Author: Momo Chan

We were eating cake when Ethan put down his fork and looked at me. “Who’s James Miller?” My knife and fork froze in midair. My heart clenched. James Miller. That name was a code Lily and I came up with freshman year of college, after too many drinks and a stupid, tender night. We agreed that if either of us ever got into trouble, ever went silent, the other one would use that name as a signal. No one else knew. Just the two of us. And Lily had been missing for thirty-two days. She said she was going to Harlow, Montana to clear her head. And then she never came back. I looked at Ethan’s calm face and felt my blood go cold. How did he know that name? I still remember the night we came up with that stupid code. Lily had her arm around my shoulders. She was a little drunk. “Everly,” she said, “let’s make a code.” “What kind of code?” I told her she was being dramatic. But I stayed up with her thinking about it anyway, and we settled on James Miller. Because it was so ordinary. The kind of name you’d pass on the street without a second thought. No one would ever suspect its meaning. Only the two of us in the whole world knew what it meant. One was me. The other was Lily Hart. She said she was going to Harlow, Montana for a few days. She even sent me a voice message the morning she left, her voice bright and excited. “Everly! What do you want me to bring back?” That was the last time I heard her voice. After that, her WhatsApp went silent. Her phone went straight to voicemail. Her Instagram stopped at a photo she’d posted by the lake, blue sky, white clouds, her standing in front of a flower stall with her eyes crinkled shut from smiling. I filed a missing person report. Her family filed one too. Local authorities in Harlow, Montana were looking. But there was nothing. No sign of her alive, no sign of her dead. Lily had vanished like she’d never existed. And now. My husband Ethan Cole. A man who didn’t even have Lily’s number. A man who would barely nod at her when they were in the same room. Had just asked me that name, casually, between bites of cake. “You okay?” Ethan watched me go still and raised an eyebrow. “You look weird.” “I’m fine.” I looked down and put a piece of cake in my mouth. It tasted like nothing. “James Miller? Never heard of him. Is he someone you know?” “Oh, just scrolling.” He picked up his coffee and took a sip. “Never mind.” He changed the subject. Started talking about a golf game he had planned for the weekend. I didn’t hear a word. There was only one thought in my head. How did he know? How did he know that name? After dinner, Ethan went to take a shower. I sat on the couch with sweat on my palms. The sound of water came through the bathroom door. I glanced at it, then stood up and walked to his phone on the coffee table. I knew the passcode. It was my birthday. I unlocked it and started going through his WhatsApp, his call log, his notes. My fingers were shaking. Nothing. It was too clean. Clean in a way that wasn’t normal. A real person’s phone doesn’t look like that. I went to his laptop next. It was in the study. The password was my birthday too. He had never hidden it from me. I went through his browser history, his folders, his downloads, one by one. Then I opened a ride-share app and pulled up his trip history. My hand stopped. A month ago. Ethan told me he was going to Boston for two days on a work trip. I had helped him pack. But the app said something different. He hadn’t gone to Boston. He had gone to Harlow, Montana. He left one day before Lily did. He came back two days after she disappeared. The shower turned off. I closed the laptop, walked back to the living room and sat on the couch and picked up my phone like I was watching videos. Ethan came out with a towel around his shoulders. He glanced at me. “You’re not sleeping?” “In a bit. Just finishing something.” I smiled. He went into the bedroom and turned off the light. I sat there staring at the dark line under the bedroom door and felt my fingers tighten one by one around the arm of the couch. Ethan. What did you go to Harlow, Montana for?

