directly in front of me. With a rough finger he tilts my face up towards his, forcing me to look at him. Slowly, his hand latches onto my throat but he doesnβt squeeze. βYou poisoned your parents?β βI was six.β I splutter. βI just made them lemonade.β My voice comes out all squeaky as I try to defend myself. I could barely remember my parents, but I could remember all the guilt I had been made to feel since that day. His crimson eyes flash to my brothers. βHardly seems fair to blame a six year old.β βA six year old should know the difference between plants.β Alpha Trey snaps βSounds to me like she was set up.β Alpha Dane shrugs his shoulders, letting go of my throat. βWe all know that standard wolfsbane doesnβt affect us anymore. We evolved from that thing centuries ago.β What? What did he mean? Wolfsbane wasnβt lethal. It had been drummed into me since I could walk. βWhich only leaves Blood of Wolfsbane.β Alpha Dane mutters βYou werenβt there, Alpha Dane.β My brother muttered through gritted teeth as his eyes narrowed to slits. βIt was Wolfsbane.β He nods his head. βYou are right, I was not present.β Great, now there was someone else who could remind me of something I had done by accident, years ago. βBut tell me this, where would a six year old get Blood of Wolfsbane?β βI didnβt ask you here to talk about my slave!β Alpha Trey spits. βOr what happened to my parents.β Alpha Dane grabs his leather jacket from the chair. Unlike other Alphaβs he seemed to dress more casually. A simple black tee and jeans covered his huge frame. And unlike other Alphaβs, his arms are bare of tattoos, not a single bit of ink poked out anywhere. βYouβre right and now I have a few things to mull over.β βI thought we agreed.β My brother exclaims βNothing has been signed. Now I will show myself out.β The moment he is out of the office, both my brother and Beta Kyle round on me. βWhat the heck did you say to him?β My brother demands, slamming a hand into my stomach. βN..nothing. Well, he just asked me why I smelled funny.β βDid you tell him?β Beta Kyle demands. He was practically spitting in my face. I hated him. I hated him so much that I had vowed to one day get my revenge and rip his stomach out through his mouth. βWELL?β My brother yells when I donβt immediately respond and smacks me across the side of the head. My head involuntarily moves up and down. βBut I didnβt say it was you.β I tried to sound strong and confident but it just comes out as a whisper. If they werenβt Wolves, they probably wouldnβt have heard me. My brother's hand locks into my black hair as he yanks my head back, sending a shooting pain through my skull. βIf you have ruined this, you wonβt see daylight again.β He drags me by my hair from the office and down the hallway towards the basement door. βPleaseβ¦.β I beg. βHe was an Alphaβ¦Iβ¦ I had to answer him.β My cheeks burn with my tears as he flings the door open. On the other side of the door is Alpha Dane. He is leaning against the wall with his arms folded, staring out at us. My brother's hand falls from my hair, relieving the pressure on the back of my skull.. βAlpha Dane, I thought you had left.β Alpha Trey murmurs angrily. βI said I would show myself out. I thought I had found the door, but instead I find a basement, riddled in your sister's strange scent. Is this how you treat your family?β βAs I said,β my brother holds his ground, βShe is responsible for the death of my parents, so yes, this is what she deserves.β βYou should keep your nose out of other packs' business!β Beta Kyle adds. Alpha Dane laughs. βIf I agree to this deal, everything about your business becomes my business. So tell me, what would your punishment be for her? No food, locked away for a week, beatings?β βWe donβtβ¦.β βReally?β He cocks a brow, βYou really expect me to believe that you would have just let her sleep? I have already stopped you from hitting her once. " His eyes roam over me. "She is underfed, bags hover under her tired blue eyes. For a sister of an Alpha, she is certainly not treated like one. Regardless of what she allegedly did when she was a pup.β βShe did do it!β Alpha Trey seethes βAnd she has nothing to do with our deal.β βThatβs for me to decide.β His crimson eyes flicker around the hallway. βWhere is your mate? I would be interested to know how she feels about this.β I close my eyes, silently begging my brother not to call his Luna. Luna Cassandra is worse than Beta Kyle and Alpha Trey together. βOn second thoughts, why bother her. Iβm certain she is just as vile as you.β He sneers I peer through slits to see his crimson eyes on me. There was no reason for him to defend me and yet he was. I was a nobody, no one special. Just who everyone called a traitor. Only instead of being given a death sentence, my brother had decided to make me spend my life suffering. βI have a proposition for you, Alpha Trey.β Alpha Dane is smirking at my brother βWe have already agreed on terms.β βWell, Iβm adding one. And if you donβt agree, you will not get my help. Instead, you will become my enemy. And we both know, you donβt want that.β βI take it that your new terms have something to do with her?β Alpha Trey mutters through clenched teeth. βYou would be correct. Let me take her away to my pack and then you, Trey will have a deal.β Me? Why would he want me? As my brother and his Beta discuss me, Alpha Dane is still studying me. His look made me nervous. What could someone like him possibly want with me? βDeal.β Alpha Trey sticks out his hand for Alpha Dane to shake. He doesnβt take it, instead his crimson eyes shift from me to my brother. βI will have paperwork drawn up and will return tomorrow.β He reaches a hand out and cups my face, βEnsure you have everything packed.β He drags his thumb across my bottom lip and strides to the opposite end of the hallway and straight to the front door. He knew exactly where the front door was, so what was he up to? He pauses at the door. βIf I find out any one of you has laid a hand on her. The contract will be the last thing you need to worry about.β He struts out, slamming the door behind him. βGet out of my sight!β My brother snaps at me. Hurrying away, I make my way up the stairs and into my tiny bedroom. It was practically empty, the only things I had were a few changes of clothes. It would take me less than a minute to pack By morning, I hadnβt slept. Alpha Danes questions were on repeat and why was I so interesting to a Wolf like him. There was a reason he had the biggest pack. They were known for their fighting abilities, thatβs why my brother wanted to link Moonshine with Alpha Danes pack, but where did I fit in to all this? And what o earth is Blood of Wolfsbane? Three Dane βTenth brideβs the charm.β Jenson mocks as the driver pulls up in front of Moonshines packhouse. βShut up!β Eric snaps at him βBoth of you shut your mouths. Before you say something you regret!β βHe will never learn.β My wolf, Aero muses. The driver pulls open the door. βJust give me a second, I need to speak to my men.β The door closes and neither one of them speaks. βShe isnβt like the others. Donβt speak to her, donβt look at her. And you Jenson, keep your hands to yourself or you might just lose them this time.β I was more rattled than usual. Neah was different to the previous selected mates. I didnβt know what it was or whether it was because I was used to confident women, but there was something about her. And Aero appeared to like her too, more than any of the others. I had to have her. βI mean it!β I snap at Jenson's smug face, βBeing my brother wonβt change my mind!β He runs his fingers over his lips as though he was zipping them shut. They follow me from the car. Standing in front of the old packhouse, all three of us stare up at it. Because until a month ago, I knew nothing about them and even after my visit, all I had learned was the Alpha is a beast. My knuckles hammer on the door. Itβs barely open an inch when I force myself through making his Beta stumble back. I spot her straight away, hiding herself behind a corner. βAre you ready?β I call out. βIf you just want toβ¦..β Beta Kyle starts. βI was not talking to you. I was speaking to Neah.β The expression on Beta Kyleβs face was a picture. His jaw hung open and his eyes are wide. He clearly had never been told what to do, even by his Alpha. Neah steps out from her hiding spot, clutching a barely full carrier bag. She drags her teeth across her bottom lip and nods her head. βWhere are the rest of your things? I told you everything needs to be packedβ βThatβs all she has.β Trey snorts as he makes his appearance. βThatβs it?β I stare at him. βThatβs all her belongings? Sheβs what, in her early twenties and thatβs all she has?β βWhat more does she need?!β His Beta sneers. βKill him, let me rip out his throat and he will regret the day he crossed us.β βWhat are you waiting for?β I hear a horrible shrill voice that seems to vibrate through the floors. Looking away from the Beta, I see a woman holding on to a statue of herself that sat at the bottom of the stairs. Her blonde hair hung in waves around her face as her green eyes studied me and she sways her hips as she moves to Trey. I noticed Neahβs reaction yesterday. When I asked Trey where his mate was. Her whole body had tensed up in fear. She was afraid of this woman and I wanted to know why. βTake her Alpha Dane. Iβm sure she will be as useful a slave to you as she is to us.β Her shrill voice goes straight through me. βLook at the silly girl, sheβs going to pass out.β The blonde bimbo laughs βYou donβt get to talk about her like that anymore.β I glare at the blonde, βShe is not your toy. She is not your slave and I suggest that you, Alpha Trey keep your wife in check. There is only so much disobedience that I will tolerate.β βDISOBEDIENCE!β The woman screeches just as Neahβs hip hits the floor. βHow dare you! If anyone is disobedient, itβs that rat in the corner.β βWho the heck is she calling a rat?β Aero growls βYou should make yourself familiar with our agreement.β I snap. βIt seems your mate has not told you everything.β Waving Eric forward, he pulls a thick wad of paper from the folder under his arm. The contract that I have drawn up. βAll that for your help?β His mateβs eyes are wide βI donβt do half-witted contracts.β Taking the contract from Eric, I shove it against Treyβs chest βShall we go to the office?β Trey leads the way with his mate clinging on to him and his Beta hurrying behind. My men follow them while I stay behind to check on my new mate. βYou are more than welcome to join us, after all, you are involved in this deal. Or my car is outfront, you can take your stuff and wait there for me.β βAre those my only options?β she whispers, keeping her eyes low βFor now. Personally, I think you should sit in with us. It will give me great pleasure in pissing off that mate of your brothers.β She keeps her blue eyes low as she continues to clutch that bag of hers. This close to her, I could really see how ill she looked. Even her heart beat is slow, like itβs fighting to hang on to life. βSo what will it be?β βIβ¦.β Her head rotates between the front door and the direction of the office. βIβ¦.. The office I guess.β βGood choice.β I hold out a hand for her but she doesnβt take it. Pushing herself up to her feet. She wobbles a little, but steadies herself. Walking a few steps behind her, I see the evil glares she receives from Trey and the other two idiots as she enters the office.. βTake a seat.β I whisper as I walk past her. My hand grazes her lower back and she immediately tenses up. She stands, frozen to the spot. Only her eyes dart about when she shakes her head. βSit!β I say it a little louder βShe doesnβt have that privilege here!β The blonde snaps, with her lips curved up in amusement βSitting is not a privilege.β I growl, wondering what else they were forcing her to do. I couldnβt see any bruises on her arms or legs, a good sign, I hoped. βIt better be!β Aero paces in my head. He wanted her out of this place as much as I did. The blonde physically recoils in her seat. Her mouth falls wide open, shocked that I had said something. βAnd I suggest,β I look at Trey, βYou tell your mate to keep her mouth shut. Or I can shut it for her.β βAlpha Dane, you are in my homeβ¦..β βAnd you want my help, correct?β The three of them were fuming. No one liked being told what to do in their own home, yet they were doing just that to Neah. I point to the empty chair between Jenson and Eric and she finally sits down. βLetβs just get this done.β Trey snaps, βThe sooner she is gone, the happier I can be.β βYou should read the contract.β I muse βI agreed that you could take her as part of our deal.β βIdiot!β Eric murmurs. He knew as well as I did that contracts should be read before they are signed They sign without reading and practically throw the contract back at me. βDone.β Trey mutters βGood, you can get her out of my house.β Treyβs mate screeches. If I had it my way, I would just take Neah, then I wouldnβt have to put up with the twidles, but this way, they canβt have her back. Even if they begged. A contract was a contract and it was impossible for them to get out of. Getting to my feet, I hold a hand out to Neah, βCome, we are leaving this rat hole before I lose my temper.β Her warm fingers slip into my hand as she rises to her feet. Her other hand clutches the bag to her chest as she walks with me to the front door. She doesnβt even look back to say goodbye and that confirmed everything I needed to know. She hated them as much as they hated her. She pauses at the open front door, her hand falling from mine. Her blue eyes are wide as she stares at the limo. βCome.β I instruct Eric and Jenson are standing behind her, watching her curiously. βIs she okay?β Eric links me. βNeah?β I step in front of her and she doesnβt move. She seems to be staring right through me. βItβs time to go.β βOkay.β Her lips barely move She takes a step forward, almost as if she is in slow motion. Her hands grip the door frame, her knuckles turn white as her heartbeat increases. Her lips part a little and her hand falls from the door frame just as her eyes roll to the back of her head. βIβve got you.β I mutter, catching her just before she hits the floor. Her entire body tenses up as I lift her and carry her to the car. She was so weak and was even lighter than I expected. She probably didnβt weigh much more than a small child. Jenson and Eric get in the car first. Jenson cocks his eyebrow at me and has a smirk plastered to his face as I slide in with Neah on my lap. βKeep your thoughts to yourself, Jenson!β I hold her close, listening to her breathe and her heart as it slowed. Letting my fingers comb through her dark hair as she becomes a little more with it. Suddenly, she sits up right, moving away from me and trying to make herself as small as possible. Deciding not to force her to do anything, I keep my attention on my Beta and my brother, talking about pack stuff while casting a glance over to her every so often to make sure she was alright. βCome.β I mutter as the limo comes to a stop. I donβt wait for the driver and get out myself, holding a hand out for her. βIβm fine.β She speaks at last while glancing at the others and shuffles herself forward to the open door. She stares up at my home, gasping a little. It was easily three times the size of her previous home and I hoped that she would be happy here. That I could provide her with a life that was better than her last. βLet me give you a tour.β I suggest as she continues to clutch that carrier bag to her chest. She follows me in, not speaking a word. I had no idea if she was listening to what I was saying or not βThe omegas swap out on a rotational basis. Good for the youngsters to learn some responsibilities before they get proper jobs.β I tell her while showing her the dining hall with a table long enough to fit twenty people around. We move through to the kitchen. Where I point out a board on the wall. βIf there is anything you need, you just add it to the board and it will be ordered in.β Her brow furrows and still she says nothing. Picking up a pen, I smile. Maybe she felt intimidated by me. βSo tell me, what do you need because there is no way you are living under my roof with just the things that are in that bag.β Her dazzling blue eyes dart around the room βWell?β I ask. βI donβt need anything.β She whispers Sighing, I start scribbling things down. Underwear, jeans, workout clothes, dresses, shoes, anything I can think of that will cover her for a few days. Holding the pen between my teeth, I grab her around the waist. My thumbs meet just above her belly button and my fingers touch her spine. She was so thin, how was she even alive? Four Dane She looked like a deer caught in headlights as I write her size down. She was tinier than I thought. Skin and bone. If I had moved my hands up any higher, I would have felt every rib sticking out. It sickened me, she should be strong, powerful, she had Alpha blood running through her veins. I also saw how she scrunched her face up when I measured her. It wasnβt fear, it was pain. She was hiding something underneath the baggy maids dress. βI know you want to say something, so just say it. Iβm not interested in the crap Trey drummed into you. You donβt have to wait until someone asks you a question. You are free to say what you want. Are you injured?" "No." She was lying, I could feel it. She shakes her head as if it would confirm her answer and a lock of her black hair falls from the band that was supposed to be holding it back. Neah was going to be a tough girl to crack. A life of being starved had made her quite protective over herself. I will make Trey pay for what he has done to her. βYou have to say something, Neah. I cannot read your mind. When I mark you, at least I will know what you are feeling.β βMark me?β I didnβt think her eyes could get any wider. βYes, I will mark you.β She was completely and utterly shocked by the idea. Her pink lips part a little as she continues to stare at me. I thought she knew. I thought that was why she came so willingly. My Beta had kept asking me if I was certain I wanted her as my bride. There was no doubt about it, she had a strange scent but something was luring me to her. I couldnβt take my eyes off of her when I first saw her. My Wolf Aero was going mad for her too. Though he hadnβt said a word about her. Annoyed with me for not taking her home with us yesterday. βYouβ¦.You brought me so that you could mark me.β She takes a step back, walking into the kitchen island. She winces a little and quickly covers up her pain, relaxing her face.. βIf Trey had bothered reading the contract, he would have discovered that you are to be my bride, not a slave. He would also have read that if he or his ridiculously silly mate tried doing anything to you going forward, that pack would become mine, or rather, yours. I never bought you, Neah, you were always destined to be mine.β βIβm a murderer.β She gasps. βWhy would someone like you want me for a bride?β βBloodβ Aero growls interrupting my thoughts. I glance down at her baggy dress. A blood stain had appeared right where I had my hands wrapped around her. βWhatβs that? Are you injured?β I demand, I had barely touched her. She covers the stain with her hand. βItβs nothing. Itβs just a cut that I keep knocking and it opens up again. I forget itβs there.β Forget? How could she forget a wound? βWhy isnβt she healing?β I feel Aeroβs panic. βSheβs been with us less than two hours and already she has some form of injury.β His need to protect her was strong. It hadnβt occurred to me that her lack of abilities included not being able to heal. I would have to find someone who could reverse the binding and soon. βShow me!β βItβs fine.β She mumbles I was already so sick of hearing that phrase. βItβs not optional.β I mutter. βIf you wonβt show me, I will have to find a way to look, myself.β Her heart skips a beat. She looks around the kitchen. βCan.... can we go somewhere more private?β βPrivate?β I didnβt really do privacy. What Wolf did?! She bobs her head but still keeps her focus slightly off of me. Almost afraid to look me directly in the eyes. βOffice,β Aero mutters. βI was just going to suggest that!β I snap back at my Wolf. I feel his eyes roll as he retreats to some dark corner of my mind. βThis way.β I gesture to the door. Neah waits for me and follows closely behind. The scent of blood steadily grew stronger, it was more than just a cut. I already knew that. In the office, I hit the remote and the blinds start to drop, blocking out the sunlight. Neah hesitates and slowly begins to unfasten the buttons of the dress but only where the large blood stain was. Keeping everything else covered from me. She pulls the dress to one side. The wound was about four inches long and already fairly infected. βSee, itβs fine.β she whispers. βYou need to stop saying that.β She closes her mouth and starts to fasten the buttons. βNo,β I grabbed her hands, I had caught sight of another bruise. βLet me see the rest of them.β It wasnβt optional. She gasps as my fingers rip apart the rest of the buttons. Her sports bra had seen better days, just the same as her underwear. But it was the bruising I was most concerned about. Bruise upon bruise, scars that had come from whips. Her hip bones and ribs stuck out too. Turning her around, and pulling the dress from her, I find that her back is just the same. Yet interestingly, there was nothing above her chest and nothing below her thighs. Her arms were completely bare of wounds too. There was only one reason why someone would do that. To either hide what they were doing to someone, or to keep up appearances. They didnβt want guests to see. More importantly, they didnβt want me to see, considering the meeting was arranged over a month ago. She fumbles with the dress, pulling it tightly around her thin frame. βYou need to see a doctor.β βItβs β¦..β she trails off when she sees the anger on my face. βIt always heals, eventually.β βDid Trey do this?β I mutter with my teeth gritted and gesture to her body She lowers her blue eyes. βCassandra?β She still doesnβt answer me. βThat prick that follows Trey around? All three of them?β She pulls her dress tighter around her and silently nods. She brings her hand up to her face, brushing her cheek, wiping away an escaped tear. βAnyone else?β βThe pack.β She whispers. βIβm going to kill them all.β Aero growls. He will have to get in line, βBecause of what you allegedly did to your parents.β She nods. βI donβt believe you were responsible.β She tilts her head up towards me, her brow knits together as her eyes finally find mine. βBecause of Blood of Wolfsbane?" Five Neah βIβ¦I donβt know what Blood of Wolfsbane is?β I whisper He frowns at me. βYour brother said you knew the difference between plants.β βIβ¦β I didnβt have an answer. I couldnβt remember, not fully. βBlood of Wolfsbane is Wolfsbane fed by our blood. The leaves will have a red hue to them. I canβt imagine a child would know what it is because it is not freely grown. Your brotherβs story doesnβt add up.β βOh.β βI wonβt stop until I find out who did this, Neah.β His crimson eyes narrow. βI will make them pay for the suffering you have endured.β He sits on the edge of his desk, studying me. βRight now, you do need to see someone about the infection.β I kept my mouth closed, I was still trying to process his news of me being set up. Why had my brother never considered it? βCome, I will show you our bedroom. You can shower before we see the pack doctor.β Frozen to the spot, I donβt move. Did he just say βour bedroom,β? As in, we are sharing a bedroom? I guess he thinks he can mke love with me whenever he wants if Iβm his contract bride. A shiver runs down my spine at the thought. Glancing up, I see him watching me. He is stood at the open door, waiting for me. Ensuring my dress has me covered, I step out into the hallway. No one was around and the hallways were quiet. As we moved, Alpha Dane would tell me what each room was, but he seemed more focussed on getting me to the bedroom. His bedroom is huge, with massive windows, just like the rest of the house. The bed sat pressed up against the wall. All around it, thin drapes hung from the ceiling, but they were tied back at each bed post. What surprised me the most was that the bath and the shower were in the same room. Only the toilet was in a small room to the side of the shower. No privacy, whatsoever. Though, he didnβt seem to care about that. He makes me jump when I feel his warm breath on my skin. βYou donβt need to be afraid.β I may not be able to smell him, but he would be able to scent the changes in my emotions. Crossing the room, he pulls open the glass door to the shower and turns it on. The moment he closes the door, the steam of the shower quickly fogs up the glass. And still, I find myself afraid. He gave me no clue as to what he was expecting from me. βHey,β His rough fingers tip my face up. βItβs just you and me and for now, I will let you shower in peace.β Walking away, he pulls his phone out of his pocket and messes around with it before placing it on the bedside table. βThe alarm is set for ten minutes. I will come back then. I will bring you something to wear so just stay in the towel. Understand?β He stares at me, waiting for an answer and I just nod. A ten minute shower. I was lucky if I got a minute shower back home and the water was always cold. He moves to the door and with his hand resting on the door knob he looks back over his shoulder at me. βI really wish you would talk more, Neah.β Alpha Dane leaves me in peace and I make a mad dash for the shower as if Iβm in some kind of fantasy land and this was all a dream. Maybe it was, maybe I was about to wake up in the basement of my home. The smells of the soaps and shampoos are divine as I lather them into myself. And my hair has never felt so clean. The wound on my stomach stung as the hot water hit it, but I didnβt care, it was worth it. Someone in the room clears their throat and I freeze. Thanking the steam for keeping me semi hidden. βNeah, are you done? The alarm went off five minutes ago.β Alpha Daneβs voice seems louder in here. I had been so caught up in the freedom of a simple shower that I hadnβt even heard the alarm or the Alpha come back into the room. βComing.β I mutter, turning off the water and pulling a towel around me to hide the hideousness underneath. Stepping out, I already see that my ripped dress, underwear and worn sandals had been removed from the floor. Alpha Dane sits on the end of the bed with what looked like folded clothes on his lap and a pair of trainers. βItβs not much, as we donβt have anyone with as small a waist as you.β He smiles as he hands over the clothes. A matching navy blue sweatshirt and joggers. βYou will have to make do without the underwear for now. Should be here first thing tomorrow.β He watches me with a cocked eyebrow as I pull the joggers on and tug the sweatshirt over my head before removing the towel. Maybe he was used to the women parading themselves in front of him, or throwing themselves at him because he has power, but I wasnβt like that. βLetβs go.β He rises to his feet and this time, I follow him. Something told me that if I didnβt get this wound looked at, it would put him in a bad mood. The pack doctor was young, unlike the one back home who was old and afraid to let anyone take over from him. She smiles at us as we enter the pack hospital and rewraps her dark hair into a bun. βRaven, this is Neah.β Alpha Dane introduces me with a grin. I keep my eyes low as I hear Raven say, βAlpha Dane, what seems to be the problem apart from the strange smell she has brought with her.β It didnβt sound like a hurtful comment like I was used to, but more a comment of curiosity. βShe will tell you herself when she finds her tongue.β βI have a wound.β I whisper. βAnd you are not healing?β Raven asks, confused βI donβt have my Wolf.β I hated saying it. It was just a constant reminder that I did not fit in. βHer Wolf was bound when she was a kid.β Alpha Dane tells her. βThatβs why her scent is strange. Her Wolf is there, locked away, waiting to be freed.β My eyes flicker up only to find him staring straight back at me. I had always believed that my Wolf was gone. Not that she was trapped. Ravenβs dark eyes hover on me. βWow, okay.β She grabs my hand. βThis way, letβs take a look at this wound of yours.β She leads me into an empty room and asks me to lay on the bed and to show her my wound. Pulling up the sweatshirt, just enough for her to see the wound. Her eyes widen, a flicker of rage passing over them as she takes in the infected wound and the bruising that surrounds it. Her fingers carefully press around the wound. βHow long ago?β βA few days.β I mutter, though I wasnβt sure. Every beating blurred into another one. Any day that I wasnβt hit was a good day. Raven shakes her head. βThis is longer than a few days ago, the infection has had at least a week to develop.β βNeah, you need to tell us the truth.β Alpha Dane orders βI donβt know.β βNEAH!β His deep voice rumbles through me and I close my eyes, fearing his anger. Anger brought punishment, punishment brought pain. βI swear, I donβt know. The beatings, they happen so often that they just kind ofβ¦. Iβm never not bruised.β Thereβs silence and I was too afraid to open my eyes. Alpha Trey had said it over and over, that if anyone found out, he would make my life a misery, more than it already was. I used to wonder who would ever find out that didnβt already know. Now here I was, sitting in another packβs hospital, revealing the truth. βHeal her!β Alpha Dane shouts after what seems like forever. He storms from the room, pulling a phone out of his pocket. βYou will have to forgive my brother. His temper is short, especially when it comes to things like this.β Raven mutters as she gently inspects my wound βYour brother?β I whisper, opening my eyes βAh, I see he informed you. Iβm guessing he didnβt tell you that Jenson is our brother too?β I shake my head, Iβm guessing Jenson was one of the men that came to my brother's house. She chuckles. βJenson is considered to be our brotherβs Gamma.β βGamma?β I had never heard of the term. βYep and Alpha Dane has a love/hate for me working here. He wants me to represent our family, but he knows this is what Iβm good at.β She grabs a pot of cream from the cupboard. βNow this needs to be applied three times a day. It should clear up the infection, if it hasnβt changed in a couple of days, I will take another look. My brother is waiting for you out front.β βThanks.β I mumble, taking the pot of cream from her. I looked at the label, but couldnβt read it. I had never learned to read. She bobs her head at me as I hurry out to find Alpha Dane on his phone, snapping at someone. He hangs up as soon as he sees me and asks what Raven said. βCream, three times a day.β I show him the pot and he takes it from me. βGood, come.β He strides off and I have to run to keep up with him. I follow him through the house and into the office. βShow me.β He orders, pulling the lid off the pot. It wasnβt going to be negotiable, not when he had used the same tone moments before he ripped my dress open earlier. Slowly lifting my sweatshirt, he crouches down in front of me and gently smothers the wound in the cold cream. βI donβt want you to lie to me, Neah. Not ever. If you canβt remember, that is what you need to tell me. Is that clear? I donβt want to have to guess what you mean.β βOkay.β I couldnβt say anything else, I was too focussed on the warmth of his hands. One presses against my lower back, holding me steady while the other gently rubs cream into my wound. The only touch I had received from another man was a beating. βStop holding your breath.β He tells me, getting to his feet. βI am not going to hurt you.β It seemed impossible to believe given my history. The act, the words coming from him, it just didnβt feel real. | Galaxy in the Story | 301 | https://facebook.com/61555427913037 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717743600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879837 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410729 | 1723321858 | 995 | 480124741257496 | 1 | 1.7277413576323E+15 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 219004054622622 | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | 120209611805750689 | wwwedb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πAttention! Do not read in publicοΌπ | https://wwwedb.com/market/meganovel/13?lpid=11783&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717743552 | 2.1900405462262E+14 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447260728_1518945155389917_2874266976111342341_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=g0H6jXhQP3sQ7kNvgGXGGZL&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYD5RKLxmmvz3_WMQm6M7TyxkgQmm5IfWgwhhyK_F2vFIg&oe=6672BD2F | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447272334_8058147917584464_4203412527007476159_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ookoAxwxG_QQ7kNvgE9thCo&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCeO_9K7nk0lXXIJiyjXCwWONM-nS-S5ZtufKX8Y6JJ9A&oe=6672A008 | 0 | 3 | One Neah βWhere the heck is she?β I hear the Beta scream. I already knew Beta Kyle was talking about me, the only servant of the house. I groan and get to my feet, grabbing the cleaning basket and taking it with me. The moment Beta Kyle sees me, he strides towards me and his hand slices against my cheek. I donβt make a sound. Years of experience has taught me to keep my mouth shut at all times and only speak when spoken too, even if what they are doing to me hurts. βAlpha Trey and I are expecting company and you still have not cleaned the office like you were asked.β Beta Kyle spits at me I nod my head and my hand tightens on the cleaning basket. If I could just find the courage to swing it at his head, it would make my day. I resisted, he was stronger than me and I didnβt need locking up for another week with no food. My stomach already hurt enough. βWe are trying to make a good impression on Alpha Dane. Do you not understand how important it is for us to join ourselves with his pack?!β I donβt answer, I know it's a trick, to try and get me to say something so that he can give himself a reason to punish me. I keep my eyes low so that I didnβt have to look at his face. Alpha Dane, I had only ever heard rumours about him. Words exchanged between the other pack members when I was in the room. From what I gathered, he was a ruthless man, a Wolf feared by others. He didnβt mess around and he had the largest pack. βHe is the Alpha of Black Shadow, the biggest pack in the world, we need him!β Beta Kyle continues. Yet he doesnβt tell me why. We had never been attacked and we had never attacked anyone, so why did we need another pack to help us? He places his hands on my shoulders, digging his nails into my thinning skin and turns me around, kicking me in the but as he shoves me towards the office. βUseless Wolf.β He mutters as he moves away. Quietly closing the door, I lean back against it, observing the already clean office. There was nothing out of place, it looked perfectly fine for a meeting with this so-called powerful Alpha. Closing my eyes, I slide down to the floor. I hated this house. I thought that when I turned eighteen, I could finally escape, but four years later, here I still am, a slave in my own home. Doing all the dirty tasks for my brother, Alpha Trey and the pack. While my ex mate, Beta Kyle waltzes around reminding me of how worthless I am. Someone clears their throat and I freeze, I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair, just around the corner. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of drink. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that donβt quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door as my heart pounded. βIs this the way you greet all Alphaβs?β His deep voice rumbles through the room, there was an edge of amusement to his tone. βIβm sorry.β I whisper, getting to my feet. βIβ¦I thought I was alone.β I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. He doesnβt introduce himself either, why should he? βCome forward.β He orders and I already feel a lump forming in my throat. Alpha Trey was going to finish me. I step around the corner, doing as Iβm told, allowing him to see me properly. I close my eyes, expecting the worst. βYou smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?β I nod, though I couldnβt tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they found out about me. βI would prefer it if you spoke to me.β He growls, βIβm not in the mood to play games.β βYes.β I whisper. I couldnβt help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? βWhy do you smell strange? And how is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.β βIβ¦..β I hated the question. βSpit it out, I havenβt got all day!β He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldnβt scent him. I knew why I hadnβt been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever wanted or liked to do. They never let me tell my side of the story. All they do is laugh and mock me. βYou should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. Itβs rude to not look at them. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?β His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them, there was no way I was making eye contact. βMy Wolf abilities were bound,β I mutter. Twice, I wanted to add. Twice my abilities were bound. But he probably wasnβt interested in that part. He leans forward, carefully placing his glass on the small table next to the chair. I could feel him staring at me, βWhy would someone do that?β If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. βIt was a punishment.β I whisper. It wasnβt far from the entire truth but it was the simplest answer I could give. Thereβs a twitch in his cheek. Was he angry to hear of such a punishment? Or maybe, just like the others, he was amused by it. I couldnβt tell. The door swings open and my brother screeches at me βNeah, what the heck are you doing in my office?β He turns to the crimson eyed man. βI am so sorry that my sister is bothering you, Alpha Dane.β Crap, it was him. My brother spins around, his hand stretching out to hit me. I close my eyes, bracing myself, ready to feel the burn. βI wouldnβt do that if I were you.β Alpha Daneβs voice rumbles through the room. Peeking through slits, I see Alpha Dane has risen to his feet, his hand coiled around my brother's wrist. He was taller than my brother, more muscly too. βNeah,β My name rolls off of his tongue, βwas kindly showing me to your office, Alpha Trey, as you failed to meet me at the front of your house like I requested. I was lucky someone was present, at least someone understands the importance of this deal.β What? I had no idea what he was talking about. And he had no reason to lie for me. My brother glares at me, clenching his jaw tight. I was going to pay for this later. I would have to try and steal some food. βGo and get Beta Kyle.β Alpha Trey seethes. βTell him that our guest is here.β I nod my head and hurry from the room, the last thing I wanted was to be caught between bickering men. βBeta Kyle,β I whisper as I enter the dining hall. He instantly glares at me with his dark eyes. I had spoken without being spoken to. βAlpha Trey is in the office with Alpha Dane. I was sent to inform you.β He slams the newspaper down on the table and glares at me as he walks by. βYouβre lucky that the Alpha sent you to get me, otherwise you wouldn't be seeing sunlight for a few days.β Pausing behind me, he yanks my head back, locking his fingers in my hair, leaning in close to me, I feel his hot breath on my skin. He doesnβt speak, it was just his way of proving that he could do what he wants when he wants. I try to keep myself busy so I can stay as far away from the office as possible. My peace doesnβt last long when I hear my brother calling out to me. Quietly, I pad towards the office and plaster a smile on my face as I open the door. βNeah, go get the champagne and some glasses, we are celebrating.β I bow my head and hurry to the drinks cabinet. Quickly finding what my brother has asked for. As I re-enter the office, I can feel Alpha Dane watching my every move, even the hairs on the back of my neck stand up. No one ever watches me this closely. Approaching the small table by Alpha Danes chair, I start to fill the glasses. He takes the champagne bottle from me, telling me he is more than capable of filling his own glass. I feel my cheeks flame, not from embarrassment, but because I knew that I would be punished for this. I should have been quicker. I should have filled the glasses before entering the office. I should haveβ¦. My brain freezes when I see my brother glaring at me. βNeah is your sister, correct?β Alpha Dane questions my brother. βShe is.β Alpha Trey mutters with disgust. He looks away from me to focus on the man asking questions. βWhy do you treat her like vermin?β Straight to the point, my brother wouldnβt like that. He only liked sharing information on his terms. No one had spoken to my brother about his treatment of me because everyone took great joy in beating me. I didnβt know what to do. I couldnβt move but I knew I had to get out of there. If this deal goes to pot because of me, then that would be my fault too. βNeah was responsible for our parents' death.β Alpha Trey spits I closed my eyes, battling back the tears that were threatening to break free. βResponsible how?β Alpha Daneβs voice rumbles through me. He was definitely angry. βShe served them Wolfsbane.β Two Neah Donβt make a sound. Donβt make a sound. I knew Alpha Dane was studying me. They all did, no one could ever quite believe how someone could do something so disgusting as poisoning their own parents. I stood there, with my head hanging low, wishing for the ground to open up and suck me in. There are movements around me. He was standing directly in front of me. With a rough finger he tilts my face up towards his, forcing me to look at him. Slowly, his hand latches onto my throat but he doesnβt squeeze. βYou poisoned your parents?β βI was six.β I splutter. βI just made them lemonade.β My voice comes out all squeaky as I try to defend myself. I could barely remember my parents, but I could remember all the guilt I had been made to feel since that day. His crimson eyes flash to my brothers. βHardly seems fair to blame a six year old.β βA six year old should know the difference between plants.β Alpha Trey snaps βSounds to me like she was set up.β Alpha Dane shrugs his shoulders, letting go of my throat. βWe all know that standard wolfsbane doesnβt affect us anymore. We evolved from that thing centuries ago.β What? What did he mean? Wolfsbane wasnβt lethal. It had been drummed into me since I could walk. βWhich only leaves Blood of Wolfsbane.β Alpha Dane mutters βYou werenβt there, Alpha Dane.β My brother muttered through gritted teeth as his eyes narrowed to slits. βIt was Wolfsbane.β He nods his head. βYou are right, I was not present.β Great, now there was someone else who could remind me of something I had done by accident, years ago. βBut tell me this, where would a six year old get Blood of Wolfsbane?β βI didnβt ask you here to talk about my slave!β Alpha Trey spits. βOr what happened to my parents.β Alpha Dane grabs his leather jacket from the chair. Unlike other Alphaβs he seemed to dress more casually. A simple black tee and jeans covered his huge frame. And unlike other Alphaβs, his arms are bare of tattoos, not a single bit of ink poked out anywhere. βYouβre right and now I have a few things to mull over.β βI thought we agreed.β My brother exclaims βNothing has been signed. Now I will show myself out.β The moment he is out of the office, both my brother and Beta Kyle round on me. βWhat the heck did you say to him?β My brother demands, slamming a hand into my stomach. βN..nothing. Well, he just asked me why I smelled funny.β βDid you tell him?β Beta Kyle demands. He was practically spitting in my face. I hated him. I hated him so much that I had vowed to one day get my revenge and rip his stomach out through his mouth. βWELL?β My brother yells when I donβt immediately respond and smacks me across the side of the head. My head involuntarily moves up and down. βBut I didnβt say it was you.β I tried to sound strong and confident but it just comes out as a whisper. If they werenβt Wolves, they probably wouldnβt have heard me. My brother's hand locks into my black hair as he yanks my head back, sending a shooting pain through my skull. βIf you have ruined this, you wonβt see daylight again.β He drags me by my hair from the office and down the hallway towards the basement door. βPleaseβ¦.β I beg. βHe was an Alphaβ¦Iβ¦ I had to answer him.β My cheeks burn with my tears as he flings the door open. On the other side of the door is Alpha Dane. He is leaning against the wall with his arms folded, staring out at us. My brother's hand falls from my hair, relieving the pressure on the back of my skull.. βAlpha Dane, I thought you had left.β Alpha Trey murmurs angrily. βI said I would show myself out. I thought I had found the door, but instead I find a basement, riddled in your sister's strange scent. Is this how you treat your family?β βAs I said,β my brother holds his ground, βShe is responsible for the death of my parents, so yes, this is what she deserves.β βYou should keep your nose out of other packs' business!β Beta Kyle adds. Alpha Dane laughs. βIf I agree to this deal, everything about your business becomes my business. So tell me, what would your punishment be for her? No food, locked away for a week, beatings?β βWe donβtβ¦.β βReally?β He cocks a brow, βYou really expect me to believe that you would have just let her sleep? I have already stopped you from hitting her once. " His eyes roam over me. "She is underfed, bags hover under her tired blue eyes. For a sister of an Alpha, she is certainly not treated like one. Regardless of what she allegedly did when she was a pup.β βShe did do it!β Alpha Trey seethes βAnd she has nothing to do with our deal.β βThatβs for me to decide.β His crimson eyes flicker around the hallway. βWhere is your mate? I would be interested to know how she feels about this.β I close my eyes, silently begging my brother not to call his Luna. Luna Cassandra is worse than Beta Kyle and Alpha Trey together. βOn second thoughts, why bother her. Iβm certain she is just as vile as you.β He sneers I peer through slits to see his crimson eyes on me. There was no reason for him to defend me and yet he was. I was a nobody, no one special. Just who everyone called a traitor. Only instead of being given a death sentence, my brother had decided to make me spend my life suffering. βI have a proposition for you, Alpha Trey.β Alpha Dane is smirking at my brother βWe have already agreed on terms.β βWell, Iβm adding one. And if you donβt agree, you will not get my help. Instead, you will become my enemy. And we both know, you donβt want that.β βI take it that your new terms have something to do with her?β Alpha Trey mutters through clenched teeth. βYou would be correct. Let me take her away to my pack and then you, Trey will have a deal.β Me? Why would he want me? As my brother and his Beta discuss me, Alpha Dane is still studying me. His look made me nervous. What could someone like him possibly want with me? βDeal.β Alpha Trey sticks out his hand for Alpha Dane to shake. He doesnβt take it, instead his crimson eyes shift from me to my brother. βI will have paperwork drawn up and will return tomorrow.β He reaches a hand out and cups my face, βEnsure you have everything packed.β He drags his thumb across my bottom lip and strides to the opposite end of the hallway and straight to the front door. He knew exactly where the front door was, so what was he up to? He pauses at the door. βIf I find out any one of you has laid a hand on her. The contract will be the last thing you need to worry about.β He struts out, slamming the door behind him. βGet out of my sight!β My brother snaps at me. Hurrying away, I make my way up the stairs and into my tiny bedroom. It was practically empty, the only things I had were a few changes of clothes. It would take me less than a minute to pack By morning, I hadnβt slept. Alpha Danes questions were on repeat and why was I so interesting to a Wolf like him. There was a reason he had the biggest pack. They were known for their fighting abilities, thatβs why my brother wanted to link Moonshine with Alpha Danes pack, but where did I fit in to all this? And what o earth is Blood of Wolfsbane? Three Dane βTenth brideβs the charm.β Jenson mocks as the driver pulls up in front of Moonshines packhouse. βShut up!β Eric snaps at him βBoth of you shut your mouths. Before you say something you regret!β βHe will never learn.β My wolf, Aero muses. The driver pulls open the door. βJust give me a second, I need to speak to my men.β The door closes and neither one of them speaks. βShe isnβt like the others. Donβt speak to her, donβt look at her. And you Jenson, keep your hands to yourself or you might just lose them this time.β I was more rattled than usual. Neah was different to the previous selected mates. I didnβt know what it was or whether it was because I was used to confident women, but there was something about her. And Aero appeared to like her too, more than any of the others. I had to have her. βI mean it!β I snap at Jenson's smug face, βBeing my brother wonβt change my mind!β He runs his fingers over his lips as though he was zipping them shut. They follow me from the car. Standing in front of the old packhouse, all three of us stare up at it. Because until a month ago, I knew nothing about them and even after my visit, all I had learned was the Alpha is a beast. My knuckles hammer on the door. Itβs barely open an inch when I force myself through making his Beta stumble back. I spot her straight away, hiding herself behind a corner. βAre you ready?β I call out. βIf you just want toβ¦..β Beta Kyle starts. βI was not talking to you. I was speaking to Neah.β The expression on Beta Kyleβs face was a picture. His jaw hung open and his eyes are wide. He clearly had never been told what to do, even by his Alpha. Neah steps out from her hiding spot, clutching a barely full carrier bag. She drags her teeth across her bottom lip and nods her head. βWhere are the rest of your things? I told you everything needs to be packedβ βThatβs all she has.β Trey snorts as he makes his appearance. βThatβs it?β I stare at him. βThatβs all her belongings? Sheβs what, in her early twenties and thatβs all she has?β βWhat more does she need?!β His Beta sneers. βKill him, let me rip out his throat and he will regret the day he crossed us.β βWhat are you waiting for?β I hear a horrible shrill voice that seems to vibrate through the floors. Looking away from the Beta, I see a woman holding on to a statue of herself that sat at the bottom of the stairs. Her blonde hair hung in waves around her face as her green eyes studied me and she sways her hips as she moves to Trey. I noticed Neahβs reaction yesterday. When I asked Trey where his mate was. Her whole body had tensed up in fear. She was afraid of this woman and I wanted to know why. βTake her Alpha Dane. Iβm sure she will be as useful a slave to you as she is to us.β Her shrill voice goes straight through me. βLook at the silly girl, sheβs going to pass out.β The blonde bimbo laughs βYou donβt get to talk about her like that anymore.β I glare at the blonde, βShe is not your toy. She is not your slave and I suggest that you, Alpha Trey keep your wife in check. There is only so much disobedience that I will tolerate.β βDISOBEDIENCE!β The woman screeches just as Neahβs hip hits the floor. βHow dare you! If anyone is disobedient, itβs that rat in the corner.β βWho the heck is she calling a rat?β Aero growls βYou should make yourself familiar with our agreement.β I snap. βIt seems your mate has not told you everything.β Waving Eric forward, he pulls a thick wad of paper from the folder under his arm. The contract that I have drawn up. βAll that for your help?β His mateβs eyes are wide βI donβt do half-witted contracts.β Taking the contract from Eric, I shove it against Treyβs chest βShall we go to the office?β Trey leads the way with his mate clinging on to him and his Beta hurrying behind. My men follow them while I stay behind to check on my new mate. βYou are more than welcome to join us, after all, you are involved in this deal. Or my car is outfront, you can take your stuff and wait there for me.β βAre those my only options?β she whispers, keeping her eyes low βFor now. Personally, I think you should sit in with us. It will give me great pleasure in pissing off that mate of your brothers.β She keeps her blue eyes low as she continues to clutch that bag of hers. This close to her, I could really see how ill she looked. Even her heart beat is slow, like itβs fighting to hang on to life. βSo what will it be?β βIβ¦.β Her head rotates between the front door and the direction of the office. βIβ¦.. The office I guess.β βGood choice.β I hold out a hand for her but she doesnβt take it. Pushing herself up to her feet. She wobbles a little, but steadies herself. Walking a few steps behind her, I see the evil glares she receives from Trey and the other two idiots as she enters the office.. βTake a seat.β I whisper as I walk past her. My hand grazes her lower back and she immediately tenses up. She stands, frozen to the spot. Only her eyes dart about when she shakes her head. βSit!β I say it a little louder βShe doesnβt have that privilege here!β The blonde snaps, with her lips curved up in amusement βSitting is not a privilege.β I growl, wondering what else they were forcing her to do. I couldnβt see any bruises on her arms or legs, a good sign, I hoped. βIt better be!β Aero paces in my head. He wanted her out of this place as much as I did. The blonde physically recoils in her seat. Her mouth falls wide open, shocked that I had said something. βAnd I suggest,β I look at Trey, βYou tell your mate to keep her mouth shut. Or I can shut it for her.β βAlpha Dane, you are in my homeβ¦..β βAnd you want my help, correct?β The three of them were fuming. No one liked being told what to do in their own home, yet they were doing just that to Neah. I point to the empty chair between Jenson and Eric and she finally sits down. βLetβs just get this done.β Trey snaps, βThe sooner she is gone, the happier I can be.β βYou should read the contract.β I muse βI agreed that you could take her as part of our deal.β βIdiot!β Eric murmurs. He knew as well as I did that contracts should be read before they are signed They sign without reading and practically throw the contract back at me. βDone.β Trey mutters βGood, you can get her out of my house.β Treyβs mate screeches. If I had it my way, I would just take Neah, then I wouldnβt have to put up with the twidles, but this way, they canβt have her back. Even if they begged. A contract was a contract and it was impossible for them to get out of. Getting to my feet, I hold a hand out to Neah, βCome, we are leaving this rat hole before I lose my temper.β Her warm fingers slip into my hand as she rises to her feet. Her other hand clutches the bag to her chest as she walks with me to the front door. She doesnβt even look back to say goodbye and that confirmed everything I needed to know. She hated them as much as they hated her. She pauses at the open front door, her hand falling from mine. Her blue eyes are wide as she stares at the limo. βCome.β I instruct Eric and Jenson are standing behind her, watching her curiously. βIs she okay?β Eric links me. βNeah?β I step in front of her and she doesnβt move. She seems to be staring right through me. βItβs time to go.β βOkay.β Her lips barely move She takes a step forward, almost as if she is in slow motion. Her hands grip the door frame, her knuckles turn white as her heartbeat increases. Her lips part a little and her hand falls from the door frame just as her eyes roll to the back of her head. βIβve got you.β I mutter, catching her just before she hits the floor. Her entire body tenses up as I lift her and carry her to the car. She was so weak and was even lighter than I expected. She probably didnβt weigh much more than a small child. Jenson and Eric get in the car first. Jenson cocks his eyebrow at me and has a smirk plastered to his face as I slide in with Neah on my lap. βKeep your thoughts to yourself, Jenson!β I hold her close, listening to her breathe and her heart as it slowed. Letting my fingers comb through her dark hair as she becomes a little more with it. Suddenly, she sits up right, moving away from me and trying to make herself as small as possible. Deciding not to force her to do anything, I keep my attention on my Beta and my brother, talking about pack stuff while casting a glance over to her every so often to make sure she was alright. βCome.β I mutter as the limo comes to a stop. I donβt wait for the driver and get out myself, holding a hand out for her. βIβm fine.β She speaks at last while glancing at the others and shuffles herself forward to the open door. She stares up at my home, gasping a little. It was easily three times the size of her previous home and I hoped that she would be happy here. That I could provide her with a life that was better than her last. βLet me give you a tour.β I suggest as she continues to clutch that carrier bag to her chest. She follows me in, not speaking a word. I had no idea if she was listening to what I was saying or not βThe omegas swap out on a rotational basis. Good for the youngsters to learn some responsibilities before they get proper jobs.β I tell her while showing her the dining hall with a table long enough to fit twenty people around. We move through to the kitchen. Where I point out a board on the wall. βIf there is anything you need, you just add it to the board and it will be ordered in.β Her brow furrows and still she says nothing. Picking up a pen, I smile. Maybe she felt intimidated by me. βSo tell me, what do you need because there is no way you are living under my roof with just the things that are in that bag.β Her dazzling blue eyes dart around the room βWell?β I ask. βI donβt need anything.β She whispers Sighing, I start scribbling things down. Underwear, jeans, workout clothes, dresses, shoes, anything I can think of that will cover her for a few days. Holding the pen between my teeth, I grab her around the waist. My thumbs meet just above her belly button and my fingers touch her spine. She was so thin, how was she even alive? Four Dane She looked like a deer caught in headlights as I write her size down. She was tinier than I thought. Skin and bone. If I had moved my hands up any higher, I would have felt every rib sticking out. It sickened me, she should be strong, powerful, she had Alpha blood running through her veins. I also saw how she scrunched her face up when I measured her. It wasnβt fear, it was pain. She was hiding something underneath the baggy maids dress. βI know you want to say something, so just say it. Iβm not interested in the crap Trey drummed into you. You donβt have to wait until someone asks you a question. You are free to say what you want. Are you injured?" "No." She was lying, I could feel it. She shakes her head as if it would confirm her answer and a lock of her black hair falls from the band that was supposed to be holding it back. Neah was going to be a tough girl to crack. A life of being starved had made her quite protective over herself. I will make Trey pay for what he has done to her. βYou have to say something, Neah. I cannot read your mind. When I mark you, at least I will know what you are feeling.β βMark me?β I didnβt think her eyes could get any wider. βYes, I will mark you.β She was completely and utterly shocked by the idea. Her pink lips part a little as she continues to stare at me. I thought she knew. I thought that was why she came so willingly. My Beta had kept asking me if I was certain I wanted her as my bride. There was no doubt about it, she had a strange scent but something was luring me to her. I couldnβt take my eyes off of her when I first saw her. My Wolf Aero was going mad for her too. Though he hadnβt said a word about her. Annoyed with me for not taking her home with us yesterday. βYouβ¦.You brought me so that you could mark me.β She takes a step back, walking into the kitchen island. She winces a little and quickly covers up her pain, relaxing her face.. βIf Trey had bothered reading the contract, he would have discovered that you are to be my bride, not a slave. He would also have read that if he or his ridiculously silly mate tried doing anything to you going forward, that pack would become mine, or rather, yours. I never bought you, Neah, you were always destined to be mine.β βIβm a murderer.β She gasps. βWhy would someone like you want me for a bride?β βBloodβ Aero growls interrupting my thoughts. I glance down at her baggy dress. A blood stain had appeared right where I had my hands wrapped around her. βWhatβs that? Are you injured?β I demand, I had barely touched her. She covers the stain with her hand. βItβs nothing. Itβs just a cut that I keep knocking and it opens up again. I forget itβs there.β Forget? How could she forget a wound? βWhy isnβt she healing?β I feel Aeroβs panic. βSheβs been with us less than two hours and already she has some form of injury.β His need to protect her was strong. It hadnβt occurred to me that her lack of abilities included not being able to heal. I would have to find someone who could reverse the binding and soon. βShow me!β βItβs fine.β She mumbles I was already so sick of hearing that phrase. βItβs not optional.β I mutter. βIf you wonβt show me, I will have to find a way to look, myself.β Her heart skips a beat. She looks around the kitchen. βCan.... can we go somewhere more private?β βPrivate?β I didnβt really do privacy. What Wolf did?! She bobs her head but still keeps her focus slightly off of me. Almost afraid to look me directly in the eyes. βOffice,β Aero mutters. βI was just going to suggest that!β I snap back at my Wolf. I feel his eyes roll as he retreats to some dark corner of my mind. βThis way.β I gesture to the door. Neah waits for me and follows closely behind. The scent of blood steadily grew stronger, it was more than just a cut. I already knew that. In the office, I hit the remote and the blinds start to drop, blocking out the sunlight. Neah hesitates and slowly begins to unfasten the buttons of the dress but only where the large blood stain was. Keeping everything else covered from me. She pulls the dress to one side. The wound was about four inches long and already fairly infected. βSee, itβs fine.β she whispers. βYou need to stop saying that.β She closes her mouth and starts to fasten the buttons. βNo,β I grabbed her hands, I had caught sight of another bruise. βLet me see the rest of them.β It wasnβt optional. She gasps as my fingers rip apart the rest of the buttons. Her sports bra had seen better days, just the same as her underwear. But it was the bruising I was most concerned about. Bruise upon bruise, scars that had come from whips. Her hip bones and ribs stuck out too. Turning her around, and pulling the dress from her, I find that her back is just the same. Yet interestingly, there was nothing above her chest and nothing below her thighs. Her arms were completely bare of wounds too. There was only one reason why someone would do that. To either hide what they were doing to someone, or to keep up appearances. They didnβt want guests to see. More importantly, they didnβt want me to see, considering the meeting was arranged over a month ago. She fumbles with the dress, pulling it tightly around her thin frame. βYou need to see a doctor.β βItβs β¦..β she trails off when she sees the anger on my face. βIt always heals, eventually.β βDid Trey do this?β I mutter with my teeth gritted and gesture to her body She lowers her blue eyes. βCassandra?β She still doesnβt answer me. βThat prick that follows Trey around? All three of them?β She pulls her dress tighter around her and silently nods. She brings her hand up to her face, brushing her cheek, wiping away an escaped tear. βAnyone else?β βThe pack.β She whispers. βIβm going to kill them all.β Aero growls. He will have to get in line, βBecause of what you allegedly did to your parents.β She nods. βI donβt believe you were responsible.β She tilts her head up towards me, her brow knits together as her eyes finally find mine. βBecause of Blood of Wolfsbane?" Five Neah βIβ¦I donβt know what Blood of Wolfsbane is?β I whisper He frowns at me. βYour brother said you knew the difference between plants.β βIβ¦β I didnβt have an answer. I couldnβt remember, not fully. βBlood of Wolfsbane is Wolfsbane fed by our blood. The leaves will have a red hue to them. I canβt imagine a child would know what it is because it is not freely grown. Your brotherβs story doesnβt add up.β βOh.β βI wonβt stop until I find out who did this, Neah.β His crimson eyes narrow. βI will make them pay for the suffering you have endured.β He sits on the edge of his desk, studying me. βRight now, you do need to see someone about the infection.β I kept my mouth closed, I was still trying to process his news of me being set up. Why had my brother never considered it? βCome, I will show you our bedroom. You can shower before we see the pack doctor.β Frozen to the spot, I donβt move. Did he just say βour bedroom,β? As in, we are sharing a bedroom? I guess he thinks he can mke love with me whenever he wants if Iβm his contract bride. A shiver runs down my spine at the thought. Glancing up, I see him watching me. He is stood at the open door, waiting for me. Ensuring my dress has me covered, I step out into the hallway. No one was around and the hallways were quiet. As we moved, Alpha Dane would tell me what each room was, but he seemed more focussed on getting me to the bedroom. His bedroom is huge, with massive windows, just like the rest of the house. The bed sat pressed up against the wall. All around it, thin drapes hung from the ceiling, but they were tied back at each bed post. What surprised me the most was that the bath and the shower were in the same room. Only the toilet was in a small room to the side of the shower. No privacy, whatsoever. Though, he didnβt seem to care about that. He makes me jump when I feel his warm breath on my skin. βYou donβt need to be afraid.β I may not be able to smell him, but he would be able to scent the changes in my emotions. Crossing the room, he pulls open the glass door to the shower and turns it on. The moment he closes the door, the steam of the shower quickly fogs up the glass. And still, I find myself afraid. He gave me no clue as to what he was expecting from me. βHey,β His rough fingers tip my face up. βItβs just you and me and for now, I will let you shower in peace.β Walking away, he pulls his phone out of his pocket and messes around with it before placing it on the bedside table. βThe alarm is set for ten minutes. I will come back then. I will bring you something to wear so just stay in the towel. Understand?β He stares at me, waiting for an answer and I just nod. A ten minute shower. I was lucky if I got a minute shower back home and the water was always cold. He moves to the door and with his hand resting on the door knob he looks back over his shoulder at me. βI really wish you would talk more, Neah.β Alpha Dane leaves me in peace and I make a mad dash for the shower as if Iβm in some kind of fantasy land and this was all a dream. Maybe it was, maybe I was about to wake up in the basement of my home. The smells of the soaps and shampoos are divine as I lather them into myself. And my hair has never felt so clean. The wound on my stomach stung as the hot water hit it, but I didnβt care, it was worth it. Someone in the room clears their throat and I freeze. Thanking the steam for keeping me semi hidden. βNeah, are you done? The alarm went off five minutes ago.β Alpha Daneβs voice seems louder in here. I had been so caught up in the freedom of a simple shower that I hadnβt even heard the alarm or the Alpha come back into the room. βComing.β I mutter, turning off the water and pulling a towel around me to hide the hideousness underneath. Stepping out, I already see that my ripped dress, underwear and worn sandals had been removed from the floor. Alpha Dane sits on the end of the bed with what looked like folded clothes on his lap and a pair of trainers. βItβs not much, as we donβt have anyone with as small a waist as you.β He smiles as he hands over the clothes. A matching navy blue sweatshirt and joggers. βYou will have to make do without the underwear for now. Should be here first thing tomorrow.β He watches me with a cocked eyebrow as I pull the joggers on and tug the sweatshirt over my head before removing the towel. Maybe he was used to the women parading themselves in front of him, or throwing themselves at him because he has power, but I wasnβt like that. βLetβs go.β He rises to his feet and this time, I follow him. Something told me that if I didnβt get this wound looked at, it would put him in a bad mood. The pack doctor was young, unlike the one back home who was old and afraid to let anyone take over from him. She smiles at us as we enter the pack hospital and rewraps her dark hair into a bun. βRaven, this is Neah.β Alpha Dane introduces me with a grin. I keep my eyes low as I hear Raven say, βAlpha Dane, what seems to be the problem apart from the strange smell she has brought with her.β It didnβt sound like a hurtful comment like I was used to, but more a comment of curiosity. βShe will tell you herself when she finds her tongue.β βI have a wound.β I whisper. βAnd you are not healing?β Raven asks, confused βI donβt have my Wolf.β I hated saying it. It was just a constant reminder that I did not fit in. βHer Wolf was bound when she was a kid.β Alpha Dane tells her. βThatβs why her scent is strange. Her Wolf is there, locked away, waiting to be freed.β My eyes flicker up only to find him staring straight back at me. I had always believed that my Wolf was gone. Not that she was trapped. Ravenβs dark eyes hover on me. βWow, okay.β She grabs my hand. βThis way, letβs take a look at this wound of yours.β She leads me into an empty room and asks me to lay on the bed and to show her my wound. Pulling up the sweatshirt, just enough for her to see the wound. Her eyes widen, a flicker of rage passing over them as she takes in the infected wound and the bruising that surrounds it. Her fingers carefully press around the wound. βHow long ago?β βA few days.β I mutter, though I wasnβt sure. Every beating blurred into another one. Any day that I wasnβt hit was a good day. Raven shakes her head. βThis is longer than a few days ago, the infection has had at least a week to develop.β βNeah, you need to tell us the truth.β Alpha Dane orders βI donβt know.β βNEAH!β His deep voice rumbles through me and I close my eyes, fearing his anger. Anger brought punishment, punishment brought pain. βI swear, I donβt know. The beatings, they happen so often that they just kind ofβ¦. Iβm never not bruised.β Thereβs silence and I was too afraid to open my eyes. Alpha Trey had said it over and over, that if anyone found out, he would make my life a misery, more than it already was. I used to wonder who would ever find out that didnβt already know. Now here I was, sitting in another packβs hospital, revealing the truth. βHeal her!β Alpha Dane shouts after what seems like forever. He storms from the room, pulling a phone out of his pocket. βYou will have to forgive my brother. His temper is short, especially when it comes to things like this.β Raven mutters as she gently inspects my wound βYour brother?β I whisper, opening my eyes βAh, I see he informed you. Iβm guessing he didnβt tell you that Jenson is our brother too?β I shake my head, Iβm guessing Jenson was one of the men that came to my brother's house. She chuckles. βJenson is considered to be our brotherβs Gamma.β βGamma?β I had never heard of the term. βYep and Alpha Dane has a love/hate for me working here. He wants me to represent our family, but he knows this is what Iβm good at.β She grabs a pot of cream from the cupboard. βNow this needs to be applied three times a day. It should clear up the infection, if it hasnβt changed in a couple of days, I will take another look. My brother is waiting for you out front.β βThanks.β I mumble, taking the pot of cream from her. I looked at the label, but couldnβt read it. I had never learned to read. She bobs her head at me as I hurry out to find Alpha Dane on his phone, snapping at someone. He hangs up as soon as he sees me and asks what Raven said. βCream, three times a day.β I show him the pot and he takes it from me. βGood, come.β He strides off and I have to run to keep up with him. I follow him through the house and into the office. βShow me.β He orders, pulling the lid off the pot. It wasnβt going to be negotiable, not when he had used the same tone moments before he ripped my dress open earlier. Slowly lifting my sweatshirt, he crouches down in front of me and gently smothers the wound in the cold cream. βI donβt want you to lie to me, Neah. Not ever. If you canβt remember, that is what you need to tell me. Is that clear? I donβt want to have to guess what you mean.β βOkay.β I couldnβt say anything else, I was too focussed on the warmth of his hands. One presses against my lower back, holding me steady while the other gently rubs cream into my wound. The only touch I had received from another man was a beating. βStop holding your breath.β He tells me, getting to his feet. βI am not going to hurt you.β It seemed impossible to believe given my history. The act, the words coming from him, it just didnβt feel real. | Galaxy in the Story | 301 | https://facebook.com/61555427913037 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717743600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879838 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410729 | 1723321858 | 995 | 480124741257496 | 1 | 1.7277413576323E+15 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 219004054622622 | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | 120209611805750689 | wwwedb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πAttention! Do not read in publicοΌπ | https://wwwedb.com/market/meganovel/13?lpid=11783&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717743552 | 2.1900405462262E+14 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447260728_1518945155389917_2874266976111342341_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=g0H6jXhQP3sQ7kNvgGXGGZL&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYD5RKLxmmvz3_WMQm6M7TyxkgQmm5IfWgwhhyK_F2vFIg&oe=6672BD2F | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447272334_8058147917584464_4203412527007476159_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ookoAxwxG_QQ7kNvgE9thCo&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCeO_9K7nk0lXXIJiyjXCwWONM-nS-S5ZtufKX8Y6JJ9A&oe=6672A008 | 0 | 3 | One Neah βWhere the heck is she?β I hear the Beta scream. I already knew Beta Kyle was talking about me, the only servant of the house. I groan and get to my feet, grabbing the cleaning basket and taking it with me. The moment Beta Kyle sees me, he strides towards me and his hand slices against my cheek. I donβt make a sound. Years of experience has taught me to keep my mouth shut at all times and only speak when spoken too, even if what they are doing to me hurts. βAlpha Trey and I are expecting company and you still have not cleaned the office like you were asked.β Beta Kyle spits at me I nod my head and my hand tightens on the cleaning basket. If I could just find the courage to swing it at his head, it would make my day. I resisted, he was stronger than me and I didnβt need locking up for another week with no food. My stomach already hurt enough. βWe are trying to make a good impression on Alpha Dane. Do you not understand how important it is for us to join ourselves with his pack?!β I donβt answer, I know it's a trick, to try and get me to say something so that he can give himself a reason to punish me. I keep my eyes low so that I didnβt have to look at his face. Alpha Dane, I had only ever heard rumours about him. Words exchanged between the other pack members when I was in the room. From what I gathered, he was a ruthless man, a Wolf feared by others. He didnβt mess around and he had the largest pack. βHe is the Alpha of Black Shadow, the biggest pack in the world, we need him!β Beta Kyle continues. Yet he doesnβt tell me why. We had never been attacked and we had never attacked anyone, so why did we need another pack to help us? He places his hands on my shoulders, digging his nails into my thinning skin and turns me around, kicking me in the but as he shoves me towards the office. βUseless Wolf.β He mutters as he moves away. Quietly closing the door, I lean back against it, observing the already clean office. There was nothing out of place, it looked perfectly fine for a meeting with this so-called powerful Alpha. Closing my eyes, I slide down to the floor. I hated this house. I thought that when I turned eighteen, I could finally escape, but four years later, here I still am, a slave in my own home. Doing all the dirty tasks for my brother, Alpha Trey and the pack. While my ex mate, Beta Kyle waltzes around reminding me of how worthless I am. Someone clears their throat and I freeze, I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair, just around the corner. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of drink. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that donβt quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door as my heart pounded. βIs this the way you greet all Alphaβs?β His deep voice rumbles through the room, there was an edge of amusement to his tone. βIβm sorry.β I whisper, getting to my feet. βIβ¦I thought I was alone.β I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. He doesnβt introduce himself either, why should he? βCome forward.β He orders and I already feel a lump forming in my throat. Alpha Trey was going to finish me. I step around the corner, doing as Iβm told, allowing him to see me properly. I close my eyes, expecting the worst. βYou smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?β I nod, though I couldnβt tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they found out about me. βI would prefer it if you spoke to me.β He growls, βIβm not in the mood to play games.β βYes.β I whisper. I couldnβt help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? βWhy do you smell strange? And how is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.β βIβ¦..β I hated the question. βSpit it out, I havenβt got all day!β He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldnβt scent him. I knew why I hadnβt been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever wanted or liked to do. They never let me tell my side of the story. All they do is laugh and mock me. βYou should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. Itβs rude to not look at them. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?β His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them, there was no way I was making eye contact. βMy Wolf abilities were bound,β I mutter. Twice, I wanted to add. Twice my abilities were bound. But he probably wasnβt interested in that part. He leans forward, carefully placing his glass on the small table next to the chair. I could feel him staring at me, βWhy would someone do that?β If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. βIt was a punishment.β I whisper. It wasnβt far from the entire truth but it was the simplest answer I could give. Thereβs a twitch in his cheek. Was he angry to hear of such a punishment? Or maybe, just like the others, he was amused by it. I couldnβt tell. The door swings open and my brother screeches at me βNeah, what the heck are you doing in my office?β He turns to the crimson eyed man. βI am so sorry that my sister is bothering you, Alpha Dane.β Crap, it was him. My brother spins around, his hand stretching out to hit me. I close my eyes, bracing myself, ready to feel the burn. βI wouldnβt do that if I were you.β Alpha Daneβs voice rumbles through the room. Peeking through slits, I see Alpha Dane has risen to his feet, his hand coiled around my brother's wrist. He was taller than my brother, more muscly too. βNeah,β My name rolls off of his tongue, βwas kindly showing me to your office, Alpha Trey, as you failed to meet me at the front of your house like I requested. I was lucky someone was present, at least someone understands the importance of this deal.β What? I had no idea what he was talking about. And he had no reason to lie for me. My brother glares at me, clenching his jaw tight. I was going to pay for this later. I would have to try and steal some food. βGo and get Beta Kyle.β Alpha Trey seethes. βTell him that our guest is here.β I nod my head and hurry from the room, the last thing I wanted was to be caught between bickering men. βBeta Kyle,β I whisper as I enter the dining hall. He instantly glares at me with his dark eyes. I had spoken without being spoken to. βAlpha Trey is in the office with Alpha Dane. I was sent to inform you.β He slams the newspaper down on the table and glares at me as he walks by. βYouβre lucky that the Alpha sent you to get me, otherwise you wouldn't be seeing sunlight for a few days.β Pausing behind me, he yanks my head back, locking his fingers in my hair, leaning in close to me, I feel his hot breath on my skin. He doesnβt speak, it was just his way of proving that he could do what he wants when he wants. I try to keep myself busy so I can stay as far away from the office as possible. My peace doesnβt last long when I hear my brother calling out to me. Quietly, I pad towards the office and plaster a smile on my face as I open the door. βNeah, go get the champagne and some glasses, we are celebrating.β I bow my head and hurry to the drinks cabinet. Quickly finding what my brother has asked for. As I re-enter the office, I can feel Alpha Dane watching my every move, even the hairs on the back of my neck stand up. No one ever watches me this closely. Approaching the small table by Alpha Danes chair, I start to fill the glasses. He takes the champagne bottle from me, telling me he is more than capable of filling his own glass. I feel my cheeks flame, not from embarrassment, but because I knew that I would be punished for this. I should have been quicker. I should have filled the glasses before entering the office. I should haveβ¦. My brain freezes when I see my brother glaring at me. βNeah is your sister, correct?β Alpha Dane questions my brother. βShe is.β Alpha Trey mutters with disgust. He looks away from me to focus on the man asking questions. βWhy do you treat her like vermin?β Straight to the point, my brother wouldnβt like that. He only liked sharing information on his terms. No one had spoken to my brother about his treatment of me because everyone took great joy in beating me. I didnβt know what to do. I couldnβt move but I knew I had to get out of there. If this deal goes to pot because of me, then that would be my fault too. βNeah was responsible for our parents' death.β Alpha Trey spits I closed my eyes, battling back the tears that were threatening to break free. βResponsible how?β Alpha Daneβs voice rumbles through me. He was definitely angry. βShe served them Wolfsbane.β Two Neah Donβt make a sound. Donβt make a sound. I knew Alpha Dane was studying me. They all did, no one could ever quite believe how someone could do something so disgusting as poisoning their own parents. I stood there, with my head hanging low, wishing for the ground to open up and suck me in. There are movements around me. He was standing directly in front of me. With a rough finger he tilts my face up towards his, forcing me to look at him. Slowly, his hand latches onto my throat but he doesnβt squeeze. βYou poisoned your parents?β βI was six.β I splutter. βI just made them lemonade.β My voice comes out all squeaky as I try to defend myself. I could barely remember my parents, but I could remember all the guilt I had been made to feel since that day. His crimson eyes flash to my brothers. βHardly seems fair to blame a six year old.β βA six year old should know the difference between plants.β Alpha Trey snaps βSounds to me like she was set up.β Alpha Dane shrugs his shoulders, letting go of my throat. βWe all know that standard wolfsbane doesnβt affect us anymore. We evolved from that thing centuries ago.β What? What did he mean? Wolfsbane wasnβt lethal. It had been drummed into me since I could walk. βWhich only leaves Blood of Wolfsbane.β Alpha Dane mutters βYou werenβt there, Alpha Dane.β My brother muttered through gritted teeth as his eyes narrowed to slits. βIt was Wolfsbane.β He nods his head. βYou are right, I was not present.β Great, now there was someone else who could remind me of something I had done by accident, years ago. βBut tell me this, where would a six year old get Blood of Wolfsbane?β βI didnβt ask you here to talk about my slave!β Alpha Trey spits. βOr what happened to my parents.β Alpha Dane grabs his leather jacket from the chair. Unlike other Alphaβs he seemed to dress more casually. A simple black tee and jeans covered his huge frame. And unlike other Alphaβs, his arms are bare of tattoos, not a single bit of ink poked out anywhere. βYouβre right and now I have a few things to mull over.β βI thought we agreed.β My brother exclaims βNothing has been signed. Now I will show myself out.β The moment he is out of the office, both my brother and Beta Kyle round on me. βWhat the heck did you say to him?β My brother demands, slamming a hand into my stomach. βN..nothing. Well, he just asked me why I smelled funny.β βDid you tell him?β Beta Kyle demands. He was practically spitting in my face. I hated him. I hated him so much that I had vowed to one day get my revenge and rip his stomach out through his mouth. βWELL?β My brother yells when I donβt immediately respond and smacks me across the side of the head. My head involuntarily moves up and down. βBut I didnβt say it was you.β I tried to sound strong and confident but it just comes out as a whisper. If they werenβt Wolves, they probably wouldnβt have heard me. My brother's hand locks into my black hair as he yanks my head back, sending a shooting pain through my skull. βIf you have ruined this, you wonβt see daylight again.β He drags me by my hair from the office and down the hallway towards the basement door. βPleaseβ¦.β I beg. βHe was an Alphaβ¦Iβ¦ I had to answer him.β My cheeks burn with my tears as he flings the door open. On the other side of the door is Alpha Dane. He is leaning against the wall with his arms folded, staring out at us. My brother's hand falls from my hair, relieving the pressure on the back of my skull.. βAlpha Dane, I thought you had left.β Alpha Trey murmurs angrily. βI said I would show myself out. I thought I had found the door, but instead I find a basement, riddled in your sister's strange scent. Is this how you treat your family?β βAs I said,β my brother holds his ground, βShe is responsible for the death of my parents, so yes, this is what she deserves.β βYou should keep your nose out of other packs' business!β Beta Kyle adds. Alpha Dane laughs. βIf I agree to this deal, everything about your business becomes my business. So tell me, what would your punishment be for her? No food, locked away for a week, beatings?β βWe donβtβ¦.β βReally?β He cocks a brow, βYou really expect me to believe that you would have just let her sleep? I have already stopped you from hitting her once. " His eyes roam over me. "She is underfed, bags hover under her tired blue eyes. For a sister of an Alpha, she is certainly not treated like one. Regardless of what she allegedly did when she was a pup.β βShe did do it!β Alpha Trey seethes βAnd she has nothing to do with our deal.β βThatβs for me to decide.β His crimson eyes flicker around the hallway. βWhere is your mate? I would be interested to know how she feels about this.β I close my eyes, silently begging my brother not to call his Luna. Luna Cassandra is worse than Beta Kyle and Alpha Trey together. βOn second thoughts, why bother her. Iβm certain she is just as vile as you.β He sneers I peer through slits to see his crimson eyes on me. There was no reason for him to defend me and yet he was. I was a nobody, no one special. Just who everyone called a traitor. Only instead of being given a death sentence, my brother had decided to make me spend my life suffering. βI have a proposition for you, Alpha Trey.β Alpha Dane is smirking at my brother βWe have already agreed on terms.β βWell, Iβm adding one. And if you donβt agree, you will not get my help. Instead, you will become my enemy. And we both know, you donβt want that.β βI take it that your new terms have something to do with her?β Alpha Trey mutters through clenched teeth. βYou would be correct. Let me take her away to my pack and then you, Trey will have a deal.β Me? Why would he want me? As my brother and his Beta discuss me, Alpha Dane is still studying me. His look made me nervous. What could someone like him possibly want with me? βDeal.β Alpha Trey sticks out his hand for Alpha Dane to shake. He doesnβt take it, instead his crimson eyes shift from me to my brother. βI will have paperwork drawn up and will return tomorrow.β He reaches a hand out and cups my face, βEnsure you have everything packed.β He drags his thumb across my bottom lip and strides to the opposite end of the hallway and straight to the front door. He knew exactly where the front door was, so what was he up to? He pauses at the door. βIf I find out any one of you has laid a hand on her. The contract will be the last thing you need to worry about.β He struts out, slamming the door behind him. βGet out of my sight!β My brother snaps at me. Hurrying away, I make my way up the stairs and into my tiny bedroom. It was practically empty, the only things I had were a few changes of clothes. It would take me less than a minute to pack By morning, I hadnβt slept. Alpha Danes questions were on repeat and why was I so interesting to a Wolf like him. There was a reason he had the biggest pack. They were known for their fighting abilities, thatβs why my brother wanted to link Moonshine with Alpha Danes pack, but where did I fit in to all this? And what o earth is Blood of Wolfsbane? Three Dane βTenth brideβs the charm.β Jenson mocks as the driver pulls up in front of Moonshines packhouse. βShut up!β Eric snaps at him βBoth of you shut your mouths. Before you say something you regret!β βHe will never learn.β My wolf, Aero muses. The driver pulls open the door. βJust give me a second, I need to speak to my men.β The door closes and neither one of them speaks. βShe isnβt like the others. Donβt speak to her, donβt look at her. And you Jenson, keep your hands to yourself or you might just lose them this time.β I was more rattled than usual. Neah was different to the previous selected mates. I didnβt know what it was or whether it was because I was used to confident women, but there was something about her. And Aero appeared to like her too, more than any of the others. I had to have her. βI mean it!β I snap at Jenson's smug face, βBeing my brother wonβt change my mind!β He runs his fingers over his lips as though he was zipping them shut. They follow me from the car. Standing in front of the old packhouse, all three of us stare up at it. Because until a month ago, I knew nothing about them and even after my visit, all I had learned was the Alpha is a beast. My knuckles hammer on the door. Itβs barely open an inch when I force myself through making his Beta stumble back. I spot her straight away, hiding herself behind a corner. βAre you ready?β I call out. βIf you just want toβ¦..β Beta Kyle starts. βI was not talking to you. I was speaking to Neah.β The expression on Beta Kyleβs face was a picture. His jaw hung open and his eyes are wide. He clearly had never been told what to do, even by his Alpha. Neah steps out from her hiding spot, clutching a barely full carrier bag. She drags her teeth across her bottom lip and nods her head. βWhere are the rest of your things? I told you everything needs to be packedβ βThatβs all she has.β Trey snorts as he makes his appearance. βThatβs it?β I stare at him. βThatβs all her belongings? Sheβs what, in her early twenties and thatβs all she has?β βWhat more does she need?!β His Beta sneers. βKill him, let me rip out his throat and he will regret the day he crossed us.β βWhat are you waiting for?β I hear a horrible shrill voice that seems to vibrate through the floors. Looking away from the Beta, I see a woman holding on to a statue of herself that sat at the bottom of the stairs. Her blonde hair hung in waves around her face as her green eyes studied me and she sways her hips as she moves to Trey. I noticed Neahβs reaction yesterday. When I asked Trey where his mate was. Her whole body had tensed up in fear. She was afraid of this woman and I wanted to know why. βTake her Alpha Dane. Iβm sure she will be as useful a slave to you as she is to us.β Her shrill voice goes straight through me. βLook at the silly girl, sheβs going to pass out.β The blonde bimbo laughs βYou donβt get to talk about her like that anymore.β I glare at the blonde, βShe is not your toy. She is not your slave and I suggest that you, Alpha Trey keep your wife in check. There is only so much disobedience that I will tolerate.β βDISOBEDIENCE!β The woman screeches just as Neahβs hip hits the floor. βHow dare you! If anyone is disobedient, itβs that rat in the corner.β βWho the heck is she calling a rat?β Aero growls βYou should make yourself familiar with our agreement.β I snap. βIt seems your mate has not told you everything.β Waving Eric forward, he pulls a thick wad of paper from the folder under his arm. The contract that I have drawn up. βAll that for your help?β His mateβs eyes are wide βI donβt do half-witted contracts.β Taking the contract from Eric, I shove it against Treyβs chest βShall we go to the office?β Trey leads the way with his mate clinging on to him and his Beta hurrying behind. My men follow them while I stay behind to check on my new mate. βYou are more than welcome to join us, after all, you are involved in this deal. Or my car is outfront, you can take your stuff and wait there for me.β βAre those my only options?β she whispers, keeping her eyes low βFor now. Personally, I think you should sit in with us. It will give me great pleasure in pissing off that mate of your brothers.β She keeps her blue eyes low as she continues to clutch that bag of hers. This close to her, I could really see how ill she looked. Even her heart beat is slow, like itβs fighting to hang on to life. βSo what will it be?β βIβ¦.β Her head rotates between the front door and the direction of the office. βIβ¦.. The office I guess.β βGood choice.β I hold out a hand for her but she doesnβt take it. Pushing herself up to her feet. She wobbles a little, but steadies herself. Walking a few steps behind her, I see the evil glares she receives from Trey and the other two idiots as she enters the office.. βTake a seat.β I whisper as I walk past her. My hand grazes her lower back and she immediately tenses up. She stands, frozen to the spot. Only her eyes dart about when she shakes her head. βSit!β I say it a little louder βShe doesnβt have that privilege here!β The blonde snaps, with her lips curved up in amusement βSitting is not a privilege.β I growl, wondering what else they were forcing her to do. I couldnβt see any bruises on her arms or legs, a good sign, I hoped. βIt better be!β Aero paces in my head. He wanted her out of this place as much as I did. The blonde physically recoils in her seat. Her mouth falls wide open, shocked that I had said something. βAnd I suggest,β I look at Trey, βYou tell your mate to keep her mouth shut. Or I can shut it for her.β βAlpha Dane, you are in my homeβ¦..β βAnd you want my help, correct?β The three of them were fuming. No one liked being told what to do in their own home, yet they were doing just that to Neah. I point to the empty chair between Jenson and Eric and she finally sits down. βLetβs just get this done.β Trey snaps, βThe sooner she is gone, the happier I can be.β βYou should read the contract.β I muse βI agreed that you could take her as part of our deal.β βIdiot!β Eric murmurs. He knew as well as I did that contracts should be read before they are signed They sign without reading and practically throw the contract back at me. βDone.β Trey mutters βGood, you can get her out of my house.β Treyβs mate screeches. If I had it my way, I would just take Neah, then I wouldnβt have to put up with the twidles, but this way, they canβt have her back. Even if they begged. A contract was a contract and it was impossible for them to get out of. Getting to my feet, I hold a hand out to Neah, βCome, we are leaving this rat hole before I lose my temper.β Her warm fingers slip into my hand as she rises to her feet. Her other hand clutches the bag to her chest as she walks with me to the front door. She doesnβt even look back to say goodbye and that confirmed everything I needed to know. She hated them as much as they hated her. She pauses at the open front door, her hand falling from mine. Her blue eyes are wide as she stares at the limo. βCome.β I instruct Eric and Jenson are standing behind her, watching her curiously. βIs she okay?β Eric links me. βNeah?β I step in front of her and she doesnβt move. She seems to be staring right through me. βItβs time to go.β βOkay.β Her lips barely move She takes a step forward, almost as if she is in slow motion. Her hands grip the door frame, her knuckles turn white as her heartbeat increases. Her lips part a little and her hand falls from the door frame just as her eyes roll to the back of her head. βIβve got you.β I mutter, catching her just before she hits the floor. Her entire body tenses up as I lift her and carry her to the car. She was so weak and was even lighter than I expected. She probably didnβt weigh much more than a small child. Jenson and Eric get in the car first. Jenson cocks his eyebrow at me and has a smirk plastered to his face as I slide in with Neah on my lap. βKeep your thoughts to yourself, Jenson!β I hold her close, listening to her breathe and her heart as it slowed. Letting my fingers comb through her dark hair as she becomes a little more with it. Suddenly, she sits up right, moving away from me and trying to make herself as small as possible. Deciding not to force her to do anything, I keep my attention on my Beta and my brother, talking about pack stuff while casting a glance over to her every so often to make sure she was alright. βCome.β I mutter as the limo comes to a stop. I donβt wait for the driver and get out myself, holding a hand out for her. βIβm fine.β She speaks at last while glancing at the others and shuffles herself forward to the open door. She stares up at my home, gasping a little. It was easily three times the size of her previous home and I hoped that she would be happy here. That I could provide her with a life that was better than her last. βLet me give you a tour.β I suggest as she continues to clutch that carrier bag to her chest. She follows me in, not speaking a word. I had no idea if she was listening to what I was saying or not βThe omegas swap out on a rotational basis. Good for the youngsters to learn some responsibilities before they get proper jobs.β I tell her while showing her the dining hall with a table long enough to fit twenty people around. We move through to the kitchen. Where I point out a board on the wall. βIf there is anything you need, you just add it to the board and it will be ordered in.β Her brow furrows and still she says nothing. Picking up a pen, I smile. Maybe she felt intimidated by me. βSo tell me, what do you need because there is no way you are living under my roof with just the things that are in that bag.β Her dazzling blue eyes dart around the room βWell?β I ask. βI donβt need anything.β She whispers Sighing, I start scribbling things down. Underwear, jeans, workout clothes, dresses, shoes, anything I can think of that will cover her for a few days. Holding the pen between my teeth, I grab her around the waist. My thumbs meet just above her belly button and my fingers touch her spine. She was so thin, how was she even alive? Four Dane She looked like a deer caught in headlights as I write her size down. She was tinier than I thought. Skin and bone. If I had moved my hands up any higher, I would have felt every rib sticking out. It sickened me, she should be strong, powerful, she had Alpha blood running through her veins. I also saw how she scrunched her face up when I measured her. It wasnβt fear, it was pain. She was hiding something underneath the baggy maids dress. βI know you want to say something, so just say it. Iβm not interested in the crap Trey drummed into you. You donβt have to wait until someone asks you a question. You are free to say what you want. Are you injured?" "No." She was lying, I could feel it. She shakes her head as if it would confirm her answer and a lock of her black hair falls from the band that was supposed to be holding it back. Neah was going to be a tough girl to crack. A life of being starved had made her quite protective over herself. I will make Trey pay for what he has done to her. βYou have to say something, Neah. I cannot read your mind. When I mark you, at least I will know what you are feeling.β βMark me?β I didnβt think her eyes could get any wider. βYes, I will mark you.β She was completely and utterly shocked by the idea. Her pink lips part a little as she continues to stare at me. I thought she knew. I thought that was why she came so willingly. My Beta had kept asking me if I was certain I wanted her as my bride. There was no doubt about it, she had a strange scent but something was luring me to her. I couldnβt take my eyes off of her when I first saw her. My Wolf Aero was going mad for her too. Though he hadnβt said a word about her. Annoyed with me for not taking her home with us yesterday. βYouβ¦.You brought me so that you could mark me.β She takes a step back, walking into the kitchen island. She winces a little and quickly covers up her pain, relaxing her face.. βIf Trey had bothered reading the contract, he would have discovered that you are to be my bride, not a slave. He would also have read that if he or his ridiculously silly mate tried doing anything to you going forward, that pack would become mine, or rather, yours. I never bought you, Neah, you were always destined to be mine.β βIβm a murderer.β She gasps. βWhy would someone like you want me for a bride?β βBloodβ Aero growls interrupting my thoughts. I glance down at her baggy dress. A blood stain had appeared right where I had my hands wrapped around her. βWhatβs that? Are you injured?β I demand, I had barely touched her. She covers the stain with her hand. βItβs nothing. Itβs just a cut that I keep knocking and it opens up again. I forget itβs there.β Forget? How could she forget a wound? βWhy isnβt she healing?β I feel Aeroβs panic. βSheβs been with us less than two hours and already she has some form of injury.β His need to protect her was strong. It hadnβt occurred to me that her lack of abilities included not being able to heal. I would have to find someone who could reverse the binding and soon. βShow me!β βItβs fine.β She mumbles I was already so sick of hearing that phrase. βItβs not optional.β I mutter. βIf you wonβt show me, I will have to find a way to look, myself.β Her heart skips a beat. She looks around the kitchen. βCan.... can we go somewhere more private?β βPrivate?β I didnβt really do privacy. What Wolf did?! She bobs her head but still keeps her focus slightly off of me. Almost afraid to look me directly in the eyes. βOffice,β Aero mutters. βI was just going to suggest that!β I snap back at my Wolf. I feel his eyes roll as he retreats to some dark corner of my mind. βThis way.β I gesture to the door. Neah waits for me and follows closely behind. The scent of blood steadily grew stronger, it was more than just a cut. I already knew that. In the office, I hit the remote and the blinds start to drop, blocking out the sunlight. Neah hesitates and slowly begins to unfasten the buttons of the dress but only where the large blood stain was. Keeping everything else covered from me. She pulls the dress to one side. The wound was about four inches long and already fairly infected. βSee, itβs fine.β she whispers. βYou need to stop saying that.β She closes her mouth and starts to fasten the buttons. βNo,β I grabbed her hands, I had caught sight of another bruise. βLet me see the rest of them.β It wasnβt optional. She gasps as my fingers rip apart the rest of the buttons. Her sports bra had seen better days, just the same as her underwear. But it was the bruising I was most concerned about. Bruise upon bruise, scars that had come from whips. Her hip bones and ribs stuck out too. Turning her around, and pulling the dress from her, I find that her back is just the same. Yet interestingly, there was nothing above her chest and nothing below her thighs. Her arms were completely bare of wounds too. There was only one reason why someone would do that. To either hide what they were doing to someone, or to keep up appearances. They didnβt want guests to see. More importantly, they didnβt want me to see, considering the meeting was arranged over a month ago. She fumbles with the dress, pulling it tightly around her thin frame. βYou need to see a doctor.β βItβs β¦..β she trails off when she sees the anger on my face. βIt always heals, eventually.β βDid Trey do this?β I mutter with my teeth gritted and gesture to her body She lowers her blue eyes. βCassandra?β She still doesnβt answer me. βThat prick that follows Trey around? All three of them?β She pulls her dress tighter around her and silently nods. She brings her hand up to her face, brushing her cheek, wiping away an escaped tear. βAnyone else?β βThe pack.β She whispers. βIβm going to kill them all.β Aero growls. He will have to get in line, βBecause of what you allegedly did to your parents.β She nods. βI donβt believe you were responsible.β She tilts her head up towards me, her brow knits together as her eyes finally find mine. βBecause of Blood of Wolfsbane?" Five Neah βIβ¦I donβt know what Blood of Wolfsbane is?β I whisper He frowns at me. βYour brother said you knew the difference between plants.β βIβ¦β I didnβt have an answer. I couldnβt remember, not fully. βBlood of Wolfsbane is Wolfsbane fed by our blood. The leaves will have a red hue to them. I canβt imagine a child would know what it is because it is not freely grown. Your brotherβs story doesnβt add up.β βOh.β βI wonβt stop until I find out who did this, Neah.β His crimson eyes narrow. βI will make them pay for the suffering you have endured.β He sits on the edge of his desk, studying me. βRight now, you do need to see someone about the infection.β I kept my mouth closed, I was still trying to process his news of me being set up. Why had my brother never considered it? βCome, I will show you our bedroom. You can shower before we see the pack doctor.β Frozen to the spot, I donβt move. Did he just say βour bedroom,β? As in, we are sharing a bedroom? I guess he thinks he can mke love with me whenever he wants if Iβm his contract bride. A shiver runs down my spine at the thought. Glancing up, I see him watching me. He is stood at the open door, waiting for me. Ensuring my dress has me covered, I step out into the hallway. No one was around and the hallways were quiet. As we moved, Alpha Dane would tell me what each room was, but he seemed more focussed on getting me to the bedroom. His bedroom is huge, with massive windows, just like the rest of the house. The bed sat pressed up against the wall. All around it, thin drapes hung from the ceiling, but they were tied back at each bed post. What surprised me the most was that the bath and the shower were in the same room. Only the toilet was in a small room to the side of the shower. No privacy, whatsoever. Though, he didnβt seem to care about that. He makes me jump when I feel his warm breath on my skin. βYou donβt need to be afraid.β I may not be able to smell him, but he would be able to scent the changes in my emotions. Crossing the room, he pulls open the glass door to the shower and turns it on. The moment he closes the door, the steam of the shower quickly fogs up the glass. And still, I find myself afraid. He gave me no clue as to what he was expecting from me. βHey,β His rough fingers tip my face up. βItβs just you and me and for now, I will let you shower in peace.β Walking away, he pulls his phone out of his pocket and messes around with it before placing it on the bedside table. βThe alarm is set for ten minutes. I will come back then. I will bring you something to wear so just stay in the towel. Understand?β He stares at me, waiting for an answer and I just nod. A ten minute shower. I was lucky if I got a minute shower back home and the water was always cold. He moves to the door and with his hand resting on the door knob he looks back over his shoulder at me. βI really wish you would talk more, Neah.β Alpha Dane leaves me in peace and I make a mad dash for the shower as if Iβm in some kind of fantasy land and this was all a dream. Maybe it was, maybe I was about to wake up in the basement of my home. The smells of the soaps and shampoos are divine as I lather them into myself. And my hair has never felt so clean. The wound on my stomach stung as the hot water hit it, but I didnβt care, it was worth it. Someone in the room clears their throat and I freeze. Thanking the steam for keeping me semi hidden. βNeah, are you done? The alarm went off five minutes ago.β Alpha Daneβs voice seems louder in here. I had been so caught up in the freedom of a simple shower that I hadnβt even heard the alarm or the Alpha come back into the room. βComing.β I mutter, turning off the water and pulling a towel around me to hide the hideousness underneath. Stepping out, I already see that my ripped dress, underwear and worn sandals had been removed from the floor. Alpha Dane sits on the end of the bed with what looked like folded clothes on his lap and a pair of trainers. βItβs not much, as we donβt have anyone with as small a waist as you.β He smiles as he hands over the clothes. A matching navy blue sweatshirt and joggers. βYou will have to make do without the underwear for now. Should be here first thing tomorrow.β He watches me with a cocked eyebrow as I pull the joggers on and tug the sweatshirt over my head before removing the towel. Maybe he was used to the women parading themselves in front of him, or throwing themselves at him because he has power, but I wasnβt like that. βLetβs go.β He rises to his feet and this time, I follow him. Something told me that if I didnβt get this wound looked at, it would put him in a bad mood. The pack doctor was young, unlike the one back home who was old and afraid to let anyone take over from him. She smiles at us as we enter the pack hospital and rewraps her dark hair into a bun. βRaven, this is Neah.β Alpha Dane introduces me with a grin. I keep my eyes low as I hear Raven say, βAlpha Dane, what seems to be the problem apart from the strange smell she has brought with her.β It didnβt sound like a hurtful comment like I was used to, but more a comment of curiosity. βShe will tell you herself when she finds her tongue.β βI have a wound.β I whisper. βAnd you are not healing?β Raven asks, confused βI donβt have my Wolf.β I hated saying it. It was just a constant reminder that I did not fit in. βHer Wolf was bound when she was a kid.β Alpha Dane tells her. βThatβs why her scent is strange. Her Wolf is there, locked away, waiting to be freed.β My eyes flicker up only to find him staring straight back at me. I had always believed that my Wolf was gone. Not that she was trapped. Ravenβs dark eyes hover on me. βWow, okay.β She grabs my hand. βThis way, letβs take a look at this wound of yours.β She leads me into an empty room and asks me to lay on the bed and to show her my wound. Pulling up the sweatshirt, just enough for her to see the wound. Her eyes widen, a flicker of rage passing over them as she takes in the infected wound and the bruising that surrounds it. Her fingers carefully press around the wound. βHow long ago?β βA few days.β I mutter, though I wasnβt sure. Every beating blurred into another one. Any day that I wasnβt hit was a good day. Raven shakes her head. βThis is longer than a few days ago, the infection has had at least a week to develop.β βNeah, you need to tell us the truth.β Alpha Dane orders βI donβt know.β βNEAH!β His deep voice rumbles through me and I close my eyes, fearing his anger. Anger brought punishment, punishment brought pain. βI swear, I donβt know. The beatings, they happen so often that they just kind ofβ¦. Iβm never not bruised.β Thereβs silence and I was too afraid to open my eyes. Alpha Trey had said it over and over, that if anyone found out, he would make my life a misery, more than it already was. I used to wonder who would ever find out that didnβt already know. Now here I was, sitting in another packβs hospital, revealing the truth. βHeal her!β Alpha Dane shouts after what seems like forever. He storms from the room, pulling a phone out of his pocket. βYou will have to forgive my brother. His temper is short, especially when it comes to things like this.β Raven mutters as she gently inspects my wound βYour brother?β I whisper, opening my eyes βAh, I see he informed you. Iβm guessing he didnβt tell you that Jenson is our brother too?β I shake my head, Iβm guessing Jenson was one of the men that came to my brother's house. She chuckles. βJenson is considered to be our brotherβs Gamma.β βGamma?β I had never heard of the term. βYep and Alpha Dane has a love/hate for me working here. He wants me to represent our family, but he knows this is what Iβm good at.β She grabs a pot of cream from the cupboard. βNow this needs to be applied three times a day. It should clear up the infection, if it hasnβt changed in a couple of days, I will take another look. My brother is waiting for you out front.β βThanks.β I mumble, taking the pot of cream from her. I looked at the label, but couldnβt read it. I had never learned to read. She bobs her head at me as I hurry out to find Alpha Dane on his phone, snapping at someone. He hangs up as soon as he sees me and asks what Raven said. βCream, three times a day.β I show him the pot and he takes it from me. βGood, come.β He strides off and I have to run to keep up with him. I follow him through the house and into the office. βShow me.β He orders, pulling the lid off the pot. It wasnβt going to be negotiable, not when he had used the same tone moments before he ripped my dress open earlier. Slowly lifting my sweatshirt, he crouches down in front of me and gently smothers the wound in the cold cream. βI donβt want you to lie to me, Neah. Not ever. If you canβt remember, that is what you need to tell me. Is that clear? I donβt want to have to guess what you mean.β βOkay.β I couldnβt say anything else, I was too focussed on the warmth of his hands. One presses against my lower back, holding me steady while the other gently rubs cream into my wound. The only touch I had received from another man was a beating. βStop holding your breath.β He tells me, getting to his feet. βI am not going to hurt you.