The next morning I told Ethan the office had a last-minute project and I needed to travel for a few days. He was buttoning his cuffs and didn’t look up. “Where to?” “Miami.” “How long?” “Three or four days.” He turned and looked at me and smiled. “Stay safe.” I smiled back. I had a noon flight. I didn’t go to Miami. I went to Harlow, Montana. The plane landed at two in the afternoon local time. The air was dry and sharp and the sun hit me the moment I stepped outside. The last photo Lily sent me was taken somewhere in this town. The lake, the blue sky, white clouds. Her standing in front of a flower stall with her eyes crinkled shut. I didn’t stop to feel anything. I went straight to the B&B where Lily had stayed. I’d looked it up before I left. She’d sent me the location in a message before she flew out. A place called The Pineridge Lodge, right by the lake. At the front desk I pulled out a photo of Lily and asked if they remembered her. The woman shook her head. “Her name is Lily Hart. She’s from Chicago,” I said. The woman checked her computer and nodded. “We have a record. She stayed two nights, then she didn’t check out and didn’t extend. Her luggage is still in our storage.” My chest pulled tight. Her luggage was still there. And she was gone. I steadied myself and asked the question I’d been dreading. “About a month ago, was there a man from Chicago also staying here?” I put Ethan’s photo on the counter. She looked at it and checked her screen. Then she looked up, her expression uncertain. “Yes. He stayed four nights.” Four nights. Two more than Lily. “What room?” “203.” “And Lily Hart?” “205.” Same floor. One room between them. I stood at that counter and felt the noise in my head build to a roar. My first thought was the obvious one. That something was going on between them. Lily and Ethan, staying in rooms next to each other in Harlow, Montana. But the moment that thought came, something else pushed it back down. No. Lily hated Ethan. Not the polite kind of dislike people hide behind small talk. The kind where she couldn’t even bother to fake it. Every time I brought Ethan to a group gathering, Lily went quiet. Once, when she’d had too much to drink, she looked right at him and said, “Everly is perfect in every way. I have no idea what she’s doing with you.” Ethan’s face had gone rigid. After that they barely saw each other. These were not two people sneaking around together. So why was he in the room next to hers? What was he doing there? I took a slow breath and looked at the woman behind the desk. “I need to see your security footage from that period.” She hesitated. “I’d need to check with the manager.” “Please do.” “We may also need the police involved.” “My best friend is missing.” I kept my voice flat, but my hands were shaking. “A month. No trace of her. This B&B may be the last place she was seen. Do you think your manager is going to say no?” She looked at me for a moment. Then she picked up the phone.

Twenty minutes later the B&B manager walked me to the security room. It was small. One desk, one computer, two monitors. He pulled up the footage from the day Lily checked in. I sat down and watched. Day one. Lily came through the front door pulling her suitcase, checked in at the desk, smiled and chatted with the staff. She was wearing a blue dress and her hair was down. My eyes stung. In the corner of the frame, at the entrance. A man pushed through the door. Black polo shirt. Baseball cap. Sunglasses. The build. The way he moved. Ethan. He didn’t go to the desk. He sat down in the seating area near the lobby and picked up a magazine. But his eyes followed Lily the entire time. From check-in to room key to the stairs. He watched all of it. My back went cold. “Fast forward,” I said. The manager sped up the footage. Day one, afternoon. Lily left the B&B to walk around. The exterior camera showed her stepping out. About three minutes later, Ethan came out the side door. Same cap. Same sunglasses. Thirty feet behind her. Day one, evening. Lily had dinner at the restaurant next to the B&B. Ethan sat outside at a table with a cup of tea. From where he sat, he had a clear view of her table. Lily never noticed him once. Day two. Lily went to the lake. Ethan followed. Lily walked through a small market district. Ethan followed. Lily stopped at a street stall and crouched down to take a photo of something she was buying. Ethan stood in a bookshop doorway across the road, pretending to browse. Every frame. Every shot. He was there. My hands started shaking. This wasn’t an affair. People having affairs walk side by side. They eat together. They touch. He hadn’t spoken a single word to her. He stayed back. He kept distance. He wore a disguise. From start to finish, Lily had no idea he was there. This wasn’t an affair. He was tailing her. “What happened the next day?” I said. “Please, show me.” The manager pulled it up. Day two, afternoon. Lily left the B&B. She had her bag, her phone, and she looked relaxed. The camera showed her walking out the front and heading north along the road. Three minutes later. Ethan came out the side door and walked in the same direction. Then the footage ended. The B&B’s cameras only covered the building and the immediate street. Fifty feet out and the world disappeared. “Do you have anything else?” I asked. He shook his head. “Just these. The road cameras would be with the police.” I sat there for a moment. Then I stood up, thanked him, and walked out. Outside on the front step I opened the map on my phone. The direction Lily had walked was north. North along that road took you past a few small neighborhoods, some open land, a parking area. And then, at the end of it, the base of the mountains. Undeveloped terrain. No trails. No markings. I stared at that spot on the map and my fingers went cold. She walked there. He followed. And then she was gone.