β It seemed impossible to believe given my history. The act, the words coming from him, it just didnβt feel real. | Galaxy in the Story | 301 | https://facebook.com/61555427913037 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717743600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879839 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410729 | 1723321858 | 995 | 480124741257496 | 1 | 1.7277413576323E+15 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 219004054622622 | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | 120209611805750689 | wwwedb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πAttention! Do not read in publicοΌπ | https://wwwedb.com/market/meganovel/13?lpid=11783&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717743552 | 2.1900405462262E+14 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447260728_1518945155389917_2874266976111342341_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=g0H6jXhQP3sQ7kNvgGXGGZL&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYD5RKLxmmvz3_WMQm6M7TyxkgQmm5IfWgwhhyK_F2vFIg&oe=6672BD2F | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447272334_8058147917584464_4203412527007476159_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ookoAxwxG_QQ7kNvgE9thCo&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCeO_9K7nk0lXXIJiyjXCwWONM-nS-S5ZtufKX8Y6JJ9A&oe=6672A008 | 0 | 3 | One Neah βWhere the heck is she?β I hear the Beta scream. I already knew Beta Kyle was talking about me, the only servant of the house. I groan and get to my feet, grabbing the cleaning basket and taking it with me. The moment Beta Kyle sees me, he strides towards me and his hand slices against my cheek. I donβt make a sound. Years of experience has taught me to keep my mouth shut at all times and only speak when spoken too, even if what they are doing to me hurts. βAlpha Trey and I are expecting company and you still have not cleaned the office like you were asked.β Beta Kyle spits at me I nod my head and my hand tightens on the cleaning basket. If I could just find the courage to swing it at his head, it would make my day. I resisted, he was stronger than me and I didnβt need locking up for another week with no food. My stomach already hurt enough. βWe are trying to make a good impression on Alpha Dane. Do you not understand how important it is for us to join ourselves with his pack?!β I donβt answer, I know it's a trick, to try and get me to say something so that he can give himself a reason to punish me. I keep my eyes low so that I didnβt have to look at his face. Alpha Dane, I had only ever heard rumours about him. Words exchanged between the other pack members when I was in the room. From what I gathered, he was a ruthless man, a Wolf feared by others. He didnβt mess around and he had the largest pack. βHe is the Alpha of Black Shadow, the biggest pack in the world, we need him!β Beta Kyle continues. Yet he doesnβt tell me why. We had never been attacked and we had never attacked anyone, so why did we need another pack to help us? He places his hands on my shoulders, digging his nails into my thinning skin and turns me around, kicking me in the but as he shoves me towards the office. βUseless Wolf.β He mutters as he moves away. Quietly closing the door, I lean back against it, observing the already clean office. There was nothing out of place, it looked perfectly fine for a meeting with this so-called powerful Alpha. Closing my eyes, I slide down to the floor. I hated this house. I thought that when I turned eighteen, I could finally escape, but four years later, here I still am, a slave in my own home. Doing all the dirty tasks for my brother, Alpha Trey and the pack. While my ex mate, Beta Kyle waltzes around reminding me of how worthless I am. Someone clears their throat and I freeze, I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair, just around the corner. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of drink. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that donβt quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door as my heart pounded. βIs this the way you greet all Alphaβs?β His deep voice rumbles through the room, there was an edge of amusement to his tone. βIβm sorry.β I whisper, getting to my feet. βIβ¦I thought I was alone.β I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. He doesnβt introduce himself either, why should he? βCome forward.β He orders and I already feel a lump forming in my throat. Alpha Trey was going to finish me. I step around the corner, doing as Iβm told, allowing him to see me properly. I close my eyes, expecting the worst. βYou smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?β I nod, though I couldnβt tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they found out about me. βI would prefer it if you spoke to me.β He growls, βIβm not in the mood to play games.β βYes.β I whisper. I couldnβt help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? βWhy do you smell strange? And how is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.β βIβ¦..β I hated the question. βSpit it out, I havenβt got all day!β He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldnβt scent him. I knew why I hadnβt been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever wanted or liked to do. They never let me tell my side of the story. All they do is laugh and mock me. βYou should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. Itβs rude to not look at them. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?β His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them, there was no way I was making eye contact. βMy Wolf abilities were bound,β I mutter. Twice, I wanted to add. Twice my abilities were bound. But he probably wasnβt interested in that part. He leans forward, carefully placing his glass on the small table next to the chair. I could feel him staring at me, βWhy would someone do that?β If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. βIt was a punishment.β I whisper. It wasnβt far from the entire truth but it was the simplest answer I could give. Thereβs a twitch in his cheek. Was he angry to hear of such a punishment? Or maybe, just like the others, he was amused by it. I couldnβt tell. The door swings open and my brother screeches at me βNeah, what the heck are you doing in my office?β He turns to the crimson eyed man. βI am so sorry that my sister is bothering you, Alpha Dane.β Crap, it was him. My brother spins around, his hand stretching out to hit me. I close my eyes, bracing myself, ready to feel the burn. βI wouldnβt do that if I were you.β Alpha Daneβs voice rumbles through the room. Peeking through slits, I see Alpha Dane has risen to his feet, his hand coiled around my brother's wrist. He was taller than my brother, more muscly too. βNeah,β My name rolls off of his tongue, βwas kindly showing me to your office, Alpha Trey, as you failed to meet me at the front of your house like I requested. I was lucky someone was present, at least someone understands the importance of this deal.β What? I had no idea what he was talking about. And he had no reason to lie for me. My brother glares at me, clenching his jaw tight. I was going to pay for this later. I would have to try and steal some food. βGo and get Beta Kyle.β Alpha Trey seethes. βTell him that our guest is here.β I nod my head and hurry from the room, the last thing I wanted was to be caught between bickering men. βBeta Kyle,β I whisper as I enter the dining hall. He instantly glares at me with his dark eyes. I had spoken without being spoken to. βAlpha Trey is in the office with Alpha Dane. I was sent to inform you.β He slams the newspaper down on the table and glares at me as he walks by. βYouβre lucky that the Alpha sent you to get me, otherwise you wouldn't be seeing sunlight for a few days.β Pausing behind me, he yanks my head back, locking his fingers in my hair, leaning in close to me, I feel his hot breath on my skin. He doesnβt speak, it was just his way of proving that he could do what he wants when he wants. I try to keep myself busy so I can stay as far away from the office as possible. My peace doesnβt last long when I hear my brother calling out to me. Quietly, I pad towards the office and plaster a smile on my face as I open the door. βNeah, go get the champagne and some glasses, we are celebrating.β I bow my head and hurry to the drinks cabinet. Quickly finding what my brother has asked for. As I re-enter the office, I can feel Alpha Dane watching my every move, even the hairs on the back of my neck stand up. No one ever watches me this closely. Approaching the small table by Alpha Danes chair, I start to fill the glasses. He takes the champagne bottle from me, telling me he is more than capable of filling his own glass. I feel my cheeks flame, not from embarrassment, but because I knew that I would be punished for this. I should have been quicker. I should have filled the glasses before entering the office. I should haveβ¦. My brain freezes when I see my brother glaring at me. βNeah is your sister, correct?β Alpha Dane questions my brother. βShe is.β Alpha Trey mutters with disgust. He looks away from me to focus on the man asking questions. βWhy do you treat her like vermin?β Straight to the point, my brother wouldnβt like that. He only liked sharing information on his terms. No one had spoken to my brother about his treatment of me because everyone took great joy in beating me. I didnβt know what to do. I couldnβt move but I knew I had to get out of there. If this deal goes to pot because of me, then that would be my fault too. βNeah was responsible for our parents' death.β Alpha Trey spits I closed my eyes, battling back the tears that were threatening to break free. βResponsible how?β Alpha Daneβs voice rumbles through me. He was definitely angry. βShe served them Wolfsbane.β Two Neah Donβt make a sound. Donβt make a sound. I knew Alpha Dane was studying me. They all did, no one could ever quite believe how someone could do something so disgusting as poisoning their own parents. I stood there, with my head hanging low, wishing for the ground to open up and suck me in. There are movements around me. He was standing directly in front of me. With a rough finger he tilts my face up towards his, forcing me to look at him. Slowly, his hand latches onto my throat but he doesnβt squeeze. βYou poisoned your parents?β βI was six.β I splutter. βI just made them lemonade.β My voice comes out all squeaky as I try to defend myself. I could barely remember my parents, but I could remember all the guilt I had been made to feel since that day. His crimson eyes flash to my brothers. βHardly seems fair to blame a six year old.β βA six year old should know the difference between plants.β Alpha Trey snaps βSounds to me like she was set up.β Alpha Dane shrugs his shoulders, letting go of my throat. βWe all know that standard wolfsbane doesnβt affect us anymore. We evolved from that thing centuries ago.β What? What did he mean? Wolfsbane wasnβt lethal. It had been drummed into me since I could walk. βWhich only leaves Blood of Wolfsbane.β Alpha Dane mutters βYou werenβt there, Alpha Dane.β My brother muttered through gritted teeth as his eyes narrowed to slits. βIt was Wolfsbane.β He nods his head. βYou are right, I was not present.β Great, now there was someone else who could remind me of something I had done by accident, years ago. βBut tell me this, where would a six year old get Blood of Wolfsbane?β βI didnβt ask you here to talk about my slave!β Alpha Trey spits. βOr what happened to my parents.β Alpha Dane grabs his leather jacket from the chair. Unlike other Alphaβs he seemed to dress more casually. A simple black tee and jeans covered his huge frame. And unlike other Alphaβs, his arms are bare of tattoos, not a single bit of ink poked out anywhere. βYouβre right and now I have a few things to mull over.β βI thought we agreed.β My brother exclaims βNothing has been signed. Now I will show myself out.β The moment he is out of the office, both my brother and Beta Kyle round on me. βWhat the heck did you say to him?β My brother demands, slamming a hand into my stomach. βN..nothing. Well, he just asked me why I smelled funny.β βDid you tell him?β Beta Kyle demands. He was practically spitting in my face. I hated him. I hated him so much that I had vowed to one day get my revenge and rip his stomach out through his mouth. βWELL?β My brother yells when I donβt immediately respond and smacks me across the side of the head. My head involuntarily moves up and down. βBut I didnβt say it was you.β I tried to sound strong and confident but it just comes out as a whisper. If they werenβt Wolves, they probably wouldnβt have heard me. My brother's hand locks into my black hair as he yanks my head back, sending a shooting pain through my skull. βIf you have ruined this, you wonβt see daylight again.β He drags me by my hair from the office and down the hallway towards the basement door. βPleaseβ¦.β I beg. βHe was an Alphaβ¦Iβ¦ I had to answer him.β My cheeks burn with my tears as he flings the door open. On the other side of the door is Alpha Dane. He is leaning against the wall with his arms folded, staring out at us. My brother's hand falls from my hair, relieving the pressure on the back of my skull.. βAlpha Dane, I thought you had left.β Alpha Trey murmurs angrily. βI said I would show myself out. I thought I had found the door, but instead I find a basement, riddled in your sister's strange scent. Is this how you treat your family?β βAs I said,β my brother holds his ground, βShe is responsible for the death of my parents, so yes, this is what she deserves.β βYou should keep your nose out of other packs' business!β Beta Kyle adds. Alpha Dane laughs. βIf I agree to this deal, everything about your business becomes my business. So tell me, what would your punishment be for her? No food, locked away for a week, beatings?β βWe donβtβ¦.β βReally?β He cocks a brow, βYou really expect me to believe that you would have just let her sleep? I have already stopped you from hitting her once. " His eyes roam over me. "She is underfed, bags hover under her tired blue eyes. For a sister of an Alpha, she is certainly not treated like one. Regardless of what she allegedly did when she was a pup.β βShe did do it!β Alpha Trey seethes βAnd she has nothing to do with our deal.β βThatβs for me to decide.β His crimson eyes flicker around the hallway. βWhere is your mate? I would be interested to know how she feels about this.β I close my eyes, silently begging my brother not to call his Luna. Luna Cassandra is worse than Beta Kyle and Alpha Trey together. βOn second thoughts, why bother her. Iβm certain she is just as vile as you.β He sneers I peer through slits to see his crimson eyes on me. There was no reason for him to defend me and yet he was. I was a nobody, no one special. Just who everyone called a traitor. Only instead of being given a death sentence, my brother had decided to make me spend my life suffering. βI have a proposition for you, Alpha Trey.β Alpha Dane is smirking at my brother βWe have already agreed on terms.β βWell, Iβm adding one. And if you donβt agree, you will not get my help. Instead, you will become my enemy. And we both know, you donβt want that.β βI take it that your new terms have something to do with her?β Alpha Trey mutters through clenched teeth. βYou would be correct. Let me take her away to my pack and then you, Trey will have a deal.β Me? Why would he want me? As my brother and his Beta discuss me, Alpha Dane is still studying me. His look made me nervous. What could someone like him possibly want with me? βDeal.β Alpha Trey sticks out his hand for Alpha Dane to shake. He doesnβt take it, instead his crimson eyes shift from me to my brother. βI will have paperwork drawn up and will return tomorrow.β He reaches a hand out and cups my face, βEnsure you have everything packed.β He drags his thumb across my bottom lip and strides to the opposite end of the hallway and straight to the front door. He knew exactly where the front door was, so what was he up to? He pauses at the door. βIf I find out any one of you has laid a hand on her. The contract will be the last thing you need to worry about.β He struts out, slamming the door behind him. βGet out of my sight!β My brother snaps at me. Hurrying away, I make my way up the stairs and into my tiny bedroom. It was practically empty, the only things I had were a few changes of clothes. It would take me less than a minute to pack By morning, I hadnβt slept. Alpha Danes questions were on repeat and why was I so interesting to a Wolf like him. There was a reason he had the biggest pack. They were known for their fighting abilities, thatβs why my brother wanted to link Moonshine with Alpha Danes pack, but where did I fit in to all this? And what o earth is Blood of Wolfsbane? Three Dane βTenth brideβs the charm.β Jenson mocks as the driver pulls up in front of Moonshines packhouse. βShut up!β Eric snaps at him βBoth of you shut your mouths. Before you say something you regret!β βHe will never learn.β My wolf, Aero muses. The driver pulls open the door. βJust give me a second, I need to speak to my men.β The door closes and neither one of them speaks. βShe isnβt like the others. Donβt speak to her, donβt look at her. And you Jenson, keep your hands to yourself or you might just lose them this time.β I was more rattled than usual. Neah was different to the previous selected mates. I didnβt know what it was or whether it was because I was used to confident women, but there was something about her. And Aero appeared to like her too, more than any of the others. I had to have her. βI mean it!β I snap at Jenson's smug face, βBeing my brother wonβt change my mind!β He runs his fingers over his lips as though he was zipping them shut. They follow me from the car. Standing in front of the old packhouse, all three of us stare up at it. Because until a month ago, I knew nothing about them and even after my visit, all I had learned was the Alpha is a beast. My knuckles hammer on the door. Itβs barely open an inch when I force myself through making his Beta stumble back. I spot her straight away, hiding herself behind a corner. βAre you ready?β I call out. βIf you just want toβ¦..β Beta Kyle starts. βI was not talking to you. I was speaking to Neah.β The expression on Beta Kyleβs face was a picture. His jaw hung open and his eyes are wide. He clearly had never been told what to do, even by his Alpha. Neah steps out from her hiding spot, clutching a barely full carrier bag. She drags her teeth across her bottom lip and nods her head. βWhere are the rest of your things? I told you everything needs to be packedβ βThatβs all she has.β Trey snorts as he makes his appearance. βThatβs it?β I stare at him. βThatβs all her belongings? Sheβs what, in her early twenties and thatβs all she has?β βWhat more does she need?!β His Beta sneers. βKill him, let me rip out his throat and he will regret the day he crossed us.β βWhat are you waiting for?β I hear a horrible shrill voice that seems to vibrate through the floors. Looking away from the Beta, I see a woman holding on to a statue of herself that sat at the bottom of the stairs. Her blonde hair hung in waves around her face as her green eyes studied me and she sways her hips as she moves to Trey. I noticed Neahβs reaction yesterday. When I asked Trey where his mate was. Her whole body had tensed up in fear. She was afraid of this woman and I wanted to know why. βTake her Alpha Dane. Iβm sure she will be as useful a slave to you as she is to us.β Her shrill voice goes straight through me. βLook at the silly girl, sheβs going to pass out.β The blonde bimbo laughs βYou donβt get to talk about her like that anymore.β I glare at the blonde, βShe is not your toy. She is not your slave and I suggest that you, Alpha Trey keep your wife in check. There is only so much disobedience that I will tolerate.β βDISOBEDIENCE!β The woman screeches just as Neahβs hip hits the floor. βHow dare you! If anyone is disobedient, itβs that rat in the corner.β βWho the heck is she calling a rat?β Aero growls βYou should make yourself familiar with our agreement.β I snap. βIt seems your mate has not told you everything.β Waving Eric forward, he pulls a thick wad of paper from the folder under his arm. The contract that I have drawn up. βAll that for your help?β His mateβs eyes are wide βI donβt do half-witted contracts.β Taking the contract from Eric, I shove it against Treyβs chest βShall we go to the office?β Trey leads the way with his mate clinging on to him and his Beta hurrying behind. My men follow them while I stay behind to check on my new mate. βYou are more than welcome to join us, after all, you are involved in this deal. Or my car is outfront, you can take your stuff and wait there for me.β βAre those my only options?β she whispers, keeping her eyes low βFor now. Personally, I think you should sit in with us. It will give me great pleasure in pissing off that mate of your brothers.β She keeps her blue eyes low as she continues to clutch that bag of hers. This close to her, I could really see how ill she looked. Even her heart beat is slow, like itβs fighting to hang on to life. βSo what will it be?β βIβ¦.β Her head rotates between the front door and the direction of the office. βIβ¦.. The office I guess.β βGood choice.β I hold out a hand for her but she doesnβt take it. Pushing herself up to her feet. She wobbles a little, but steadies herself. Walking a few steps behind her, I see the evil glares she receives from Trey and the other two idiots as she enters the office.. βTake a seat.β I whisper as I walk past her. My hand grazes her lower back and she immediately tenses up. She stands, frozen to the spot. Only her eyes dart about when she shakes her head. βSit!β I say it a little louder βShe doesnβt have that privilege here!β The blonde snaps, with her lips curved up in amusement βSitting is not a privilege.β I growl, wondering what else they were forcing her to do. I couldnβt see any bruises on her arms or legs, a good sign, I hoped. βIt better be!β Aero paces in my head. He wanted her out of this place as much as I did. The blonde physically recoils in her seat. Her mouth falls wide open, shocked that I had said something. βAnd I suggest,β I look at Trey, βYou tell your mate to keep her mouth shut. Or I can shut it for her.β βAlpha Dane, you are in my homeβ¦..β βAnd you want my help, correct?β The three of them were fuming. No one liked being told what to do in their own home, yet they were doing just that to Neah. I point to the empty chair between Jenson and Eric and she finally sits down. βLetβs just get this done.β Trey snaps, βThe sooner she is gone, the happier I can be.β βYou should read the contract.β I muse βI agreed that you could take her as part of our deal.β βIdiot!β Eric murmurs. He knew as well as I did that contracts should be read before they are signed They sign without reading and practically throw the contract back at me. βDone.β Trey mutters βGood, you can get her out of my house.β Treyβs mate screeches. If I had it my way, I would just take Neah, then I wouldnβt have to put up with the twidles, but this way, they canβt have her back. Even if they begged. A contract was a contract and it was impossible for them to get out of. Getting to my feet, I hold a hand out to Neah, βCome, we are leaving this rat hole before I lose my temper.β Her warm fingers slip into my hand as she rises to her feet. Her other hand clutches the bag to her chest as she walks with me to the front door. She doesnβt even look back to say goodbye and that confirmed everything I needed to know. She hated them as much as they hated her. She pauses at the open front door, her hand falling from mine. Her blue eyes are wide as she stares at the limo. βCome.β I instruct Eric and Jenson are standing behind her, watching her curiously. βIs she okay?β Eric links me. βNeah?β I step in front of her and she doesnβt move. She seems to be staring right through me. βItβs time to go.β βOkay.β Her lips barely move She takes a step forward, almost as if she is in slow motion. Her hands grip the door frame, her knuckles turn white as her heartbeat increases. Her lips part a little and her hand falls from the door frame just as her eyes roll to the back of her head. βIβve got you.β I mutter, catching her just before she hits the floor. Her entire body tenses up as I lift her and carry her to the car. She was so weak and was even lighter than I expected. She probably didnβt weigh much more than a small child. Jenson and Eric get in the car first. Jenson cocks his eyebrow at me and has a smirk plastered to his face as I slide in with Neah on my lap. βKeep your thoughts to yourself, Jenson!β I hold her close, listening to her breathe and her heart as it slowed. Letting my fingers comb through her dark hair as she becomes a little more with it. Suddenly, she sits up right, moving away from me and trying to make herself as small as possible. Deciding not to force her to do anything, I keep my attention on my Beta and my brother, talking about pack stuff while casting a glance over to her every so often to make sure she was alright. βCome.β I mutter as the limo comes to a stop. I donβt wait for the driver and get out myself, holding a hand out for her. βIβm fine.β She speaks at last while glancing at the others and shuffles herself forward to the open door. She stares up at my home, gasping a little. It was easily three times the size of her previous home and I hoped that she would be happy here. That I could provide her with a life that was better than her last. βLet me give you a tour.β I suggest as she continues to clutch that carrier bag to her chest. She follows me in, not speaking a word. I had no idea if she was listening to what I was saying or not βThe omegas swap out on a rotational basis. Good for the youngsters to learn some responsibilities before they get proper jobs.β I tell her while showing her the dining hall with a table long enough to fit twenty people around. We move through to the kitchen. Where I point out a board on the wall. βIf there is anything you need, you just add it to the board and it will be ordered in.β Her brow furrows and still she says nothing. Picking up a pen, I smile. Maybe she felt intimidated by me. βSo tell me, what do you need because there is no way you are living under my roof with just the things that are in that bag.β Her dazzling blue eyes dart around the room βWell?β I ask. βI donβt need anything.β She whispers Sighing, I start scribbling things down. Underwear, jeans, workout clothes, dresses, shoes, anything I can think of that will cover her for a few days. Holding the pen between my teeth, I grab her around the waist. My thumbs meet just above her belly button and my fingers touch her spine. She was so thin, how was she even alive? Four Dane She looked like a deer caught in headlights as I write her size down. She was tinier than I thought. Skin and bone. If I had moved my hands up any higher, I would have felt every rib sticking out. It sickened me, she should be strong, powerful, she had Alpha blood running through her veins. I also saw how she scrunched her face up when I measured her. It wasnβt fear, it was pain. She was hiding something underneath the baggy maids dress. βI know you want to say something, so just say it. Iβm not interested in the crap Trey drummed into you. You donβt have to wait until someone asks you a question. You are free to say what you want. Are you injured?" "No." She was lying, I could feel it. She shakes her head as if it would confirm her answer and a lock of her black hair falls from the band that was supposed to be holding it back. Neah was going to be a tough girl to crack. A life of being starved had made her quite protective over herself. I will make Trey pay for what he has done to her. βYou have to say something, Neah. I cannot read your mind. When I mark you, at least I will know what you are feeling.β βMark me?β I didnβt think her eyes could get any wider. βYes, I will mark you.β She was completely and utterly shocked by the idea. Her pink lips part a little as she continues to stare at me. I thought she knew. I thought that was why she came so willingly. My Beta had kept asking me if I was certain I wanted her as my bride. There was no doubt about it, she had a strange scent but something was luring me to her. I couldnβt take my eyes off of her when I first saw her. My Wolf Aero was going mad for her too. Though he hadnβt said a word about her. Annoyed with me for not taking her home with us yesterday. βYouβ¦.You brought me so that you could mark me.β She takes a step back, walking into the kitchen island. She winces a little and quickly covers up her pain, relaxing her face.. βIf Trey had bothered reading the contract, he would have discovered that you are to be my bride, not a slave. He would also have read that if he or his ridiculously silly mate tried doing anything to you going forward, that pack would become mine, or rather, yours. I never bought you, Neah, you were always destined to be mine.β βIβm a murderer.β She gasps. βWhy would someone like you want me for a bride?β βBloodβ Aero growls interrupting my thoughts. I glance down at her baggy dress. A blood stain had appeared right where I had my hands wrapped around her. βWhatβs that? Are you injured?β I demand, I had barely touched her. She covers the stain with her hand. βItβs nothing. Itβs just a cut that I keep knocking and it opens up again. I forget itβs there.β Forget? How could she forget a wound? βWhy isnβt she healing?β I feel Aeroβs panic. βSheβs been with us less than two hours and already she has some form of injury.β His need to protect her was strong. It hadnβt occurred to me that her lack of abilities included not being able to heal. I would have to find someone who could reverse the binding and soon. βShow me!β βItβs fine.β She mumbles I was already so sick of hearing that phrase. βItβs not optional.β I mutter. βIf you wonβt show me, I will have to find a way to look, myself.β Her heart skips a beat. She looks around the kitchen. βCan.... can we go somewhere more private?β βPrivate?β I didnβt really do privacy. What Wolf did?! She bobs her head but still keeps her focus slightly off of me. Almost afraid to look me directly in the eyes. βOffice,β Aero mutters. βI was just going to suggest that!β I snap back at my Wolf. I feel his eyes roll as he retreats to some dark corner of my mind. βThis way.β I gesture to the door. Neah waits for me and follows closely behind. The scent of blood steadily grew stronger, it was more than just a cut. I already knew that. In the office, I hit the remote and the blinds start to drop, blocking out the sunlight. Neah hesitates and slowly begins to unfasten the buttons of the dress but only where the large blood stain was. Keeping everything else covered from me. She pulls the dress to one side. The wound was about four inches long and already fairly infected. βSee, itβs fine.β she whispers. βYou need to stop saying that.β She closes her mouth and starts to fasten the buttons. βNo,β I grabbed her hands, I had caught sight of another bruise. βLet me see the rest of them.β It wasnβt optional. She gasps as my fingers rip apart the rest of the buttons. Her sports bra had seen better days, just the same as her underwear. But it was the bruising I was most concerned about. Bruise upon bruise, scars that had come from whips. Her hip bones and ribs stuck out too. Turning her around, and pulling the dress from her, I find that her back is just the same. Yet interestingly, there was nothing above her chest and nothing below her thighs. Her arms were completely bare of wounds too. There was only one reason why someone would do that. To either hide what they were doing to someone, or to keep up appearances. They didnβt want guests to see. More importantly, they didnβt want me to see, considering the meeting was arranged over a month ago. She fumbles with the dress, pulling it tightly around her thin frame. βYou need to see a doctor.β βItβs β¦..β she trails off when she sees the anger on my face. βIt always heals, eventually.β βDid Trey do this?β I mutter with my teeth gritted and gesture to her body She lowers her blue eyes. βCassandra?β She still doesnβt answer me. βThat prick that follows Trey around? All three of them?β She pulls her dress tighter around her and silently nods. She brings her hand up to her face, brushing her cheek, wiping away an escaped tear. βAnyone else?β βThe pack.β She whispers. βIβm going to kill them all.β Aero growls. He will have to get in line, βBecause of what you allegedly did to your parents.β She nods. βI donβt believe you were responsible.β She tilts her head up towards me, her brow knits together as her eyes finally find mine. βBecause of Blood of Wolfsbane?" Five Neah βIβ¦I donβt know what Blood of Wolfsbane is?β I whisper He frowns at me. βYour brother said you knew the difference between plants.β βIβ¦β I didnβt have an answer. I couldnβt remember, not fully. βBlood of Wolfsbane is Wolfsbane fed by our blood. The leaves will have a red hue to them. I canβt imagine a child would know what it is because it is not freely grown. Your brotherβs story doesnβt add up.β βOh.β βI wonβt stop until I find out who did this, Neah.β His crimson eyes narrow. βI will make them pay for the suffering you have endured.β He sits on the edge of his desk, studying me. βRight now, you do need to see someone about the infection.β I kept my mouth closed, I was still trying to process his news of me being set up. Why had my brother never considered it? βCome, I will show you our bedroom. You can shower before we see the pack doctor.β Frozen to the spot, I donβt move. Did he just say βour bedroom,β? As in, we are sharing a bedroom? I guess he thinks he can mke love with me whenever he wants if Iβm his contract bride. A shiver runs down my spine at the thought. Glancing up, I see him watching me. He is stood at the open door, waiting for me. Ensuring my dress has me covered, I step out into the hallway. No one was around and the hallways were quiet. As we moved, Alpha Dane would tell me what each room was, but he seemed more focussed on getting me to the bedroom. His bedroom is huge, with massive windows, just like the rest of the house. The bed sat pressed up against the wall. All around it, thin drapes hung from the ceiling, but they were tied back at each bed post. What surprised me the most was that the bath and the shower were in the same room. Only the toilet was in a small room to the side of the shower. No privacy, whatsoever. Though, he didnβt seem to care about that. He makes me jump when I feel his warm breath on my skin. βYou donβt need to be afraid.β I may not be able to smell him, but he would be able to scent the changes in my emotions. Crossing the room, he pulls open the glass door to the shower and turns it on. The moment he closes the door, the steam of the shower quickly fogs up the glass. And still, I find myself afraid. He gave me no clue as to what he was expecting from me. βHey,β His rough fingers tip my face up. βItβs just you and me and for now, I will let you shower in peace.β Walking away, he pulls his phone out of his pocket and messes around with it before placing it on the bedside table. βThe alarm is set for ten minutes. I will come back then. I will bring you something to wear so just stay in the towel. Understand?β He stares at me, waiting for an answer and I just nod. A ten minute shower. I was lucky if I got a minute shower back home and the water was always cold. He moves to the door and with his hand resting on the door knob he looks back over his shoulder at me. βI really wish you would talk more, Neah.β Alpha Dane leaves me in peace and I make a mad dash for the shower as if Iβm in some kind of fantasy land and this was all a dream. Maybe it was, maybe I was about to wake up in the basement of my home. The smells of the soaps and shampoos are divine as I lather them into myself. And my hair has never felt so clean. The wound on my stomach stung as the hot water hit it, but I didnβt care, it was worth it. Someone in the room clears their throat and I freeze. Thanking the steam for keeping me semi hidden. βNeah, are you done? The alarm went off five minutes ago.β Alpha Daneβs voice seems louder in here. I had been so caught up in the freedom of a simple shower that I hadnβt even heard the alarm or the Alpha come back into the room. βComing.β I mutter, turning off the water and pulling a towel around me to hide the hideousness underneath. Stepping out, I already see that my ripped dress, underwear and worn sandals had been removed from the floor. Alpha Dane sits on the end of the bed with what looked like folded clothes on his lap and a pair of trainers. βItβs not much, as we donβt have anyone with as small a waist as you.β He smiles as he hands over the clothes. A matching navy blue sweatshirt and joggers. βYou will have to make do without the underwear for now. Should be here first thing tomorrow.β He watches me with a cocked eyebrow as I pull the joggers on and tug the sweatshirt over my head before removing the towel. Maybe he was used to the women parading themselves in front of him, or throwing themselves at him because he has power, but I wasnβt like that. βLetβs go.β He rises to his feet and this time, I follow him. Something told me that if I didnβt get this wound looked at, it would put him in a bad mood. The pack doctor was young, unlike the one back home who was old and afraid to let anyone take over from him. She smiles at us as we enter the pack hospital and rewraps her dark hair into a bun. βRaven, this is Neah.β Alpha Dane introduces me with a grin. I keep my eyes low as I hear Raven say, βAlpha Dane, what seems to be the problem apart from the strange smell she has brought with her.β It didnβt sound like a hurtful comment like I was used to, but more a comment of curiosity. βShe will tell you herself when she finds her tongue.β βI have a wound.β I whisper. βAnd you are not healing?β Raven asks, confused βI donβt have my Wolf.β I hated saying it. It was just a constant reminder that I did not fit in. βHer Wolf was bound when she was a kid.β Alpha Dane tells her. βThatβs why her scent is strange. Her Wolf is there, locked away, waiting to be freed.β My eyes flicker up only to find him staring straight back at me. I had always believed that my Wolf was gone. Not that she was trapped. Ravenβs dark eyes hover on me. βWow, okay.β She grabs my hand. βThis way, letβs take a look at this wound of yours.β She leads me into an empty room and asks me to lay on the bed and to show her my wound. Pulling up the sweatshirt, just enough for her to see the wound. Her eyes widen, a flicker of rage passing over them as she takes in the infected wound and the bruising that surrounds it. Her fingers carefully press around the wound. βHow long ago?β βA few days.β I mutter, though I wasnβt sure. Every beating blurred into another one. Any day that I wasnβt hit was a good day. Raven shakes her head. βThis is longer than a few days ago, the infection has had at least a week to develop.β βNeah, you need to tell us the truth.β Alpha Dane orders βI donβt know.β βNEAH!β His deep voice rumbles through me and I close my eyes, fearing his anger. Anger brought punishment, punishment brought pain. βI swear, I donβt know. The beatings, they happen so often that they just kind ofβ¦. Iβm never not bruised.β Thereβs silence and I was too afraid to open my eyes. Alpha Trey had said it over and over, that if anyone found out, he would make my life a misery, more than it already was. I used to wonder who would ever find out that didnβt already know. Now here I was, sitting in another packβs hospital, revealing the truth. βHeal her!β Alpha Dane shouts after what seems like forever. He storms from the room, pulling a phone out of his pocket. βYou will have to forgive my brother. His temper is short, especially when it comes to things like this.β Raven mutters as she gently inspects my wound βYour brother?β I whisper, opening my eyes βAh, I see he informed you. Iβm guessing he didnβt tell you that Jenson is our brother too?β I shake my head, Iβm guessing Jenson was one of the men that came to my brother's house. She chuckles. βJenson is considered to be our brotherβs Gamma.β βGamma?β I had never heard of the term. βYep and Alpha Dane has a love/hate for me working here. He wants me to represent our family, but he knows this is what Iβm good at.β She grabs a pot of cream from the cupboard. βNow this needs to be applied three times a day. It should clear up the infection, if it hasnβt changed in a couple of days, I will take another look. My brother is waiting for you out front.β βThanks.β I mumble, taking the pot of cream from her. I looked at the label, but couldnβt read it. I had never learned to read. She bobs her head at me as I hurry out to find Alpha Dane on his phone, snapping at someone. He hangs up as soon as he sees me and asks what Raven said. βCream, three times a day.β I show him the pot and he takes it from me. βGood, come.β He strides off and I have to run to keep up with him. I follow him through the house and into the office. βShow me.β He orders, pulling the lid off the pot. It wasnβt going to be negotiable, not when he had used the same tone moments before he ripped my dress open earlier. Slowly lifting my sweatshirt, he crouches down in front of me and gently smothers the wound in the cold cream. βI donβt want you to lie to me, Neah. Not ever. If you canβt remember, that is what you need to tell me. Is that clear? I donβt want to have to guess what you mean.β βOkay.β I couldnβt say anything else, I was too focussed on the warmth of his hands. One presses against my lower back, holding me steady while the other gently rubs cream into my wound. The only touch I had received from another man was a beating. βStop holding your breath.β He tells me, getting to his feet. βI am not going to hurt you.β It seemed impossible to believe given my history. The act, the words coming from him, it just didnβt feel real. | Galaxy in the Story | 301 | https://facebook.com/61555427913037 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717743600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879840 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410729 | 1723321858 | 995 | 480124741257496 | 1 | 1.7277413576323E+15 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 219004054622622 | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | 120209611805750689 | wwwedb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πAttention! Do not read in publicοΌπ | https://wwwedb.com/market/meganovel/13?lpid=11783&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717743552 | 2.1900405462262E+14 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447260728_1518945155389917_2874266976111342341_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=g0H6jXhQP3sQ7kNvgGXGGZL&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYD5RKLxmmvz3_WMQm6M7TyxkgQmm5IfWgwhhyK_F2vFIg&oe=6672BD2F | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447272334_8058147917584464_4203412527007476159_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ookoAxwxG_QQ7kNvgE9thCo&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCeO_9K7nk0lXXIJiyjXCwWONM-nS-S5ZtufKX8Y6JJ9A&oe=6672A008 | 0 | 3 | One Neah βWhere the heck is she?β I hear the Beta scream. I already knew Beta Kyle was talking about me, the only servant of the house. I groan and get to my feet, grabbing the cleaning basket and taking it with me. The moment Beta Kyle sees me, he strides towards me and his hand slices against my cheek. I donβt make a sound. Years of experience has taught me to keep my mouth shut at all times and only speak when spoken too, even if what they are doing to me hurts. βAlpha Trey and I are expecting company and you still have not cleaned the office like you were asked.β Beta Kyle spits at me I nod my head and my hand tightens on the cleaning basket. If I could just find the courage to swing it at his head, it would make my day. I resisted, he was stronger than me and I didnβt need locking up for another week with no food. My stomach already hurt enough. βWe are trying to make a good impression on Alpha Dane. Do you not understand how important it is for us to join ourselves with his pack?!β I donβt answer, I know it's a trick, to try and get me to say something so that he can give himself a reason to punish me. I keep my eyes low so that I didnβt have to look at his face. Alpha Dane, I had only ever heard rumours about him. Words exchanged between the other pack members when I was in the room. From what I gathered, he was a ruthless man, a Wolf feared by others. He didnβt mess around and he had the largest pack. βHe is the Alpha of Black Shadow, the biggest pack in the world, we need him!β Beta Kyle continues. Yet he doesnβt tell me why. We had never been attacked and we had never attacked anyone, so why did we need another pack to help us? He places his hands on my shoulders, digging his nails into my thinning skin and turns me around, kicking me in the but as he shoves me towards the office. βUseless Wolf.β He mutters as he moves away. Quietly closing the door, I lean back against it, observing the already clean office. There was nothing out of place, it looked perfectly fine for a meeting with this so-called powerful Alpha. Closing my eyes, I slide down to the floor. I hated this house. I thought that when I turned eighteen, I could finally escape, but four years later, here I still am, a slave in my own home. Doing all the dirty tasks for my brother, Alpha Trey and the pack. While my ex mate, Beta Kyle waltzes around reminding me of how worthless I am. Someone clears their throat and I freeze, I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair, just around the corner. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of drink. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that donβt quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door as my heart pounded. βIs this the way you greet all Alphaβs?β His deep voice rumbles through the room, there was an edge of amusement to his tone. βIβm sorry.β I whisper, getting to my feet. βIβ¦I thought I was alone.β I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. He doesnβt introduce himself either, why should he? βCome forward.β He orders and I already feel a lump forming in my throat. Alpha Trey was going to finish me. I step around the corner, doing as Iβm told, allowing him to see me properly. I close my eyes, expecting the worst. βYou smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?β I nod, though I couldnβt tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they found out about me. βI would prefer it if you spoke to me.β He growls, βIβm not in the mood to play games.β βYes.β I whisper. I couldnβt help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? βWhy do you smell strange? And how is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.β βIβ¦..β I hated the question. βSpit it out, I havenβt got all day!β He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldnβt scent him. I knew why I hadnβt been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever wanted or liked to do. They never let me tell my side of the story. All they do is laugh and mock me. βYou should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. Itβs rude to not look at them. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?β His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them, there was no way I was making eye contact. βMy Wolf abilities were bound,β I mutter. Twice, I wanted to add. Twice my abilities were bound. But he probably wasnβt interested in that part. He leans forward, carefully placing his glass on the small table next to the chair. I could feel him staring at me, βWhy would someone do that?β If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. βIt was a punishment.β I whisper. It wasnβt far from the entire truth but it was the simplest answer I could give. Thereβs a twitch in his cheek. Was he angry to hear of such a punishment? Or maybe, just like the others, he was amused by it. I couldnβt tell. The door swings open and my brother screeches at me βNeah, what the heck are you doing in my office?β He turns to the crimson eyed man. βI am so sorry that my sister is bothering you, Alpha Dane.β Crap, it was him. My brother spins around, his hand stretching out to hit me. I close my eyes, bracing myself, ready to feel the burn. βI wouldnβt do that if I were you.β Alpha Daneβs voice rumbles through the room. Peeking through slits, I see Alpha Dane has risen to his feet, his hand coiled around my brother's wrist. He was taller than my brother, more muscly too. βNeah,β My name rolls off of his tongue, βwas kindly showing me to your office, Alpha Trey, as you failed to meet me at the front of your house like I requested. I was lucky someone was present, at least someone understands the importance of this deal.β What? I had no idea what he was talking about. And he had no reason to lie for me. My brother glares at me, clenching his jaw tight. I was going to pay for this later. I would have to try and steal some food. βGo and get Beta Kyle.β Alpha Trey seethes. βTell him that our guest is here.β I nod my head and hurry from the room, the last thing I wanted was to be caught between bickering men. βBeta Kyle,β I whisper as I enter the dining hall. He instantly glares at me with his dark eyes. I had spoken without being spoken to. βAlpha Trey is in the office with Alpha Dane. I was sent to inform you.β He slams the newspaper down on the table and glares at me as he walks by. βYouβre lucky that the Alpha sent you to get me, otherwise you wouldn't be seeing sunlight for a few days.β Pausing behind me, he yanks my head back, locking his fingers in my hair, leaning in close to me, I feel his hot breath on my skin. He doesnβt speak, it was just his way of proving that he could do what he wants when he wants. I try to keep myself busy so I can stay as far away from the office as possible. My peace doesnβt last long when I hear my brother calling out to me. Quietly, I pad towards the office and plaster a smile on my face as I open the door. βNeah, go get the champagne and some glasses, we are celebrating.β I bow my head and hurry to the drinks cabinet. Quickly finding what my brother has asked for. As I re-enter the office, I can feel Alpha Dane watching my every move, even the hairs on the back of my neck stand up. No one ever watches me this closely. Approaching the small table by Alpha Danes chair, I start to fill the glasses. He takes the champagne bottle from me, telling me he is more than capable of filling his own glass. I feel my cheeks flame, not from embarrassment, but because I knew that I would be punished for this. I should have been quicker. I should have filled the glasses before entering the office. I should haveβ¦. My brain freezes when I see my brother glaring at me. βNeah is your sister, correct?β Alpha Dane questions my brother. βShe is.β Alpha Trey mutters with disgust. He looks away from me to focus on the man asking questions. βWhy do you treat her like vermin?β Straight to the point, my brother wouldnβt like that. He only liked sharing information on his terms. No one had spoken to my brother about his treatment of me because everyone took great joy in beating me. I didnβt know what to do. I couldnβt move but I knew I had to get out of there. If this deal goes to pot because of me, then that would be my fault too. βNeah was responsible for our parents' death.β Alpha Trey spits I closed my eyes, battling back the tears that were threatening to break free. βResponsible how?β Alpha Daneβs voice rumbles through me. He was definitely angry. βShe served them Wolfsbane.β Two Neah Donβt make a sound. Donβt make a sound. I knew Alpha Dane was studying me. They all did, no one could ever quite believe how someone could do something so disgusting as poisoning their own parents. I stood there, with my head hanging low, wishing for the ground to open up and suck me in. There are movements around me. He was standing directly in front of me. With a rough finger he tilts my face up towards his, forcing me to look at him. Slowly, his hand latches onto my throat but he doesnβt squeeze. βYou poisoned your parents?β βI was six.β I splutter. βI just made them lemonade.β My voice comes out all squeaky as I try to defend myself. I could barely remember my parents, but I could remember all the guilt I had been made to feel since that day. His crimson eyes flash to my brothers. βHardly seems fair to blame a six year old.β βA six year old should know the difference between plants.β Alpha Trey snaps βSounds to me like she was set up.β Alpha Dane shrugs his shoulders, letting go of my throat. βWe all know that standard wolfsbane doesnβt affect us anymore. We evolved from that thing centuries ago.β What? What did he mean? Wolfsbane wasnβt lethal. It had been drummed into me since I could walk. βWhich only leaves Blood of Wolfsbane.β Alpha Dane mutters βYou werenβt there, Alpha Dane.β My brother muttered through gritted teeth as his eyes narrowed to slits. βIt was Wolfsbane.β He nods his head. βYou are right, I was not present.β Great, now there was someone else who could remind me of something I had done by accident, years ago. βBut tell me this, where would a six year old get Blood of Wolfsbane?β βI didnβt ask you here to talk about my slave!β Alpha Trey spits. βOr what happened to my parents.β Alpha Dane grabs his leather jacket from the chair. Unlike other Alphaβs he seemed to dress more casually. A simple black tee and jeans covered his huge frame. And unlike other Alphaβs, his arms are bare of tattoos, not a single bit of ink poked out anywhere. βYouβre right and now I have a few things to mull over.β βI thought we agreed.β My brother exclaims βNothing has been signed. Now I will show myself out.β The moment he is out of the office, both my brother and Beta Kyle round on me. βWhat the heck did you say to him?β My brother demands, slamming a hand into my stomach. βN..nothing. Well, he just asked me why I smelled funny.β βDid you tell him?β Beta Kyle demands. He was practically spitting in my face. I hated him. I hated him so much that I had vowed to one day get my revenge and rip his stomach out through his mouth. βWELL?β My brother yells when I donβt immediately respond and smacks me across the side of the head. My head involuntarily moves up and down. βBut I didnβt say it was you.β I tried to sound strong and confident but it just comes out as a whisper. If they werenβt Wolves, they probably wouldnβt have heard me. My brother's hand locks into my black hair as he yanks my head back, sending a shooting pain through my skull. βIf you have ruined this, you wonβt see daylight again.β He drags me by my hair from the office and down the hallway towards the basement door. βPleaseβ¦.β I beg. βHe was an Alphaβ¦Iβ¦ I had to answer him.β My cheeks burn with my tears as he flings the door open. On the other side of the door is Alpha Dane. He is leaning against the wall with his arms folded, staring out at us. My brother's hand falls from my hair, relieving the pressure on the back of my skull.. βAlpha Dane, I thought you had left.β Alpha Trey murmurs angrily. βI said I would show myself out. I thought I had found the door, but instead I find a basement, riddled in your sister's strange scent. Is this how you treat your family?β βAs I said,β my brother holds his ground, βShe is responsible for the death of my parents, so yes, this is what she deserves.β βYou should keep your nose out of other packs' business!β Beta Kyle adds. Alpha Dane laughs. βIf I agree to this deal, everything about your business becomes my business. So tell me, what would your punishment be for her? No food, locked away for a week, beatings?β βWe donβtβ¦.β βReally?β He cocks a brow, βYou really expect me to believe that you would have just let her sleep? I have already stopped you from hitting her once. " His eyes roam over me. "She is underfed, bags hover under her tired blue eyes. For a sister of an Alpha, she is certainly not treated like one. Regardless of what she allegedly did when she was a pup.β βShe did do it!β Alpha Trey seethes βAnd she has nothing to do with our deal.β βThatβs for me to decide.β His crimson eyes flicker around the hallway. βWhere is your mate? I would be interested to know how she feels about this.β I close my eyes, silently begging my brother not to call his Luna. Luna Cassandra is worse than Beta Kyle and Alpha Trey together. βOn second thoughts, why bother her. Iβm certain she is just as vile as you.β He sneers I peer through slits to see his crimson eyes on me. There was no reason for him to defend me and yet he was. I was a nobody, no one special. Just who everyone called a traitor. Only instead of being given a death sentence, my brother had decided to make me spend my life suffering. βI have a proposition for you, Alpha Trey.β Alpha Dane is smirking at my brother βWe have already agreed on terms.β βWell, Iβm adding one. And if you donβt agree, you will not get my help. Instead, you will become my enemy. And we both know, you donβt want that.β βI take it that your new terms have something to do with her?β Alpha Trey mutters through clenched teeth. βYou would be correct. Let me take her away to my pack and then you, Trey will have a deal.β Me? Why would he want me? As my brother and his Beta discuss me, Alpha Dane is still studying me. His look made me nervous. What could someone like him possibly want with me? βDeal.β Alpha Trey sticks out his hand for Alpha Dane to shake. He doesnβt take it, instead his crimson eyes shift from me to my brother. βI will have paperwork drawn up and will return tomorrow.β He reaches a hand out and cups my face, βEnsure you have everything packed.β He drags his thumb across my bottom lip and strides to the opposite end of the hallway and straight to the front door. He knew exactly where the front door was, so what was he up to? He pauses at the door. βIf I find out any one of you has laid a hand on her. The contract will be the last thing you need to worry about.β He struts out, slamming the door behind him. βGet out of my sight!β My brother snaps at me. Hurrying away, I make my way up the stairs and into my tiny bedroom. It was practically empty, the only things I had were a few changes of clothes. It would take me less than a minute to pack By morning, I hadnβt slept. Alpha Danes questions were on repeat and why was I so interesting to a Wolf like him. There was a reason he had the biggest pack. They were known for their fighting abilities, thatβs why my brother wanted to link Moonshine with Alpha Danes pack, but where did I fit in to all this? And what o earth is Blood of Wolfsbane? Three Dane βTenth brideβs the charm.β Jenson mocks as the driver pulls up in front of Moonshines packhouse. βShut up!β Eric snaps at him βBoth of you shut your mouths. Before you say something you regret!β βHe will never learn.β My wolf, Aero muses. The driver pulls open the door. βJust give me a second, I need to speak to my men.β The door closes and neither one of them speaks. βShe isnβt like the others. Donβt speak to her, donβt look at her. And you Jenson, keep your hands to yourself or you might just lose them this time.β I was more rattled than usual. Neah was different to the previous selected mates. I didnβt know what it was or whether it was because I was used to confident women, but there was something about her. And Aero appeared to like her too, more than any of the others. I had to have her. βI mean it!β I snap at Jenson's smug face, βBeing my brother wonβt change my mind!β He runs his fingers over his lips as though he was zipping them shut. They follow me from the car. Standing in front of the old packhouse, all three of us stare up at it. Because until a month ago, I knew nothing about them and even after my visit, all I had learned was the Alpha is a beast. My knuckles hammer on the door. Itβs barely open an inch when I force myself through making his Beta stumble back. I spot her straight away, hiding herself behind a corner. βAre you ready?β I call out. βIf you just want toβ¦..β Beta Kyle starts. βI was not talking to you. I was speaking to Neah.β The expression on Beta Kyleβs face was a picture. His jaw hung open and his eyes are wide. He clearly had never been told what to do, even by his Alpha. Neah steps out from her hiding spot, clutching a barely full carrier bag. She drags her teeth across her bottom lip and nods her head. βWhere are the rest of your things? I told you everything needs to be packedβ βThatβs all she has.β Trey snorts as he makes his appearance. βThatβs it?β I stare at him. βThatβs all her belongings? Sheβs what, in her early twenties and thatβs all she has?β βWhat more does she need?!β His Beta sneers. βKill him, let me rip out his throat and he will regret the day he crossed us.β βWhat are you waiting for?β I hear a horrible shrill voice that seems to vibrate through the floors. Looking away from the Beta, I see a woman holding on to a statue of herself that sat at the bottom of the stairs. Her blonde hair hung in waves around her face as her green eyes studied me and she sways her hips as she moves to Trey. I noticed Neahβs reaction yesterday. When I asked Trey where his mate was. Her whole body had tensed up in fear. She was afraid of this woman and I wanted to know why. βTake her Alpha Dane. Iβm sure she will be as useful a slave to you as she is to us.β Her shrill voice goes straight through me. βLook at the silly girl, sheβs going to pass out.β The blonde bimbo laughs βYou donβt get to talk about her like that anymore.β I glare at the blonde, βShe is not your toy. She is not your slave and I suggest that you, Alpha Trey keep your wife in check. There is only so much disobedience that I will tolerate.β βDISOBEDIENCE!β The woman screeches just as Neahβs hip hits the floor. βHow dare you! If anyone is disobedient, itβs that rat in the corner.β βWho the heck is she calling a rat?β Aero growls βYou should make yourself familiar with our agreement.β I snap. βIt seems your mate has not told you everything.β Waving Eric forward, he pulls a thick wad of paper from the folder under his arm. The contract that I have drawn up. βAll that for your help?β His mateβs eyes are wide βI donβt do half-witted contracts.β Taking the contract from Eric, I shove it against Treyβs chest βShall we go to the office?β Trey leads the way with his mate clinging on to him and his Beta hurrying behind. My men follow them while I stay behind to check on my new mate. βYou are more than welcome to join us, after all, you are involved in this deal. Or my car is outfront, you can take your stuff and wait there for me.β βAre those my only options?β she whispers, keeping her eyes low βFor now. Personally, I think you should sit in with us. It will give me great pleasure in pissing off that mate of your brothers.β She keeps her blue eyes low as she continues to clutch that bag of hers. This close to her, I could really see how ill she looked. Even her heart beat is slow, like itβs fighting to hang on to life. βSo what will it be?β βIβ¦.β Her head rotates between the front door and the direction of the office. βIβ¦.. The office I guess.β βGood choice.β I hold out a hand for her but she doesnβt take it. Pushing herself up to her feet. She wobbles a little, but steadies herself. Walking a few steps behind her, I see the evil glares she receives from Trey and the other two idiots as she enters the office.. βTake a seat.β I whisper as I walk past her. My hand grazes her lower back and she immediately tenses up. She stands, frozen to the spot. Only her eyes dart about when she shakes her head. βSit!β I say it a little louder βShe doesnβt have that privilege here!β The blonde snaps, with her lips curved up in amusement βSitting is not a privilege.β I growl, wondering what else they were forcing her to do. I couldnβt see any bruises on her arms or legs, a good sign, I hoped. βIt better be!β Aero paces in my head. He wanted her out of this place as much as I did. The blonde physically recoils in her seat. Her mouth falls wide open, shocked that I had said something. βAnd I suggest,β I look at Trey, βYou tell your mate to keep her mouth shut. Or I can shut it for her.β βAlpha Dane, you are in my homeβ¦..β βAnd you want my help, correct?β The three of them were fuming. No one liked being told what to do in their own home, yet they were doing just that to Neah. I point to the empty chair between Jenson and Eric and she finally sits down. βLetβs just get this done.β Trey snaps, βThe sooner she is gone, the happier I can be.β βYou should read the contract.β I muse βI agreed that you could take her as part of our deal.β βIdiot!β Eric murmurs. He knew as well as I did that contracts should be read before they are signed They sign without reading and practically throw the contract back at me. βDone.β Trey mutters βGood, you can get her out of my house.β Treyβs mate screeches. If I had it my way, I would just take Neah, then I wouldnβt have to put up with the twidles, but this way, they canβt have her back. Even if they begged. A contract was a contract and it was impossible for them to get out of. Getting to my feet, I hold a hand out to Neah, βCome, we are leaving this rat hole before I lose my temper.β Her warm fingers slip into my hand as she rises to her feet. Her other hand clutches the bag to her chest as she walks with me to the front door. She doesnβt even look back to say goodbye and that confirmed everything I needed to know. She hated them as much as they hated her. She pauses at the open front door, her hand falling from mine. Her blue eyes are wide as she stares at the limo. βCome.β I instruct Eric and Jenson are standing behind her, watching her curiously. βIs she okay?β Eric links me. βNeah?β I step in front of her and she doesnβt move. She seems to be staring right through me. βItβs time to go.β βOkay.β Her lips barely move She takes a step forward, almost as if she is in slow motion. Her hands grip the door frame, her knuckles turn white as her heartbeat increases. Her lips part a little and her hand falls from the door frame just as her eyes roll to the back of her head. βIβve got you.β I mutter, catching her just before she hits the floor. Her entire body tenses up as I lift her and carry her to the car. She was so weak and was even lighter than I expected. She probably didnβt weigh much more than a small child. Jenson and Eric get in the car first. Jenson cocks his eyebrow at me and has a smirk plastered to his face as I slide in with Neah on my lap. βKeep your thoughts to yourself, Jenson!β I hold her close, listening to her breathe and her heart as it slowed. Letting my fingers comb through her dark hair as she becomes a little more with it. Suddenly, she sits up right, moving away from me and trying to make herself as small as possible. Deciding not to force her to do anything, I keep my attention on my Beta and my brother, talking about pack stuff while casting a glance over to her every so often to make sure she was alright. βCome.β I mutter as the limo comes to a stop. I donβt wait for the driver and get out myself, holding a hand out for her. βIβm fine.β She speaks at last while glancing at the others and shuffles herself forward to the open door. She stares up at my home, gasping a little. It was easily three times the size of her previous home and I hoped that she would be happy here. That I could provide her with a life that was better than her last. βLet me give you a tour.β I suggest as she continues to clutch that carrier bag to her chest. She follows me in, not speaking a word. I had no idea if she was listening to what I was saying or not βThe omegas swap out on a rotational basis. Good for the youngsters to learn some responsibilities before they get proper jobs.β I tell her while showing her the dining hall with a table long enough to fit twenty people around. We move through to the kitchen. Where I point out a board on the wall. βIf there is anything you need, you just add it to the board and it will be ordered in.β Her brow furrows and still she says nothing. Picking up a pen, I smile. Maybe she felt intimidated by me. βSo tell me, what do you need because there is no way you are living under my roof with just the things that are in that bag.β Her dazzling blue eyes dart around the room βWell?β I ask. βI donβt need anything.β She whispers Sighing, I start scribbling things down. Underwear, jeans, workout clothes, dresses, shoes, anything I can think of that will cover her for a few days. Holding the pen between my teeth, I grab her around the waist. My thumbs meet just above her belly button and my fingers touch her spine. She was so thin, how was she even alive? Four Dane She looked like a deer caught in headlights as I write her size down. She was tinier than I thought. Skin and bone. If I had moved my hands up any higher, I would have felt every rib sticking out. It sickened me, she should be strong, powerful, she had Alpha blood running through her veins. I also saw how she scrunched her face up when I measured her. It wasnβt fear, it was pain. She was hiding something underneath the baggy maids dress. βI know you want to say something, so just say it. Iβm not interested in the crap Trey drummed into you. You donβt have to wait until someone asks you a question. You are free to say what you want. Are you injured?" "No." She was lying, I could feel it. She shakes her head as if it would confirm her answer and a lock of her black hair falls from the band that was supposed to be holding it back. Neah was going to be a tough girl to crack. A life of being starved had made her quite protective over herself. I will make Trey pay for what he has done to her. βYou have to say something, Neah. I cannot read your mind. When I mark you, at least I will know what you are feeling.β βMark me?β I didnβt think her eyes could get any wider. βYes, I will mark you.β She was completely and utterly shocked by the idea. Her pink lips part a little as she continues to stare at me. I thought she knew. I thought that was why she came so willingly. My Beta had kept asking me if I was certain I wanted her as my bride. There was no doubt about it, she had a strange scent but something was luring me to her. I couldnβt take my eyes off of her when I first saw her. My Wolf Aero was going mad for her too. Though he hadnβt said a word about her. Annoyed with me for not taking her home with us yesterday. βYouβ¦.You brought me so that you could mark me.β She takes a step back, walking into the kitchen island. She winces a little and quickly covers up her pain, relaxing her face.. βIf Trey had bothered reading the contract, he would have discovered that you are to be my bride, not a slave. He would also have read that if he or his ridiculously silly mate tried doing anything to you going forward, that pack would become mine, or rather, yours. I never bought you, Neah, you were always destined to be mine.β βIβm a murderer.β She gasps. βWhy would someone like you want me for a bride?β βBloodβ Aero growls interrupting my thoughts. I glance down at her baggy dress. A blood stain had appeared right where I had my hands wrapped around her. βWhatβs that? Are you injured?β I demand, I had barely touched her. She covers the stain with her hand. βItβs nothing. Itβs just a cut that I keep knocking and it opens up again. I forget itβs there.β Forget? How could she forget a wound? βWhy isnβt she healing?β I feel Aeroβs panic. βSheβs been with us less than two hours and already she has some form of injury.β His need to protect her was strong. It hadnβt occurred to me that her lack of abilities included not being able to heal. I would have to find someone who could reverse the binding and soon. βShow me!β βItβs fine.β She mumbles I was already so sick of hearing that phrase. βItβs not optional.β I mutter. βIf you wonβt show me, I will have to find a way to look, myself.β Her heart skips a beat. She looks around the kitchen. βCan.... can we go somewhere more private?β βPrivate?β I didnβt really do privacy. What Wolf did?! She bobs her head but still keeps her focus slightly off of me. Almost afraid to look me directly in the eyes. βOffice,β Aero mutters. βI was just going to suggest that!β I snap back at my Wolf. I feel his eyes roll as he retreats to some dark corner of my mind. βThis way.β I gesture to the door. Neah waits for me and follows closely behind. The scent of blood steadily grew stronger, it was more than just a cut. I already knew that. In the office, I hit the remote and the blinds start to drop, blocking out the sunlight. Neah hesitates and slowly begins to unfasten the buttons of the dress but only where the large blood stain was. Keeping everything else covered from me. She pulls the dress to one side. The wound was about four inches long and already fairly infected. βSee, itβs fine.β she whispers. βYou need to stop saying that.β She closes her mouth and starts to fasten the buttons. βNo,β I grabbed her hands, I had caught sight of another bruise. βLet me see the rest of them.β It wasnβt optional. She gasps as my fingers rip apart the rest of the buttons. Her sports bra had seen better days, just the same as her underwear. But it was the bruising I was most concerned about. Bruise upon bruise, scars that had come from whips. Her hip bones and ribs stuck out too. Turning her around, and pulling the dress from her, I find that her back is just the same. Yet interestingly, there was nothing above her chest and nothing below her thighs. Her arms were completely bare of wounds too. There was only one reason why someone would do that. To either hide what they were doing to someone, or to keep up appearances. They didnβt want guests to see. More importantly, they didnβt want me to see, considering the meeting was arranged over a month ago. She fumbles with the dress, pulling it tightly around her thin frame. βYou need to see a doctor.β βItβs β¦..β she trails off when she sees the anger on my face. βIt always heals, eventually.β βDid Trey do this?β I mutter with my teeth gritted and gesture to her body She lowers her blue eyes. βCassandra?β She still doesnβt answer me. βThat prick that follows Trey around? All three of them?β She pulls her dress tighter around her and silently nods. She brings her hand up to her face, brushing her cheek, wiping away an escaped tear. βAnyone else?β βThe pack.β She whispers. βIβm going to kill them all.β Aero growls. He will have to get in line, βBecause of what you allegedly did to your parents.β She nods. βI donβt believe you were responsible.β She tilts her head up towards me, her brow knits together as her eyes finally find mine. βBecause of Blood of Wolfsbane?" Five Neah βIβ¦I donβt know what Blood of Wolfsbane is?β I whisper He frowns at me. βYour brother said you knew the difference between plants.β βIβ¦β I didnβt have an answer. I couldnβt remember, not fully. βBlood of Wolfsbane is Wolfsbane fed by our blood. The leaves will have a red hue to them. I canβt imagine a child would know what it is because it is not freely grown. Your brotherβs story doesnβt add up.β βOh.β βI wonβt stop until I find out who did this, Neah.β His crimson eyes narrow. βI will make them pay for the suffering you have endured.β He sits on the edge of his desk, studying me. βRight now, you do need to see someone about the infection.β I kept my mouth closed, I was still trying to process his news of me being set up. Why had my brother never considered it? βCome, I will show you our bedroom. You can shower before we see the pack doctor.β Frozen to the spot, I donβt move. Did he just say βour bedroom,β? As in, we are sharing a bedroom? I guess he thinks he can mke love with me whenever he wants if Iβm his contract bride. A shiver runs down my spine at the thought. Glancing up, I see him watching me. He is stood at the open door, waiting for me. Ensuring my dress has me covered, I step out into the hallway. No one was around and the hallways were quiet. As we moved, Alpha Dane would tell me what each room was, but he seemed more focussed on getting me to the bedroom. His bedroom is huge, with massive windows, just like the rest of the house. The bed sat pressed up against the wall. All around it, thin drapes hung from the ceiling, but they were tied back at each bed post. What surprised me the most was that the bath and the shower were in the same room. Only the toilet was in a small room to the side of the shower. No privacy, whatsoever. Though, he didnβt seem to care about that. He makes me jump when I feel his warm breath on my skin. βYou donβt need to be afraid.β I may not be able to smell him, but he would be able to scent the changes in my emotions. Crossing the room, he pulls open the glass door to the shower and turns it on. The moment he closes the door, the steam of the shower quickly fogs up the glass. And still, I find myself afraid. He gave me no clue as to what he was expecting from me. βHey,β His rough fingers tip my face up. βItβs just you and me and for now, I will let you shower in peace.β Walking away, he pulls his phone out of his pocket and messes around with it before placing it on the bedside table. βThe alarm is set for ten minutes. I will come back then. I will bring you something to wear so just stay in the towel. Understand?β He stares at me, waiting for an answer and I just nod. A ten minute shower. I was lucky if I got a minute shower back home and the water was always cold. He moves to the door and with his hand resting on the door knob he looks back over his shoulder at me. βI really wish you would talk more, Neah.β Alpha Dane leaves me in peace and I make a mad dash for the shower as if Iβm in some kind of fantasy land and this was all a dream. Maybe it was, maybe I was about to wake up in the basement of my home. The smells of the soaps and shampoos are divine as I lather them into myself. And my hair has never felt so clean. The wound on my stomach stung as the hot water hit it, but I didnβt care, it was worth it. Someone in the room clears their throat and I freeze. Thanking the steam for keeping me semi hidden. βNeah, are you done? The alarm went off five minutes ago.β Alpha Daneβs voice seems louder in here. I had been so caught up in the freedom of a simple shower that I hadnβt even heard the alarm or the Alpha come back into the room. βComing.β I mutter, turning off the water and pulling a towel around me to hide the hideousness underneath. Stepping out, I already see that my ripped dress, underwear and worn sandals had been removed from the floor. Alpha Dane sits on the end of the bed with what looked like folded clothes on his lap and a pair of trainers. βItβs not much, as we donβt have anyone with as small a waist as you.β He smiles as he hands over the clothes. A matching navy blue sweatshirt and joggers. βYou will have to make do without the underwear for now. Should be here first thing tomorrow.β He watches me with a cocked eyebrow as I pull the joggers on and tug the sweatshirt over my head before removing the towel. Maybe he was used to the women parading themselves in front of him, or throwing themselves at him because he has power, but I wasnβt like that. βLetβs go.β He rises to his feet and this time, I follow him. Something told me that if I didnβt get this wound looked at, it would put him in a bad mood. The pack doctor was young, unlike the one back home who was old and afraid to let anyone take over from him. She smiles at us as we enter the pack hospital and rewraps her dark hair into a bun. βRaven, this is Neah.β Alpha Dane introduces me with a grin. I keep my eyes low as I hear Raven say, βAlpha Dane, what seems to be the problem apart from the strange smell she has brought with her.β It didnβt sound like a hurtful comment like I was used to, but more a comment of curiosity. βShe will tell you herself when she finds her tongue.β βI have a wound.β I whisper. βAnd you are not healing?β Raven asks, confused βI donβt have my Wolf.β I hated saying it. It was just a constant reminder that I did not fit in. βHer Wolf was bound when she was a kid.β Alpha Dane tells her. βThatβs why her scent is strange. Her Wolf is there, locked away, waiting to be freed.β My eyes flicker up only to find him staring straight back at me. I had always believed that my Wolf was gone. Not that she was trapped. Ravenβs dark eyes hover on me. βWow, okay.β She grabs my hand. βThis way, letβs take a look at this wound of yours.β She leads me into an empty room and asks me to lay on the bed and to show her my wound. Pulling up the sweatshirt, just enough for her to see the wound. Her eyes widen, a flicker of rage passing over them as she takes in the infected wound and the bruising that surrounds it. Her fingers carefully press around the wound. βHow long ago?β βA few days.β I mutter, though I wasnβt sure. Every beating blurred into another one. Any day that I wasnβt hit was a good day. Raven shakes her head. βThis is longer than a few days ago, the infection has had at least a week to develop.β βNeah, you need to tell us the truth.β Alpha Dane orders βI donβt know.β βNEAH!β His deep voice rumbles through me and I close my eyes, fearing his anger. Anger brought punishment, punishment brought pain. βI swear, I donβt know. The beatings, they happen so often that they just kind ofβ¦. Iβm never not bruised.β Thereβs silence and I was too afraid to open my eyes. Alpha Trey had said it over and over, that if anyone found out, he would make my life a misery, more than it already was. I used to wonder who would ever find out that didnβt already know. Now here I was, sitting in another packβs hospital, revealing the truth. βHeal her!β Alpha Dane shouts after what seems like forever. He storms from the room, pulling a phone out of his pocket. βYou will have to forgive my brother. His temper is short, especially when it comes to things like this.β Raven mutters as she gently inspects my wound βYour brother?β I whisper, opening my eyes βAh, I see he informed you. Iβm guessing he didnβt tell you that Jenson is our brother too?β I shake my head, Iβm guessing Jenson was one of the men that came to my brother's house. She chuckles. βJenson is considered to be our brotherβs Gamma.β βGamma?β I had never heard of the term. βYep and Alpha Dane has a love/hate for me working here. He wants me to represent our family, but he knows this is what Iβm good at.β She grabs a pot of cream from the cupboard. βNow this needs to be applied three times a day. It should clear up the infection, if it hasnβt changed in a couple of days, I will take another look. My brother is waiting for you out front.β βThanks.β I mumble, taking the pot of cream from her. I looked at the label, but couldnβt read it. I had never learned to read. She bobs her head at me as I hurry out to find Alpha Dane on his phone, snapping at someone. He hangs up as soon as he sees me and asks what Raven said. βCream, three times a day.β I show him the pot and he takes it from me. βGood, come.β He strides off and I have to run to keep up with him. I follow him through the house and into the office. βShow me.β He orders, pulling the lid off the pot. It wasnβt going to be negotiable, not when he had used the same tone moments before he ripped my dress open earlier. Slowly lifting my sweatshirt, he crouches down in front of me and gently smothers the wound in the cold cream. βI donβt want you to lie to me, Neah. Not ever. If you canβt remember, that is what you need to tell me. Is that clear? I donβt want to have to guess what you mean.β βOkay.β I couldnβt say anything else, I was too focussed on the warmth of his hands. One presses against my lower back, holding me steady while the other gently rubs cream into my wound. The only touch I had received from another man was a beating. βStop holding your breath.β He tells me, getting to his feet. βI am not going to hurt you.β It seemed impossible to believe given my history. The act, the words coming from him, it just didnβt feel real. | Galaxy in the Story | 301 | https://facebook.com/61555427913037 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717743600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879842 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410730 | 1723321858 | 995 | 861939552623158 | 1 | 1.8722349231897E+15 | 1717225200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120211846693390779 | qweasdzxconline.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πRead the next chaptersπ | https://qweasdzxconline.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11090&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715085862 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438129100_1146045226739178_2601865360875538189_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pgaM6op9EH4Q7kNvgFvStUz&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAnzNXAdVZ3R4dAiEpauXywjYljw4eXW7quZ6rvyHSXBw&oe=6672A490 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440747644_315502774915635_6353252339687881796_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YicSkuGzOiMQ7kNvgEoi2bQ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAN9i2X9Y9MK7cgBix3paDsplYdUdBGGi_LOwLoSJKKaQ&oe=6672CB97 | 0 | 3 | π"Ned Fletcher, with how you're treating Angie right now, aren't you worried that you're going to regret it when you finally regain your memories one day? You loved her so much before and you two got married for love! Despite you forgetting your feelings about her, how could you post so many indecent photos of her on social media?" Ned spoke nonchalantly, saying, "Why are you still holding me hostage with morals and principles? She was the one who framed me by lowly methods. I was just warning her. If Ingrid hadn't asked me to stop, I'd have gone even further! By the way, show your respect to Ingrid. Sheβs not a new girl but my only one forever and never!" Angeline Emmerson heard the talk standing outside the door. She used to be treated ever so lovingly by Ned in the past. Angeline felt her eyes reddening and filling with tears. The Ned she knew had died in the car accident that happened four years ago. The one inside was merely a stranger! Angeline inhaled deeply. Then, she pushed the door open. Ned looked up and saw her entering. "Who brought you here?" Angeline stared at Ned and said, "I've already made a police report regarding your spiked drink at the event and your spreading of my photos for revenge." Hearing this, everyone's reactions differed from one another. Angeline continued, "Ned Fletcher, it's true that I wanted to try rekindling our relationship, but I would never have stooped so low as to do those disgusting things to you. I didn't want to let go of this relationship because I was worried that the Ned I knew would return someday and blame me for giving up on him so easily," Angeline placed the divorce agreement she'd been hugging onto the table. "I tried my best, but I'm tired now. Ned Fletcher, I'm giving up on you. I don't want you anymore." Ned's eyes traveled from the divorce agreement to Angeline's face. There was a hint of surprise in his cold eyes. "Let's finalize the divorce after the police have cleared my name and you have publicly apologized to me." | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717138800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879844 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410730 | 1723321859 | 995 | 861939552623158 | 1 | 1.8722349231897E+15 | 1717225200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120211846693390779 | qweasdzxconline.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πRead the next chaptersπ | https://qweasdzxconline.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11090&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715085862 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438129100_1146045226739178_2601865360875538189_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pgaM6op9EH4Q7kNvgFvStUz&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAnzNXAdVZ3R4dAiEpauXywjYljw4eXW7quZ6rvyHSXBw&oe=6672A490 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440747644_315502774915635_6353252339687881796_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YicSkuGzOiMQ7kNvgEoi2bQ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAN9i2X9Y9MK7cgBix3paDsplYdUdBGGi_LOwLoSJKKaQ&oe=6672CB97 | 0 | 3 | π"Ned Fletcher, with how you're treating Angie right now, aren't you worried that you're going to regret it when you finally regain your memories one day? You loved her so much before and you two got married for love! Despite you forgetting your feelings about her, how could you post so many indecent photos of her on social media?" Ned spoke nonchalantly, saying, "Why are you still holding me hostage with morals and principles? She was the one who framed me by lowly methods. I was just warning her. If Ingrid hadn't asked me to stop, I'd have gone even further! By the way, show your respect to Ingrid. Sheβs not a new girl but my only one forever and never!" Angeline Emmerson heard the talk standing outside the door. She used to be treated ever so lovingly by Ned in the past. Angeline felt her eyes reddening and filling with tears. The Ned she knew had died in the car accident that happened four years ago. The one inside was merely a stranger! Angeline inhaled deeply. Then, she pushed the door open. Ned looked up and saw her entering. "Who brought you here?" Angeline stared at Ned and said, "I've already made a police report regarding your spiked drink at the event and your spreading of my photos for revenge." Hearing this, everyone's reactions differed from one another. Angeline continued, "Ned Fletcher, it's true that I wanted to try rekindling our relationship, but I would never have stooped so low as to do those disgusting things to you. I didn't want to let go of this relationship because I was worried that the Ned I knew would return someday and blame me for giving up on him so easily," Angeline placed the divorce agreement she'd been hugging onto the table. "I tried my best, but I'm tired now. Ned Fletcher, I'm giving up on you. I don't want you anymore." Ned's eyes traveled from the divorce agreement to Angeline's face. There was a hint of surprise in his cold eyes. "Let's finalize the divorce after the police have cleared my name and you have publicly apologized to me." | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717138800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879846 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410731 | 1723321859 | 995 | 861939552623158 | 1 | 1.8722349231897E+15 | 1717225200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120211846693390779 | qweasdzxconline.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πRead the next chaptersπ | https://qweasdzxconline.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11090&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715085862 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438129100_1146045226739178_2601865360875538189_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pgaM6op9EH4Q7kNvgFvStUz&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAnzNXAdVZ3R4dAiEpauXywjYljw4eXW7quZ6rvyHSXBw&oe=6672A490 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440747644_315502774915635_6353252339687881796_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YicSkuGzOiMQ7kNvgEoi2bQ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAN9i2X9Y9MK7cgBix3paDsplYdUdBGGi_LOwLoSJKKaQ&oe=6672CB97 | 0 | 3 | π"Ned Fletcher, with how you're treating Angie right now, aren't you worried that you're going to regret it when you finally regain your memories one day? You loved her so much before and you two got married for love! Despite you forgetting your feelings about her, how could you post so many indecent photos of her on social media?" Ned spoke nonchalantly, saying, "Why are you still holding me hostage with morals and principles? She was the one who framed me by lowly methods. I was just warning her. If Ingrid hadn't asked me to stop, I'd have gone even further! By the way, show your respect to Ingrid. Sheβs not a new girl but my only one forever and never!" Angeline Emmerson heard the talk standing outside the door. She used to be treated ever so lovingly by Ned in the past. Angeline felt her eyes reddening and filling with tears. The Ned she knew had died in the car accident that happened four years ago. The one inside was merely a stranger! Angeline inhaled deeply. Then, she pushed the door open. Ned looked up and saw her entering. "Who brought you here?" Angeline stared at Ned and said, "I've already made a police report regarding your spiked drink at the event and your spreading of my photos for revenge." Hearing this, everyone's reactions differed from one another. Angeline continued, "Ned Fletcher, it's true that I wanted to try rekindling our relationship, but I would never have stooped so low as to do those disgusting things to you. I didn't want to let go of this relationship because I was worried that the Ned I knew would return someday and blame me for giving up on him so easily," Angeline placed the divorce agreement she'd been hugging onto the table. "I tried my best, but I'm tired now. Ned Fletcher, I'm giving up on you. I don't want you anymore." Ned's eyes traveled from the divorce agreement to Angeline's face. There was a hint of surprise in his cold eyes. "Let's finalize the divorce after the police have cleared my name and you have publicly apologized to me." | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717138800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879850 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410732 | 1723321859 | 995 | 861939552623158 | 1 | 1.8722349231897E+15 | 1717225200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120211846693390779 | qweasdzxconline.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πRead the next chaptersπ | https://qweasdzxconline.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11090&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715085862 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438129100_1146045226739178_2601865360875538189_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pgaM6op9EH4Q7kNvgFvStUz&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAnzNXAdVZ3R4dAiEpauXywjYljw4eXW7quZ6rvyHSXBw&oe=6672A490 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440747644_315502774915635_6353252339687881796_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YicSkuGzOiMQ7kNvgEoi2bQ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAN9i2X9Y9MK7cgBix3paDsplYdUdBGGi_LOwLoSJKKaQ&oe=6672CB97 | 0 | 3 | π"Ned Fletcher, with how you're treating Angie right now, aren't you worried that you're going to regret it when you finally regain your memories one day? You loved her so much before and you two got married for love! Despite you forgetting your feelings about her, how could you post so many indecent photos of her on social media?" Ned spoke nonchalantly, saying, "Why are you still holding me hostage with morals and principles? She was the one who framed me by lowly methods. I was just warning her. If Ingrid hadn't asked me to stop, I'd have gone even further! By the way, show your respect to Ingrid. Sheβs not a new girl but my only one forever and never!" Angeline Emmerson heard the talk standing outside the door. She used to be treated ever so lovingly by Ned in the past. Angeline felt her eyes reddening and filling with tears. The Ned she knew had died in the car accident that happened four years ago. The one inside was merely a stranger! Angeline inhaled deeply. Then, she pushed the door open. Ned looked up and saw her entering. "Who brought you here?" Angeline stared at Ned and said, "I've already made a police report regarding your spiked drink at the event and your spreading of my photos for revenge." Hearing this, everyone's reactions differed from one another. Angeline continued, "Ned Fletcher, it's true that I wanted to try rekindling our relationship, but I would never have stooped so low as to do those disgusting things to you. I didn't want to let go of this relationship because I was worried that the Ned I knew would return someday and blame me for giving up on him so easily," Angeline placed the divorce agreement she'd been hugging onto the table. "I tried my best, but I'm tired now. Ned Fletcher, I'm giving up on you. I don't want you anymore." Ned's eyes traveled from the divorce agreement to Angeline's face. There was a hint of surprise in his cold eyes. "Let's finalize the divorce after the police have cleared my name and you have publicly apologized to me." | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717138800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879854 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410732 | 1723321859 | 995 | 1151488566099663 | 1 | 3.741970716041E+15 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 219004054622622 | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | 120209611805750689 | wwwedb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πAttention! Do not read in publicοΌπ | https://wwwedb.com/market/meganovel/13?lpid=11783&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717743552 | 2.1900405462262E+14 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447260728_1518945155389917_2874266976111342341_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=g0H6jXhQP3sQ7kNvgGXGGZL&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYD5RKLxmmvz3_WMQm6M7TyxkgQmm5IfWgwhhyK_F2vFIg&oe=6672BD2F | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447272334_8058147917584464_4203412527007476159_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ookoAxwxG_QQ7kNvgE9thCo&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCeO_9K7nk0lXXIJiyjXCwWONM-nS-S5ZtufKX8Y6JJ9A&oe=6672A008 | 0 | 3 | One Neah βWhere the heck is she?β I hear the Beta scream. I already knew Beta Kyle was talking about me, the only servant of the house. I groan and get to my feet, grabbing the cleaning basket and taking it with me. The moment Beta Kyle sees me, he strides towards me and his hand slices against my cheek. I donβt make a sound. Years of experience has taught me to keep my mouth shut at all times and only speak when spoken too, even if what they are doing to me hurts. βAlpha Trey and I are expecting company and you still have not cleaned the office like you were asked.β Beta Kyle spits at me I nod my head and my hand tightens on the cleaning basket. If I could just find the courage to swing it at his head, it would make my day. I resisted, he was stronger than me and I didnβt need locking up for another week with no food. My stomach already hurt enough. βWe are trying to make a good impression on Alpha Dane. Do you not understand how important it is for us to join ourselves with his pack?!β I donβt answer, I know it's a trick, to try and get me to say something so that he can give himself a reason to punish me. I keep my eyes low so that I didnβt have to look at his face. Alpha Dane, I had only ever heard rumours about him. Words exchanged between the other pack members when I was in the room. From what I gathered, he was a ruthless man, a Wolf feared by others. He didnβt mess around and he had the largest pack. βHe is the Alpha of Black Shadow, the biggest pack in the world, we need him!β Beta Kyle continues. Yet he doesnβt tell me why. We had never been attacked and we had never attacked anyone, so why did we need another pack to help us? He places his hands on my shoulders, digging his nails into my thinning skin and turns me around, kicking me in the but as he shoves me towards the office. βUseless Wolf.β He mutters as he moves away. Quietly closing the door, I lean back against it, observing the already clean office. There was nothing out of place, it looked perfectly fine for a meeting with this so-called powerful Alpha. Closing my eyes, I slide down to the floor. I hated this house. I thought that when I turned eighteen, I could finally escape, but four years later, here I still am, a slave in my own home. Doing all the dirty tasks for my brother, Alpha Trey and the pack. While my ex mate, Beta Kyle waltzes around reminding me of how worthless I am. Someone clears their throat and I freeze, I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair, just around the corner. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of drink. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that donβt quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door as my heart pounded. βIs this the way you greet all Alphaβs?β His deep voice rumbles through the room, there was an edge of amusement to his tone. βIβm sorry.β I whisper, getting to my feet. βIβ¦I thought I was alone.β I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. He doesnβt introduce himself either, why should he? βCome forward.β He orders and I already feel a lump forming in my throat. Alpha Trey was going to finish me. I step around the corner, doing as Iβm told, allowing him to see me properly. I close my eyes, expecting the worst. βYou smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?β I nod, though I couldnβt tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they found out about me. βI would prefer it if you spoke to me.β He growls, βIβm not in the mood to play games.β βYes.β I whisper. I couldnβt help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? βWhy do you smell strange? And how is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.β βIβ¦..β I hated the question. βSpit it out, I havenβt got all day!β He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldnβt scent him. I knew why I hadnβt been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever wanted or liked to do. They never let me tell my side of the story. All they do is laugh and mock me. βYou should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. Itβs rude to not look at them. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?β His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them, there was no way I was making eye contact. βMy Wolf abilities were bound,β I mutter. Twice, I wanted to add. Twice my abilities were bound. But he probably wasnβt interested in that part. He leans forward, carefully placing his glass on the small table next to the chair. I could feel him staring at me, βWhy would someone do that?β If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. βIt was a punishment.β I whisper. It wasnβt far from the entire truth but it was the simplest answer I could give. Thereβs a twitch in his cheek. Was he angry to hear of such a punishment? Or maybe, just like the others, he was amused by it. I couldnβt tell. The door swings open and my brother screeches at me βNeah, what the heck are you doing in my office?β He turns to the crimson eyed man. βI am so sorry that my sister is bothering you, Alpha Dane.β Crap, it was him. My brother spins around, his hand stretching out to hit me. I close my eyes, bracing myself, ready to feel the burn. βI wouldnβt do that if I were you.β Alpha Daneβs voice rumbles through the room. Peeking through slits, I see Alpha Dane has risen to his feet, his hand coiled around my brother's wrist. He was taller than my brother, more muscly too. βNeah,β My name rolls off of his tongue, βwas kindly showing me to your office, Alpha Trey, as you failed to meet me at the front of your house like I requested. I was lucky someone was present, at least someone understands the importance of this deal.β What? I had no idea what he was talking about. And he had no reason to lie for me. My brother glares at me, clenching his jaw tight. I was going to pay for this later. I would have to try and steal some food. βGo and get Beta Kyle.β Alpha Trey seethes. βTell him that our guest is here.β I nod my head and hurry from the room, the last thing I wanted was to be caught between bickering men. βBeta Kyle,β I whisper as I enter the dining hall. He instantly glares at me with his dark eyes. I had spoken without being spoken to. βAlpha Trey is in the office with Alpha Dane. I was sent to inform you.β He slams the newspaper down on the table and glares at me as he walks by. βYouβre lucky that the Alpha sent you to get me, otherwise you wouldn't be seeing sunlight for a few days.β Pausing behind me, he yanks my head back, locking his fingers in my hair, leaning in close to me, I feel his hot breath on my skin. He doesnβt speak, it was just his way of proving that he could do what he wants when he wants. I try to keep myself busy so I can stay as far away from the office as possible. My peace doesnβt last long when I hear my brother calling out to me. Quietly, I pad towards the office and plaster a smile on my face as I open the door. βNeah, go get the champagne and some glasses, we are celebrating.β I bow my head and hurry to the drinks cabinet. Quickly finding what my brother has asked for. As I re-enter the office, I can feel Alpha Dane watching my every move, even the hairs on the back of my neck stand up. No one ever watches me this closely. Approaching the small table by Alpha Danes chair, I start to fill the glasses. He takes the champagne bottle from me, telling me he is more than capable of filling his own glass. I feel my cheeks flame, not from embarrassment, but because I knew that I would be punished for this. I should have been quicker. I should have filled the glasses before entering the office. I should haveβ¦. My brain freezes when I see my brother glaring at me. βNeah is your sister, correct?β Alpha Dane questions my brother. βShe is.β Alpha Trey mutters with disgust. He looks away from me to focus on the man asking questions. βWhy do you treat her like vermin?β Straight to the point, my brother wouldnβt like that. He only liked sharing information on his terms. No one had spoken to my brother about his treatment of me because everyone took great joy in beating me. I didnβt know what to do. I couldnβt move but I knew I had to get out of there. If this deal goes to pot because of me, then that would be my fault too. βNeah was responsible for our parents' death.β Alpha Trey spits I closed my eyes, battling back the tears that were threatening to break free. βResponsible how?β Alpha Daneβs voice rumbles through me. He was definitely angry. βShe served them Wolfsbane.β Two Neah Donβt make a sound. Donβt make a sound. I knew Alpha Dane was studying me. They all did, no one could ever quite believe how someone could do something so disgusting as poisoning their own parents. I stood there, with my head hanging low, wishing for the ground to open up and suck me in. There are movements around me. He was standing directly in front of me. With a rough finger he tilts my face up towards his, forcing me to look at him. Slowly, his hand latches onto my throat but he doesnβt squeeze. βYou poisoned your parents?β βI was six.β I splutter. βI just made them lemonade.β My voice comes out all squeaky as I try to defend myself. I could barely remember my parents, but I could remember all the guilt I had been made to feel since that day. His crimson eyes flash to my brothers. βHardly seems fair to blame a six year old.β βA six year old should know the difference between plants.β Alpha Trey snaps βSounds to me like she was set up.β Alpha Dane shrugs his shoulders, letting go of my throat. βWe all know that standard wolfsbane doesnβt affect us anymore. We evolved from that thing centuries ago.β What? What did he mean? Wolfsbane wasnβt lethal. It had been drummed into me since I could walk. βWhich only leaves Blood of Wolfsbane.β Alpha Dane mutters βYou werenβt there, Alpha Dane.β My brother muttered through gritted teeth as his eyes narrowed to slits. βIt was Wolfsbane.β He nods his head. βYou are right, I was not present.β Great, now there was someone else who could remind me of something I had done by accident, years ago. βBut tell me this, where would a six year old get Blood of Wolfsbane?β βI didnβt ask you here to talk about my slave!β Alpha Trey spits. βOr what happened to my parents.β Alpha Dane grabs his leather jacket from the chair. Unlike other Alphaβs he seemed to dress more casually. A simple black tee and jeans covered his huge frame. And unlike other Alphaβs, his arms are bare of tattoos, not a single bit of ink poked out anywhere. βYouβre right and now I have a few things to mull over.β βI thought we agreed.β My brother exclaims βNothing has been signed. Now I will show myself out.β The moment he is out of the office, both my brother and Beta Kyle round on me. βWhat the heck did you say to him?β My brother demands, slamming a hand into my stomach. βN..nothing. Well, he just asked me why I smelled funny.β βDid you tell him?β Beta Kyle demands. He was practically spitting in my face. I hated him. I hated him so much that I had vowed to one day get my revenge and rip his stomach out through his mouth. βWELL?β My brother yells when I donβt immediately respond and smacks me across the side of the head. My head involuntarily moves up and down. βBut I didnβt say it was you.β I tried to sound strong and confident but it just comes out as a whisper. If they werenβt Wolves, they probably wouldnβt have heard me. My brother's hand locks into my black hair as he yanks my head back, sending a shooting pain through my skull. βIf you have ruined this, you wonβt see daylight again.β He drags me by my hair from the office and down the hallway towards the basement door. βPleaseβ¦.β I beg. βHe was an Alphaβ¦Iβ¦ I had to answer him.β My cheeks burn with my tears as he flings the door open. On the other side of the door is Alpha Dane. He is leaning against the wall with his arms folded, staring out at us. My brother's hand falls from my hair, relieving the pressure on the back of my skull.. βAlpha Dane, I thought you had left.β Alpha Trey murmurs angrily. βI said I would show myself out. I thought I had found the door, but instead I find a basement, riddled in your sister's strange scent. Is this how you treat your family?β βAs I said,β my brother holds his ground, βShe is responsible for the death of my parents, so yes, this is what she deserves.β βYou should keep your nose out of other packs' business!β Beta Kyle adds. Alpha Dane laughs. βIf I agree to this deal, everything about your business becomes my business. So tell me, what would your punishment be for her? No food, locked away for a week, beatings?β βWe donβtβ¦.β βReally?β He cocks a brow, βYou really expect me to believe that you would have just let her sleep? I have already stopped you from hitting her once. " His eyes roam over me. "She is underfed, bags hover under her tired blue eyes. For a sister of an Alpha, she is certainly not treated like one. Regardless of what she allegedly did when she was a pup.β βShe did do it!β Alpha Trey seethes βAnd she has nothing to do with our deal.β βThatβs for me to decide.β His crimson eyes flicker around the hallway. βWhere is your mate? I would be interested to know how she feels about this.β I close my eyes, silently begging my brother not to call his Luna. Luna Cassandra is worse than Beta Kyle and Alpha Trey together. βOn second thoughts, why bother her. Iβm certain she is just as vile as you.β He sneers I peer through slits to see his crimson eyes on me. There was no reason for him to defend me and yet he was. I was a nobody, no one special. Just who everyone called a traitor. Only instead of being given a death sentence, my brother had decided to make me spend my life suffering. βI have a proposition for you, Alpha Trey.β Alpha Dane is smirking at my brother βWe have already agreed on terms.β βWell, Iβm adding one. And if you donβt agree, you will not get my help. Instead, you will become my enemy. And we both know, you donβt want that.β βI take it that your new terms have something to do with her?β Alpha Trey mutters through clenched teeth. βYou would be correct. Let me take her away to my pack and then you, Trey will have a deal.β Me? Why would he want me? As my brother and his Beta discuss me, Alpha Dane is still studying me. His look made me nervous. What could someone like him possibly want with me? βDeal.β Alpha Trey sticks out his hand for Alpha Dane to shake. He doesnβt take it, instead his crimson eyes shift from me to my brother. βI will have paperwork drawn up and will return tomorrow.β He reaches a hand out and cups my face, βEnsure you have everything packed.β He drags his thumb across my bottom lip and strides to the opposite end of the hallway and straight to the front door. He knew exactly where the front door was, so what was he up to? He pauses at the door. βIf I find out any one of you has laid a hand on her. The contract will be the last thing you need to worry about.β He struts out, slamming the door behind him. βGet out of my sight!β My brother snaps at me. Hurrying away, I make my way up the stairs and into my tiny bedroom. It was practically empty, the only things I had were a few changes of clothes. It would take me less than a minute to pack By morning, I hadnβt slept. Alpha Danes questions were on repeat and why was I so interesting to a Wolf like him. There was a reason he had the biggest pack. They were known for their fighting abilities, thatβs why my brother wanted to link Moonshine with Alpha Danes pack, but where did I fit in to all this? And what o earth is Blood of Wolfsbane? Three Dane βTenth brideβs the charm.β Jenson mocks as the driver pulls up in front of Moonshines packhouse. βShut up!β Eric snaps at him βBoth of you shut your mouths. Before you say something you regret!β βHe will never learn.β My wolf, Aero muses. The driver pulls open the door. βJust give me a second, I need to speak to my men.β The door closes and neither one of them speaks. βShe isnβt like the others. Donβt speak to her, donβt look at her. And you Jenson, keep your hands to yourself or you might just lose them this time.β I was more rattled than usual. Neah was different to the previous selected mates. I didnβt know what it was or whether it was because I was used to confident women, but there was something about her. And Aero appeared to like her too, more than any of the others. I had to have her. βI mean it!β I snap at Jenson's smug face, βBeing my brother wonβt change my mind!β He runs his fingers over his lips as though he was zipping them shut. They follow me from the car. Standing in front of the old packhouse, all three of us stare up at it. Because until a month ago, I knew nothing about them and even after my visit, all I had learned was the Alpha is a beast. My knuckles hammer on the door. Itβs barely open an inch when I force myself through making his Beta stumble back. I spot her straight away, hiding herself behind a corner. βAre you ready?β I call out. βIf you just want toβ¦..β Beta Kyle starts. βI was not talking to you. I was speaking to Neah.β The expression on Beta Kyleβs face was a picture. His jaw hung open and his eyes are wide. He clearly had never been told what to do, even by his Alpha. Neah steps out from her hiding spot, clutching a barely full carrier bag. She drags her teeth across her bottom lip and nods her head. βWhere are the rest of your things? I told you everything needs to be packedβ βThatβs all she has.β Trey snorts as he makes his appearance. βThatβs it?β I stare at him. βThatβs all her belongings? Sheβs what, in her early twenties and thatβs all she has?β βWhat more does she need?!β His Beta sneers. βKill him, let me rip out his throat and he will regret the day he crossed us.β βWhat are you waiting for?β I hear a horrible shrill voice that seems to vibrate through the floors. Looking away from the Beta, I see a woman holding on to a statue of herself that sat at the bottom of the stairs. Her blonde hair hung in waves around her face as her green eyes studied me and she sways her hips as she moves to Trey. I noticed Neahβs reaction yesterday. When I asked Trey where his mate was. Her whole body had tensed up in fear. She was afraid of this woman and I wanted to know why. βTake her Alpha Dane. Iβm sure she will be as useful a slave to you as she is to us.β Her shrill voice goes straight through me. βLook at the silly girl, sheβs going to pass out.β The blonde bimbo laughs βYou donβt get to talk about her like that anymore.β I glare at the blonde, βShe is not your toy. She is not your slave and I suggest that you, Alpha Trey keep your wife in check. There is only so much disobedience that I will tolerate.β βDISOBEDIENCE!β The woman screeches just as Neahβs hip hits the floor. βHow dare you! If anyone is disobedient, itβs that rat in the corner.β βWho the heck is she calling a rat?β Aero growls βYou should make yourself familiar with our agreement.β I snap. βIt seems your mate has not told you everything.β Waving Eric forward, he pulls a thick wad of paper from the folder under his arm. The contract that I have drawn up. βAll that for your help?β His mateβs eyes are wide βI donβt do half-witted contracts.β Taking the contract from Eric, I shove it against Treyβs chest βShall we go to the office?