I rented a car and drove forty minutes to the end of that road. It ran out at a stretch of rough hillside. The slope was steep, loose rock and scrub brush all the way down. The wind was strong enough that I had to brace myself just standing there. This wasn’t a trail. There were no signs, no path, just a dirt track leading up into the slope. I walked to the top and looked down. Below was rock and dry grass and a ravine cut through by what looked like old floodwater. If someone went over the edge here. I stopped the thought. I started asking around the area. There was a small cluster of houses nearby, maybe eight or ten of them, spread out along the base of the slope. I went door to door with Lily’s photo. No one recognized her. Seven doors, eight doors. Every one of them shaking their head. I was turning to leave when I saw a little girl sitting under a tree at the edge of the road. Six or seven years old. A faded pink t-shirt. Barefoot, sitting in the dirt playing with stones. She was holding something. A phone. Pink case. A cartoon rabbit sticker on the back. Everything went quiet in my head. That case was a birthday gift I’d given Lily. I’d picked it out myself. Pink, rabbit design, because Lily loved rabbits. I walked over and kept my voice gentle. “Hey. Where did you get that phone?” The girl looked up at me and pulled it behind her back. “Is it yours?” “No,” she said quietly. Her eyes moved away from mine. “I’m not going to get you in trouble,” I said. I crouched down so I was at her level. “The person this phone belongs to is my best friend. She’s lost and I’m trying to find her. Can you tell me where you found it?” The girl pressed her lips together. She didn’t say anything. But there was something in her eyes I don’t often see in kids that age. Fear. Not of me. “Did you see something that scared you?” I asked, keeping my voice low. Her lip moved. Still nothing. I reached into my pocket and held out some bills. “You tell me, and I’ll get you something nice. Okay?” She looked at the money. Looked at me. A long pause. Then she said, very quietly, “I found it at the bottom of the hill.” “Which hill?” She raised her hand and pointed toward the mountains. My stomach dropped. “Did you find anything else?” She went quiet again. Her eyes shifted. “You did, didn’t you.” Slowly, she brought something out from behind her. A small bag. Canvas, floral print, with a little tassel on the zipper. Lily’s. I knew that bag. Two years ago she’d seen it at a store and couldn’t bring herself to spend the money, so I went back the next day and bought it for her without telling her. She was happy for days. Now the fabric was dark with mud and water stains. The canvas had started to go moldy. I took it from her. My hands were shaking. I opened it. Inside: lip balm, a portable charger, and a photo of the two of us. Everything still there. Lily would never throw these things away. If they were at the bottom of that slope. Then where was she? “Can you take me to where you found these?” I asked. The girl shook her head hard. “I’ll pay you.” Still shaking her head. “Please.” My voice cracked. I wasn’t thinking about whether I was scaring her anymore. Lily’s phone and bag were at the bottom of that hill. Lily wasn’t. I had to go there. The girl looked at my face for a long time. Maybe my expression was frightening. She stood up slowly and brushed the dirt off her shorts. “Okay,” she said. “I’ll take you.”