β Trey leads the way with his mate clinging on to him and his Beta hurrying behind. My men follow them while I stay behind to check on my new mate. βYou are more than welcome to join us, after all, you are involved in this deal. Or my car is outfront, you can take your stuff and wait there for me.β βAre those my only options?β she whispers, keeping her eyes low βFor now. Personally, I think you should sit in with us. It will give me great pleasure in pissing off that mate of your brothers.β She keeps her blue eyes low as she continues to clutch that bag of hers. This close to her, I could really see how ill she looked. Even her heart beat is slow, like itβs fighting to hang on to life. βSo what will it be?β βIβ¦.β Her head rotates between the front door and the direction of the office. βIβ¦.. The office I guess.β βGood choice.β I hold out a hand for her but she doesnβt take it. Pushing herself up to her feet. She wobbles a little, but steadies herself. Walking a few steps behind her, I see the evil glares she receives from Trey and the other two idiots as she enters the office.. βTake a seat.β I whisper as I walk past her. My hand grazes her lower back and she immediately tenses up. She stands, frozen to the spot. Only her eyes dart about when she shakes her head. βSit!β I say it a little louder βShe doesnβt have that privilege here!β The blonde snaps, with her lips curved up in amusement βSitting is not a privilege.β I growl, wondering what else they were forcing her to do. I couldnβt see any bruises on her arms or legs, a good sign, I hoped. βIt better be!β Aero paces in my head. He wanted her out of this place as much as I did. The blonde physically recoils in her seat. Her mouth falls wide open, shocked that I had said something. βAnd I suggest,β I look at Trey, βYou tell your mate to keep her mouth shut. Or I can shut it for her.β βAlpha Dane, you are in my homeβ¦..β βAnd you want my help, correct?β The three of them were fuming. No one liked being told what to do in their own home, yet they were doing just that to Neah. I point to the empty chair between Jenson and Eric and she finally sits down. βLetβs just get this done.β Trey snaps, βThe sooner she is gone, the happier I can be.β βYou should read the contract.β I muse βI agreed that you could take her as part of our deal.β βIdiot!β Eric murmurs. He knew as well as I did that contracts should be read before they are signed They sign without reading and practically throw the contract back at me. βDone.β Trey mutters βGood, you can get her out of my house.β Treyβs mate screeches. If I had it my way, I would just take Neah, then I wouldnβt have to put up with the twidles, but this way, they canβt have her back. Even if they begged. A contract was a contract and it was impossible for them to get out of. Getting to my feet, I hold a hand out to Neah, βCome, we are leaving this rat hole before I lose my temper.β Her warm fingers slip into my hand as she rises to her feet. Her other hand clutches the bag to her chest as she walks with me to the front door. She doesnβt even look back to say goodbye and that confirmed everything I needed to know. She hated them as much as they hated her. She pauses at the open front door, her hand falling from mine. Her blue eyes are wide as she stares at the limo. βCome.β I instruct Eric and Jenson are standing behind her, watching her curiously. βIs she okay?β Eric links me. βNeah?β I step in front of her and she doesnβt move. She seems to be staring right through me. βItβs time to go.β βOkay.β Her lips barely move She takes a step forward, almost as if she is in slow motion. Her hands grip the door frame, her knuckles turn white as her heartbeat increases. Her lips part a little and her hand falls from the door frame just as her eyes roll to the back of her head. βIβve got you.β I mutter, catching her just before she hits the floor. Her entire body tenses up as I lift her and carry her to the car. She was so weak and was even lighter than I expected. She probably didnβt weigh much more than a small child. Jenson and Eric get in the car first. Jenson cocks his eyebrow at me and has a smirk plastered to his face as I slide in with Neah on my lap. βKeep your thoughts to yourself, Jenson!β I hold her close, listening to her breathe and her heart as it slowed. Letting my fingers comb through her dark hair as she becomes a little more with it. Suddenly, she sits up right, moving away from me and trying to make herself as small as possible. Deciding not to force her to do anything, I keep my attention on my Beta and my brother, talking about pack stuff while casting a glance over to her every so often to make sure she was alright. βCome.β I mutter as the limo comes to a stop. I donβt wait for the driver and get out myself, holding a hand out for her. βIβm fine.β She speaks at last while glancing at the others and shuffles herself forward to the open door. She stares up at my home, gasping a little. It was easily three times the size of her previous home and I hoped that she would be happy here. That I could provide her with a life that was better than her last. βLet me give you a tour.β I suggest as she continues to clutch that carrier bag to her chest. She follows me in, not speaking a word. I had no idea if she was listening to what I was saying or not βThe omegas swap out on a rotational basis. Good for the youngsters to learn some responsibilities before they get proper jobs.β I tell her while showing her the dining hall with a table long enough to fit twenty people around. We move through to the kitchen. Where I point out a board on the wall. βIf there is anything you need, you just add it to the board and it will be ordered in.β Her brow furrows and still she says nothing. Picking up a pen, I smile. Maybe she felt intimidated by me. βSo tell me, what do you need because there is no way you are living under my roof with just the things that are in that bag.β Her dazzling blue eyes dart around the room βWell?β I ask. βI donβt need anything.β She whispers Sighing, I start scribbling things down. Underwear, jeans, workout clothes, dresses, shoes, anything I can think of that will cover her for a few days. Holding the pen between my teeth, I grab her around the waist. My thumbs meet just above her belly button and my fingers touch her spine. She was so thin, how was she even alive? Four Dane She looked like a deer caught in headlights as I write her size down. She was tinier than I thought. Skin and bone. If I had moved my hands up any higher, I would have felt every rib sticking out. It sickened me, she should be strong, powerful, she had Alpha blood running through her veins. I also saw how she scrunched her face up when I measured her. It wasnβt fear, it was pain. She was hiding something underneath the baggy maids dress. βI know you want to say something, so just say it. Iβm not interested in the crap Trey drummed into you. You donβt have to wait until someone asks you a question. You are free to say what you want. Are you injured?" "No." She was lying, I could feel it. She shakes her head as if it would confirm her answer and a lock of her black hair falls from the band that was supposed to be holding it back. Neah was going to be a tough girl to crack. A life of being starved had made her quite protective over herself. I will make Trey pay for what he has done to her. βYou have to say something, Neah. I cannot read your mind. When I mark you, at least I will know what you are feeling.β βMark me?β I didnβt think her eyes could get any wider. βYes, I will mark you.β She was completely and utterly shocked by the idea. Her pink lips part a little as she continues to stare at me. I thought she knew. I thought that was why she came so willingly. My Beta had kept asking me if I was certain I wanted her as my bride. There was no doubt about it, she had a strange scent but something was luring me to her. I couldnβt take my eyes off of her when I first saw her. My Wolf Aero was going mad for her too. Though he hadnβt said a word about her. Annoyed with me for not taking her home with us yesterday. βYouβ¦.You brought me so that you could mark me.β She takes a step back, walking into the kitchen island. She winces a little and quickly covers up her pain, relaxing her face.. βIf Trey had bothered reading the contract, he would have discovered that you are to be my bride, not a slave. He would also have read that if he or his ridiculously silly mate tried doing anything to you going forward, that pack would become mine, or rather, yours. I never bought you, Neah, you were always destined to be mine.β βIβm a murderer.β She gasps. βWhy would someone like you want me for a bride?β βBloodβ Aero growls interrupting my thoughts. I glance down at her baggy dress. A blood stain had appeared right where I had my hands wrapped around her. βWhatβs that? Are you injured?β I demand, I had barely touched her. She covers the stain with her hand. βItβs nothing. Itβs just a cut that I keep knocking and it opens up again. I forget itβs there.β Forget? How could she forget a wound? βWhy isnβt she healing?β I feel Aeroβs panic. βSheβs been with us less than two hours and already she has some form of injury.β His need to protect her was strong. It hadnβt occurred to me that her lack of abilities included not being able to heal. I would have to find someone who could reverse the binding and soon. βShow me!β βItβs fine.β She mumbles I was already so sick of hearing that phrase. βItβs not optional.β I mutter. βIf you wonβt show me, I will have to find a way to look, myself.β Her heart skips a beat. She looks around the kitchen. βCan.... can we go somewhere more private?β βPrivate?β I didnβt really do privacy. What Wolf did?! She bobs her head but still keeps her focus slightly off of me. Almost afraid to look me directly in the eyes. βOffice,β Aero mutters. βI was just going to suggest that!β I snap back at my Wolf. I feel his eyes roll as he retreats to some dark corner of my mind. βThis way.β I gesture to the door. Neah waits for me and follows closely behind. The scent of blood steadily grew stronger, it was more than just a cut. I already knew that. In the office, I hit the remote and the blinds start to drop, blocking out the sunlight. Neah hesitates and slowly begins to unfasten the buttons of the dress but only where the large blood stain was. Keeping everything else covered from me. She pulls the dress to one side. The wound was about four inches long and already fairly infected. βSee, itβs fine.β she whispers. βYou need to stop saying that.β She closes her mouth and starts to fasten the buttons. βNo,β I grabbed her hands, I had caught sight of another bruise. βLet me see the rest of them.β It wasnβt optional. She gasps as my fingers rip apart the rest of the buttons. Her sports bra had seen better days, just the same as her underwear. But it was the bruising I was most concerned about. Bruise upon bruise, scars that had come from whips. Her hip bones and ribs stuck out too. Turning her around, and pulling the dress from her, I find that her back is just the same. Yet interestingly, there was nothing above her chest and nothing below her thighs. Her arms were completely bare of wounds too. There was only one reason why someone would do that. To either hide what they were doing to someone, or to keep up appearances. They didnβt want guests to see. More importantly, they didnβt want me to see, considering the meeting was arranged over a month ago. She fumbles with the dress, pulling it tightly around her thin frame. βYou need to see a doctor.β βItβs β¦..β she trails off when she sees the anger on my face. βIt always heals, eventually.β βDid Trey do this?β I mutter with my teeth gritted and gesture to her body She lowers her blue eyes. βCassandra?β She still doesnβt answer me. βThat prick that follows Trey around? All three of them?β She pulls her dress tighter around her and silently nods. She brings her hand up to her face, brushing her cheek, wiping away an escaped tear. βAnyone else?β βThe pack.β She whispers. βIβm going to kill them all.β Aero growls. He will have to get in line, βBecause of what you allegedly did to your parents.β She nods. βI donβt believe you were responsible.β She tilts her head up towards me, her brow knits together as her eyes finally find mine. βBecause of Blood of Wolfsbane?" Five Neah βIβ¦I donβt know what Blood of Wolfsbane is?β I whisper He frowns at me. βYour brother said you knew the difference between plants.β βIβ¦β I didnβt have an answer. I couldnβt remember, not fully. βBlood of Wolfsbane is Wolfsbane fed by our blood. The leaves will have a red hue to them. I canβt imagine a child would know what it is because it is not freely grown. Your brotherβs story doesnβt add up.β βOh.β βI wonβt stop until I find out who did this, Neah.β His crimson eyes narrow. βI will make them pay for the suffering you have endured.β He sits on the edge of his desk, studying me. βRight now, you do need to see someone about the infection.β I kept my mouth closed, I was still trying to process his news of me being set up. Why had my brother never considered it? βCome, I will show you our bedroom. You can shower before we see the pack doctor.β Frozen to the spot, I donβt move. Did he just say βour bedroom,β? As in, we are sharing a bedroom? I guess he thinks he can mke love with me whenever he wants if Iβm his contract bride. A shiver runs down my spine at the thought. Glancing up, I see him watching me. He is stood at the open door, waiting for me. Ensuring my dress has me covered, I step out into the hallway. No one was around and the hallways were quiet. As we moved, Alpha Dane would tell me what each room was, but he seemed more focussed on getting me to the bedroom. His bedroom is huge, with massive windows, just like the rest of the house. The bed sat pressed up against the wall. All around it, thin drapes hung from the ceiling, but they were tied back at each bed post. What surprised me the most was that the bath and the shower were in the same room. Only the toilet was in a small room to the side of the shower. No privacy, whatsoever. Though, he didnβt seem to care about that. He makes me jump when I feel his warm breath on my skin. βYou donβt need to be afraid.β I may not be able to smell him, but he would be able to scent the changes in my emotions. Crossing the room, he pulls open the glass door to the shower and turns it on. The moment he closes the door, the steam of the shower quickly fogs up the glass. And still, I find myself afraid. He gave me no clue as to what he was expecting from me. βHey,β His rough fingers tip my face up. βItβs just you and me and for now, I will let you shower in peace.β Walking away, he pulls his phone out of his pocket and messes around with it before placing it on the bedside table. βThe alarm is set for ten minutes. I will come back then. I will bring you something to wear so just stay in the towel. Understand?β He stares at me, waiting for an answer and I just nod. A ten minute shower. I was lucky if I got a minute shower back home and the water was always cold. He moves to the door and with his hand resting on the door knob he looks back over his shoulder at me. βI really wish you would talk more, Neah.β Alpha Dane leaves me in peace and I make a mad dash for the shower as if Iβm in some kind of fantasy land and this was all a dream. Maybe it was, maybe I was about to wake up in the basement of my home. The smells of the soaps and shampoos are divine as I lather them into myself. And my hair has never felt so clean. The wound on my stomach stung as the hot water hit it, but I didnβt care, it was worth it. Someone in the room clears their throat and I freeze. Thanking the steam for keeping me semi hidden. βNeah, are you done? The alarm went off five minutes ago.β Alpha Daneβs voice seems louder in here. I had been so caught up in the freedom of a simple shower that I hadnβt even heard the alarm or the Alpha come back into the room. βComing.β I mutter, turning off the water and pulling a towel around me to hide the hideousness underneath. Stepping out, I already see that my ripped dress, underwear and worn sandals had been removed from the floor. Alpha Dane sits on the end of the bed with what looked like folded clothes on his lap and a pair of trainers. βItβs not much, as we donβt have anyone with as small a waist as you.β He smiles as he hands over the clothes. A matching navy blue sweatshirt and joggers. βYou will have to make do without the underwear for now. Should be here first thing tomorrow.β He watches me with a cocked eyebrow as I pull the joggers on and tug the sweatshirt over my head before removing the towel. Maybe he was used to the women parading themselves in front of him, or throwing themselves at him because he has power, but I wasnβt like that. βLetβs go.β He rises to his feet and this time, I follow him. Something told me that if I didnβt get this wound looked at, it would put him in a bad mood. The pack doctor was young, unlike the one back home who was old and afraid to let anyone take over from him. She smiles at us as we enter the pack hospital and rewraps her dark hair into a bun. βRaven, this is Neah.β Alpha Dane introduces me with a grin. I keep my eyes low as I hear Raven say, βAlpha Dane, what seems to be the problem apart from the strange smell she has brought with her.β It didnβt sound like a hurtful comment like I was used to, but more a comment of curiosity. βShe will tell you herself when she finds her tongue.β βI have a wound.β I whisper. βAnd you are not healing?β Raven asks, confused βI donβt have my Wolf.β I hated saying it. It was just a constant reminder that I did not fit in. βHer Wolf was bound when she was a kid.β Alpha Dane tells her. βThatβs why her scent is strange. Her Wolf is there, locked away, waiting to be freed.β My eyes flicker up only to find him staring straight back at me. I had always believed that my Wolf was gone. Not that she was trapped. Ravenβs dark eyes hover on me. βWow, okay.β She grabs my hand. βThis way, letβs take a look at this wound of yours.β She leads me into an empty room and asks me to lay on the bed and to show her my wound. Pulling up the sweatshirt, just enough for her to see the wound. Her eyes widen, a flicker of rage passing over them as she takes in the infected wound and the bruising that surrounds it. Her fingers carefully press around the wound. βHow long ago?β βA few days.β I mutter, though I wasnβt sure. Every beating blurred into another one. Any day that I wasnβt hit was a good day. Raven shakes her head. βThis is longer than a few days ago, the infection has had at least a week to develop.β βNeah, you need to tell us the truth.β Alpha Dane orders βI donβt know.β βNEAH!β His deep voice rumbles through me and I close my eyes, fearing his anger. Anger brought punishment, punishment brought pain. βI swear, I donβt know. The beatings, they happen so often that they just kind ofβ¦. Iβm never not bruised.β Thereβs silence and I was too afraid to open my eyes. Alpha Trey had said it over and over, that if anyone found out, he would make my life a misery, more than it already was. I used to wonder who would ever find out that didnβt already know. Now here I was, sitting in another packβs hospital, revealing the truth. βHeal her!β Alpha Dane shouts after what seems like forever. He storms from the room, pulling a phone out of his pocket. βYou will have to forgive my brother. His temper is short, especially when it comes to things like this.β Raven mutters as she gently inspects my wound βYour brother?β I whisper, opening my eyes βAh, I see he informed you. Iβm guessing he didnβt tell you that Jenson is our brother too?β I shake my head, Iβm guessing Jenson was one of the men that came to my brother's house. She chuckles. βJenson is considered to be our brotherβs Gamma.β βGamma?β I had never heard of the term. βYep and Alpha Dane has a love/hate for me working here. He wants me to represent our family, but he knows this is what Iβm good at.β She grabs a pot of cream from the cupboard. βNow this needs to be applied three times a day. It should clear up the infection, if it hasnβt changed in a couple of days, I will take another look. My brother is waiting for you out front.β βThanks.β I mumble, taking the pot of cream from her. I looked at the label, but couldnβt read it. I had never learned to read. She bobs her head at me as I hurry out to find Alpha Dane on his phone, snapping at someone. He hangs up as soon as he sees me and asks what Raven said. βCream, three times a day.β I show him the pot and he takes it from me. βGood, come.β He strides off and I have to run to keep up with him. I follow him through the house and into the office. βShow me.β He orders, pulling the lid off the pot. It wasnβt going to be negotiable, not when he had used the same tone moments before he ripped my dress open earlier. Slowly lifting my sweatshirt, he crouches down in front of me and gently smothers the wound in the cold cream. βI donβt want you to lie to me, Neah. Not ever. If you canβt remember, that is what you need to tell me. Is that clear? I donβt want to have to guess what you mean.β βOkay.β I couldnβt say anything else, I was too focussed on the warmth of his hands. One presses against my lower back, holding me steady while the other gently rubs cream into my wound. The only touch I had received from another man was a beating. βStop holding your breath.β He tells me, getting to his feet. βI am not going to hurt you.β It seemed impossible to believe given my history. The act, the words coming from him, it just didnβt feel real. | Galaxy in the Story | 301 | https://facebook.com/61555427913037 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717743600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879856 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410732 | 1723321859 | 995 | 1151488566099663 | 1 | 3.741970716041E+15 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 219004054622622 | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | 120209611805750689 | wwwedb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πAttention! Do not read in publicοΌπ | https://wwwedb.com/market/meganovel/13?lpid=11783&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717743552 | 2.1900405462262E+14 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447260728_1518945155389917_2874266976111342341_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=g0H6jXhQP3sQ7kNvgGXGGZL&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYD5RKLxmmvz3_WMQm6M7TyxkgQmm5IfWgwhhyK_F2vFIg&oe=6672BD2F | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447272334_8058147917584464_4203412527007476159_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ookoAxwxG_QQ7kNvgE9thCo&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCeO_9K7nk0lXXIJiyjXCwWONM-nS-S5ZtufKX8Y6JJ9A&oe=6672A008 | 0 | 3 | One Neah βWhere the heck is she?β I hear the Beta scream. I already knew Beta Kyle was talking about me, the only servant of the house. I groan and get to my feet, grabbing the cleaning basket and taking it with me. The moment Beta Kyle sees me, he strides towards me and his hand slices against my cheek. I donβt make a sound. Years of experience has taught me to keep my mouth shut at all times and only speak when spoken too, even if what they are doing to me hurts. βAlpha Trey and I are expecting company and you still have not cleaned the office like you were asked.β Beta Kyle spits at me I nod my head and my hand tightens on the cleaning basket. If I could just find the courage to swing it at his head, it would make my day. I resisted, he was stronger than me and I didnβt need locking up for another week with no food. My stomach already hurt enough. βWe are trying to make a good impression on Alpha Dane. Do you not understand how important it is for us to join ourselves with his pack?!β I donβt answer, I know it's a trick, to try and get me to say something so that he can give himself a reason to punish me. I keep my eyes low so that I didnβt have to look at his face. Alpha Dane, I had only ever heard rumours about him. Words exchanged between the other pack members when I was in the room. From what I gathered, he was a ruthless man, a Wolf feared by others. He didnβt mess around and he had the largest pack. βHe is the Alpha of Black Shadow, the biggest pack in the world, we need him!β Beta Kyle continues. Yet he doesnβt tell me why. We had never been attacked and we had never attacked anyone, so why did we need another pack to help us? He places his hands on my shoulders, digging his nails into my thinning skin and turns me around, kicking me in the but as he shoves me towards the office. βUseless Wolf.β He mutters as he moves away. Quietly closing the door, I lean back against it, observing the already clean office. There was nothing out of place, it looked perfectly fine for a meeting with this so-called powerful Alpha. Closing my eyes, I slide down to the floor. I hated this house. I thought that when I turned eighteen, I could finally escape, but four years later, here I still am, a slave in my own home. Doing all the dirty tasks for my brother, Alpha Trey and the pack. While my ex mate, Beta Kyle waltzes around reminding me of how worthless I am. Someone clears their throat and I freeze, I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair, just around the corner. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of drink. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that donβt quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door as my heart pounded. βIs this the way you greet all Alphaβs?β His deep voice rumbles through the room, there was an edge of amusement to his tone. βIβm sorry.β I whisper, getting to my feet. βIβ¦I thought I was alone.β I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. He doesnβt introduce himself either, why should he? βCome forward.β He orders and I already feel a lump forming in my throat. Alpha Trey was going to finish me. I step around the corner, doing as Iβm told, allowing him to see me properly. I close my eyes, expecting the worst. βYou smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?β I nod, though I couldnβt tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they found out about me. βI would prefer it if you spoke to me.β He growls, βIβm not in the mood to play games.β βYes.β I whisper. I couldnβt help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? βWhy do you smell strange? And how is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.β βIβ¦..β I hated the question. βSpit it out, I havenβt got all day!β He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldnβt scent him. I knew why I hadnβt been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever wanted or liked to do. They never let me tell my side of the story. All they do is laugh and mock me. βYou should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. Itβs rude to not look at them. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?β His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them, there was no way I was making eye contact. βMy Wolf abilities were bound,β I mutter. Twice, I wanted to add. Twice my abilities were bound. But he probably wasnβt interested in that part. He leans forward, carefully placing his glass on the small table next to the chair. I could feel him staring at me, βWhy would someone do that?β If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. βIt was a punishment.β I whisper. It wasnβt far from the entire truth but it was the simplest answer I could give. Thereβs a twitch in his cheek. Was he angry to hear of such a punishment? Or maybe, just like the others, he was amused by it. I couldnβt tell. The door swings open and my brother screeches at me βNeah, what the heck are you doing in my office?β He turns to the crimson eyed man. βI am so sorry that my sister is bothering you, Alpha Dane.β Crap, it was him. My brother spins around, his hand stretching out to hit me. I close my eyes, bracing myself, ready to feel the burn. βI wouldnβt do that if I were you.β Alpha Daneβs voice rumbles through the room. Peeking through slits, I see Alpha Dane has risen to his feet, his hand coiled around my brother's wrist. He was taller than my brother, more muscly too. βNeah,β My name rolls off of his tongue, βwas kindly showing me to your office, Alpha Trey, as you failed to meet me at the front of your house like I requested. I was lucky someone was present, at least someone understands the importance of this deal.β What? I had no idea what he was talking about. And he had no reason to lie for me. My brother glares at me, clenching his jaw tight. I was going to pay for this later. I would have to try and steal some food. βGo and get Beta Kyle.β Alpha Trey seethes. βTell him that our guest is here.β I nod my head and hurry from the room, the last thing I wanted was to be caught between bickering men. βBeta Kyle,β I whisper as I enter the dining hall. He instantly glares at me with his dark eyes. I had spoken without being spoken to. βAlpha Trey is in the office with Alpha Dane. I was sent to inform you.β He slams the newspaper down on the table and glares at me as he walks by. βYouβre lucky that the Alpha sent you to get me, otherwise you wouldn't be seeing sunlight for a few days.β Pausing behind me, he yanks my head back, locking his fingers in my hair, leaning in close to me, I feel his hot breath on my skin. He doesnβt speak, it was just his way of proving that he could do what he wants when he wants. I try to keep myself busy so I can stay as far away from the office as possible. My peace doesnβt last long when I hear my brother calling out to me. Quietly, I pad towards the office and plaster a smile on my face as I open the door. βNeah, go get the champagne and some glasses, we are celebrating.β I bow my head and hurry to the drinks cabinet. Quickly finding what my brother has asked for. As I re-enter the office, I can feel Alpha Dane watching my every move, even the hairs on the back of my neck stand up. No one ever watches me this closely. Approaching the small table by Alpha Danes chair, I start to fill the glasses. He takes the champagne bottle from me, telling me he is more than capable of filling his own glass. I feel my cheeks flame, not from embarrassment, but because I knew that I would be punished for this. I should have been quicker. I should have filled the glasses before entering the office. I should haveβ¦. My brain freezes when I see my brother glaring at me. βNeah is your sister, correct?β Alpha Dane questions my brother. βShe is.β Alpha Trey mutters with disgust. He looks away from me to focus on the man asking questions. βWhy do you treat her like vermin?β Straight to the point, my brother wouldnβt like that. He only liked sharing information on his terms. No one had spoken to my brother about his treatment of me because everyone took great joy in beating me. I didnβt know what to do. I couldnβt move but I knew I had to get out of there. If this deal goes to pot because of me, then that would be my fault too. βNeah was responsible for our parents' death.β Alpha Trey spits I closed my eyes, battling back the tears that were threatening to break free. βResponsible how?β Alpha Daneβs voice rumbles through me. He was definitely angry. βShe served them Wolfsbane.β Two Neah Donβt make a sound. Donβt make a sound. I knew Alpha Dane was studying me. They all did, no one could ever quite believe how someone could do something so disgusting as poisoning their own parents. I stood there, with my head hanging low, wishing for the ground to open up and suck me in. There are movements around me. He was standing directly in front of me. With a rough finger he tilts my face up towards his, forcing me to look at him. Slowly, his hand latches onto my throat but he doesnβt squeeze. βYou poisoned your parents?β βI was six.β I splutter. βI just made them lemonade.β My voice comes out all squeaky as I try to defend myself. I could barely remember my parents, but I could remember all the guilt I had been made to feel since that day. His crimson eyes flash to my brothers. βHardly seems fair to blame a six year old.β βA six year old should know the difference between plants.β Alpha Trey snaps βSounds to me like she was set up.β Alpha Dane shrugs his shoulders, letting go of my throat. βWe all know that standard wolfsbane doesnβt affect us anymore. We evolved from that thing centuries ago.β What? What did he mean? Wolfsbane wasnβt lethal. It had been drummed into me since I could walk. βWhich only leaves Blood of Wolfsbane.β Alpha Dane mutters βYou werenβt there, Alpha Dane.β My brother muttered through gritted teeth as his eyes narrowed to slits. βIt was Wolfsbane.β He nods his head. βYou are right, I was not present.β Great, now there was someone else who could remind me of something I had done by accident, years ago. βBut tell me this, where would a six year old get Blood of Wolfsbane?β βI didnβt ask you here to talk about my slave!β Alpha Trey spits. βOr what happened to my parents.β Alpha Dane grabs his leather jacket from the chair. Unlike other Alphaβs he seemed to dress more casually. A simple black tee and jeans covered his huge frame. And unlike other Alphaβs, his arms are bare of tattoos, not a single bit of ink poked out anywhere. βYouβre right and now I have a few things to mull over.β βI thought we agreed.β My brother exclaims βNothing has been signed. Now I will show myself out.β The moment he is out of the office, both my brother and Beta Kyle round on me. βWhat the heck did you say to him?β My brother demands, slamming a hand into my stomach. βN..nothing. Well, he just asked me why I smelled funny.β βDid you tell him?β Beta Kyle demands. He was practically spitting in my face. I hated him. I hated him so much that I had vowed to one day get my revenge and rip his stomach out through his mouth. βWELL?β My brother yells when I donβt immediately respond and smacks me across the side of the head. My head involuntarily moves up and down. βBut I didnβt say it was you.β I tried to sound strong and confident but it just comes out as a whisper. If they werenβt Wolves, they probably wouldnβt have heard me. My brother's hand locks into my black hair as he yanks my head back, sending a shooting pain through my skull. βIf you have ruined this, you wonβt see daylight again.β He drags me by my hair from the office and down the hallway towards the basement door. βPleaseβ¦.β I beg. βHe was an Alphaβ¦Iβ¦ I had to answer him.β My cheeks burn with my tears as he flings the door open. On the other side of the door is Alpha Dane. He is leaning against the wall with his arms folded, staring out at us. My brother's hand falls from my hair, relieving the pressure on the back of my skull.. βAlpha Dane, I thought you had left.β Alpha Trey murmurs angrily. βI said I would show myself out. I thought I had found the door, but instead I find a basement, riddled in your sister's strange scent. Is this how you treat your family?β βAs I said,β my brother holds his ground, βShe is responsible for the death of my parents, so yes, this is what she deserves.β βYou should keep your nose out of other packs' business!β Beta Kyle adds. Alpha Dane laughs. βIf I agree to this deal, everything about your business becomes my business. So tell me, what would your punishment be for her? No food, locked away for a week, beatings?β βWe donβtβ¦.β βReally?β He cocks a brow, βYou really expect me to believe that you would have just let her sleep? I have already stopped you from hitting her once. " His eyes roam over me. "She is underfed, bags hover under her tired blue eyes. For a sister of an Alpha, she is certainly not treated like one. Regardless of what she allegedly did when she was a pup.β βShe did do it!β Alpha Trey seethes βAnd she has nothing to do with our deal.β βThatβs for me to decide.β His crimson eyes flicker around the hallway. βWhere is your mate? I would be interested to know how she feels about this.β I close my eyes, silently begging my brother not to call his Luna. Luna Cassandra is worse than Beta Kyle and Alpha Trey together. βOn second thoughts, why bother her. Iβm certain she is just as vile as you.β He sneers I peer through slits to see his crimson eyes on me. There was no reason for him to defend me and yet he was. I was a nobody, no one special. Just who everyone called a traitor. Only instead of being given a death sentence, my brother had decided to make me spend my life suffering. βI have a proposition for you, Alpha Trey.β Alpha Dane is smirking at my brother βWe have already agreed on terms.β βWell, Iβm adding one. And if you donβt agree, you will not get my help. Instead, you will become my enemy. And we both know, you donβt want that.β βI take it that your new terms have something to do with her?β Alpha Trey mutters through clenched teeth. βYou would be correct. Let me take her away to my pack and then you, Trey will have a deal.β Me? Why would he want me? As my brother and his Beta discuss me, Alpha Dane is still studying me. His look made me nervous. What could someone like him possibly want with me? βDeal.β Alpha Trey sticks out his hand for Alpha Dane to shake. He doesnβt take it, instead his crimson eyes shift from me to my brother. βI will have paperwork drawn up and will return tomorrow.β He reaches a hand out and cups my face, βEnsure you have everything packed.β He drags his thumb across my bottom lip and strides to the opposite end of the hallway and straight to the front door. He knew exactly where the front door was, so what was he up to? He pauses at the door. βIf I find out any one of you has laid a hand on her. The contract will be the last thing you need to worry about.β He struts out, slamming the door behind him. βGet out of my sight!β My brother snaps at me. Hurrying away, I make my way up the stairs and into my tiny bedroom. It was practically empty, the only things I had were a few changes of clothes. It would take me less than a minute to pack By morning, I hadnβt slept. Alpha Danes questions were on repeat and why was I so interesting to a Wolf like him. There was a reason he had the biggest pack. They were known for their fighting abilities, thatβs why my brother wanted to link Moonshine with Alpha Danes pack, but where did I fit in to all this? And what o earth is Blood of Wolfsbane? Three Dane βTenth brideβs the charm.β Jenson mocks as the driver pulls up in front of Moonshines packhouse. βShut up!β Eric snaps at him βBoth of you shut your mouths. Before you say something you regret!β βHe will never learn.β My wolf, Aero muses. The driver pulls open the door. βJust give me a second, I need to speak to my men.β The door closes and neither one of them speaks. βShe isnβt like the others. Donβt speak to her, donβt look at her. And you Jenson, keep your hands to yourself or you might just lose them this time.β I was more rattled than usual. Neah was different to the previous selected mates. I didnβt know what it was or whether it was because I was used to confident women, but there was something about her. And Aero appeared to like her too, more than any of the others. I had to have her. βI mean it!β I snap at Jenson's smug face, βBeing my brother wonβt change my mind!β He runs his fingers over his lips as though he was zipping them shut. They follow me from the car. Standing in front of the old packhouse, all three of us stare up at it. Because until a month ago, I knew nothing about them and even after my visit, all I had learned was the Alpha is a beast. My knuckles hammer on the door. Itβs barely open an inch when I force myself through making his Beta stumble back. I spot her straight away, hiding herself behind a corner. βAre you ready?β I call out. βIf you just want toβ¦..β Beta Kyle starts. βI was not talking to you. I was speaking to Neah.β The expression on Beta Kyleβs face was a picture. His jaw hung open and his eyes are wide. He clearly had never been told what to do, even by his Alpha. Neah steps out from her hiding spot, clutching a barely full carrier bag. She drags her teeth across her bottom lip and nods her head. βWhere are the rest of your things? I told you everything needs to be packedβ βThatβs all she has.β Trey snorts as he makes his appearance. βThatβs it?β I stare at him. βThatβs all her belongings? Sheβs what, in her early twenties and thatβs all she has?β βWhat more does she need?!β His Beta sneers. βKill him, let me rip out his throat and he will regret the day he crossed us.β βWhat are you waiting for?β I hear a horrible shrill voice that seems to vibrate through the floors. Looking away from the Beta, I see a woman holding on to a statue of herself that sat at the bottom of the stairs. Her blonde hair hung in waves around her face as her green eyes studied me and she sways her hips as she moves to Trey. I noticed Neahβs reaction yesterday. When I asked Trey where his mate was. Her whole body had tensed up in fear. She was afraid of this woman and I wanted to know why. βTake her Alpha Dane. Iβm sure she will be as useful a slave to you as she is to us.β Her shrill voice goes straight through me. βLook at the silly girl, sheβs going to pass out.β The blonde bimbo laughs βYou donβt get to talk about her like that anymore.β I glare at the blonde, βShe is not your toy. She is not your slave and I suggest that you, Alpha Trey keep your wife in check. There is only so much disobedience that I will tolerate.β βDISOBEDIENCE!β The woman screeches just as Neahβs hip hits the floor. βHow dare you! If anyone is disobedient, itβs that rat in the corner.β βWho the heck is she calling a rat?β Aero growls βYou should make yourself familiar with our agreement.β I snap. βIt seems your mate has not told you everything.β Waving Eric forward, he pulls a thick wad of paper from the folder under his arm. The contract that I have drawn up. βAll that for your help?β His mateβs eyes are wide βI donβt do half-witted contracts.β Taking the contract from Eric, I shove it against Treyβs chest βShall we go to the office?β Trey leads the way with his mate clinging on to him and his Beta hurrying behind. My men follow them while I stay behind to check on my new mate. βYou are more than welcome to join us, after all, you are involved in this deal. Or my car is outfront, you can take your stuff and wait there for me.β βAre those my only options?β she whispers, keeping her eyes low βFor now. Personally, I think you should sit in with us. It will give me great pleasure in pissing off that mate of your brothers.β She keeps her blue eyes low as she continues to clutch that bag of hers. This close to her, I could really see how ill she looked. Even her heart beat is slow, like itβs fighting to hang on to life. βSo what will it be?β βIβ¦.β Her head rotates between the front door and the direction of the office. βIβ¦.. The office I guess.β βGood choice.β I hold out a hand for her but she doesnβt take it. Pushing herself up to her feet. She wobbles a little, but steadies herself. Walking a few steps behind her, I see the evil glares she receives from Trey and the other two idiots as she enters the office.. βTake a seat.β I whisper as I walk past her. My hand grazes her lower back and she immediately tenses up. She stands, frozen to the spot. Only her eyes dart about when she shakes her head. βSit!β I say it a little louder βShe doesnβt have that privilege here!β The blonde snaps, with her lips curved up in amusement βSitting is not a privilege.β I growl, wondering what else they were forcing her to do. I couldnβt see any bruises on her arms or legs, a good sign, I hoped. βIt better be!β Aero paces in my head. He wanted her out of this place as much as I did. The blonde physically recoils in her seat. Her mouth falls wide open, shocked that I had said something. βAnd I suggest,β I look at Trey, βYou tell your mate to keep her mouth shut. Or I can shut it for her.β βAlpha Dane, you are in my homeβ¦..β βAnd you want my help, correct?β The three of them were fuming. No one liked being told what to do in their own home, yet they were doing just that to Neah. I point to the empty chair between Jenson and Eric and she finally sits down. βLetβs just get this done.β Trey snaps, βThe sooner she is gone, the happier I can be.β βYou should read the contract.β I muse βI agreed that you could take her as part of our deal.β βIdiot!β Eric murmurs. He knew as well as I did that contracts should be read before they are signed They sign without reading and practically throw the contract back at me. βDone.β Trey mutters βGood, you can get her out of my house.β Treyβs mate screeches. If I had it my way, I would just take Neah, then I wouldnβt have to put up with the twidles, but this way, they canβt have her back. Even if they begged. A contract was a contract and it was impossible for them to get out of. Getting to my feet, I hold a hand out to Neah, βCome, we are leaving this rat hole before I lose my temper.β Her warm fingers slip into my hand as she rises to her feet. Her other hand clutches the bag to her chest as she walks with me to the front door. She doesnβt even look back to say goodbye and that confirmed everything I needed to know. She hated them as much as they hated her. She pauses at the open front door, her hand falling from mine. Her blue eyes are wide as she stares at the limo. βCome.β I instruct Eric and Jenson are standing behind her, watching her curiously. βIs she okay?β Eric links me. βNeah?β I step in front of her and she doesnβt move. She seems to be staring right through me. βItβs time to go.β βOkay.β Her lips barely move She takes a step forward, almost as if she is in slow motion. Her hands grip the door frame, her knuckles turn white as her heartbeat increases. Her lips part a little and her hand falls from the door frame just as her eyes roll to the back of her head. βIβve got you.β I mutter, catching her just before she hits the floor. Her entire body tenses up as I lift her and carry her to the car. She was so weak and was even lighter than I expected. She probably didnβt weigh much more than a small child. Jenson and Eric get in the car first. Jenson cocks his eyebrow at me and has a smirk plastered to his face as I slide in with Neah on my lap. βKeep your thoughts to yourself, Jenson!β I hold her close, listening to her breathe and her heart as it slowed. Letting my fingers comb through her dark hair as she becomes a little more with it. Suddenly, she sits up right, moving away from me and trying to make herself as small as possible. Deciding not to force her to do anything, I keep my attention on my Beta and my brother, talking about pack stuff while casting a glance over to her every so often to make sure she was alright. βCome.β I mutter as the limo comes to a stop. I donβt wait for the driver and get out myself, holding a hand out for her. βIβm fine.β She speaks at last while glancing at the others and shuffles herself forward to the open door. She stares up at my home, gasping a little. It was easily three times the size of her previous home and I hoped that she would be happy here. That I could provide her with a life that was better than her last. βLet me give you a tour.β I suggest as she continues to clutch that carrier bag to her chest. She follows me in, not speaking a word. I had no idea if she was listening to what I was saying or not βThe omegas swap out on a rotational basis. Good for the youngsters to learn some responsibilities before they get proper jobs.β I tell her while showing her the dining hall with a table long enough to fit twenty people around. We move through to the kitchen. Where I point out a board on the wall. βIf there is anything you need, you just add it to the board and it will be ordered in.β Her brow furrows and still she says nothing. Picking up a pen, I smile. Maybe she felt intimidated by me. βSo tell me, what do you need because there is no way you are living under my roof with just the things that are in that bag.β Her dazzling blue eyes dart around the room βWell?β I ask. βI donβt need anything.β She whispers Sighing, I start scribbling things down. Underwear, jeans, workout clothes, dresses, shoes, anything I can think of that will cover her for a few days. Holding the pen between my teeth, I grab her around the waist. My thumbs meet just above her belly button and my fingers touch her spine. She was so thin, how was she even alive? Four Dane She looked like a deer caught in headlights as I write her size down. She was tinier than I thought. Skin and bone. If I had moved my hands up any higher, I would have felt every rib sticking out. It sickened me, she should be strong, powerful, she had Alpha blood running through her veins. I also saw how she scrunched her face up when I measured her. It wasnβt fear, it was pain. She was hiding something underneath the baggy maids dress. βI know you want to say something, so just say it. Iβm not interested in the crap Trey drummed into you. You donβt have to wait until someone asks you a question. You are free to say what you want. Are you injured?" "No." She was lying, I could feel it. She shakes her head as if it would confirm her answer and a lock of her black hair falls from the band that was supposed to be holding it back. Neah was going to be a tough girl to crack. A life of being starved had made her quite protective over herself. I will make Trey pay for what he has done to her. βYou have to say something, Neah. I cannot read your mind. When I mark you, at least I will know what you are feeling.β βMark me?β I didnβt think her eyes could get any wider. βYes, I will mark you.β She was completely and utterly shocked by the idea. Her pink lips part a little as she continues to stare at me. I thought she knew. I thought that was why she came so willingly. My Beta had kept asking me if I was certain I wanted her as my bride. There was no doubt about it, she had a strange scent but something was luring me to her. I couldnβt take my eyes off of her when I first saw her. My Wolf Aero was going mad for her too. Though he hadnβt said a word about her. Annoyed with me for not taking her home with us yesterday. βYouβ¦.You brought me so that you could mark me.β She takes a step back, walking into the kitchen island. She winces a little and quickly covers up her pain, relaxing her face.. βIf Trey had bothered reading the contract, he would have discovered that you are to be my bride, not a slave. He would also have read that if he or his ridiculously silly mate tried doing anything to you going forward, that pack would become mine, or rather, yours. I never bought you, Neah, you were always destined to be mine.β βIβm a murderer.β She gasps. βWhy would someone like you want me for a bride?β βBloodβ Aero growls interrupting my thoughts. I glance down at her baggy dress. A blood stain had appeared right where I had my hands wrapped around her. βWhatβs that? Are you injured?β I demand, I had barely touched her. She covers the stain with her hand. βItβs nothing. Itβs just a cut that I keep knocking and it opens up again. I forget itβs there.β Forget? How could she forget a wound? βWhy isnβt she healing?β I feel Aeroβs panic. βSheβs been with us less than two hours and already she has some form of injury.β His need to protect her was strong. It hadnβt occurred to me that her lack of abilities included not being able to heal. I would have to find someone who could reverse the binding and soon. βShow me!β βItβs fine.β She mumbles I was already so sick of hearing that phrase. βItβs not optional.β I mutter. βIf you wonβt show me, I will have to find a way to look, myself.β Her heart skips a beat. She looks around the kitchen. βCan.... can we go somewhere more private?β βPrivate?β I didnβt really do privacy. What Wolf did?! She bobs her head but still keeps her focus slightly off of me. Almost afraid to look me directly in the eyes. βOffice,β Aero mutters. βI was just going to suggest that!β I snap back at my Wolf. I feel his eyes roll as he retreats to some dark corner of my mind. βThis way.β I gesture to the door. Neah waits for me and follows closely behind. The scent of blood steadily grew stronger, it was more than just a cut. I already knew that. In the office, I hit the remote and the blinds start to drop, blocking out the sunlight. Neah hesitates and slowly begins to unfasten the buttons of the dress but only where the large blood stain was. Keeping everything else covered from me. She pulls the dress to one side. The wound was about four inches long and already fairly infected. βSee, itβs fine.β she whispers. βYou need to stop saying that.β She closes her mouth and starts to fasten the buttons. βNo,β I grabbed her hands, I had caught sight of another bruise. βLet me see the rest of them.β It wasnβt optional. She gasps as my fingers rip apart the rest of the buttons. Her sports bra had seen better days, just the same as her underwear. But it was the bruising I was most concerned about. Bruise upon bruise, scars that had come from whips. Her hip bones and ribs stuck out too. Turning her around, and pulling the dress from her, I find that her back is just the same. Yet interestingly, there was nothing above her chest and nothing below her thighs. Her arms were completely bare of wounds too. There was only one reason why someone would do that. To either hide what they were doing to someone, or to keep up appearances. They didnβt want guests to see. More importantly, they didnβt want me to see, considering the meeting was arranged over a month ago. She fumbles with the dress, pulling it tightly around her thin frame. βYou need to see a doctor.β βItβs β¦..β she trails off when she sees the anger on my face. βIt always heals, eventually.β βDid Trey do this?β I mutter with my teeth gritted and gesture to her body She lowers her blue eyes. βCassandra?β She still doesnβt answer me. βThat prick that follows Trey around? All three of them?β She pulls her dress tighter around her and silently nods. She brings her hand up to her face, brushing her cheek, wiping away an escaped tear. βAnyone else?β βThe pack.β She whispers. βIβm going to kill them all.β Aero growls. He will have to get in line, βBecause of what you allegedly did to your parents.β She nods. βI donβt believe you were responsible.β She tilts her head up towards me, her brow knits together as her eyes finally find mine. βBecause of Blood of Wolfsbane?" Five Neah βIβ¦I donβt know what Blood of Wolfsbane is?β I whisper He frowns at me. βYour brother said you knew the difference between plants.β βIβ¦β I didnβt have an answer. I couldnβt remember, not fully. βBlood of Wolfsbane is Wolfsbane fed by our blood. The leaves will have a red hue to them. I canβt imagine a child would know what it is because it is not freely grown. Your brotherβs story doesnβt add up.β βOh.β βI wonβt stop until I find out who did this, Neah.β His crimson eyes narrow. βI will make them pay for the suffering you have endured.β He sits on the edge of his desk, studying me. βRight now, you do need to see someone about the infection.β I kept my mouth closed, I was still trying to process his news of me being set up. Why had my brother never considered it? βCome, I will show you our bedroom. You can shower before we see the pack doctor.β Frozen to the spot, I donβt move. Did he just say βour bedroom,β? As in, we are sharing a bedroom? I guess he thinks he can mke love with me whenever he wants if Iβm his contract bride. A shiver runs down my spine at the thought. Glancing up, I see him watching me. He is stood at the open door, waiting for me. Ensuring my dress has me covered, I step out into the hallway. No one was around and the hallways were quiet. As we moved, Alpha Dane would tell me what each room was, but he seemed more focussed on getting me to the bedroom. His bedroom is huge, with massive windows, just like the rest of the house. The bed sat pressed up against the wall. All around it, thin drapes hung from the ceiling, but they were tied back at each bed post. What surprised me the most was that the bath and the shower were in the same room. Only the toilet was in a small room to the side of the shower. No privacy, whatsoever. Though, he didnβt seem to care about that. He makes me jump when I feel his warm breath on my skin. βYou donβt need to be afraid.β I may not be able to smell him, but he would be able to scent the changes in my emotions. Crossing the room, he pulls open the glass door to the shower and turns it on. The moment he closes the door, the steam of the shower quickly fogs up the glass. And still, I find myself afraid. He gave me no clue as to what he was expecting from me. βHey,β His rough fingers tip my face up. βItβs just you and me and for now, I will let you shower in peace.β Walking away, he pulls his phone out of his pocket and messes around with it before placing it on the bedside table. βThe alarm is set for ten minutes. I will come back then. I will bring you something to wear so just stay in the towel. Understand?β He stares at me, waiting for an answer and I just nod. A ten minute shower. I was lucky if I got a minute shower back home and the water was always cold. He moves to the door and with his hand resting on the door knob he looks back over his shoulder at me. βI really wish you would talk more, Neah.β Alpha Dane leaves me in peace and I make a mad dash for the shower as if Iβm in some kind of fantasy land and this was all a dream. Maybe it was, maybe I was about to wake up in the basement of my home. The smells of the soaps and shampoos are divine as I lather them into myself. And my hair has never felt so clean. The wound on my stomach stung as the hot water hit it, but I didnβt care, it was worth it. Someone in the room clears their throat and I freeze. Thanking the steam for keeping me semi hidden. βNeah, are you done? The alarm went off five minutes ago.β Alpha Daneβs voice seems louder in here. I had been so caught up in the freedom of a simple shower that I hadnβt even heard the alarm or the Alpha come back into the room. βComing.β I mutter, turning off the water and pulling a towel around me to hide the hideousness underneath. Stepping out, I already see that my ripped dress, underwear and worn sandals had been removed from the floor. Alpha Dane sits on the end of the bed with what looked like folded clothes on his lap and a pair of trainers. βItβs not much, as we donβt have anyone with as small a waist as you.β He smiles as he hands over the clothes. A matching navy blue sweatshirt and joggers. βYou will have to make do without the underwear for now. Should be here first thing tomorrow.β He watches me with a cocked eyebrow as I pull the joggers on and tug the sweatshirt over my head before removing the towel. Maybe he was used to the women parading themselves in front of him, or throwing themselves at him because he has power, but I wasnβt like that. βLetβs go.β He rises to his feet and this time, I follow him. Something told me that if I didnβt get this wound looked at, it would put him in a bad mood. The pack doctor was young, unlike the one back home who was old and afraid to let anyone take over from him. She smiles at us as we enter the pack hospital and rewraps her dark hair into a bun. βRaven, this is Neah.β Alpha Dane introduces me with a grin. I keep my eyes low as I hear Raven say, βAlpha Dane, what seems to be the problem apart from the strange smell she has brought with her.β It didnβt sound like a hurtful comment like I was used to, but more a comment of curiosity. βShe will tell you herself when she finds her tongue.β βI have a wound.β I whisper. βAnd you are not healing?β Raven asks, confused βI donβt have my Wolf.β I hated saying it. It was just a constant reminder that I did not fit in. βHer Wolf was bound when she was a kid.β Alpha Dane tells her. βThatβs why her scent is strange. Her Wolf is there, locked away, waiting to be freed.β My eyes flicker up only to find him staring straight back at me. I had always believed that my Wolf was gone. Not that she was trapped. Ravenβs dark eyes hover on me. βWow, okay.β She grabs my hand. βThis way, letβs take a look at this wound of yours.β She leads me into an empty room and asks me to lay on the bed and to show her my wound. Pulling up the sweatshirt, just enough for her to see the wound. Her eyes widen, a flicker of rage passing over them as she takes in the infected wound and the bruising that surrounds it. Her fingers carefully press around the wound. βHow long ago?β βA few days.β I mutter, though I wasnβt sure. Every beating blurred into another one. Any day that I wasnβt hit was a good day. Raven shakes her head. βThis is longer than a few days ago, the infection has had at least a week to develop.β βNeah, you need to tell us the truth.β Alpha Dane orders βI donβt know.β βNEAH!β His deep voice rumbles through me and I close my eyes, fearing his anger. Anger brought punishment, punishment brought pain. βI swear, I donβt know. The beatings, they happen so often that they just kind ofβ¦. Iβm never not bruised.β Thereβs silence and I was too afraid to open my eyes. Alpha Trey had said it over and over, that if anyone found out, he would make my life a misery, more than it already was. I used to wonder who would ever find out that didnβt already know. Now here I was, sitting in another packβs hospital, revealing the truth. βHeal her!β Alpha Dane shouts after what seems like forever. He storms from the room, pulling a phone out of his pocket. βYou will have to forgive my brother. His temper is short, especially when it comes to things like this.β Raven mutters as she gently inspects my wound βYour brother?β I whisper, opening my eyes βAh, I see he informed you. Iβm guessing he didnβt tell you that Jenson is our brother too?β I shake my head, Iβm guessing Jenson was one of the men that came to my brother's house. She chuckles. βJenson is considered to be our brotherβs Gamma.β βGamma?β I had never heard of the term. βYep and Alpha Dane has a love/hate for me working here. He wants me to represent our family, but he knows this is what Iβm good at.β She grabs a pot of cream from the cupboard. βNow this needs to be applied three times a day. It should clear up the infection, if it hasnβt changed in a couple of days, I will take another look. My brother is waiting for you out front.β βThanks.β I mumble, taking the pot of cream from her. I looked at the label, but couldnβt read it. I had never learned to read. She bobs her head at me as I hurry out to find Alpha Dane on his phone, snapping at someone. He hangs up as soon as he sees me and asks what Raven said. βCream, three times a day.β I show him the pot and he takes it from me. βGood, come.β He strides off and I have to run to keep up with him. I follow him through the house and into the office. βShow me.β He orders, pulling the lid off the pot. It wasnβt going to be negotiable, not when he had used the same tone moments before he ripped my dress open earlier. Slowly lifting my sweatshirt, he crouches down in front of me and gently smothers the wound in the cold cream. βI donβt want you to lie to me, Neah. Not ever. If you canβt remember, that is what you need to tell me. Is that clear? I donβt want to have to guess what you mean.β βOkay.β I couldnβt say anything else, I was too focussed on the warmth of his hands. One presses against my lower back, holding me steady while the other gently rubs cream into my wound. The only touch I had received from another man was a beating. βStop holding your breath.β He tells me, getting to his feet. βI am not going to hurt you.β It seemed impossible to believe given my history. The act, the words coming from him, it just didnβt feel real. | Galaxy in the Story | 301 | https://facebook.com/61555427913037 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717743600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879858 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410732 | 1723321859 | 995 | 1151488566099663 | 1 | 3.741970716041E+15 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 219004054622622 | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | 120209611805750689 | wwwedb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πAttention! Do not read in publicοΌπ | https://wwwedb.com/market/meganovel/13?lpid=11783&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717743552 | 2.1900405462262E+14 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447260728_1518945155389917_2874266976111342341_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=g0H6jXhQP3sQ7kNvgGXGGZL&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYD5RKLxmmvz3_WMQm6M7TyxkgQmm5IfWgwhhyK_F2vFIg&oe=6672BD2F | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447272334_8058147917584464_4203412527007476159_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ookoAxwxG_QQ7kNvgE9thCo&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCeO_9K7nk0lXXIJiyjXCwWONM-nS-S5ZtufKX8Y6JJ9A&oe=6672A008 | 0 | 3 | One Neah βWhere the heck is she?β I hear the Beta scream. I already knew Beta Kyle was talking about me, the only servant of the house. I groan and get to my feet, grabbing the cleaning basket and taking it with me. The moment Beta Kyle sees me, he strides towards me and his hand slices against my cheek. I donβt make a sound. Years of experience has taught me to keep my mouth shut at all times and only speak when spoken too, even if what they are doing to me hurts. βAlpha Trey and I are expecting company and you still have not cleaned the office like you were asked.β Beta Kyle spits at me I nod my head and my hand tightens on the cleaning basket. If I could just find the courage to swing it at his head, it would make my day. I resisted, he was stronger than me and I didnβt need locking up for another week with no food. My stomach already hurt enough. βWe are trying to make a good impression on Alpha Dane. Do you not understand how important it is for us to join ourselves with his pack?!β I donβt answer, I know it's a trick, to try and get me to say something so that he can give himself a reason to punish me. I keep my eyes low so that I didnβt have to look at his face. Alpha Dane, I had only ever heard rumours about him. Words exchanged between the other pack members when I was in the room. From what I gathered, he was a ruthless man, a Wolf feared by others. He didnβt mess around and he had the largest pack. βHe is the Alpha of Black Shadow, the biggest pack in the world, we need him!β Beta Kyle continues. Yet he doesnβt tell me why. We had never been attacked and we had never attacked anyone, so why did we need another pack to help us? He places his hands on my shoulders, digging his nails into my thinning skin and turns me around, kicking me in the but as he shoves me towards the office. βUseless Wolf.β He mutters as he moves away. Quietly closing the door, I lean back against it, observing the already clean office. There was nothing out of place, it looked perfectly fine for a meeting with this so-called powerful Alpha. Closing my eyes, I slide down to the floor. I hated this house. I thought that when I turned eighteen, I could finally escape, but four years later, here I still am, a slave in my own home. Doing all the dirty tasks for my brother, Alpha Trey and the pack. While my ex mate, Beta Kyle waltzes around reminding me of how worthless I am. Someone clears their throat and I freeze, I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair, just around the corner. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of drink. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that donβt quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door as my heart pounded. βIs this the way you greet all Alphaβs?β His deep voice rumbles through the room, there was an edge of amusement to his tone. βIβm sorry.β I whisper, getting to my feet. βIβ¦I thought I was alone.β I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. He doesnβt introduce himself either, why should he? βCome forward.β He orders and I already feel a lump forming in my throat. Alpha Trey was going to finish me. I step around the corner, doing as Iβm told, allowing him to see me properly. I close my eyes, expecting the worst. βYou smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?β I nod, though I couldnβt tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they found out about me. βI would prefer it if you spoke to me.β He growls, βIβm not in the mood to play games.β βYes.β I whisper. I couldnβt help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? βWhy do you smell strange? And how is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.β βIβ¦..β I hated the question. βSpit it out, I havenβt got all day!β He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldnβt scent him. I knew why I hadnβt been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever wanted or liked to do. They never let me tell my side of the story. All they do is laugh and mock me. βYou should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. Itβs rude to not look at them. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?β His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them, there was no way I was making eye contact. βMy Wolf abilities were bound,β I mutter. Twice, I wanted to add. Twice my abilities were bound. But he probably wasnβt interested in that part. He leans forward, carefully placing his glass on the small table next to the chair. I could feel him staring at me, βWhy would someone do that?β If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. βIt was a punishment.β I whisper. It wasnβt far from the entire truth but it was the simplest answer I could give. Thereβs a twitch in his cheek. Was he angry to hear of such a punishment? Or maybe, just like the others, he was amused by it. I couldnβt tell. The door swings open and my brother screeches at me βNeah, what the heck are you doing in my office?β He turns to the crimson eyed man. βI am so sorry that my sister is bothering you, Alpha Dane.β Crap, it was him. My brother spins around, his hand stretching out to hit me. I close my eyes, bracing myself, ready to feel the burn. βI wouldnβt do that if I were you.β Alpha Daneβs voice rumbles through the room. Peeking through slits, I see Alpha Dane has risen to his feet, his hand coiled around my brother's wrist. He was taller than my brother, more muscly too. βNeah,β My name rolls off of his tongue, βwas kindly showing me to your office, Alpha Trey, as you failed to meet me at the front of your house like I requested. I was lucky someone was present, at least someone understands the importance of this deal.β What? I had no idea what he was talking about. And he had no reason to lie for me. My brother glares at me, clenching his jaw tight. I was going to pay for this later. I would have to try and steal some food. βGo and get Beta Kyle.β Alpha Trey seethes. βTell him that our guest is here.β I nod my head and hurry from the room, the last thing I wanted was to be caught between bickering men. βBeta Kyle,β I whisper as I enter the dining hall. He instantly glares at me with his dark eyes. I had spoken without being spoken to. βAlpha Trey is in the office with Alpha Dane. I was sent to inform you.β He slams the newspaper down on the table and glares at me as he walks by. βYouβre lucky that the Alpha sent you to get me, otherwise you wouldn't be seeing sunlight for a few days.β Pausing behind me, he yanks my head back, locking his fingers in my hair, leaning in close to me, I feel his hot breath on my skin. He doesnβt speak, it was just his way of proving that he could do what he wants when he wants. I try to keep myself busy so I can stay as far away from the office as possible. My peace doesnβt last long when I hear my brother calling out to me. Quietly, I pad towards the office and plaster a smile on my face as I open the door. βNeah, go get the champagne and some glasses, we are celebrating.β I bow my head and hurry to the drinks cabinet. Quickly finding what my brother has asked for. As I re-enter the office, I can feel Alpha Dane watching my every move, even the hairs on the back of my neck stand up. No one ever watches me this closely. Approaching the small table by Alpha Danes chair, I start to fill the glasses. He takes the champagne bottle from me, telling me he is more than capable of filling his own glass. I feel my cheeks flame, not from embarrassment, but because I knew that I would be punished for this. I should have been quicker. I should have filled the glasses before entering the office. I should haveβ¦. My brain freezes when I see my brother glaring at me. βNeah is your sister, correct?β Alpha Dane questions my brother. βShe is.β Alpha Trey mutters with disgust. He looks away from me to focus on the man asking questions. βWhy do you treat her like vermin?β Straight to the point, my brother wouldnβt like that. He only liked sharing information on his terms. No one had spoken to my brother about his treatment of me because everyone took great joy in beating me. I didnβt know what to do. I couldnβt move but I knew I had to get out of there. If this deal goes to pot because of me, then that would be my fault too. βNeah was responsible for our parents' death.β Alpha Trey spits I closed my eyes, battling back the tears that were threatening to break free. βResponsible how?β Alpha Daneβs voice rumbles through me. He was definitely angry. βShe served them Wolfsbane.β Two Neah Donβt make a sound. Donβt make a sound. I knew Alpha Dane was studying me. They all did, no one could ever quite believe how someone could do something so disgusting as poisoning their own parents. I stood there, with my head hanging low, wishing for the ground to open up and suck me in. There are movements around me. He was standing directly in front of me. With a rough finger he tilts my face up towards his, forcing me to look at him. Slowly, his hand latches onto my throat but he doesnβt squeeze. βYou poisoned your parents?β βI was six.β I splutter. βI just made them lemonade.β My voice comes out all squeaky as I try to defend myself. I could barely remember my parents, but I could remember all the guilt I had been made to feel since that day. His crimson eyes flash to my brothers. βHardly seems fair to blame a six year old.β βA six year old should know the difference between plants.β Alpha Trey snaps βSounds to me like she was set up.β Alpha Dane shrugs his shoulders, letting go of my throat. βWe all know that standard wolfsbane doesnβt affect us anymore. We evolved from that thing centuries ago.β What? What did he mean? Wolfsbane wasnβt lethal. It had been drummed into me since I could walk. βWhich only leaves Blood of Wolfsbane.β Alpha Dane mutters βYou werenβt there, Alpha Dane.β My brother muttered through gritted teeth as his eyes narrowed to slits. βIt was Wolfsbane.β He nods his head. βYou are right, I was not present.β Great, now there was someone else who could remind me of something I had done by accident, years ago. βBut tell me this, where would a six year old get Blood of Wolfsbane?β βI didnβt ask you here to talk about my slave!β Alpha Trey spits. βOr what happened to my parents.β Alpha Dane grabs his leather jacket from the chair. Unlike other Alphaβs he seemed to dress more casually. A simple black tee and jeans covered his huge frame. And unlike other Alphaβs, his arms are bare of tattoos, not a single bit of ink poked out anywhere. βYouβre right and now I have a few things to mull over.β βI thought we agreed.β My brother exclaims βNothing has been signed. Now I will show myself out.β The moment he is out of the office, both my brother and Beta Kyle round on me. βWhat the heck did you say to him?β My brother demands, slamming a hand into my stomach. βN..nothing. Well, he just asked me why I smelled funny.β βDid you tell him?β Beta Kyle demands. He was practically spitting in my face. I hated him. I hated him so much that I had vowed to one day get my revenge and rip his stomach out through his mouth. βWELL?β My brother yells when I donβt immediately respond and smacks me across the side of the head. My head involuntarily moves up and down. βBut I didnβt say it was you.β I tried to sound strong and confident but it just comes out as a whisper. If they werenβt Wolves, they probably wouldnβt have heard me. My brother's hand locks into my black hair as he yanks my head back, sending a shooting pain through my skull. βIf you have ruined this, you wonβt see daylight again.β He drags me by my hair from the office and down the hallway towards the basement door. βPleaseβ¦.β I beg. βHe was an Alphaβ¦Iβ¦ I had to answer him.β My cheeks burn with my tears as he flings the door open. On the other side of the door is Alpha Dane. He is leaning against the wall with his arms folded, staring out at us. My brother's hand falls from my hair, relieving the pressure on the back of my skull.. βAlpha Dane, I thought you had left.β Alpha Trey murmurs angrily. βI said I would show myself out. I thought I had found the door, but instead I find a basement, riddled in your sister's strange scent. Is this how you treat your family?β βAs I said,β my brother holds his ground, βShe is responsible for the death of my parents, so yes, this is what she deserves.β βYou should keep your nose out of other packs' business!β Beta Kyle adds. Alpha Dane laughs. βIf I agree to this deal, everything about your business becomes my business. So tell me, what would your punishment be for her? No food, locked away for a week, beatings?β βWe donβtβ¦.β βReally?β He cocks a brow, βYou really expect me to believe that you would have just let her sleep? I have already stopped you from hitting her once. " His eyes roam over me. "She is underfed, bags hover under her tired blue eyes. For a sister of an Alpha, she is certainly not treated like one. Regardless of what she allegedly did when she was a pup.β βShe did do it!β Alpha Trey seethes βAnd she has nothing to do with our deal.β βThatβs for me to decide.β His crimson eyes flicker around the hallway. βWhere is your mate? I would be interested to know how she feels about this.β I close my eyes, silently begging my brother not to call his Luna. Luna Cassandra is worse than Beta Kyle and Alpha Trey together. βOn second thoughts, why bother her. Iβm certain she is just as vile as you.β He sneers I peer through slits to see his crimson eyes on me. There was no reason for him to defend me and yet he was. I was a nobody, no one special. Just who everyone called a traitor. Only instead of being given a death sentence, my brother had decided to make me spend my life suffering. βI have a proposition for you, Alpha Trey.β Alpha Dane is smirking at my brother βWe have already agreed on terms.β βWell, Iβm adding one. And if you donβt agree, you will not get my help. Instead, you will become my enemy. And we both know, you donβt want that.β βI take it that your new terms have something to do with her?β Alpha Trey mutters through clenched teeth. βYou would be correct. Let me take her away to my pack and then you, Trey will have a deal.β Me? Why would he want me? As my brother and his Beta discuss me, Alpha Dane is still studying me. His look made me nervous. What could someone like him possibly want with me? βDeal.β Alpha Trey sticks out his hand for Alpha Dane to shake. He doesnβt take it, instead his crimson eyes shift from me to my brother. βI will have paperwork drawn up and will return tomorrow.β He reaches a hand out and cups my face, βEnsure you have everything packed.β He drags his thumb across my bottom lip and strides to the opposite end of the hallway and straight to the front door. He knew exactly where the front door was, so what was he up to? He pauses at the door. βIf I find out any one of you has laid a hand on her. The contract will be the last thing you need to worry about.β He struts out, slamming the door behind him. βGet out of my sight!β My brother snaps at me. Hurrying away, I make my way up the stairs and into my tiny bedroom. It was practically empty, the only things I had were a few changes of clothes. It would take me less than a minute to pack By morning, I hadnβt slept. Alpha Danes questions were on repeat and why was I so interesting to a Wolf like him. There was a reason he had the biggest pack. They were known for their fighting abilities, thatβs why my brother wanted to link Moonshine with Alpha Danes pack, but where did I fit in to all this? And what o earth is Blood of Wolfsbane? Three Dane βTenth brideβs the charm.β Jenson mocks as the driver pulls up in front of Moonshines packhouse. βShut up!β Eric snaps at him βBoth of you shut your mouths. Before you say something you regret!β βHe will never learn.β My wolf, Aero muses. The driver pulls open the door. βJust give me a second, I need to speak to my men.β The door closes and neither one of them speaks. βShe isnβt like the others. Donβt speak to her, donβt look at her. And you Jenson, keep your hands to yourself or you might just lose them this time.β I was more rattled than usual. Neah was different to the previous selected mates. I didnβt know what it was or whether it was because I was used to confident women, but there was something about her. And Aero appeared to like her too, more than any of the others. I had to have her. βI mean it!β I snap at Jenson's smug face, βBeing my brother wonβt change my mind!β He runs his fingers over his lips as though he was zipping them shut. They follow me from the car. Standing in front of the old packhouse, all three of us stare up at it. Because until a month ago, I knew nothing about them and even after my visit, all I had learned was the Alpha is a beast. My knuckles hammer on the door. Itβs barely open an inch when I force myself through making his Beta stumble back. I spot her straight away, hiding herself behind a corner. βAre you ready?β I call out. βIf you just want toβ¦..β Beta Kyle starts. βI was not talking to you. I was speaking to Neah.β The expression on Beta Kyleβs face was a picture. His jaw hung open and his eyes are wide. He clearly had never been told what to do, even by his Alpha. Neah steps out from her hiding spot, clutching a barely full carrier bag. She drags her teeth across her bottom lip and nods her head. βWhere are the rest of your things? I told you everything needs to be packedβ βThatβs all she has.β Trey snorts as he makes his appearance. βThatβs it?β I stare at him. βThatβs all her belongings? Sheβs what, in her early twenties and thatβs all she has?β βWhat more does she need?!β His Beta sneers. βKill him, let me rip out his throat and he will regret the day he crossed us.β βWhat are you waiting for?β I hear a horrible shrill voice that seems to vibrate through the floors. Looking away from the Beta, I see a woman holding on to a statue of herself that sat at the bottom of the stairs. Her blonde hair hung in waves around her face as her green eyes studied me and she sways her hips as she moves to Trey. I noticed Neahβs reaction yesterday. When I asked Trey where his mate was. Her whole body had tensed up in fear. She was afraid of this woman and I wanted to know why. βTake her Alpha Dane. Iβm sure she will be as useful a slave to you as she is to us.β Her shrill voice goes straight through me. βLook at the silly girl, sheβs going to pass out.β The blonde bimbo laughs βYou donβt get to talk about her like that anymore.β I glare at the blonde, βShe is not your toy. She is not your slave and I suggest that you, Alpha Trey keep your wife in check. There is only so much disobedience that I will tolerate.β βDISOBEDIENCE!β The woman screeches just as Neahβs hip hits the floor. βHow dare you! If anyone is disobedient, itβs that rat in the corner.β βWho the heck is she calling a rat?β Aero growls βYou should make yourself familiar with our agreement.β I snap. βIt seems your mate has not told you everything.β Waving Eric forward, he pulls a thick wad of paper from the folder under his arm. The contract that I have drawn up. βAll that for your help?β His mateβs eyes are wide βI donβt do half-witted contracts.β Taking the contract from Eric, I shove it against Treyβs chest βShall we go to the office?β Trey leads the way with his mate clinging on to him and his Beta hurrying behind. My men follow them while I stay behind to check on my new mate. βYou are more than welcome to join us, after all, you are involved in this deal. Or my car is outfront, you can take your stuff and wait there for me.β βAre those my only options?β she whispers, keeping her eyes low βFor now. Personally, I think you should sit in with us. It will give me great pleasure in pissing off that mate of your brothers.β She keeps her blue eyes low as she continues to clutch that bag of hers. This close to her, I could really see how ill she looked. Even her heart beat is slow, like itβs fighting to hang on to life. βSo what will it be?β βIβ¦.β Her head rotates between the front door and the direction of the office. βIβ¦.. The office I guess.β βGood choice.β I hold out a hand for her but she doesnβt take it. Pushing herself up to her feet. She wobbles a little, but steadies herself. Walking a few steps behind her, I see the evil glares she receives from Trey and the other two idiots as she enters the office.. βTake a seat.β I whisper as I walk past her. My hand grazes her lower back and she immediately tenses up. She stands, frozen to the spot. Only her eyes dart about when she shakes her head. βSit!β I say it a little louder βShe doesnβt have that privilege here!β The blonde snaps, with her lips curved up in amusement βSitting is not a privilege.β I growl, wondering what else they were forcing her to do. I couldnβt see any bruises on her arms or legs, a good sign, I hoped. βIt better be!β Aero paces in my head. He wanted her out of this place as much as I did. The blonde physically recoils in her seat. Her mouth falls wide open, shocked that I had said something. βAnd I suggest,β I look at Trey, βYou tell your mate to keep her mouth shut. Or I can shut it for her.β βAlpha Dane, you are in my homeβ¦..β βAnd you want my help, correct?β The three of them were fuming. No one liked being told what to do in their own home, yet they were doing just that to Neah. I point to the empty chair between Jenson and Eric and she finally sits down. βLetβs just get this done.β Trey snaps, βThe sooner she is gone, the happier I can be.β βYou should read the contract.β I muse βI agreed that you could take her as part of our deal.β βIdiot!β Eric murmurs. He knew as well as I did that contracts should be read before they are signed They sign without reading and practically throw the contract back at me. βDone.β Trey mutters βGood, you can get her out of my house.β Treyβs mate screeches. If I had it my way, I would just take Neah, then I wouldnβt have to put up with the twidles, but this way, they canβt have her back. Even if they begged. A contract was a contract and it was impossible for them to get out of. Getting to my feet, I hold a hand out to Neah, βCome, we are leaving this rat hole before I lose my temper.β Her warm fingers slip into my hand as she rises to her feet. Her other hand clutches the bag to her chest as she walks with me to the front door. She doesnβt even look back to say goodbye and that confirmed everything I needed to know. She hated them as much as they hated her. She pauses at the open front door, her hand falling from mine. Her blue eyes are wide as she stares at the limo. βCome.β I instruct Eric and Jenson are standing behind her, watching her curiously. βIs she okay?β Eric links me. βNeah?β I step in front of her and she doesnβt move. She seems to be staring right through me. βItβs time to go.β βOkay.β Her lips barely move She takes a step forward, almost as if she is in slow motion. Her hands grip the door frame, her knuckles turn white as her heartbeat increases. Her lips part a little and her hand falls from the door frame just as her eyes roll to the back of her head. βIβve got you.β I mutter, catching her just before she hits the floor. Her entire body tenses up as I lift her and carry her to the car. She was so weak and was even lighter than I expected. She probably didnβt weigh much more than a small child. Jenson and Eric get in the car first. Jenson cocks his eyebrow at me and has a smirk plastered to his face as I slide in with Neah on my lap. βKeep your thoughts to yourself, Jenson!β I hold her close, listening to her breathe and her heart as it slowed. Letting my fingers comb through her dark hair as she becomes a little more with it. Suddenly, she sits up right, moving away from me and trying to make herself as small as possible. Deciding not to force her to do anything, I keep my attention on my Beta and my brother, talking about pack stuff while casting a glance over to her every so often to make sure she was alright. βCome.β I mutter as the limo comes to a stop. I donβt wait for the driver and get out myself, holding a hand out for her. βIβm fine.β She speaks at last while glancing at the others and shuffles herself forward to the open door. She stares up at my home, gasping a little. It was easily three times the size of her previous home and I hoped that she would be happy here. That I could provide her with a life that was better than her last. βLet me give you a tour.β I suggest as she continues to clutch that carrier bag to her chest. She follows me in, not speaking a word. I had no idea if she was listening to what I was saying or not βThe omegas swap out on a rotational basis. Good for the youngsters to learn some responsibilities before they get proper jobs.β I tell her while showing her the dining hall with a table long enough to fit twenty people around. We move through to the kitchen. Where I point out a board on the wall. βIf there is anything you need, you just add it to the board and it will be ordered in.β Her brow furrows and still she says nothing. Picking up a pen, I smile. Maybe she felt intimidated by me. βSo tell me, what do you need because there is no way you are living under my roof with just the things that are in that bag.β Her dazzling blue eyes dart around the room βWell?β I ask. βI donβt need anything.β She whispers Sighing, I start scribbling things down. Underwear, jeans, workout clothes, dresses, shoes, anything I can think of that will cover her for a few days. Holding the pen between my teeth, I grab her around the waist. My thumbs meet just above her belly button and my fingers touch her spine. She was so thin, how was she even alive? Four Dane She looked like a deer caught in headlights as I write her size down. She was tinier than I thought. Skin and bone. If I had moved my hands up any higher, I would have felt every rib sticking out. It sickened me, she should be strong, powerful, she had Alpha blood running through her veins. I also saw how she scrunched her face up when I measured her. It wasnβt fear, it was pain. She was hiding something underneath the baggy maids dress. βI know you want to say something, so just say it. Iβm not interested in the crap Trey drummed into you. You donβt have to wait until someone asks you a question. You are free to say what you want. Are you injured?" "No." She was lying, I could feel it. She shakes her head as if it would confirm her answer and a lock of her black hair falls from the band that was supposed to be holding it back. Neah was going to be a tough girl to crack. A life of being starved had made her quite protective over herself. I will make Trey pay for what he has done to her. βYou have to say something, Neah. I cannot read your mind. When I mark you, at least I will know what you are feeling.β βMark me?β I didnβt think her eyes could get any wider. βYes, I will mark you.β She was completely and utterly shocked by the idea. Her pink lips part a little as she continues to stare at me. I thought she knew. I thought that was why she came so willingly. My Beta had kept asking me if I was certain I wanted her as my bride. There was no doubt about it, she had a strange scent but something was luring me to her. I couldnβt take my eyes off of her when I first saw her. My Wolf Aero was going mad for her too. Though he hadnβt said a word about her. Annoyed with me for not taking her home with us yesterday. βYouβ¦.You brought me so that you could mark me.β She takes a step back, walking into the kitchen island. She winces a little and quickly covers up her pain, relaxing her face.. βIf Trey had bothered reading the contract, he would have discovered that you are to be my bride, not a slave. He would also have read that if he or his ridiculously silly mate tried doing anything to you going forward, that pack would become mine, or rather, yours. I never bought you, Neah, you were always destined to be mine.β βIβm a murderer.β She gasps. βWhy would someone like you want me for a bride?β βBloodβ Aero growls interrupting my thoughts. I glance down at her baggy dress. A blood stain had appeared right where I had my hands wrapped around her. βWhatβs that? Are you injured?β I demand, I had barely touched her. She covers the stain with her hand. βItβs nothing. Itβs just a cut that I keep knocking and it opens up again. I forget itβs there.β Forget? How could she forget a wound? βWhy isnβt she healing?β I feel Aeroβs panic. βSheβs been with us less than two hours and already she has some form of injury.β His need to protect her was strong. It hadnβt occurred to me that her lack of abilities included not being able to heal. I would have to find someone who could reverse the binding and soon. βShow me!β βItβs fine.β She mumbles I was already so sick of hearing that phrase. βItβs not optional.β I mutter. βIf you wonβt show me, I will have to find a way to look, myself.β Her heart skips a beat. She looks around the kitchen. βCan.... can we go somewhere more private?β βPrivate?β I didnβt really do privacy. What Wolf did?! She bobs her head but still keeps her focus slightly off of me. Almost afraid to look me directly in the eyes. βOffice,β Aero mutters. βI was just going to suggest that!β I snap back at my Wolf. I feel his eyes roll as he retreats to some dark corner of my mind. βThis way.β I gesture to the door. Neah waits for me and follows closely behind. The scent of blood steadily grew stronger, it was more than just a cut. I already knew that. In the office, I hit the remote and the blinds start to drop, blocking out the sunlight. Neah hesitates and slowly begins to unfasten the buttons of the dress but only where the large blood stain was. Keeping everything else covered from me. She pulls the dress to one side. The wound was about four inches long and already fairly infected. βSee, itβs fine.β she whispers. βYou need to stop saying that.β She closes her mouth and starts to fasten the buttons. βNo,β I grabbed her hands, I had caught sight of another bruise. βLet me see the rest of them.β It wasnβt optional. She gasps as my fingers rip apart the rest of the buttons. Her sports bra had seen better days, just the same as her underwear. But it was the bruising I was most concerned about. Bruise upon bruise, scars that had come from whips. Her hip bones and ribs stuck out too. Turning her around, and pulling the dress from her, I find that her back is just the same. Yet interestingly, there was nothing above her chest and nothing below her thighs. Her arms were completely bare of wounds too. There was only one reason why someone would do that. To either hide what they were doing to someone, or to keep up appearances. They didnβt want guests to see. More importantly, they didnβt want me to see, considering the meeting was arranged over a month ago. She fumbles with the dress, pulling it tightly around her thin frame. βYou need to see a doctor.β βItβs β¦..β she trails off when she sees the anger on my face. βIt always heals, eventually.β βDid Trey do this?β I mutter with my teeth gritted and gesture to her body She lowers her blue eyes. βCassandra?β She still doesnβt answer me. βThat prick that follows Trey around? All three of them?β She pulls her dress tighter around her and silently nods. She brings her hand up to her face, brushing her cheek, wiping away an escaped tear. βAnyone else?β βThe pack.β She whispers. βIβm going to kill them all.β Aero growls. He will have to get in line, βBecause of what you allegedly did to your parents.β She nods. βI donβt believe you were responsible.β She tilts her head up towards me, her brow knits together as her eyes finally find mine. βBecause of Blood of Wolfsbane?" Five Neah βIβ¦I donβt know what Blood of Wolfsbane is?β I whisper He frowns at me. βYour brother said you knew the difference between plants.β βIβ¦β I didnβt have an answer. I couldnβt remember, not fully. βBlood of Wolfsbane is Wolfsbane fed by our blood. The leaves will have a red hue to them. I canβt imagine a child would know what it is because it is not freely grown. Your brotherβs story doesnβt add up.β βOh.β βI wonβt stop until I find out who did this, Neah.β His crimson eyes narrow. βI will make them pay for the suffering you have endured.β He sits on the edge of his desk, studying me. βRight now, you do need to see someone about the infection.β I kept my mouth closed, I was still trying to process his news of me being set up. Why had my brother never considered it? βCome, I will show you our bedroom. You can shower before we see the pack doctor.β Frozen to the spot, I donβt move. Did he just say βour bedroom,β? As in, we are sharing a bedroom? I guess he thinks he can mke love with me whenever he wants if Iβm his contract bride. A shiver runs down my spine at the thought. Glancing up, I see him watching me. He is stood at the open door, waiting for me. Ensuring my dress has me covered, I step out into the hallway. No one was around and the hallways were quiet. As we moved, Alpha Dane would tell me what each room was, but he seemed more focussed on getting me to the bedroom. His bedroom is huge, with massive windows, just like the rest of the house. The bed sat pressed up against the wall. All around it, thin drapes hung from the ceiling, but they were tied back at each bed post. What surprised me the most was that the bath and the shower were in the same room. Only the toilet was in a small room to the side of the shower. No privacy, whatsoever. Though, he didnβt seem to care about that. He makes me jump when I feel his warm breath on my skin. βYou donβt need to be afraid.β I may not be able to smell him, but he would be able to scent the changes in my emotions. Crossing the room, he pulls open the glass door to the shower and turns it on. The moment he closes the door, the steam of the shower quickly fogs up the glass. And still, I find myself afraid. He gave me no clue as to what he was expecting from me. βHey,β His rough fingers tip my face up. βItβs just you and me and for now, I will let you shower in peace.β Walking away, he pulls his phone out of his pocket and messes around with it before placing it on the bedside table. βThe alarm is set for ten minutes. I will come back then. I will bring you something to wear so just stay in the towel. Understand?β He stares at me, waiting for an answer and I just nod. A ten minute shower. I was lucky if I got a minute shower back home and the water was always cold. He moves to the door and with his hand resting on the door knob he looks back over his shoulder at me. βI really wish you would talk more, Neah.β Alpha Dane leaves me in peace and I make a mad dash for the shower as if Iβm in some kind of fantasy land and this was all a dream. Maybe it was, maybe I was about to wake up in the basement of my home. The smells of the soaps and shampoos are divine as I lather them into myself. And my hair has never felt so clean. The wound on my stomach stung as the hot water hit it, but I didnβt care, it was worth it. Someone in the room clears their throat and I freeze. Thanking the steam for keeping me semi hidden. βNeah, are you done? The alarm went off five minutes ago.β Alpha Daneβs voice seems louder in here. I had been so caught up in the freedom of a simple shower that I hadnβt even heard the alarm or the Alpha come back into the room. βComing.β I mutter, turning off the water and pulling a towel around me to hide the hideousness underneath. Stepping out, I already see that my ripped dress, underwear and worn sandals had been removed from the floor. Alpha Dane sits on the end of the bed with what looked like folded clothes on his lap and a pair of trainers. βItβs not much, as we donβt have anyone with as small a waist as you.β He smiles as he hands over the clothes. A matching navy blue sweatshirt and joggers. βYou will have to make do without the underwear for now. Should be here first thing tomorrow.β He watches me with a cocked eyebrow as I pull the joggers on and tug the sweatshirt over my head before removing the towel. Maybe he was used to the women parading themselves in front of him, or throwing themselves at him because he has power, but I wasnβt like that. βLetβs go.β He rises to his feet and this time, I follow him. Something told me that if I didnβt get this wound looked at, it would put him in a bad mood. The pack doctor was young, unlike the one back home who was old and afraid to let anyone take over from him. She smiles at us as we enter the pack hospital and rewraps her dark hair into a bun. βRaven, this is Neah.β Alpha Dane introduces me with a grin. I keep my eyes low as I hear Raven say, βAlpha Dane, what seems to be the problem apart from the strange smell she has brought with her.β It didnβt sound like a hurtful comment like I was used to, but more a comment of curiosity. βShe will tell you herself when she finds her tongue.β βI have a wound.β I whisper. βAnd you are not healing?β Raven asks, confused βI donβt have my Wolf.β I hated saying it. It was just a constant reminder that I did not fit in. βHer Wolf was bound when she was a kid.β Alpha Dane tells her. βThatβs why her scent is strange. Her Wolf is there, locked away, waiting to be freed.β My eyes flicker up only to find him staring straight back at me. I had always believed that my Wolf was gone. Not that she was trapped. Ravenβs dark eyes hover on me. βWow, okay.β She grabs my hand. βThis way, letβs take a look at this wound of yours.β She leads me into an empty room and asks me to lay on the bed and to show her my wound. Pulling up the sweatshirt, just enough for her to see the wound. Her eyes widen, a flicker of rage passing over them as she takes in the infected wound and the bruising that surrounds it. Her fingers carefully press around the wound. βHow long ago?β βA few days.β I mutter, though I wasnβt sure. Every beating blurred into another one. Any day that I wasnβt hit was a good day. Raven shakes her head. βThis is longer than a few days ago, the infection has had at least a week to develop.β βNeah, you need to tell us the truth.β Alpha Dane orders βI donβt know.β βNEAH!β His deep voice rumbles through me and I close my eyes, fearing his anger. Anger brought punishment, punishment brought pain. βI swear, I donβt know. The beatings, they happen so often that they just kind ofβ¦. Iβm never not bruised.β Thereβs silence and I was too afraid to open my eyes. Alpha Trey had said it over and over, that if anyone found out, he would make my life a misery, more than it already was. I used to wonder who would ever find out that didnβt already know. Now here I was, sitting in another packβs hospital, revealing the truth. βHeal her!β Alpha Dane shouts after what seems like forever. He storms from the room, pulling a phone out of his pocket. βYou will have to forgive my brother. His temper is short, especially when it comes to things like this.β Raven mutters as she gently inspects my wound βYour brother?β I whisper, opening my eyes βAh, I see he informed you. Iβm guessing he didnβt tell you that Jenson is our brother too?β I shake my head, Iβm guessing Jenson was one of the men that came to my brother's house. She chuckles. βJenson is considered to be our brotherβs Gamma.β βGamma?β I had never heard of the term. βYep and Alpha Dane has a love/hate for me working here. He wants me to represent our family, but he knows this is what Iβm good at.β She grabs a pot of cream from the cupboard. βNow this needs to be applied three times a day. It should clear up the infection, if it hasnβt changed in a couple of days, I will take another look. My brother is waiting for you out front.β βThanks.β I mumble, taking the pot of cream from her. I looked at the label, but couldnβt read it. I had never learned to read. She bobs her head at me as I hurry out to find Alpha Dane on his phone, snapping at someone. He hangs up as soon as he sees me and asks what Raven said. βCream, three times a day.β I show him the pot and he takes it from me. βGood, come.β He strides off and I have to run to keep up with him. I follow him through the house and into the office. βShow me.β He orders, pulling the lid off the pot. It wasnβt going to be negotiable, not when he had used the same tone moments before he ripped my dress open earlier. Slowly lifting my sweatshirt, he crouches down in front of me and gently smothers the wound in the cold cream. βI donβt want you to lie to me, Neah. Not ever. If you canβt remember, that is what you need to tell me. Is that clear? I donβt want to have to guess what you mean.β βOkay.β I couldnβt say anything else, I was too focussed on the warmth of his hands. One presses against my lower back, holding me steady while the other gently rubs cream into my wound. The only touch I had received from another man was a beating. βStop holding your breath.β He tells me, getting to his feet. βI am not going to hurt you.β It seemed impossible to believe given my history. The act, the words coming from him, it just didnβt feel real. | Galaxy in the Story | 301 | https://facebook.com/61555427913037 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717743600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879860 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410733 | 1723321859 | 995 | 1151488566099663 | 1 | 3.741970716041E+15 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 219004054622622 | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | 120209611805750689 | wwwedb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πAttention! Do not read in publicοΌπ | https://wwwedb.com/market/meganovel/13?lpid=11783&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717743552 | 2.1900405462262E+14 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447260728_1518945155389917_2874266976111342341_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=g0H6jXhQP3sQ7kNvgGXGGZL&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYD5RKLxmmvz3_WMQm6M7TyxkgQmm5IfWgwhhyK_F2vFIg&oe=6672BD2F | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447272334_8058147917584464_4203412527007476159_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ookoAxwxG_QQ7kNvgE9thCo&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCeO_9K7nk0lXXIJiyjXCwWONM-nS-S5ZtufKX8Y6JJ9A&oe=6672A008 | 0 | 3 | One Neah βWhere the heck is she?β I hear the Beta scream. I already knew Beta Kyle was talking about me, the only servant of the house. I groan and get to my feet, grabbing the cleaning basket and taking it with me. The moment Beta Kyle sees me, he strides towards me and his hand slices against my cheek. I donβt make a sound. Years of experience has taught me to keep my mouth shut at all times and only speak when spoken too, even if what they are doing to me hurts. βAlpha Trey and I are expecting company and you still have not cleaned the office like you were asked.β Beta Kyle spits at me I nod my head and my hand tightens on the cleaning basket. If I could just find the courage to swing it at his head, it would make my day. I resisted, he was stronger than me and I didnβt need locking up for another week with no food. My stomach already hurt enough. βWe are trying to make a good impression on Alpha Dane. Do you not understand how important it is for us to join ourselves with his pack?!β I donβt answer, I know it's a trick, to try and get me to say something so that he can give himself a reason to punish me. I keep my eyes low so that I didnβt have to look at his face. Alpha Dane, I had only ever heard rumours about him. Words exchanged between the other pack members when I was in the room. From what I gathered, he was a ruthless man, a Wolf feared by others. He didnβt mess around and he had the largest pack. βHe is the Alpha of Black Shadow, the biggest pack in the world, we need him!β Beta Kyle continues. Yet he doesnβt tell me why. We had never been attacked and we had never attacked anyone, so why did we need another pack to help us? He places his hands on my shoulders, digging his nails into my thinning skin and turns me around, kicking me in the but as he shoves me towards the office. βUseless Wolf.β He mutters as he moves away. Quietly closing the door, I lean back against it, observing the already clean office. There was nothing out of place, it looked perfectly fine for a meeting with this so-called powerful Alpha. Closing my eyes, I slide down to the floor. I hated this house. I thought that when I turned eighteen, I could finally escape, but four years later, here I still am, a slave in my own home. Doing all the dirty tasks for my brother, Alpha Trey and the pack. While my ex mate, Beta Kyle waltzes around reminding me of how worthless I am. Someone clears their throat and I freeze, I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair, just around the corner. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of drink. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that donβt quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door as my heart pounded. βIs this the way you greet all Alphaβs?β His deep voice rumbles through the room, there was an edge of amusement to his tone. βIβm sorry.β I whisper, getting to my feet. βIβ¦I thought I was alone.β I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. He doesnβt introduce himself either, why should he? βCome forward.β He orders and I already feel a lump forming in my throat. Alpha Trey was going to finish me. I step around the corner, doing as Iβm told, allowing him to see me properly. I close my eyes, expecting the worst. βYou smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?β I nod, though I couldnβt tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they found out about me. βI would prefer it if you spoke to me.β He growls, βIβm not in the mood to play games.β βYes.β I whisper. I couldnβt help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? βWhy do you smell strange? And how is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.β βIβ¦..β I hated the question. βSpit it out, I havenβt got all day!β He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldnβt scent him. I knew why I hadnβt been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever wanted or liked to do. They never let me tell my side of the story. All they do is laugh and mock me. βYou should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. Itβs rude to not look at them. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?β His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them, there was no way I was making eye contact. βMy Wolf abilities were bound,β I mutter. Twice, I wanted to add. Twice my abilities were bound. But he probably wasnβt interested in that part. He leans forward, carefully placing his glass on the small table next to the chair. I could feel him staring at me, βWhy would someone do that?β If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. βIt was a punishment.β I whisper. It wasnβt far from the entire truth but it was the simplest answer I could give. Thereβs a twitch in his cheek. Was he angry to hear of such a punishment? Or maybe, just like the others, he was amused by it. I couldnβt tell. The door swings open and my brother screeches at me βNeah, what the heck are you doing in my office?β He turns to the crimson eyed man. βI am so sorry that my sister is bothering you, Alpha Dane.β Crap, it was him. My brother spins around, his hand stretching out to hit me. I close my eyes, bracing myself, ready to feel the burn. βI wouldnβt do that if I were you.β Alpha Daneβs voice rumbles through the room. Peeking through slits, I see Alpha Dane has risen to his feet, his hand coiled around my brother's wrist. He was taller than my brother, more muscly too. βNeah,β My name rolls off of his tongue, βwas kindly showing me to your office, Alpha Trey, as you failed to meet me at the front of your house like I requested. I was lucky someone was present, at least someone understands the importance of this deal.β What? I had no idea what he was talking about. And he had no reason to lie for me. My brother glares at me, clenching his jaw tight. I was going to pay for this later. I would have to try and steal some food. βGo and get Beta Kyle.β Alpha Trey seethes. βTell him that our guest is here.β I nod my head and hurry from the room, the last thing I wanted was to be caught between bickering men. βBeta Kyle,β I whisper as I enter the dining hall. He instantly glares at me with his dark eyes. I had spoken without being spoken to. βAlpha Trey is in the office with Alpha Dane. I was sent to inform you.β He slams the newspaper down on the table and glares at me as he walks by. βYouβre lucky that the Alpha sent you to get me, otherwise you wouldn't be seeing sunlight for a few days.β Pausing behind me, he yanks my head back, locking his fingers in my hair, leaning in close to me, I feel his hot breath on my skin. He doesnβt speak, it was just his way of proving that he could do what he wants when he wants. I try to keep myself busy so I can stay as far away from the office as possible. My peace doesnβt last long when I hear my brother calling out to me. Quietly, I pad towards the office and plaster a smile on my face as I open the door. βNeah, go get the champagne and some glasses, we are celebrating.β I bow my head and hurry to the drinks cabinet. Quickly finding what my brother has asked for. As I re-enter the office, I can feel Alpha Dane watching my every move, even the hairs on the back of my neck stand up. No one ever watches me this closely. Approaching the small table by Alpha Danes chair, I start to fill the glasses. He takes the champagne bottle from me, telling me he is more than capable of filling his own glass. I feel my cheeks flame, not from embarrassment, but because I knew that I would be punished for this. I should have been quicker. I should have filled the glasses before entering the office. I should haveβ¦. My brain freezes when I see my brother glaring at me. βNeah is your sister, correct?β Alpha Dane questions my brother. βShe is.β Alpha Trey mutters with disgust. He looks away from me to focus on the man asking questions. βWhy do you treat her like vermin?β Straight to the point, my brother wouldnβt like that. He only liked sharing information on his terms. No one had spoken to my brother about his treatment of me because everyone took great joy in beating me. I didnβt know what to do. I couldnβt move but I knew I had to get out of there. If this deal goes to pot because of me, then that would be my fault too. βNeah was responsible for our parents' death.β Alpha Trey spits I closed my eyes, battling back the tears that were threatening to break free. βResponsible how?β Alpha Daneβs voice rumbles through me. He was definitely angry. βShe served them Wolfsbane.β Two Neah Donβt make a sound. Donβt make a sound. I knew Alpha Dane was studying me. They all did, no one could ever quite believe how someone could do something so disgusting as poisoning their own parents. I stood there, with my head hanging low, wishing for the ground to open up and suck me in. There are movements around me. He was standing directly in front of me. With a rough finger he tilts my face up towards his, forcing me to look at him. Slowly, his hand latches onto my throat but he doesnβt squeeze. βYou poisoned your parents?β βI was six.β I splutter. βI just made them lemonade.β My voice comes out all squeaky as I try to defend myself. I could barely remember my parents, but I could remember all the guilt I had been made to feel since that day. His crimson eyes flash to my brothers. βHardly seems fair to blame a six year old.β βA six year old should know the difference between plants.β Alpha Trey snaps βSounds to me like she was set up.β Alpha Dane shrugs his shoulders, letting go of my throat. βWe all know that standard wolfsbane doesnβt affect us anymore. We evolved from that thing centuries ago.β What? What did he mean? Wolfsbane wasnβt lethal. It had been drummed into me since I could walk. βWhich only leaves Blood of Wolfsbane.