She walked ahead. I followed. The path got narrower and the brush got thicker and something in the air started to change. My stomach turned. I repeated it to myself, over and over. I would rather she had something going on with my husband. I would rather she had betrayed me. I would rather she had run off with Ethan. Anything. As long as she was alive. Anything. The girl stopped. She turned and looked at me. Her face had gone pale. “Ma’am.” “What is it?” “That place.” She swallowed. Her voice was almost nothing. “It smells bad.” I didn’t keep walking. I understood what that meant. And I knew that if I went down there alone and found something, it wouldn’t count for anything. I needed professionals. I needed it on record. I took the girl’s hand and walked her back to the road, then pulled out my phone and called the local police. It took two tries to get through. I explained everything. “You’re saying your friend might be at the bottom of a slope?” “Yes. Her phone and bag were found there by a child. She’s been missing for a month. Please just send someone.” They said they would. It would take time. I hung up and called a search and rescue team. I’d looked them up before I flew out. There was a volunteer group in the Harlow, Montana area that worked with police on searches in rough terrain. The rescue team said they could be there by afternoon. Waiting was the hardest part. I sat on a rock at the edge of the road and held Lily’s bag and didn’t move. I opened it and took out the photo. The two of us standing outside our dorm building on graduation day, in our caps and gowns, arms around each other, laughing. Lily was making a heart with her fingers. We were twenty-two years old. Lily was my roommate all four years of college. Across from me. She slept on the left, I slept on the right, and every night we’d talk across the gap between our beds until two or three in the morning. About the future. About gossip. About boys we liked. About what we thought our lives would look like. On the last night of graduation, there was a party in someone’s dorm. We slipped out to the fire escape with two beers and sat there looking up at the sky. That was the night she came up with James Miller. “Everly, let’s make a code.” “If one of us ever gets into trouble, the other one hears that name and knows it’s time to act.” I told her she was being dramatic. But I remembered it. I thought I’d never need it. Now I was sitting in the dirt outside Harlow with her bag in my hands, waiting for a search team to come find her body.

Watch👉 https://cps-front.novelix.live/app-api/ext/new/20260619XU4TwdlDmp 🌟 Continue the story here 👉🏻 📲 Download the “Novelix” app 🔍 search for “ni715461”, and watch the full series ✨! #Novelix

I was the real daughter. The true bloodline of Blackwood Pack, finally brought home. But the second I stepped through the door, the fake one threw herself into my parents’ arms, sobbing. “Dad, Mom, I’m sorry—I just can’t call her my sister. She’s the one from school. She told everyone my parents were just Omegas. She said my bloodline was dirt. She said it to my face, in front of everyone. And then she let her wolf loose on mine. My wolf hasn’t come out since. She won’t even respond to me anymore.” Mom held her tight, stroking her back, murmuring soft things. Dad turned to me. A low growl rumbled in his chest. His eyes were nothing but disappointment. “I can’t believe a few years outside this Pack turned you into this.” “Steward—get her out of my packhouse. Blackwood has no daughter who would attack other’s wolf.” I stood there, completely blindsided. My hands flew through the signs so fast they blurred. I bullied her? I’m mute. I don’t even have a wolf. How could I have done any of that? I stood in the front hall. Fingertips still cold from outside. Victoria was draped over my parents, crying so hard she could barely breathe. Her face was buried against my mother’s neck. Her shoulders trembled violently. When she finally looked up, the rims of her eyes were raw and red. “Dad, Mom, you don’t know what it’s been like.” “After the last trial, I placed second among all the young wolves. She went around telling everyone I cheated—that Dad threaten the teachers. That I slept with Xavier to secure my ranking—things I can’t even say—” With every sentence, Mom’s hand patted harder against her back. Dad’s jaw clenched tighter. I opened my mouth. Only air came out. I hadn’t spoken a word since I could remember. The healers said something broke in my throat at birth and never healed. My wolf never came either. No voice. No wolf. Just silence. Over the years, I’d gotten used to it. Sign language. Paper and pen. That was how I talked to the world. I raised my hand. My fingers barely started forming the sign for “no” before Xavier launched off the couch. Three strides and he was in my face, towering over me. The disgust in his eyes was barely contained. “Seraphina, how long are you going to keep this shit up? Victoria’s wolf won’t even surface anymore because of you. And you’re still standing there trying to deny it?” I froze. My hand hung in the air. Xavier was Blackwood’s only son. From the moment I walked in, he’d