β Alpha Dane mutters βYou werenβt there, Alpha Dane.β My brother muttered through gritted teeth as his eyes narrowed to slits. βIt was Wolfsbane.β He nods his head. βYou are right, I was not present.β Great, now there was someone else who could remind me of something I had done by accident, years ago. βBut tell me this, where would a six year old get Blood of Wolfsbane?β βI didnβt ask you here to talk about my slave!β Alpha Trey spits. βOr what happened to my parents.β Alpha Dane grabs his leather jacket from the chair. Unlike other Alphaβs he seemed to dress more casually. A simple black tee and jeans covered his huge frame. And unlike other Alphaβs, his arms are bare of tattoos, not a single bit of ink poked out anywhere. βYouβre right and now I have a few things to mull over.β βI thought we agreed.β My brother exclaims βNothing has been signed. Now I will show myself out.β The moment he is out of the office, both my brother and Beta Kyle round on me. βWhat the heck did you say to him?β My brother demands, slamming a hand into my stomach. βN..nothing. Well, he just asked me why I smelled funny.β βDid you tell him?β Beta Kyle demands. He was practically spitting in my face. I hated him. I hated him so much that I had vowed to one day get my revenge and rip his stomach out through his mouth. βWELL?β My brother yells when I donβt immediately respond and smacks me across the side of the head. My head involuntarily moves up and down. βBut I didnβt say it was you.β I tried to sound strong and confident but it just comes out as a whisper. If they werenβt Wolves, they probably wouldnβt have heard me. My brother's hand locks into my black hair as he yanks my head back, sending a shooting pain through my skull. βIf you have ruined this, you wonβt see daylight again.β He drags me by my hair from the office and down the hallway towards the basement door. βPleaseβ¦.β I beg. βHe was an Alphaβ¦Iβ¦ I had to answer him.β My cheeks burn with my tears as he flings the door open. On the other side of the door is Alpha Dane. He is leaning against the wall with his arms folded, staring out at us. My brother's hand falls from my hair, relieving the pressure on the back of my skull.. βAlpha Dane, I thought you had left.β Alpha Trey murmurs angrily. βI said I would show myself out. I thought I had found the door, but instead I find a basement, riddled in your sister's strange scent. Is this how you treat your family?β βAs I said,β my brother holds his ground, βShe is responsible for the death of my parents, so yes, this is what she deserves.β βYou should keep your nose out of other packs' business!β Beta Kyle adds. Alpha Dane laughs. βIf I agree to this deal, everything about your business becomes my business. So tell me, what would your punishment be for her? No food, locked away for a week, beatings?β βWe donβtβ¦.β βReally?β He cocks a brow, βYou really expect me to believe that you would have just let her sleep? I have already stopped you from hitting her once. " His eyes roam over me. "She is underfed, bags hover under her tired blue eyes. For a sister of an Alpha, she is certainly not treated like one. Regardless of what she allegedly did when she was a pup.β βShe did do it!β Alpha Trey seethes βAnd she has nothing to do with our deal.β βThatβs for me to decide.β His crimson eyes flicker around the hallway. βWhere is your mate? I would be interested to know how she feels about this.β I close my eyes, silently begging my brother not to call his Luna. Luna Cassandra is worse than Beta Kyle and Alpha Trey together. βOn second thoughts, why bother her. Iβm certain she is just as vile as you.β He sneers I peer through slits to see his crimson eyes on me. There was no reason for him to defend me and yet he was. I was a nobody, no one special. Just who everyone called a traitor. Only instead of being given a death sentence, my brother had decided to make me spend my life suffering. βI have a proposition for you, Alpha Trey.β Alpha Dane is smirking at my brother βWe have already agreed on terms.β βWell, Iβm adding one. And if you donβt agree, you will not get my help. Instead, you will become my enemy. And we both know, you donβt want that.β βI take it that your new terms have something to do with her?β Alpha Trey mutters through clenched teeth. βYou would be correct. Let me take her away to my pack and then you, Trey will have a deal.β Me? Why would he want me? As my brother and his Beta discuss me, Alpha Dane is still studying me. His look made me nervous. What could someone like him possibly want with me? βDeal.β Alpha Trey sticks out his hand for Alpha Dane to shake. He doesnβt take it, instead his crimson eyes shift from me to my brother. βI will have paperwork drawn up and will return tomorrow.β He reaches a hand out and cups my face, βEnsure you have everything packed.β He drags his thumb across my bottom lip and strides to the opposite end of the hallway and straight to the front door. He knew exactly where the front door was, so what was he up to? He pauses at the door. βIf I find out any one of you has laid a hand on her. The contract will be the last thing you need to worry about.β He struts out, slamming the door behind him. βGet out of my sight!β My brother snaps at me. Hurrying away, I make my way up the stairs and into my tiny bedroom. It was practically empty, the only things I had were a few changes of clothes. It would take me less than a minute to pack By morning, I hadnβt slept. Alpha Danes questions were on repeat and why was I so interesting to a Wolf like him. There was a reason he had the biggest pack. They were known for their fighting abilities, thatβs why my brother wanted to link Moonshine with Alpha Danes pack, but where did I fit in to all this? And what o earth is Blood of Wolfsbane? Three Dane βTenth brideβs the charm.β Jenson mocks as the driver pulls up in front of Moonshines packhouse. βShut up!β Eric snaps at him βBoth of you shut your mouths. Before you say something you regret!β βHe will never learn.β My wolf, Aero muses. The driver pulls open the door. βJust give me a second, I need to speak to my men.β The door closes and neither one of them speaks. βShe isnβt like the others. Donβt speak to her, donβt look at her. And you Jenson, keep your hands to yourself or you might just lose them this time.β I was more rattled than usual. Neah was different to the previous selected mates. I didnβt know what it was or whether it was because I was used to confident women, but there was something about her. And Aero appeared to like her too, more than any of the others. I had to have her. βI mean it!β I snap at Jenson's smug face, βBeing my brother wonβt change my mind!β He runs his fingers over his lips as though he was zipping them shut. They follow me from the car. Standing in front of the old packhouse, all three of us stare up at it. Because until a month ago, I knew nothing about them and even after my visit, all I had learned was the Alpha is a beast. My knuckles hammer on the door. Itβs barely open an inch when I force myself through making his Beta stumble back. I spot her straight away, hiding herself behind a corner. βAre you ready?β I call out. βIf you just want toβ¦..β Beta Kyle starts. βI was not talking to you. I was speaking to Neah.β The expression on Beta Kyleβs face was a picture. His jaw hung open and his eyes are wide. He clearly had never been told what to do, even by his Alpha. Neah steps out from her hiding spot, clutching a barely full carrier bag. She drags her teeth across her bottom lip and nods her head. βWhere are the rest of your things? I told you everything needs to be packedβ βThatβs all she has.β Trey snorts as he makes his appearance. βThatβs it?β I stare at him. βThatβs all her belongings? Sheβs what, in her early twenties and thatβs all she has?β βWhat more does she need?!β His Beta sneers. βKill him, let me rip out his throat and he will regret the day he crossed us.β βWhat are you waiting for?β I hear a horrible shrill voice that seems to vibrate through the floors. Looking away from the Beta, I see a woman holding on to a statue of herself that sat at the bottom of the stairs. Her blonde hair hung in waves around her face as her green eyes studied me and she sways her hips as she moves to Trey. I noticed Neahβs reaction yesterday. When I asked Trey where his mate was. Her whole body had tensed up in fear. She was afraid of this woman and I wanted to know why. βTake her Alpha Dane. Iβm sure she will be as useful a slave to you as she is to us.β Her shrill voice goes straight through me. βLook at the silly girl, sheβs going to pass out.β The blonde bimbo laughs βYou donβt get to talk about her like that anymore.β I glare at the blonde, βShe is not your toy. She is not your slave and I suggest that you, Alpha Trey keep your wife in check. There is only so much disobedience that I will tolerate.β βDISOBEDIENCE!β The woman screeches just as Neahβs hip hits the floor. βHow dare you! If anyone is disobedient, itβs that rat in the corner.β βWho the heck is she calling a rat?β Aero growls βYou should make yourself familiar with our agreement.β I snap. βIt seems your mate has not told you everything.β Waving Eric forward, he pulls a thick wad of paper from the folder under his arm. The contract that I have drawn up. βAll that for your help?β His mateβs eyes are wide βI donβt do half-witted contracts.β Taking the contract from Eric, I shove it against Treyβs chest βShall we go to the office?β Trey leads the way with his mate clinging on to him and his Beta hurrying behind. My men follow them while I stay behind to check on my new mate. βYou are more than welcome to join us, after all, you are involved in this deal. Or my car is outfront, you can take your stuff and wait there for me.β βAre those my only options?β she whispers, keeping her eyes low βFor now. Personally, I think you should sit in with us. It will give me great pleasure in pissing off that mate of your brothers.β She keeps her blue eyes low as she continues to clutch that bag of hers. This close to her, I could really see how ill she looked. Even her heart beat is slow, like itβs fighting to hang on to life. βSo what will it be?β βIβ¦.β Her head rotates between the front door and the direction of the office. βIβ¦.. The office I guess.β βGood choice.β I hold out a hand for her but she doesnβt take it. Pushing herself up to her feet. She wobbles a little, but steadies herself. Walking a few steps behind her, I see the evil glares she receives from Trey and the other two idiots as she enters the office.. βTake a seat.β I whisper as I walk past her. My hand grazes her lower back and she immediately tenses up. She stands, frozen to the spot. Only her eyes dart about when she shakes her head. βSit!β I say it a little louder βShe doesnβt have that privilege here!β The blonde snaps, with her lips curved up in amusement βSitting is not a privilege.β I growl, wondering what else they were forcing her to do. I couldnβt see any bruises on her arms or legs, a good sign, I hoped. βIt better be!β Aero paces in my head. He wanted her out of this place as much as I did. The blonde physically recoils in her seat. Her mouth falls wide open, shocked that I had said something. βAnd I suggest,β I look at Trey, βYou tell your mate to keep her mouth shut. Or I can shut it for her.β βAlpha Dane, you are in my homeβ¦..β βAnd you want my help, correct?β The three of them were fuming. No one liked being told what to do in their own home, yet they were doing just that to Neah. I point to the empty chair between Jenson and Eric and she finally sits down. βLetβs just get this done.β Trey snaps, βThe sooner she is gone, the happier I can be.β βYou should read the contract.β I muse βI agreed that you could take her as part of our deal.β βIdiot!β Eric murmurs. He knew as well as I did that contracts should be read before they are signed They sign without reading and practically throw the contract back at me. βDone.β Trey mutters βGood, you can get her out of my house.β Treyβs mate screeches. If I had it my way, I would just take Neah, then I wouldnβt have to put up with the twidles, but this way, they canβt have her back. Even if they begged. A contract was a contract and it was impossible for them to get out of. Getting to my feet, I hold a hand out to Neah, βCome, we are leaving this rat hole before I lose my temper.β Her warm fingers slip into my hand as she rises to her feet. Her other hand clutches the bag to her chest as she walks with me to the front door. She doesnβt even look back to say goodbye and that confirmed everything I needed to know. She hated them as much as they hated her. She pauses at the open front door, her hand falling from mine. Her blue eyes are wide as she stares at the limo. βCome.β I instruct Eric and Jenson are standing behind her, watching her curiously. βIs she okay?β Eric links me. βNeah?β I step in front of her and she doesnβt move. She seems to be staring right through me. βItβs time to go.β βOkay.β Her lips barely move She takes a step forward, almost as if she is in slow motion. Her hands grip the door frame, her knuckles turn white as her heartbeat increases. Her lips part a little and her hand falls from the door frame just as her eyes roll to the back of her head. βIβve got you.β I mutter, catching her just before she hits the floor. Her entire body tenses up as I lift her and carry her to the car. She was so weak and was even lighter than I expected. She probably didnβt weigh much more than a small child. Jenson and Eric get in the car first. Jenson cocks his eyebrow at me and has a smirk plastered to his face as I slide in with Neah on my lap. βKeep your thoughts to yourself, Jenson!β I hold her close, listening to her breathe and her heart as it slowed. Letting my fingers comb through her dark hair as she becomes a little more with it. Suddenly, she sits up right, moving away from me and trying to make herself as small as possible. Deciding not to force her to do anything, I keep my attention on my Beta and my brother, talking about pack stuff while casting a glance over to her every so often to make sure she was alright. βCome.β I mutter as the limo comes to a stop. I donβt wait for the driver and get out myself, holding a hand out for her. βIβm fine.β She speaks at last while glancing at the others and shuffles herself forward to the open door. She stares up at my home, gasping a little. It was easily three times the size of her previous home and I hoped that she would be happy here. That I could provide her with a life that was better than her last. βLet me give you a tour.β I suggest as she continues to clutch that carrier bag to her chest. She follows me in, not speaking a word. I had no idea if she was listening to what I was saying or not βThe omegas swap out on a rotational basis. Good for the youngsters to learn some responsibilities before they get proper jobs.β I tell her while showing her the dining hall with a table long enough to fit twenty people around. We move through to the kitchen. Where I point out a board on the wall. βIf there is anything you need, you just add it to the board and it will be ordered in.β Her brow furrows and still she says nothing. Picking up a pen, I smile. Maybe she felt intimidated by me. βSo tell me, what do you need because there is no way you are living under my roof with just the things that are in that bag.β Her dazzling blue eyes dart around the room βWell?β I ask. βI donβt need anything.β She whispers Sighing, I start scribbling things down. Underwear, jeans, workout clothes, dresses, shoes, anything I can think of that will cover her for a few days. Holding the pen between my teeth, I grab her around the waist. My thumbs meet just above her belly button and my fingers touch her spine. She was so thin, how was she even alive? Four Dane She looked like a deer caught in headlights as I write her size down. She was tinier than I thought. Skin and bone. If I had moved my hands up any higher, I would have felt every rib sticking out. It sickened me, she should be strong, powerful, she had Alpha blood running through her veins. I also saw how she scrunched her face up when I measured her. It wasnβt fear, it was pain. She was hiding something underneath the baggy maids dress. βI know you want to say something, so just say it. Iβm not interested in the crap Trey drummed into you. You donβt have to wait until someone asks you a question. You are free to say what you want. Are you injured?" "No." She was lying, I could feel it. She shakes her head as if it would confirm her answer and a lock of her black hair falls from the band that was supposed to be holding it back. Neah was going to be a tough girl to crack. A life of being starved had made her quite protective over herself. I will make Trey pay for what he has done to her. βYou have to say something, Neah. I cannot read your mind. When I mark you, at least I will know what you are feeling.β βMark me?β I didnβt think her eyes could get any wider. βYes, I will mark you.β She was completely and utterly shocked by the idea. Her pink lips part a little as she continues to stare at me. I thought she knew. I thought that was why she came so willingly. My Beta had kept asking me if I was certain I wanted her as my bride. There was no doubt about it, she had a strange scent but something was luring me to her. I couldnβt take my eyes off of her when I first saw her. My Wolf Aero was going mad for her too. Though he hadnβt said a word about her. Annoyed with me for not taking her home with us yesterday. βYouβ¦.You brought me so that you could mark me.β She takes a step back, walking into the kitchen island. She winces a little and quickly covers up her pain, relaxing her face.. βIf Trey had bothered reading the contract, he would have discovered that you are to be my bride, not a slave. He would also have read that if he or his ridiculously silly mate tried doing anything to you going forward, that pack would become mine, or rather, yours. I never bought you, Neah, you were always destined to be mine.β βIβm a murderer.β She gasps. βWhy would someone like you want me for a bride?β βBloodβ Aero growls interrupting my thoughts. I glance down at her baggy dress. A blood stain had appeared right where I had my hands wrapped around her. βWhatβs that? Are you injured?β I demand, I had barely touched her. She covers the stain with her hand. βItβs nothing. Itβs just a cut that I keep knocking and it opens up again. I forget itβs there.β Forget? How could she forget a wound? βWhy isnβt she healing?β I feel Aeroβs panic. βSheβs been with us less than two hours and already she has some form of injury.β His need to protect her was strong. It hadnβt occurred to me that her lack of abilities included not being able to heal. I would have to find someone who could reverse the binding and soon. βShow me!β βItβs fine.β She mumbles I was already so sick of hearing that phrase. βItβs not optional.β I mutter. βIf you wonβt show me, I will have to find a way to look, myself.β Her heart skips a beat. She looks around the kitchen. βCan.... can we go somewhere more private?β βPrivate?β I didnβt really do privacy. What Wolf did?! She bobs her head but still keeps her focus slightly off of me. Almost afraid to look me directly in the eyes. βOffice,β Aero mutters. βI was just going to suggest that!β I snap back at my Wolf. I feel his eyes roll as he retreats to some dark corner of my mind. βThis way.β I gesture to the door. Neah waits for me and follows closely behind. The scent of blood steadily grew stronger, it was more than just a cut. I already knew that. In the office, I hit the remote and the blinds start to drop, blocking out the sunlight. Neah hesitates and slowly begins to unfasten the buttons of the dress but only where the large blood stain was. Keeping everything else covered from me. She pulls the dress to one side. The wound was about four inches long and already fairly infected. βSee, itβs fine.β she whispers. βYou need to stop saying that.β She closes her mouth and starts to fasten the buttons. βNo,β I grabbed her hands, I had caught sight of another bruise. βLet me see the rest of them.β It wasnβt optional. She gasps as my fingers rip apart the rest of the buttons. Her sports bra had seen better days, just the same as her underwear. But it was the bruising I was most concerned about. Bruise upon bruise, scars that had come from whips. Her hip bones and ribs stuck out too. Turning her around, and pulling the dress from her, I find that her back is just the same. Yet interestingly, there was nothing above her chest and nothing below her thighs. Her arms were completely bare of wounds too. There was only one reason why someone would do that. To either hide what they were doing to someone, or to keep up appearances. They didnβt want guests to see. More importantly, they didnβt want me to see, considering the meeting was arranged over a month ago. She fumbles with the dress, pulling it tightly around her thin frame. βYou need to see a doctor.β βItβs β¦..β she trails off when she sees the anger on my face. βIt always heals, eventually.β βDid Trey do this?β I mutter with my teeth gritted and gesture to her body She lowers her blue eyes. βCassandra?β She still doesnβt answer me. βThat prick that follows Trey around? All three of them?β She pulls her dress tighter around her and silently nods. She brings her hand up to her face, brushing her cheek, wiping away an escaped tear. βAnyone else?β βThe pack.β She whispers. βIβm going to kill them all.β Aero growls. He will have to get in line, βBecause of what you allegedly did to your parents.β She nods. βI donβt believe you were responsible.β She tilts her head up towards me, her brow knits together as her eyes finally find mine. βBecause of Blood of Wolfsbane?" Five Neah βIβ¦I donβt know what Blood of Wolfsbane is?β I whisper He frowns at me. βYour brother said you knew the difference between plants.β βIβ¦β I didnβt have an answer. I couldnβt remember, not fully. βBlood of Wolfsbane is Wolfsbane fed by our blood. The leaves will have a red hue to them. I canβt imagine a child would know what it is because it is not freely grown. Your brotherβs story doesnβt add up.β βOh.β βI wonβt stop until I find out who did this, Neah.β His crimson eyes narrow. βI will make them pay for the suffering you have endured.β He sits on the edge of his desk, studying me. βRight now, you do need to see someone about the infection.β I kept my mouth closed, I was still trying to process his news of me being set up. Why had my brother never considered it? βCome, I will show you our bedroom. You can shower before we see the pack doctor.β Frozen to the spot, I donβt move. Did he just say βour bedroom,β? As in, we are sharing a bedroom? I guess he thinks he can mke love with me whenever he wants if Iβm his contract bride. A shiver runs down my spine at the thought. Glancing up, I see him watching me. He is stood at the open door, waiting for me. Ensuring my dress has me covered, I step out into the hallway. No one was around and the hallways were quiet. As we moved, Alpha Dane would tell me what each room was, but he seemed more focussed on getting me to the bedroom. His bedroom is huge, with massive windows, just like the rest of the house. The bed sat pressed up against the wall. All around it, thin drapes hung from the ceiling, but they were tied back at each bed post. What surprised me the most was that the bath and the shower were in the same room. Only the toilet was in a small room to the side of the shower. No privacy, whatsoever. Though, he didnβt seem to care about that. He makes me jump when I feel his warm breath on my skin. βYou donβt need to be afraid.β I may not be able to smell him, but he would be able to scent the changes in my emotions. Crossing the room, he pulls open the glass door to the shower and turns it on. The moment he closes the door, the steam of the shower quickly fogs up the glass. And still, I find myself afraid. He gave me no clue as to what he was expecting from me. βHey,β His rough fingers tip my face up. βItβs just you and me and for now, I will let you shower in peace.β Walking away, he pulls his phone out of his pocket and messes around with it before placing it on the bedside table. βThe alarm is set for ten minutes. I will come back then. I will bring you something to wear so just stay in the towel. Understand?β He stares at me, waiting for an answer and I just nod. A ten minute shower. I was lucky if I got a minute shower back home and the water was always cold. He moves to the door and with his hand resting on the door knob he looks back over his shoulder at me. βI really wish you would talk more, Neah.β Alpha Dane leaves me in peace and I make a mad dash for the shower as if Iβm in some kind of fantasy land and this was all a dream. Maybe it was, maybe I was about to wake up in the basement of my home. The smells of the soaps and shampoos are divine as I lather them into myself. And my hair has never felt so clean. The wound on my stomach stung as the hot water hit it, but I didnβt care, it was worth it. Someone in the room clears their throat and I freeze. Thanking the steam for keeping me semi hidden. βNeah, are you done? The alarm went off five minutes ago.β Alpha Daneβs voice seems louder in here. I had been so caught up in the freedom of a simple shower that I hadnβt even heard the alarm or the Alpha come back into the room. βComing.β I mutter, turning off the water and pulling a towel around me to hide the hideousness underneath. Stepping out, I already see that my ripped dress, underwear and worn sandals had been removed from the floor. Alpha Dane sits on the end of the bed with what looked like folded clothes on his lap and a pair of trainers. βItβs not much, as we donβt have anyone with as small a waist as you.β He smiles as he hands over the clothes. A matching navy blue sweatshirt and joggers. βYou will have to make do without the underwear for now. Should be here first thing tomorrow.β He watches me with a cocked eyebrow as I pull the joggers on and tug the sweatshirt over my head before removing the towel. Maybe he was used to the women parading themselves in front of him, or throwing themselves at him because he has power, but I wasnβt like that. βLetβs go.β He rises to his feet and this time, I follow him. Something told me that if I didnβt get this wound looked at, it would put him in a bad mood. The pack doctor was young, unlike the one back home who was old and afraid to let anyone take over from him. She smiles at us as we enter the pack hospital and rewraps her dark hair into a bun. βRaven, this is Neah.β Alpha Dane introduces me with a grin. I keep my eyes low as I hear Raven say, βAlpha Dane, what seems to be the problem apart from the strange smell she has brought with her.β It didnβt sound like a hurtful comment like I was used to, but more a comment of curiosity. βShe will tell you herself when she finds her tongue.β βI have a wound.β I whisper. βAnd you are not healing?β Raven asks, confused βI donβt have my Wolf.β I hated saying it. It was just a constant reminder that I did not fit in. βHer Wolf was bound when she was a kid.β Alpha Dane tells her. βThatβs why her scent is strange. Her Wolf is there, locked away, waiting to be freed.β My eyes flicker up only to find him staring straight back at me. I had always believed that my Wolf was gone. Not that she was trapped. Ravenβs dark eyes hover on me. βWow, okay.β She grabs my hand. βThis way, letβs take a look at this wound of yours.β She leads me into an empty room and asks me to lay on the bed and to show her my wound. Pulling up the sweatshirt, just enough for her to see the wound. Her eyes widen, a flicker of rage passing over them as she takes in the infected wound and the bruising that surrounds it. Her fingers carefully press around the wound. βHow long ago?β βA few days.β I mutter, though I wasnβt sure. Every beating blurred into another one. Any day that I wasnβt hit was a good day. Raven shakes her head. βThis is longer than a few days ago, the infection has had at least a week to develop.β βNeah, you need to tell us the truth.β Alpha Dane orders βI donβt know.β βNEAH!β His deep voice rumbles through me and I close my eyes, fearing his anger. Anger brought punishment, punishment brought pain. βI swear, I donβt know. The beatings, they happen so often that they just kind ofβ¦. Iβm never not bruised.β Thereβs silence and I was too afraid to open my eyes. Alpha Trey had said it over and over, that if anyone found out, he would make my life a misery, more than it already was. I used to wonder who would ever find out that didnβt already know. Now here I was, sitting in another packβs hospital, revealing the truth. βHeal her!β Alpha Dane shouts after what seems like forever. He storms from the room, pulling a phone out of his pocket. βYou will have to forgive my brother. His temper is short, especially when it comes to things like this.β Raven mutters as she gently inspects my wound βYour brother?β I whisper, opening my eyes βAh, I see he informed you. Iβm guessing he didnβt tell you that Jenson is our brother too?β I shake my head, Iβm guessing Jenson was one of the men that came to my brother's house. She chuckles. βJenson is considered to be our brotherβs Gamma.β βGamma?β I had never heard of the term. βYep and Alpha Dane has a love/hate for me working here. He wants me to represent our family, but he knows this is what Iβm good at.β She grabs a pot of cream from the cupboard. βNow this needs to be applied three times a day. It should clear up the infection, if it hasnβt changed in a couple of days, I will take another look. My brother is waiting for you out front.β βThanks.β I mumble, taking the pot of cream from her. I looked at the label, but couldnβt read it. I had never learned to read. She bobs her head at me as I hurry out to find Alpha Dane on his phone, snapping at someone. He hangs up as soon as he sees me and asks what Raven said. βCream, three times a day.β I show him the pot and he takes it from me. βGood, come.β He strides off and I have to run to keep up with him. I follow him through the house and into the office. βShow me.β He orders, pulling the lid off the pot. It wasnβt going to be negotiable, not when he had used the same tone moments before he ripped my dress open earlier. Slowly lifting my sweatshirt, he crouches down in front of me and gently smothers the wound in the cold cream. βI donβt want you to lie to me, Neah. Not ever. If you canβt remember, that is what you need to tell me. Is that clear? I donβt want to have to guess what you mean.β βOkay.β I couldnβt say anything else, I was too focussed on the warmth of his hands. One presses against my lower back, holding me steady while the other gently rubs cream into my wound. The only touch I had received from another man was a beating. βStop holding your breath.β He tells me, getting to his feet. βI am not going to hurt you.β It seemed impossible to believe given my history. The act, the words coming from him, it just didnβt feel real. | Galaxy in the Story | 301 | https://facebook.com/61555427913037 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717743600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879862 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410733 | 1723321859 | 995 | 1402556640428550 | 1 | 2.8823912318998E+15 | 1716706800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 219004054622622 | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | 120210888594870646 | befant.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πAttention! Do not read in publicοΌπ | https://befant.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=11504&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1716446512 | 2.1900405462262E+14 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442485268_417302314557004_1623455597791525274_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ZKlLdgWgBaEQ7kNvgFEDALn&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDhvfqX1BlGJmtdbWyLQzE6lFecnCOHnMvyZjX28W4B3A&oe=6672C0B6 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442480714_993193531797256_1849337189330138636_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=9IBxx-WTtfYQ7kNvgFF3xlK&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAN5-xdfbbs_L0zw_lzRWrH1BLA1A7tthBE9IOohDm8OQ&oe=6672AA3E | 0 | 3 | My sister Cassandra bullied me for years and married Alpha King Alexander, the most powerful man in our country. She had a perfect marriage and family. Mom, Dad, and Alexander all loved her. But she died in childbirth. Everything turned upside down. I was forced to take her place to solidify our packβs relationship with the royals. Although I had hope for Alexander, I knew he never wanted me. "You really are trying to replace her, aren't you?" he said quietly, his voice laced with hate. "No, I swear I'm not," His cold fingers lifted my chin, forcing my eyes to meet his. "You know, I promised your sister I would never love another woman." His words pierced through me. The pain of losing Cassandra, even after two years, was still fresh, and I knew that Alexander's heart belonged to her and always would. "And I will keep that promise to her", he added. "I always know that," I whispered, trying to keep my voice steady despite the tears threatening to spill over. "I don't want to come between you and her memory." "Then tell me why you're wearing your sisterβs clothes." His words were still cold and questioning. "I'm sorry, I didn't want to do it, my mom forced me to wear this dress." I tried to explain, "Please believe me." "How could I believe someone who tried to seduce me at your sister's funeral?" The pressure from Alexander made me breathless. "No. No. I never thought of doing this. It was a misunderstanding." I shook my head desperately and argued for myself. "You're not worthy of wearing this dress." Alexander turned to leave. Painful marriage and the crime of poisoning my sister ruined my life again. I ran away with my babies and discovered my true identity, the princess of the neighbouring kingdom. βWho are you?βAlexander demanded from the masked woman in front of him βAlpha Alexander, you have the wrong person. My name is Fay," "You make me feel so familiar," He insisted, reaching for my mask to see my face. "No!" A hand stopped him β it was Alpha Victor's Beta Allen, "Don't touch her!" He growled, grabbing Allenβs collar threateningly. "Alpha Alexander, I'm sorry but I think you misunderstood. She is my wife, Fay" Beta Allen revealed, shocking him to the core. | Galaxy in the Story | 301 | https://facebook.com/61555427913037 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716447600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879864 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410733 | 1723321859 | 995 | 1402556640428550 | 1 | 2.8823912318998E+15 | 1716706800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 219004054622622 | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | 120210888594870646 | befant.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πAttention! Do not read in publicοΌπ | https://befant.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=11504&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1716446512 | 2.1900405462262E+14 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442485268_417302314557004_1623455597791525274_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ZKlLdgWgBaEQ7kNvgFEDALn&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDhvfqX1BlGJmtdbWyLQzE6lFecnCOHnMvyZjX28W4B3A&oe=6672C0B6 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442480714_993193531797256_1849337189330138636_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=9IBxx-WTtfYQ7kNvgFF3xlK&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAN5-xdfbbs_L0zw_lzRWrH1BLA1A7tthBE9IOohDm8OQ&oe=6672AA3E | 0 | 3 | My sister Cassandra bullied me for years and married Alpha King Alexander, the most powerful man in our country. She had a perfect marriage and family. Mom, Dad, and Alexander all loved her. But she died in childbirth. Everything turned upside down. I was forced to take her place to solidify our packβs relationship with the royals. Although I had hope for Alexander, I knew he never wanted me. "You really are trying to replace her, aren't you?" he said quietly, his voice laced with hate. "No, I swear I'm not," His cold fingers lifted my chin, forcing my eyes to meet his. "You know, I promised your sister I would never love another woman." His words pierced through me. The pain of losing Cassandra, even after two years, was still fresh, and I knew that Alexander's heart belonged to her and always would. "And I will keep that promise to her", he added. "I always know that," I whispered, trying to keep my voice steady despite the tears threatening to spill over. "I don't want to come between you and her memory." "Then tell me why you're wearing your sisterβs clothes." His words were still cold and questioning. "I'm sorry, I didn't want to do it, my mom forced me to wear this dress." I tried to explain, "Please believe me." "How could I believe someone who tried to seduce me at your sister's funeral?" The pressure from Alexander made me breathless. "No. No. I never thought of doing this. It was a misunderstanding." I shook my head desperately and argued for myself. "You're not worthy of wearing this dress." Alexander turned to leave. Painful marriage and the crime of poisoning my sister ruined my life again. I ran away with my babies and discovered my true identity, the princess of the neighbouring kingdom. βWho are you?βAlexander demanded from the masked woman in front of him βAlpha Alexander, you have the wrong person. My name is Fay," "You make me feel so familiar," He insisted, reaching for my mask to see my face. "No!" A hand stopped him β it was Alpha Victor's Beta Allen, "Don't touch her!" He growled, grabbing Allenβs collar threateningly. "Alpha Alexander, I'm sorry but I think you misunderstood. She is my wife, Fay" Beta Allen revealed, shocking him to the core. | Galaxy in the Story | 301 | https://facebook.com/61555427913037 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716447600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879866 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410733 | 1723321859 | 995 | 1402556640428550 | 1 | 2.8823912318998E+15 | 1716706800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 219004054622622 | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | 120210888594870646 | befant.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πAttention! Do not read in publicοΌπ | https://befant.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=11504&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1716446512 | 2.1900405462262E+14 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442485268_417302314557004_1623455597791525274_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ZKlLdgWgBaEQ7kNvgFEDALn&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDhvfqX1BlGJmtdbWyLQzE6lFecnCOHnMvyZjX28W4B3A&oe=6672C0B6 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442480714_993193531797256_1849337189330138636_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=9IBxx-WTtfYQ7kNvgFF3xlK&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAN5-xdfbbs_L0zw_lzRWrH1BLA1A7tthBE9IOohDm8OQ&oe=6672AA3E | 0 | 3 | My sister Cassandra bullied me for years and married Alpha King Alexander, the most powerful man in our country. She had a perfect marriage and family. Mom, Dad, and Alexander all loved her. But she died in childbirth. Everything turned upside down. I was forced to take her place to solidify our packβs relationship with the royals. Although I had hope for Alexander, I knew he never wanted me. "You really are trying to replace her, aren't you?" he said quietly, his voice laced with hate. "No, I swear I'm not," His cold fingers lifted my chin, forcing my eyes to meet his. "You know, I promised your sister I would never love another woman." His words pierced through me. The pain of losing Cassandra, even after two years, was still fresh, and I knew that Alexander's heart belonged to her and always would. "And I will keep that promise to her", he added. "I always know that," I whispered, trying to keep my voice steady despite the tears threatening to spill over. "I don't want to come between you and her memory." "Then tell me why you're wearing your sisterβs clothes." His words were still cold and questioning. "I'm sorry, I didn't want to do it, my mom forced me to wear this dress." I tried to explain, "Please believe me." "How could I believe someone who tried to seduce me at your sister's funeral?" The pressure from Alexander made me breathless. "No. No. I never thought of doing this. It was a misunderstanding." I shook my head desperately and argued for myself. "You're not worthy of wearing this dress." Alexander turned to leave. Painful marriage and the crime of poisoning my sister ruined my life again. I ran away with my babies and discovered my true identity, the princess of the neighbouring kingdom. βWho are you?βAlexander demanded from the masked woman in front of him βAlpha Alexander, you have the wrong person. My name is Fay," "You make me feel so familiar," He insisted, reaching for my mask to see my face. "No!" A hand stopped him β it was Alpha Victor's Beta Allen, "Don't touch her!" He growled, grabbing Allenβs collar threateningly. "Alpha Alexander, I'm sorry but I think you misunderstood. She is my wife, Fay" Beta Allen revealed, shocking him to the core. | Galaxy in the Story | 301 | https://facebook.com/61555427913037 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716447600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879868 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410733 | 1723321859 | 995 | 1402556640428550 | 1 | 2.8823912318998E+15 | 1716706800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 219004054622622 | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | 120210888594870646 | befant.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πAttention! Do not read in publicοΌπ | https://befant.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=11504&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1716446512 | 2.1900405462262E+14 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442485268_417302314557004_1623455597791525274_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ZKlLdgWgBaEQ7kNvgFEDALn&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDhvfqX1BlGJmtdbWyLQzE6lFecnCOHnMvyZjX28W4B3A&oe=6672C0B6 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442480714_993193531797256_1849337189330138636_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=9IBxx-WTtfYQ7kNvgFF3xlK&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAN5-xdfbbs_L0zw_lzRWrH1BLA1A7tthBE9IOohDm8OQ&oe=6672AA3E | 0 | 3 | My sister Cassandra bullied me for years and married Alpha King Alexander, the most powerful man in our country. She had a perfect marriage and family. Mom, Dad, and Alexander all loved her. But she died in childbirth. Everything turned upside down. I was forced to take her place to solidify our packβs relationship with the royals. Although I had hope for Alexander, I knew he never wanted me. "You really are trying to replace her, aren't you?" he said quietly, his voice laced with hate. "No, I swear I'm not," His cold fingers lifted my chin, forcing my eyes to meet his. "You know, I promised your sister I would never love another woman." His words pierced through me. The pain of losing Cassandra, even after two years, was still fresh, and I knew that Alexander's heart belonged to her and always would. "And I will keep that promise to her", he added. "I always know that," I whispered, trying to keep my voice steady despite the tears threatening to spill over. "I don't want to come between you and her memory." "Then tell me why you're wearing your sisterβs clothes." His words were still cold and questioning. "I'm sorry, I didn't want to do it, my mom forced me to wear this dress." I tried to explain, "Please believe me." "How could I believe someone who tried to seduce me at your sister's funeral?" The pressure from Alexander made me breathless. "No. No. I never thought of doing this. It was a misunderstanding." I shook my head desperately and argued for myself. "You're not worthy of wearing this dress." Alexander turned to leave. Painful marriage and the crime of poisoning my sister ruined my life again. I ran away with my babies and discovered my true identity, the princess of the neighbouring kingdom. βWho are you?βAlexander demanded from the masked woman in front of him βAlpha Alexander, you have the wrong person. My name is Fay," "You make me feel so familiar," He insisted, reaching for my mask to see my face. "No!" A hand stopped him β it was Alpha Victor's Beta Allen, "Don't touch her!" He growled, grabbing Allenβs collar threateningly. "Alpha Alexander, I'm sorry but I think you misunderstood. She is my wife, Fay" Beta Allen revealed, shocking him to the core. | Galaxy in the Story | 301 | https://facebook.com/61555427913037 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716447600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879870 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410733 | 1723321859 | 995 | 1402556640428550 | 1 | 2.8823912318998E+15 | 1716706800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 219004054622622 | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | 120210888594870646 | befant.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πAttention! Do not read in publicοΌπ | https://befant.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=11504&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1716446512 | 2.1900405462262E+14 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442485268_417302314557004_1623455597791525274_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ZKlLdgWgBaEQ7kNvgFEDALn&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDhvfqX1BlGJmtdbWyLQzE6lFecnCOHnMvyZjX28W4B3A&oe=6672C0B6 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442480714_993193531797256_1849337189330138636_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=9IBxx-WTtfYQ7kNvgFF3xlK&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAN5-xdfbbs_L0zw_lzRWrH1BLA1A7tthBE9IOohDm8OQ&oe=6672AA3E | 0 | 3 | My sister Cassandra bullied me for years and married Alpha King Alexander, the most powerful man in our country. She had a perfect marriage and family. Mom, Dad, and Alexander all loved her. But she died in childbirth. Everything turned upside down. I was forced to take her place to solidify our packβs relationship with the royals. Although I had hope for Alexander, I knew he never wanted me. "You really are trying to replace her, aren't you?" he said quietly, his voice laced with hate. "No, I swear I'm not," His cold fingers lifted my chin, forcing my eyes to meet his. "You know, I promised your sister I would never love another woman." His words pierced through me. The pain of losing Cassandra, even after two years, was still fresh, and I knew that Alexander's heart belonged to her and always would. "And I will keep that promise to her", he added. "I always know that," I whispered, trying to keep my voice steady despite the tears threatening to spill over. "I don't want to come between you and her memory." "Then tell me why you're wearing your sisterβs clothes." His words were still cold and questioning. "I'm sorry, I didn't want to do it, my mom forced me to wear this dress." I tried to explain, "Please believe me." "How could I believe someone who tried to seduce me at your sister's funeral?" The pressure from Alexander made me breathless. "No. No. I never thought of doing this. It was a misunderstanding." I shook my head desperately and argued for myself. "You're not worthy of wearing this dress." Alexander turned to leave. Painful marriage and the crime of poisoning my sister ruined my life again. I ran away with my babies and discovered my true identity, the princess of the neighbouring kingdom. βWho are you?βAlexander demanded from the masked woman in front of him βAlpha Alexander, you have the wrong person. My name is Fay," "You make me feel so familiar," He insisted, reaching for my mask to see my face. "No!" A hand stopped him β it was Alpha Victor's Beta Allen, "Don't touch her!" He growled, grabbing Allenβs collar threateningly. "Alpha Alexander, I'm sorry but I think you misunderstood. She is my wife, Fay" Beta Allen revealed, shocking him to the core. | Galaxy in the Story | 301 | https://facebook.com/61555427913037 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716447600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879872 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410733 | 1723321859 | 995 | 3652610685000724 | 1 | 1.1526254957867E+15 | 1716620400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 219004054622622 | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | 120210888594870646 | befant.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πAttention! Do not read in publicοΌπ | https://befant.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=11504&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1716446512 | 2.1900405462262E+14 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442485268_417302314557004_1623455597791525274_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ZKlLdgWgBaEQ7kNvgFEDALn&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDhvfqX1BlGJmtdbWyLQzE6lFecnCOHnMvyZjX28W4B3A&oe=6672C0B6 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442480714_993193531797256_1849337189330138636_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=9IBxx-WTtfYQ7kNvgFF3xlK&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAN5-xdfbbs_L0zw_lzRWrH1BLA1A7tthBE9IOohDm8OQ&oe=6672AA3E | 0 | 3 | My sister Cassandra bullied me for years and married Alpha King Alexander, the most powerful man in our country. She had a perfect marriage and family. Mom, Dad, and Alexander all loved her. But she died in childbirth. Everything turned upside down. I was forced to take her place to solidify our packβs relationship with the royals. Although I had hope for Alexander, I knew he never wanted me. "You really are trying to replace her, aren't you?" he said quietly, his voice laced with hate. "No, I swear I'm not," His cold fingers lifted my chin, forcing my eyes to meet his. "You know, I promised your sister I would never love another woman." His words pierced through me. The pain of losing Cassandra, even after two years, was still fresh, and I knew that Alexander's heart belonged to her and always would. "And I will keep that promise to her", he added. "I always know that," I whispered, trying to keep my voice steady despite the tears threatening to spill over. "I don't want to come between you and her memory." "Then tell me why you're wearing your sisterβs clothes." His words were still cold and questioning. "I'm sorry, I didn't want to do it, my mom forced me to wear this dress." I tried to explain, "Please believe me." "How could I believe someone who tried to seduce me at your sister's funeral?" The pressure from Alexander made me breathless. "No. No. I never thought of doing this. It was a misunderstanding." I shook my head desperately and argued for myself. "You're not worthy of wearing this dress." Alexander turned to leave. Painful marriage and the crime of poisoning my sister ruined my life again. I ran away with my babies and discovered my true identity, the princess of the neighbouring kingdom. βWho are you?βAlexander demanded from the masked woman in front of him βAlpha Alexander, you have the wrong person. My name is Fay," "You make me feel so familiar," He insisted, reaching for my mask to see my face. "No!" A hand stopped him β it was Alpha Victor's Beta Allen, "Don't touch her!" He growled, grabbing Allenβs collar threateningly. "Alpha Alexander, I'm sorry but I think you misunderstood. She is my wife, Fay" Beta Allen revealed, shocking him to the core. | Galaxy in the Story | 301 | https://facebook.com/61555427913037 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716447600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879874 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410733 | 1723321859 | 995 | 3652610685000724 | 1 | 1.1526254957867E+15 | 1716620400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 219004054622622 | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | 120210888594870646 | befant.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πAttention! Do not read in publicοΌπ | https://befant.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=11504&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1716446512 | 2.1900405462262E+14 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442485268_417302314557004_1623455597791525274_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ZKlLdgWgBaEQ7kNvgFEDALn&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDhvfqX1BlGJmtdbWyLQzE6lFecnCOHnMvyZjX28W4B3A&oe=6672C0B6 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442480714_993193531797256_1849337189330138636_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=9IBxx-WTtfYQ7kNvgFF3xlK&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAN5-xdfbbs_L0zw_lzRWrH1BLA1A7tthBE9IOohDm8OQ&oe=6672AA3E | 0 | 3 | My sister Cassandra bullied me for years and married Alpha King Alexander, the most powerful man in our country. She had a perfect marriage and family. Mom, Dad, and Alexander all loved her. But she died in childbirth. Everything turned upside down. I was forced to take her place to solidify our packβs relationship with the royals. Although I had hope for Alexander, I knew he never wanted me. "You really are trying to replace her, aren't you?" he said quietly, his voice laced with hate. "No, I swear I'm not," His cold fingers lifted my chin, forcing my eyes to meet his. "You know, I promised your sister I would never love another woman." His words pierced through me. The pain of losing Cassandra, even after two years, was still fresh, and I knew that Alexander's heart belonged to her and always would. "And I will keep that promise to her", he added. "I always know that," I whispered, trying to keep my voice steady despite the tears threatening to spill over. "I don't want to come between you and her memory." "Then tell me why you're wearing your sisterβs clothes." His words were still cold and questioning. "I'm sorry, I didn't want to do it, my mom forced me to wear this dress." I tried to explain, "Please believe me." "How could I believe someone who tried to seduce me at your sister's funeral?" The pressure from Alexander made me breathless. "No. No. I never thought of doing this. It was a misunderstanding." I shook my head desperately and argued for myself. "You're not worthy of wearing this dress." Alexander turned to leave. Painful marriage and the crime of poisoning my sister ruined my life again. I ran away with my babies and discovered my true identity, the princess of the neighbouring kingdom. βWho are you?βAlexander demanded from the masked woman in front of him βAlpha Alexander, you have the wrong person. My name is Fay," "You make me feel so familiar," He insisted, reaching for my mask to see my face. "No!" A hand stopped him β it was Alpha Victor's Beta Allen, "Don't touch her!" He growled, grabbing Allenβs collar threateningly. "Alpha Alexander, I'm sorry but I think you misunderstood. She is my wife, Fay" Beta Allen revealed, shocking him to the core. | Galaxy in the Story | 301 | https://facebook.com/61555427913037 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716447600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879876 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410734 | 1723321859 | 995 | 3652610685000724 | 1 | 1.1526254957867E+15 | 1716620400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 219004054622622 | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | 120210888594870646 | befant.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πAttention! Do not read in publicοΌπ | https://befant.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=11504&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1716446512 | 2.1900405462262E+14 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442485268_417302314557004_1623455597791525274_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ZKlLdgWgBaEQ7kNvgFEDALn&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDhvfqX1BlGJmtdbWyLQzE6lFecnCOHnMvyZjX28W4B3A&oe=6672C0B6 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442480714_993193531797256_1849337189330138636_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=9IBxx-WTtfYQ7kNvgFF3xlK&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAN5-xdfbbs_L0zw_lzRWrH1BLA1A7tthBE9IOohDm8OQ&oe=6672AA3E | 0 | 3 | My sister Cassandra bullied me for years and married Alpha King Alexander, the most powerful man in our country. She had a perfect marriage and family. Mom, Dad, and Alexander all loved her. But she died in childbirth. Everything turned upside down. I was forced to take her place to solidify our packβs relationship with the royals. Although I had hope for Alexander, I knew he never wanted me. "You really are trying to replace her, aren't you?" he said quietly, his voice laced with hate. "No, I swear I'm not," His cold fingers lifted my chin, forcing my eyes to meet his. "You know, I promised your sister I would never love another woman." His words pierced through me. The pain of losing Cassandra, even after two years, was still fresh, and I knew that Alexander's heart belonged to her and always would. "And I will keep that promise to her", he added. "I always know that," I whispered, trying to keep my voice steady despite the tears threatening to spill over. "I don't want to come between you and her memory." "Then tell me why you're wearing your sisterβs clothes." His words were still cold and questioning. "I'm sorry, I didn't want to do it, my mom forced me to wear this dress." I tried to explain, "Please believe me." "How could I believe someone who tried to seduce me at your sister's funeral?" The pressure from Alexander made me breathless. "No. No. I never thought of doing this. It was a misunderstanding." I shook my head desperately and argued for myself. "You're not worthy of wearing this dress." Alexander turned to leave. Painful marriage and the crime of poisoning my sister ruined my life again. I ran away with my babies and discovered my true identity, the princess of the neighbouring kingdom. βWho are you?βAlexander demanded from the masked woman in front of him βAlpha Alexander, you have the wrong person. My name is Fay," "You make me feel so familiar," He insisted, reaching for my mask to see my face. "No!" A hand stopped him β it was Alpha Victor's Beta Allen, "Don't touch her!" He growled, grabbing Allenβs collar threateningly. "Alpha Alexander, I'm sorry but I think you misunderstood. She is my wife, Fay" Beta Allen revealed, shocking him to the core. | Galaxy in the Story | 301 | https://facebook.com/61555427913037 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716447600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879878 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410734 | 1723321860 | 995 | 3652610685000724 | 1 | 1.1526254957867E+15 | 1716620400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 219004054622622 | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | 120210888594870646 | befant.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πAttention! Do not read in publicοΌπ | https://befant.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=11504&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1716446512 | 2.1900405462262E+14 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442485268_417302314557004_1623455597791525274_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ZKlLdgWgBaEQ7kNvgFEDALn&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDhvfqX1BlGJmtdbWyLQzE6lFecnCOHnMvyZjX28W4B3A&oe=6672C0B6 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442480714_993193531797256_1849337189330138636_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=9IBxx-WTtfYQ7kNvgFF3xlK&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAN5-xdfbbs_L0zw_lzRWrH1BLA1A7tthBE9IOohDm8OQ&oe=6672AA3E | 0 | 3 | My sister Cassandra bullied me for years and married Alpha King Alexander, the most powerful man in our country. She had a perfect marriage and family. Mom, Dad, and Alexander all loved her. But she died in childbirth. Everything turned upside down. I was forced to take her place to solidify our packβs relationship with the royals. Although I had hope for Alexander, I knew he never wanted me. "You really are trying to replace her, aren't you?" he said quietly, his voice laced with hate. "No, I swear I'm not," His cold fingers lifted my chin, forcing my eyes to meet his. "You know, I promised your sister I would never love another woman." His words pierced through me. The pain of losing Cassandra, even after two years, was still fresh, and I knew that Alexander's heart belonged to her and always would. "And I will keep that promise to her", he added. "I always know that," I whispered, trying to keep my voice steady despite the tears threatening to spill over. "I don't want to come between you and her memory." "Then tell me why you're wearing your sisterβs clothes." His words were still cold and questioning. "I'm sorry, I didn't want to do it, my mom forced me to wear this dress." I tried to explain, "Please believe me." "How could I believe someone who tried to seduce me at your sister's funeral?" The pressure from Alexander made me breathless. "No. No. I never thought of doing this. It was a misunderstanding." I shook my head desperately and argued for myself. "You're not worthy of wearing this dress." Alexander turned to leave. Painful marriage and the crime of poisoning my sister ruined my life again. I ran away with my babies and discovered my true identity, the princess of the neighbouring kingdom. βWho are you?βAlexander demanded from the masked woman in front of him βAlpha Alexander, you have the wrong person. My name is Fay," "You make me feel so familiar," He insisted, reaching for my mask to see my face. "No!" A hand stopped him β it was Alpha Victor's Beta Allen, "Don't touch her!" He growled, grabbing Allenβs collar threateningly. "Alpha Alexander, I'm sorry but I think you misunderstood. She is my wife, Fay" Beta Allen revealed, shocking him to the core. | Galaxy in the Story | 301 | https://facebook.com/61555427913037 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716447600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879880 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410734 | 1723321860 | 995 | 3652610685000724 | 1 | 1.1526254957867E+15 | 1716620400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 219004054622622 | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | 120210888594870646 | befant.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πAttention! Do not read in publicοΌπ | https://befant.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=11504&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1716446512 | 2.1900405462262E+14 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442485268_417302314557004_1623455597791525274_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ZKlLdgWgBaEQ7kNvgFEDALn&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDhvfqX1BlGJmtdbWyLQzE6lFecnCOHnMvyZjX28W4B3A&oe=6672C0B6 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442480714_993193531797256_1849337189330138636_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=9IBxx-WTtfYQ7kNvgFF3xlK&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAN5-xdfbbs_L0zw_lzRWrH1BLA1A7tthBE9IOohDm8OQ&oe=6672AA3E | 0 | 3 | My sister Cassandra bullied me for years and married Alpha King Alexander, the most powerful man in our country. She had a perfect marriage and family. Mom, Dad, and Alexander all loved her. But she died in childbirth. Everything turned upside down. I was forced to take her place to solidify our packβs relationship with the royals. Although I had hope for Alexander, I knew he never wanted me. "You really are trying to replace her, aren't you?" he said quietly, his voice laced with hate. "No, I swear I'm not," His cold fingers lifted my chin, forcing my eyes to meet his. "You know, I promised your sister I would never love another woman." His words pierced through me. The pain of losing Cassandra, even after two years, was still fresh, and I knew that Alexander's heart belonged to her and always would. "And I will keep that promise to her", he added. "I always know that," I whispered, trying to keep my voice steady despite the tears threatening to spill over. "I don't want to come between you and her memory." "Then tell me why you're wearing your sisterβs clothes." His words were still cold and questioning. "I'm sorry, I didn't want to do it, my mom forced me to wear this dress." I tried to explain, "Please believe me." "How could I believe someone who tried to seduce me at your sister's funeral?" The pressure from Alexander made me breathless. "No. No. I never thought of doing this. It was a misunderstanding." I shook my head desperately and argued for myself. "You're not worthy of wearing this dress." Alexander turned to leave. Painful marriage and the crime of poisoning my sister ruined my life again. I ran away with my babies and discovered my true identity, the princess of the neighbouring kingdom. βWho are you?βAlexander demanded from the masked woman in front of him βAlpha Alexander, you have the wrong person. My name is Fay," "You make me feel so familiar," He insisted, reaching for my mask to see my face. "No!" A hand stopped him β it was Alpha Victor's Beta Allen, "Don't touch her!" He growled, grabbing Allenβs collar threateningly. "Alpha Alexander, I'm sorry but I think you misunderstood. She is my wife, Fay" Beta Allen revealed, shocking him to the core. | Galaxy in the Story | 301 | https://facebook.com/61555427913037 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716447600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879882 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410734 | 1723321860 | 995 | 1027739225647193 | 3 | 9.7920658359528E+14 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 223709867501018 | 0 | CEO Dorsey | 120212553134780387 | app.thefundingplaybook.com | Learn more | NONE | video | [Free Training] Funding At 0% Interest | https://app.thefundingplaybook.com/takequestionnaire?utm_source=Facebook+Ads&utm_medium=%7B%7Bcampaign.name%7D%7D&utm_campaign=%7B%7Badset.name%7D%7D&utm_content=%7B%7Bad.name%7D%7D | 1717618517 | 2.2370986750102E+14 | CEO Dorsey | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447523384_972250977981748_4782811025716932374_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=11cVVchMAo4Q7kNvgFBmV-E&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYA7faMCmWz6tyDUdM8NHxrWG7sz_XWwBZ6DQH2cbhpgPg&oe=6672C508 | person_profile | 0 | Bryan Dorsey | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447556381_828120382706120_7995311071906859520_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=NOT60au0oPoQ7kNvgGeueVz&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBxNfaf3uxU9m5tQzmVGRmOgslrKsFDNzGtlWeJhnyV3A&oe=6672A062 | 0 | 3 | Using OPM can suck, letβs be realβ¦<br /> <br /> Donβt get me wrong not having to fund your own deals can be amazing but every time you bring in a partner your margin shrinks. <br /> <br /> And I get it, that can be the cost of doing business if you canβt fund your deals yourselfβ¦<br /> <br /> But what if it didnβt have to be? <br /> <br /> Believe it or not youβre only one or two steps away from getting hundreds of thousands of dollars in funding that you can use for your deals and the best partβ¦<br /> <br /> I can show you how to get it at 0% interestβ¦<br /> <br /> My nameβs Mr. Dorsey and over the last few years Iβve helped entrepreneurs and investors just like you get over 165M in funding and I want to help you do the same.<br /> <br /> When it comes to getting funded, while itβs easier than most could imagineβ¦<br /> <br /> There are a few very specific reasons that hold people back or cause them to get denied immediately.<br /> <br /> So Iβve put together a quick quiz you can (should only take 30 seconds) and based on what you tell me Iβll show you the number one most important thing you need to do to increase your odds of funding successfullyβ¦<br /> <br /> Click the link below, take the quiz, and start taking steps towards funding your own deals and increasing your margins!<br /> <br /> <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fapp.thefundingplaybook.com%2Ftakequestionnaire&h=AT3z4oiX9grkEIfmLuVCfdavv8bHkl6JF9zRne1z3bQmFx7agu7ZdK05psHodgd-YFN9SPeHiwf8BmxR3d44sx0jlLE9M70Iik7I56htA7YJUWrEqQwZRzDSlVhdfBL3AYAvGZAXLz2FZBeqLaf3xznzzxLmSw" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">https://app.thefundingplaybook.com/takequestionnaire</a><br /> <br /> I promise you the training Iβll send based on your survey will open more doors than just about anything you do this year. | CEO Dorsey | 20 | https://facebook.com/CEODorsey | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717657200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879468 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:30 PM | 1718410686 | 1723321860 | 995 | 1149127113077352 | 1 | 3.5558957056794E+14 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 108255439048790 | 0 | Buchanan Freebery Blaine | 120208580814870482 | cooolink.com | Download | NONE | image | Free download ποΈποΈποΈ | https://cooolink.com/w2a/lp/bangtoon/cooolinkBtComics2?utm_source=fb_onelink&utm_medium={{placement}}&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_adset_name={{adset.name}}&utm_ad_name={{ad.name}}&utm_adset_nameid={{adset.id}}&utm_ad_nameid={{ad.id}}&utm_campaignid={{campaign.id}}&utm_channel={{site_source_name}} | 1718362626 | 1.0825543904879E+14 | Buchanan Freebery Blaine | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448236674_1180429799804532_650427142053652134_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=XBZKO-hH2H8Q7kNvgG21ajn&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCWPVsQ4HVbB6id4A8dN2Ht9OYznbgjxfkn7hioRx0FQQ&oe=6672A70F | person_profile | 0 | Buchanan Freebery Blaine | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/417459944_7707828269312100_4193284229523208955_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=I2OigMQvuiUQ7kNvgG0RVYI&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBipyVmv0i50iC-QoHr7i7wu5v7qoREIqTDc-7MvEU0kg&oe=6672ABCE | 0 | 3 | This manga is definitely worth watching! πππ | Buchanan Freebery Blaine | 0 | https://facebook.com/61552547469039 | 0 | DOWNLOAD | 1718348400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879436 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:31 PM | 1718410685 | 1723321860 | 995 | 435005285991481 | 1 | 4.3284074955139E+14 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 163805856980135 | 0 | Horizon Science Academy Cincinnati | 120211618993370343 | www.hsace.org | Learn more | NONE | video | Transform Your Child's Education | Click here to get more details. | https://www.hsace.org/ | 1718139337 | 1.6380585698014E+14 | Horizon Science Academy Cincinnati | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448088631_768196968804371_7901778229864582323_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=iHWKy4wxGFQQ7kNvgEz8yRM&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBANTH5rAQg_RBeFeFys6u3Atyo8abq7LiQeB1Ut1wLIA&oe=6672A69D | person_profile | 0 | Horizon Science Academy Cincinnati | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448086847_434694529441421_4584160926530271876_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=sBQrsFUEr5cQ7kNvgH20djG&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBULRuGcVk25OpybE2iwHdJPYe_ZhbUPNtncmVuTM6qwA&oe=6672A0AB | 0 | 3 | We empower students with the STEM knowledge and skills they need to thrive in high school, college, and beyond. | Horizon Science Academy Cincinnati | 495 | https://facebook.com/hsacincy | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718348400 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879481 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:31 PM | 1718410686 | 1723321860 | 995 | 2025863337811495 | 1 | 8.3485582859569E+14 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 108304702377057 | 0 | Rich Rachel Bentley | 120211073053050589 | cooolink.com | Download | NONE | image | Free download ποΈποΈποΈ | https://cooolink.com/w2a/lp/bangtoon/cooolinkBtComics2?utm_source=fb_onelink&utm_medium={{placement}}&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_adset_name={{adset.name}}&utm_ad_name={{ad.name}}&utm_adset_nameid={{adset.id}}&utm_ad_nameid={{ad.id}}&utm_campaignid={{campaign.id}}&utm_channel={{site_source_name}} | 1718363020 | 1.0830470237706E+14 | Rich Rachel Bentley | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448046359_414915044849662_251897165574421914_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=lk6jxP7q1coQ7kNvgGf7ku6&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAUkHBQs9Kek5WRQOFTcv1lts4IqfgEOsn7LgqrQALVnQ&oe=667294C8 | person_profile | 0 | Rich Rachel Bentley | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448276123_1893730727754760_4749489040907480331_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=lR4VR-y3FjYQ7kNvgGA_aO3&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBGICKNSfrKa18pkCeptZ0-VnYJLocKYTPLr1sL6hAxpg&oe=66729E5D | 0 | 3 | This manga is definitely worth watching! πππ | Rich Rachel Bentley | 0 | https://facebook.com/61552807764867 | 0 | DOWNLOAD | 1718348400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879532 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:31 PM | 1718410692 | 1723321861 | 995 | 468089762273303 | 1 | 1.6919708815392E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 273913162469522 | 0 | New world publications | 120212928768730170 | wwwedb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πAttention! Do not read in publicοΌπ | https://wwwedb.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11782&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717757425 | 2.7391316246952E+14 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959759_1311554859802432_4227718076479884991_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GwKF1hWO7f4Q7kNvgGcgnOa&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAaDJ90YtTRVgl1h4Qq29YmZWIZCVWKY5MqqmnLhItL8w&oe=6672A69D | person_profile | 0 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959270_7187349571370885_4976612476689122460_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=NNss872fdPgQ7kNvgE-PVII&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAp0ikcilFTLm0se1WcAfumGS3USCJAFn0NgxepicFnPw&oe=6672B455 | 0 | 3 | The clearing of a throat makes me jump. I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of alcohol. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that donβt quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door. Shrinking down to the ground. βIs this the way you greet all Alphaβs?β His deep voice rumbles through the room, an edge of amusement to his tone. βIβm sorry.β I whisper, getting to my feet. βIβ¦I thought I was alone.β I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. βCome forward.β He orders. Alpha Trey was going to kill me. I do as Iβm told. Allowing him to see me properly and I am met with narrowed crimson eyes. I close my own eyes, expecting the worst. βYou smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?β My head moved up and down, though I couldnβt tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they discovered the truth about me. βI would prefer it if you spoke to me.β He growls, βIβm not in the mood to play games.β βYes.β I whisper. βI amβ¦I am a Wolf.β I couldnβt help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? I wasnβt sure how much more my body could take. βHow is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.β βIβ¦..β I hated the question. βI havenβt got all day!β He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldnβt scent him. I knew why I hadnβt been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever liked to do. They never hear my side of the story. All they do is accept Alpha Trey's word as the truth. βYou should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?β His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them. There was no way I was making direct eye contact. βMy Wolf abilities were bound.β βWhy?β If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. βIt was a punishment.β βFor what?β βFor killing my parents.β | New world publications | 9 | https://facebook.com/61557831245498 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718089200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879776 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:31 PM | 1718410723 | 1723321861 | 995 | 3257834227858415 | 1 | 3.7757143170999E+14 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 113222160318026 | 0 | Servall - Paris, TN | 120210481180440370 | servallpestcontrol.com | Contact Us | NONE | carousel | Protect Your Home With Proper Drainage | Expert gutter solutions! | https://www.servallpestcontrol.com/ | 1710166404 | 1.1322216031803E+14 | Servall - Paris, TN | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/431186519_1112968813354192_4278728201242244015_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=awMtziREd9YQ7kNvgGWtSfC&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBXqDE-kbyVLWLPb6qw0EdiwKOmKkyILgz6iAxm438vkQ&oe=6672A9C8 | person_profile | 0 | Servall - Paris, TN | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/431273553_338768775263175_8395586336125006700_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=a7B5Zmh1clwQ7kNvgE_eZ7W&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYB5YGMSvJXZvbu1oi6wW0LyyewDGqjNvBTdqP8JV_IxXg&oe=6672B7C8 | 0 | 3 | Expert gutter solutions! | Servall - Paris, TN | 643 | https://facebook.com/ServallParis | 0 | CONTACT_US | 1710572400 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879451 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:31 PM | 1718410685 | 1723321861 | 995 | 477474054647833 | 1 | 9.8355840346348E+14 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 108255439048790 | 0 | Buchanan Freebery Blaine | 120208580847830482 | cooolink.com | Download | NONE | image | Free download ποΈποΈποΈ | https://cooolink.com/w2a/lp/bangtoon/cooolinkBtComics2?utm_source=fb_onelink&utm_medium={{placement}}&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_adset_name={{adset.name}}&utm_ad_name={{ad.name}}&utm_adset_nameid={{adset.id}}&utm_ad_nameid={{ad.id}}&utm_campaignid={{campaign.id}}&utm_channel={{site_source_name}} | 1718362745 | 1.0825543904879E+14 | Buchanan Freebery Blaine | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448348631_789571033156746_7144154100372175846_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ygt2oXVLFk4Q7kNvgFCfcKl&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYB_T_KG_xvNa0EOUDBLb6mtJs4qTL5LrfBpYqeW_UHahQ&oe=667296AB | person_profile | 0 | Buchanan Freebery Blaine | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448481846_1121786192266888_6295759827350495125_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Sr-u5MO_YrsQ7kNvgGiGeBb&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYD08xp_G3g1MPMiqWSvLsrATz3SloNonJh0TIYCIyhQYQ&oe=6672B079 | 0 | 3 | This manga is definitely worth watching! πππ | Buchanan Freebery Blaine | 0 | https://facebook.com/61552547469039 | 0 | DOWNLOAD | 1718348400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879443 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 8:53 PM | 1718410685 | 1723323193 | 995 | 2252174438468494 | 1 | 9.7454560764655E+14 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 114588168402434 | 0 | SphereBuilder Community - PHL | 120210892106860312 | l.adbuilder.pro | Learn more | NONE | video | By Alexis C Matos | Details and contact info >>> | https://l.adbuilder.pro/fxR2an/16324 | 1717937505 | 1.1458816840243E+14 | SphereBuilder Community - PHL | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448179303_971859801154177_6327712607769919734_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=0d48LXMsFSwQ7kNvgGi2RB-&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAvfxjcMIpsF2Jbm2XzBc_3zQTAHxwk5v8IXInMxumRZw&oe=6672C652 | person_profile | 0 | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448089806_1151117749431398_6156727910436943369_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=qoVs09f-5j0Q7kNvgEYqRfK&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDXe6WRajXewPq3I4hNxV2_64DNX1drC0o6vnWKdKTLSg&oe=6672B6FE | 0 | 3 | Recently sold in 19125! Markets change quickly. Curious what your home's worth? Reach out for a free analysis. | SphereBuilder Community - PHL | 20 | https://facebook.com/spherebuilderphl | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717916400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879830 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 6/10/25, 12:53 AM | 1718410728 | 1749534812 | 995 | 454473050512297 | 1 | 5.1551524746764E+14 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 560184967681778 | 0 | Italo Jeweler | 120210191482910722 | www.italojewelry.com | Shop now | NONE | video | best seller | β Easy Return & One Year Warranty | https://www.italojewelry.com/?utm_source=facebook.com&utm_medium=fb-1130-02&utm_campaign=1211-17 | 1717755371 | 5.6018496768178E+14 | Italo Jeweler | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447962011_326071807259268_6776372724176687921_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YLljaEU2uzEQ7kNvgFMPrDT&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYB-n4CJDxqmWEahom26DzB60SGNC4Ui5jbAPXUY3iNfHg&oe=6672ABAF | person_profile | 0 | Italo Jewelry | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447958701_1594057384497846_3834978402731680919_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YxWl8_7-Tl4Q7kNvgGwQVuT&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYC7pfRTu9IFQDlL8XsJ3j4UwWnr-_HO_FWB_Ia2pWGz_g&oe=6672C0A3 | 0 | 3 | Shine every day with our jewelry.π<br /> β Any order 10% off and more promotions enjoy now.<br /> Learn more:<a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fitalojewelry.io%2FCwo&h=AT1ujzN0sznKJTpzLkXpK2dc2MScVxNmE4Bkj0n48KPaGGk7as66Ot_p74PZpit1tvDyIlf9hE4cko92iFONHfhxge7zIZJYkS7ey8rMvJwqqkHIOXXqxzNGL5bsfC8u8yJJJ6U_6yZFjH0qCrF9a9HivVQlvg" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">http://italojewelry.io/Cwo</a><br /> πFree shipping & Easy returnπ | Italo Jeweler | 19013 | https://facebook.com/italojeweler | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1717743600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879494 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:31 PM | 1718410686 | 1723321861 | 995 | 813640966904981 | 1 | 3.7200638203822E+14 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 214305385109285 | 0 | Delaney Worldwide | 120209559015690084 | delaneyworldwide.com | Learn More | NONE | carousel | Dependable Moving Solutions | Get in touch now! | https://www.delaneyworldwide.com/local-long-distance/ | 1715588544 | 2.1430538510928E+14 | Delaney Worldwide | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441399617_1017638039650615_5708233538021390002_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=BtpzyWWgWBkQ7kNvgENJJwi&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYB7BllZOLavbTPIOhuoKlfZSl5V7MbXSpAB2BbDg_8gRQ&oe=6672A52F | person_profile | 0 | Delaney Worldwide Inc | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441571027_1828547217628349_2289319947431957499_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pN8jlAIYL_kQ7kNvgHoFoLw&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCrq6POtRADpsShMx18_t6_hQWrDigUUdbiM02LGw_VUw&oe=6672AC03 | 0 | 3 | Get in touch now! | Delaney Worldwide | 2 | https://facebook.com/61557773368721 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716188400 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879759 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:31 PM | 1718410719 | 1723321861 | 995 | 216463318195471 | 1 | 3.5079396395983E+14 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 1475434976107462 | 0 | Weiss Property Management | 120207717711510579 | weisspm.com | Contact Us | NONE | carousel | Expertise You Can Trust | Enhance your curb appeal | https://weisspm.com/lawn-mowing-and-landscaping/?utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=display&utm_campaign=sr_transform_your_property_with_weiss_property &utm_term={{ad.id}}&utm_content=4656879-e32-n-m-c{{campaign.id}}-g{{adset.id}}-a{{ad.id}}-u-cat-k-mod | 1710771508 | 1.4754349761075E+15 | Weiss Property Management | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/433883042_3571553513062526_408461915678430278_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=WrrehUSk_oIQ7kNvgGRgiUK&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCfOBCCKjrGLIOwVt2IpJO0VyFaAGg7Jki57vMrCQ2HKA&oe=6672C647 | person_profile | 0 | 0 | 3 | Enhance your curb appeal | Weiss Property Management | 809 | https://facebook.com/weisspm1 | 0 | CONTACT_US | 1710831600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879366 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:31 PM | 1718410683 | 1723321861 | 995 | 885751373391564 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 26448950205 | 0 | Free People | 6557918176448 | freepeople.com | Shop Now | 37974 | NONE | dpa | Ruched Seamless Shorts | $38 | https://www.freepeople.com/shop/ruched-seamless-shorts/?color=001&size=XS%2FS&type=STANDARD | 1718393531 | 26448950205 | Free People | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448261124_404035412632590_5629898659360079405_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Exv_oDtCgncQ7kNvgHxYA4t&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAlFTF-N1vl48WWYadSHozQteO7EWdi7c9Z0GUjQ08Osw&oe=66729E32 | person_profile | 0 | Free People | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448441737_448873858085819_3700902483057447922_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=bl0-cGBV-FoQ7kNvgHBkgJz&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAmcGqRHExIWm8NZVoKgFDNeLwTMSK01YuZ5Mh6VSODmw&oe=6672BE43 | 0 | 3 | Celebrate Summer! Free express shipping on all orders! Shop now. | Free People | 1746939 | https://facebook.com/FreePeople | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1718348400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879353 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:31 PM | 1718410682 | 1723321861 | 995 | 507661931592260 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 26448950205 | 0 | Free People | 6557918338648 | freepeople.com | Shop Now | 37826 | NONE | dpa | Tea Length Seamless Slip | $34 | https://www.freepeople.com/shop/tea-length-seamless-slip-28811149/?color=001&size=M%2FL&type=STANDARD | 1718393619 | 26448950205 | Free People | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448454796_790642533171431_246363400341195569_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ofKbGbpD7D4Q7kNvgH--hcM&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBMCgQjQ2yeGkk1xTpsqbPr0t6HAHkXpsVmIBBV1cvmYQ&oe=66729B2D | person_profile | 0 | Free People | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448331591_1388426681826553_310515711492551933_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=DJcBwZgEPJoQ7kNvgHVD6Hn&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDn4L3noNHwnE6AWbAAdNXyOX9eZ1adO7FHrzildKujYQ&oe=6672B852 | 0 | 3 | Celebrate Summer! Free express shipping on all orders! Shop now. | Free People | 1746939 | https://facebook.com/FreePeople | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1718348400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879384 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:31 PM | 1718410683 | 1723321861 | 995 | 825213972443038 | 1 | 9.989286746921E+14 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 137682100876 | 0 | Hassle Free Home Services | 6583401110570 | myhasslefreehome.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | Weβll take your to-do list. You take the weekend. Home management, repairs, and preventative care. | {{product.description}} | https://myhasslefreehome.com/?utm_source=meta&utm_medium=paid&utm_campaign=auto-placement-June-2024&utm_content=2024-06-14_ErikLawyerCEO | 1718395107 | 137682100876 | Hassle Free Home Services | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448406071_470990475615031_4895314488295366825_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=N-_uAYj38SMQ7kNvgFDmjlJ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYChKY_852OWHlq9eaSpOAtdZnA7aEdtvsBEsvmggsp5mw&oe=6672C659 | person_profile | 0 | Hassle Free Home Services | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448259985_1011403103931570_190283779618200744_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=vU961lU9d6MQ7kNvgH3DiH_&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBh2x07AHtX8gGcZknGpmFIkv2z9pd5FRyq8bhUMW4xqA&oe=667297FB | 0 | 3 | π« Your neighbors have worked with us for over 20 years. π Outsource home management to local professionals. | Hassle Free Home Services | 438 | https://facebook.com/hasslefreehomeservices | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718348400 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879484 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:31 PM | 1718410686 | 1723321862 | 995 | 464860922861805 | 1 | 9.9282116889382E+14 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 112529452120441 | 0 | Valhalla Tahoe | 120208804444970262 | valhallatahoe.com | Learn More | NONE | carousel | Endless Fun | Embrace Summer at Valhalla Tahoe! | https://www.valhallatahoe.com/events?utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=display&utm_campaign=sr_Arts_and_Entertainment&utm_term={{ad.id}}&utm_content=4776544-e32-n-m-c{{campaign.id}}-g{{adset.id}}-a{{ad.id}}-u-cat-k-mod | 1717537001 | 1.1252945212044E+14 | Valhalla Tahoe | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447788387_973058027552655_9209561098459223618_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=7p2S5rdxmQIQ7kNvgEqNQJI&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBlaYj0-THH8nTeIf_NLU_PkeTT-OFMmliNUUYKf4Rh5A&oe=66729E15 | person_profile | 0 | Valhalla Tahoe | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/446898337_492000286584096_6117367585715937578_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=mu6mCDOZ-o0Q7kNvgG1QSFM&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAX4QLV8rmz2q8n5TlefQ2GmetwESCShMu5crUgs89Btw&oe=6672A6B4 | 0 | 3 | Embrace Summer at Valhalla Tahoe! | Valhalla Tahoe | 6939 | https://facebook.com/ValhallaTahoe | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718002800 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879469 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 7/10/25, 11:01 PM | 1718410686 | 1752206517 | 995 | 1174876253643738 | 1 | 3.2968586350567E+14 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 108304702377057 | 0 | Rich Rachel Bentley | 120211073050390589 | cooolink.com | Download | NONE | image | Free download ποΈποΈποΈ | https://cooolink.com/w2a/lp/bangtoon/cooolinkBtComics2?utm_source=fb_onelink&utm_medium={{placement}}&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_adset_name={{adset.name}}&utm_ad_name={{ad.name}}&utm_adset_nameid={{adset.id}}&utm_ad_nameid={{ad.id}}&utm_campaignid={{campaign.id}}&utm_channel={{site_source_name}} | 1718363007 | 1.0830470237706E+14 | Rich Rachel Bentley | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448316904_409737122055544_8246411553203362518_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=b870M9-YNBgQ7kNvgHFqiQa&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYC_23ktgcNqzPhX9sB_bP2Q9QjDBcQQw3IZPDf-0obEfg&oe=6672A859 | person_profile | 0 | Rich Rachel Bentley | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448317681_454555673857268_3871707064923491389_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=_h4pj77EPy0Q7kNvgH12LHp&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBzJb5YEaHnUzSCERR6MCYKZvO7FSwKrByl0kcZIdzuNg&oe=66729553 | 0 | 3 | This manga is definitely worth watching! πππ | Rich Rachel Bentley | 0 | https://facebook.com/61552807764867 | 0 | DOWNLOAD | 1718348400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879697 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:31 PM | 1718410706 | 1723321862 | 995 | 304024709307949 | 7 | 1.4590207180467E+15 | 1717743600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120211846693390779 | qweasdzxconline.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | πRead the next chaptersπ | https://qweasdzxconline.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11090&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715085862 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438129100_1146045226739178_2601865360875538189_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pgaM6op9EH4Q7kNvgFvStUz&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAnzNXAdVZ3R4dAiEpauXywjYljw4eXW7quZ6rvyHSXBw&oe=6672A490 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440747644_315502774915635_6353252339687881796_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YicSkuGzOiMQ7kNvgEoi2bQ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAN9i2X9Y9MK7cgBix3paDsplYdUdBGGi_LOwLoSJKKaQ&oe=6672CB97 | 0 | 3 | π"Ned Fletcher, with how you're treating Angie right now, aren't you worried that you're going to regret it when you finally regain your memories one day? You loved her so much before and you two got married for love! Despite you forgetting your feelings about her, how could you post so many indecent photos of her on social media?" Ned spoke nonchalantly, saying, "Why are you still holding me hostage with morals and principles? She was the one who framed me by lowly methods. I was just warning her. If Ingrid hadn't asked me to stop, I'd have gone even further! By the way, show your respect to Ingrid. Sheβs not a new girl but my only one forever and never!" Angeline Emmerson heard the talk standing outside the door. She used to be treated ever so lovingly by Ned in the past. Angeline felt her eyes reddening and filling with tears. The Ned she knew had died in the car accident that happened four years ago. The one inside was merely a stranger! Angeline inhaled deeply. Then, she pushed the door open. Ned looked up and saw her entering. "Who brought you here?" Angeline stared at Ned and said, "I've already made a police report regarding your spiked drink at the event and your spreading of my photos for revenge." Hearing this, everyone's reactions differed from one another. Angeline continued, "Ned Fletcher, it's true that I wanted to try rekindling our relationship, but I would never have stooped so low as to do those disgusting things to you. I didn't want to let go of this relationship because I was worried that the Ned I knew would return someday and blame me for giving up on him so easily," Angeline placed the divorce agreement she'd been hugging onto the table. "I tried my best, but I'm tired now. Ned Fletcher, I'm giving up on you. I don't want you anymore." Ned's eyes traveled from the divorce agreement to Angeline's face. There was a hint of surprise in his cold eyes. "Let's finalize the divorce after the police have cleared my name and you have publicly apologized to me." | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717484400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879445 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 8/10/24, 3:31 PM | 1718410685 | 1723321862 | 995 | 316025981563778 | 1 | 4.897386402808E+14 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 108282622378515 | 0 | Claire Ryan Nina | 120211459508340017 | cooolink.com | Download | NONE | image | Free download ποΈποΈποΈ | https://cooolink.com/w2a/lp/bangtoon/cooolinkBtComics2?utm_source=fb_onelink&utm_medium={{placement}}&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_adset_name={{adset.name}}&utm_ad_name={{ad.name}}&utm_adset_nameid={{adset.id}}&utm_ad_nameid={{ad.id}}&utm_campaignid={{campaign.id}}&utm_channel={{site_source_name}} | 1718362818 | 1.0828262237852E+14 | Claire Ryan Nina | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448168318_483685524097267_7926217419893324963_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=KKnambj-zqYQ7kNvgFmkcrc&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDK4_sJvCGuGNuQnL1Ri9fA_ZAR5EZ1Iv99XLpkLgFKZw&oe=6672A8E1 | person_profile | 0 | Claire Ryan Nina | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448103257_1005024410969450_404238465957384957_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=LmPQ5HcpKiIQ7kNvgH3WoRO&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYB3H1woF9OXnlIfcHdGtWRgJVQZWQaHghyxA8c-W4q7vA&oe=6672C8D3 | 0 | 3 | This manga is definitely worth watching! πππ | Claire Ryan Nina | 0 | https://facebook.com/61552215344479 | 0 | DOWNLOAD | 1718348400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879474 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 7/11/25, 12:30 AM | 1718410686 | 1752211837 | 995 | 1441673563125275 | 1 | 8.1574380385625E+14 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 108255439048790 | 0 | Buchanan Freebery Blaine | 120208580825810482 | cooolink.com | Download | NONE | image | Free download ποΈποΈποΈ | https://cooolink.com/w2a/lp/bangtoon/cooolinkBtComics2?utm_source=fb_onelink&utm_medium={{placement}}&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_adset_name={{adset.name}}&utm_ad_name={{ad.name}}&utm_adset_nameid={{adset.id}}&utm_ad_nameid={{ad.id}}&utm_campaignid={{campaign.id}}&utm_channel={{site_source_name}} | 1718362670 | 1.0825543904879E+14 | Buchanan Freebery Blaine | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448371974_879308770639054_4728154223802070788_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=yk3cNS-hgFMQ7kNvgHmOjqQ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBB-jGjynqNa1YywO_BmORQ1esXb-iAfpE1VTXg73lkvg&oe=6672A2E0 | person_profile | 0 | Buchanan Freebery Blaine | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448268875_2524028854459820_580153242367485104_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=g40YvebMeBMQ7kNvgGQO_sE&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAvnKjkWjvTgUwh_gtlmTNuf99kY1AIZ7nGE0kgY43nCA&oe=6672C447 | 0 | 3 | This manga is definitely worth watching! πππ | Buchanan Freebery Blaine | 0 | https://facebook.com/61552547469039 | 0 | DOWNLOAD | 1718348400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879482 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 1/29/25, 5:21 PM | 1718410686 | 1738192865 | 995 | 7767628770010664 | 1 | 1.0540798931032E+15 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 108304702377057 | 0 | Rich Rachel Bentley | 120211073062360589 | cooolink.com | Download | NONE | image | Free download ποΈποΈποΈ | https://cooolink.com/w2a/lp/bangtoon/cooolinkBtComics2?utm_source=fb_onelink&utm_medium={{placement}}&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_adset_name={{adset.name}}&utm_ad_name={{ad.name}}&utm_adset_nameid={{adset.id}}&utm_ad_nameid={{ad.id}}&utm_campaignid={{campaign.id}}&utm_channel={{site_source_name}} | 1718363032 | 1.0830470237706E+14 | Rich Rachel Bentley | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448306331_2202995703368987_8353805665417763715_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=QzAXVPbiQSIQ7kNvgEZigY-&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCTlS8fswHuSBzPYB5d-CURx78REVv8ATzKm-O0kdaVGA&oe=66729867 | person_profile | 0 | Rich Rachel Bentley | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448353762_1420029442014793_1525295828522135702_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=t_YtohgthQ8Q7kNvgGaMuIs&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDglfwGPxJXWm97vj6FaTIGeIL0cVlN-KWKbQUrIfs1hw&oe=6672A75D | 0 | 3 | This manga is definitely worth watching! πππ | Rich Rachel Bentley | 0 | https://facebook.com/61552807764867 | 0 | DOWNLOAD | 1718348400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879462 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 6/11/25, 9:17 AM | 1718410686 | 1749651457 | 995 | 845734880420379 | 1 | 7.6526076577629E+14 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 108282622378515 | 0 | Claire Ryan Nina | 120211459508960017 | cooolink.com | Download | NONE | image | Free download ποΈποΈποΈ | https://cooolink.com/w2a/lp/bangtoon/cooolinkBtComics2?utm_source=fb_onelink&utm_medium={{placement}}&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_adset_name={{adset.name}}&utm_ad_name={{ad.name}}&utm_adset_nameid={{adset.id}}&utm_ad_nameid={{ad.id}}&utm_campaignid={{campaign.id}}&utm_channel={{site_source_name}} | 1718362825 | 1.0828262237852E+14 | Claire Ryan Nina | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448405726_2192308461128760_2415845127414831211_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pzIg1W0tGy8Q7kNvgH3q--L&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCfVnShwPc3LD9iMZlfy3PUGY7qizJjSo5QzSvl6NZU-g&oe=66729ADC | person_profile | 0 | Claire Ryan Nina | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448320588_319665711080568_7901209295458975163_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=oA0jrRgUuZkQ7kNvgFI2J-X&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBX_cVmtITk6zzanrVXufQ-VSydnMPW9oQH-9QHom8AiQ&oe=6672999D | 0 | 3 | This manga is definitely worth watching! πππ | Claire Ryan Nina | 0 | https://facebook.com/61552215344479 | 0 | DOWNLOAD | 1718348400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879434 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 2/1/25, 9:22 AM | 1718410685 | 1738401723 | 995 | 1218703916222042 | 1 | 1.2064794838557E+15 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 114970411603490 | 0 | SphereBuilder Community - GWA | 120212135682580247 | l.adbuilder.pro | Learn more | NONE | video | By Michele J. Hughes | Details and contact info >>> C: 301-641-5000 | https://l.adbuilder.pro/T4lCOR/19835 | 1718325662 | 1.1497041160349E+14 | SphereBuilder Community - GWA | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448430404_1107667190327740_685275209755439001_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Cl8KhmNqrycQ7kNvgG36-kx&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDSb7yph_u6OG3IG_s05icFyaH8OlcvSI5P-i5bGZb6yw&oe=6672A550 | person_profile | 0 | SphereBuilder Community - GWA | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448430148_1174027690683744_2989084496664263341_n.jpg?_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=RwxJ1SJABH0Q7kNvgErW33g&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDiQe882muejm5LGdypeMYDXarhONIbchmrEYNsfXs6bA&oe=6672C21B | 0 | 3 | Recently sold in 20659! Markets change quickly. Curious what your home's worth? Reach out for a free analysis. | SphereBuilder Community - GWA | 29 | https://facebook.com/spherebuildergwa | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718348400 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879476 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 5/27/25, 6:11 AM | 1718410686 | 1748344305 | 995 | 1504696423478505 | 1 | 7.7144546816924E+14 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 108255439048790 | 0 | Buchanan Freebery Blaine | 120208580859910482 | cooolink.com | Download | NONE | image | Free download ποΈποΈποΈ | https://cooolink.com/w2a/lp/bangtoon/cooolinkBtComics2?utm_source=fb_onelink&utm_medium={{placement}}&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_adset_name={{adset.name}}&utm_ad_name={{ad.name}}&utm_adset_nameid={{adset.id}}&utm_ad_nameid={{ad.id}}&utm_campaignid={{campaign.id}}&utm_channel={{site_source_name}} | 1718362773 | 1.0825543904879E+14 | Buchanan Freebery Blaine | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/417424624_770076001985970_5243481013736091619_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=1QUfaLPJsnYQ7kNvgGezg2a&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCFVwt_bLVmEsOKMjVwWI3F6hW07md6ClfwSneXbvBx-Q&oe=6672BC19 | person_profile | 0 | Buchanan Freebery Blaine | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/417457554_3176009009198515_3394249461892701139_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=RjBWsZR0KVMQ7kNvgEA6eCu&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDnP0BEQGBo8t5csFXBZtnmrQ6dKdnK754yO03ZSJ-EYQ&oe=6672BF5E | 0 | 3 | This manga is definitely worth watching! πππ | Buchanan Freebery Blaine | 0 | https://facebook.com/61552547469039 | 0 | DOWNLOAD | 1718348400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879450 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 5/28/25, 5:57 AM | 1718410685 | 1748429840 | 995 | 459928856745386 | 1 | 7.7675244454471E+14 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 108255439048790 | 0 | Buchanan Freebery Blaine | 120208580830030482 | cooolink.com | Download | NONE | image | Free download ποΈποΈποΈ | https://cooolink.com/w2a/lp/bangtoon/cooolinkBtComics2?utm_source=fb_onelink&utm_medium={{placement}}&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_adset_name={{adset.name}}&utm_ad_name={{ad.name}}&utm_adset_nameid={{adset.id}}&utm_ad_nameid={{ad.id}}&utm_campaignid={{campaign.id}}&utm_channel={{site_source_name}} | 1718362681 | 1.0825543904879E+14 | Buchanan Freebery Blaine | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448107157_1575574043004201_5016216701545722055_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=gUWYhJdGn6UQ7kNvgGbscke&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCEcyM2Fq7JrxpOWa6fplUhCWUOZz-x7UWnQS-MEx6jDA&oe=6672B8C5 | person_profile | 0 | Buchanan Freebery Blaine | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448432505_468496602531226_2849700645266953267_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=K1NzVrija2wQ7kNvgGkHBBS&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBJeQcLXSnxnM4FkQXVH_lDTNVT8SejBbCP-eEb6CEf3A&oe=6672ACF0 | 0 | 3 | This manga is definitely worth watching! πππ | Buchanan Freebery Blaine | 0 | https://facebook.com/61552547469039 | 0 | DOWNLOAD | 1718348400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879477 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 2/7/25, 12:17 PM | 1718410686 | 1738952266 | 995 | 1534140544177879 | 1 | 7.296855558301E+14 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 108255439048790 | 0 | Buchanan Freebery Blaine | 120208580851320482 | cooolink.com | Download | NONE | image | Free download ποΈποΈποΈ | https://cooolink.com/w2a/lp/bangtoon/cooolinkBtComics2?utm_source=fb_onelink&utm_medium={{placement}}&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_adset_name={{adset.name}}&utm_ad_name={{ad.name}}&utm_adset_nameid={{adset.id}}&utm_ad_nameid={{ad.id}}&utm_campaignid={{campaign.id}}&utm_channel={{site_source_name}} | 1718362753 | 1.0825543904879E+14 | Buchanan Freebery Blaine | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448381207_825379012455923_36150707109715252_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=78_KZp2pdKkQ7kNvgGVAMtb&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYB2wD2QJvLEIeTeo4kXuI8yvQtjJhnPV4T1zNCrVcoU8Q&oe=667295D1 | person_profile | 0 | Buchanan Freebery Blaine | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448435295_386352527757926_5397205084588377011_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=z4URMXCjoOUQ7kNvgGZoFyj&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBlhyHAjl_QWotMhnOhID6d1kdYnYdU29IBIjUa59dVyQ&oe=66729599 | 0 | 3 | This manga is definitely worth watching! πππ | Buchanan Freebery Blaine | 0 | https://facebook.com/61552547469039 | 0 | DOWNLOAD | 1718348400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879465 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 6/9/25, 3:06 AM | 1718410686 | 1749456409 | 995 | 926576719270558 | 1 | 7.5881764812779E+15 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 108282622378515 | 0 | Claire Ryan Nina | 120211459518510017 | cooolink.com | Download | NONE | image | Free download ποΈποΈποΈ | https://cooolink.com/w2a/lp/bangtoon/cooolinkBtComics2?utm_source=fb_onelink&utm_medium={{placement}}&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_adset_name={{adset.name}}&utm_ad_name={{ad.name}}&utm_adset_nameid={{adset.id}}&utm_ad_nameid={{ad.id}}&utm_campaignid={{campaign.id}}&utm_channel={{site_source_name}} | 1718362862 | 1.0828262237852E+14 | Claire Ryan Nina | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448301488_333257479816433_7684282164467151613_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=gYoZQyDAYIgQ7kNvgG0uA-E&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDPiw---rlL07wo5CG-cl2y8ShVFabr37NMS1D1vk8JuA&oe=6672A73F | person_profile | 0 | Claire Ryan Nina | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448303980_499346259112390_2462933475166025773_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=03etIPHIduMQ7kNvgE_V353&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCvlePr8fhBQ9PT2qgMVE8xcPt6-PgzTz8DODnAwL6Utg&oe=6672ADEA | 0 | 3 | This manga is definitely worth watching! πππ | Claire Ryan Nina | 0 | https://facebook.com/61552215344479 | 0 | DOWNLOAD | 1718348400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879358 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 5/9/25, 4:28 PM | 1718410682 | 1746826118 | 995 | 1393635261298377 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 26448950205 | 0 | Free People | 6557918290448 | freepeople.com | Shop Now | 37827 | NONE | dpa | Ruched Seamless Shorts | $38 | https://www.freepeople.com/shop/ruched-seamless-shorts/?color=011&size=M%2FL&type=STANDARD | 1718393596 | 26448950205 | Free People | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448216142_2322655564736796_5693847465495757469_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=907mt86uMNIQ7kNvgFlqZgR&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCJhpVjI1eiFQKJjexb27hP5oDslpuAYQvlUsXo27Y5gg&oe=6672AFC6 | person_profile | 0 | Free People | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448228118_1392936248070859_8526338333829573636_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=zuOBJtFkLIIQ7kNvgGZ1ys4&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBQYURvqnJNPi_u3w9bgqBQKlU8WX6Ai44Qz27TWDgwIw&oe=6672AB3B | 0 | 3 | Celebrate Summer! Free express shipping on all orders! Shop now. | Free People | 1746939 | https://facebook.com/FreePeople | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1718348400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879475 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 2/12/25, 2:16 AM | 1718410686 | 1739348169 | 995 | 1483094122338198 | 1 | 8.6811001181096E+14 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 108282622378515 | 0 | Claire Ryan Nina | 120211459521980017 | cooolink.com | Download | NONE | image | Free download ποΈποΈποΈ | https://cooolink.com/w2a/lp/bangtoon/cooolinkBtComics2?utm_source=fb_onelink&utm_medium={{placement}}&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_adset_name={{adset.name}}&utm_ad_name={{ad.name}}&utm_adset_nameid={{adset.id}}&utm_ad_nameid={{ad.id}}&utm_campaignid={{campaign.id}}&utm_channel={{site_source_name}} | 1718362883 | 1.0828262237852E+14 | Claire Ryan Nina | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448306271_436329522542174_6275374162699846531_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=3vlil5MJJKEQ7kNvgHGkJbk&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYClVpgOssCSggJvt270I9WdnxX94s2lPWt4wsOu597GpQ&oe=6672BD08 | person_profile | 0 | Claire Ryan Nina | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448302766_996714381820738_2942496501448498894_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=TMFMDEnsWskQ7kNvgGtOW3x&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYD2el2ggCVN3Yl3SgVPCoTmSaN86MFzpENDTx5Ec7Klaw&oe=6672C3B1 | 0 | 3 | This manga is definitely worth watching! πππ | Claire Ryan Nina | 0 | https://facebook.com/61552215344479 | 0 | DOWNLOAD | 1718348400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879435 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 6/8/25, 7:11 AM | 1718410685 | 1749384708 | 995 | 387783827016490 | 1 | 9.9182643583732E+14 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 163805856980135 | 0 | Horizon Science Academy Cincinnati | 120211618951220343 | www.hsacm.org | Learn more | NONE | video | Launch Your Future | Enroll now! | https://www.hsacm.org/ | 1718139039 | 1.6380585698014E+14 | Horizon Science Academy Cincinnati | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448334699_1403410521060312_8932002804847911293_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=C7-6Up4fvykQ7kNvgEQJ8hR&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAIDlmdYsTQV-ahNUF6hF0z6I542DjfW1GorrFeiOgLSg&oe=6672AA15 | person_profile | 0 | Horizon Science Academy Cincinnati | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448207417_762539709420789_2744723610130811741_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=rH6CbZTwReMQ7kNvgFZu7fo&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAw16rzSppKw2O7PI2bOxDDAlq_xhVovcl83oHkFJXgBQ&oe=6672996B | 0 | 3 | Our programs are designed to prepare students for high school with a strong focus on STEM. | Horizon Science Academy Cincinnati | 495 | https://facebook.com/hsacincy | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718348400 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879439 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 2/17/25, 1:57 AM | 1718410685 | 1739757424 | 995 | 970442631538124 | 1 | 1.7929728479024E+15 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 163805856980135 | 0 | Horizon Science Academy Cincinnati | 120211618770020343 | www.hsach.org | Learn more | NONE | video | Build Your Future | Enroll today! | https://www.hsach.org/ | 1718138744 | 1.6380585698014E+14 | Horizon Science Academy Cincinnati | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448104869_778656601064593_7305632038757005182_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=22Q97l5KyHsQ7kNvgE9AtNW&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDYo1Mtrw1HojQ8Aok54j9qCxeb4GMwn6d5Y6OZFHnZfA&oe=667296CA | person_profile | 0 | Horizon Science Academy Cincinnati | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447995150_785474507054921_2000840126181920371_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=bPLbtjvoogwQ7kNvgERjMVP&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAfeKD08afDyq4ZC7rbdvvM_EviGI6M5pCmQ8cOfG-zAg&oe=6672ADAE | 0 | 3 | We move the needle for our students by offering a high-quality, tuition-free education that is open to everyone. | Horizon Science Academy Cincinnati | 495 | https://facebook.com/hsacincy | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718348400 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1879480 | 1 | active | 6/14/24, 7:18 PM | 6/8/25, 7:11 AM | 1718410686 | 1749384716 | 995 | 1689426278554284 | 1 | 7.766521411256E+14 | 1718348400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 108255439048790 | 0 | Buchanan Freebery Blaine | 120208580820370482 | cooolink.com | Download | NONE | image | Free download ποΈποΈποΈ | https://cooolink.com/w2a/lp/bangtoon/cooolinkBtComics2?utm_source=fb_onelink&utm_medium={{placement}}&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_adset_name={{adset.name}}&utm_ad_name={{ad.name}}&utm_adset_nameid={{adset.id}}&utm_ad_nameid={{ad.id}}&utm_campaignid={{campaign.id}}&utm_channel={{site_source_name}} | 1718362647 | 1.0825543904879E+14 | Buchanan Freebery Blaine | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448320323_2695077877318416_2008206623474397169_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=BVEXIJQLNgIQ7kNvgFsLZb2&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAP9TfVDhaC1k0TAxPL0Sz5O5BGMjXf0MOo_KZ7riZlRw&oe=6672B87D | person_profile | 0 | Buchanan Freebery Blaine | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448408003_1666155267510358_7233090288940143843_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=UXnmtHJYR1sQ7kNvgHg5Krw&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCQ3koZGVN1e80qbJu0gwRvST-X0BUlJWJ-XCyOi2nnjA&oe=6672BB04 | 0 | 3 | This manga is definitely worth watching! πππ | Buchanan Freebery Blaine | 0 | https://facebook.com/61552547469039 | 0 | DOWNLOAD | 1718348400 | View Edit Delete |