been glued to Victoria’s side—soft eyes, gentle voice, like she was something precious. When he looked at me, it was like looking at something scraped off his boot. “Brother, don’t say that to her…” Victoria tugged gently at Xavier’s sleeve. Her voice was soft as water. But every word drove a blade into my chest. “Maybe she just wanted so badly to fit in. Maybe this was the only way she knew how. I don’t blame her. Really, I don’t…” “That’s because you’re too damn soft!” Mom pulled Victoria tighter. When she turned to me, her eyes could have frozen the room. “Seraphina, we brought you home to give you a Pack. A family. Not so you could terrorize someone weaker. Whatever gutter tricks you learned out there—you drop them. Now.” Dad slammed his knuckles on the oak table. The whole thing shuddered. A vein pulsed at his temple. “Any daughter of mine—even one raised outside these walls—should know what honor means. And what do you do? You walk through the door and hurt Victoria’s wolf. You’ve shamed this entire Pack.” The servants huddled near the archway, not even bothering to keep their voices down. “Heard she grew up out by the borders. Ran with the Rogues. No wonder she’s rotten inside.” “Victoria is the sweetest shewolf in the whole pack. Who would do that to her?” “Look at her, waving her hands around like that. Bet she’s faking it. Playing the poor little thing so someone takes pity.” Those whispers needled into my ears like pins. I drew a deep breath. Forced myself steady. Reached for the side pocket of my bag. I had a notebook in there—from the academy. I could write it all down. Explain everything. My fingers barely touched the zipper when Xavier grabbed my wrist. His grip was crushing. His knuckles ground against my bones. “What the hell are you pulling out? More lies?” I struggled. Reached around with my free hand, dug into the bag. Managed to pull out the stack of paper. Before I could unfold a single sheet, Xavier ripped it from my hands. Tore it in half. Then again. White scraps exploded into the air. Paper drifted into my hair. I stared at him. Whatever warmth I had left went dead. Victoria let out a sob—right on cue—and buried her face deeper. “Xavier, don’t. She was only trying to—” Xavier cut her off. His voice dropped into a snarl. “She’s already crushed your wolf and you’re still defending her? Someone like this doesn’t deserve to walk free in our pack.” Dad’s face went dark. Completely dark. He jerked his chin toward the steward at the door. When he spoke, his voice carried the weight of an Alpha’s command—low, final, and absolute. “Throw her out. This pack has no such daughter.”

I curled up on a hard cot in the pack gear house all night. Morning came. The first bell for lessons hadn’t even rung. I’d just spread my textbook open when the pack instructor called me to his office. I pushed the door open. Victoria was already sitting in the chair across from him. Her shoulders hitched in little spasms. A handkerchief was balled up in her fist. Her eyes were swollen like walnuts. The second she saw me, she looked up—just the right mix of hurt and fear in her eyes—and shrank behind the instructor. “Seraphina. You’re here.” The instructor’s voice was cold as steel. “Come in and tell me what you did to Victoria yesterday.” I stood in the doorway. Didn’t move. Victoria began to cry, right on schedule. “Sir, please don’t push her. Yesterday she cornered me in the corridor. She called me a cuckoo in someone else’s nest—a stray pretending to be Pack. She said she’d make sure I couldn’t stay at this academy. I… I was so scared.” Her voice was quiet. But every word was razor-clear, like small knives landing one by one. The instructor’s face darkened. He picked up the phone on his desk and dialed. “I’ve already called the Alpha and Luna. They’ll be here soon.” It didn’t take long. The office door swung open. My parents walked in. Dad’s face was ashen. Mom was holding Victoria’s hand, eyes full of tenderness. Dad’s voice was barely controlled. “What happened? Did Seraphina bully Victoria again?” The instructor adjusted his glasses. His tone was grave. “Based on Victoria’s account, Seraphina has repeatedly verbally abused and spread lies about her at the academy. She even threatened to force Victoria out of school.” “This kind of behavior is absolutely not tolerated here.” Dad whipped his head toward me. The disappointment in his eyes could have drowned me. “How did I raise a daughter like you? Are you not going to stop until you’ve dragged the whole Blackwood name through the dirt?” I opened my mouth. Only a thin wisp of air came out. I raised my hand. My fingers barely started the sign for “no” before Dad’s palm cracked across my face. The slap rang out—sharp and clean. My head snapped to the side. My ears buzzed. My cheek burned. I stared at him. The tears finally fell. “You dare cry?” Dad’s voice dripped with open disgust. “You do something like this and you still have the nerve to cry? You’re just playing the victim for sympathy!” Victoria buried her face in Mom’s arms and let out another soft sob. “Dad, Mom, don’t scold her. I don’t blame her.” Mom shot me a cold glare. “Born cursed. Wolfless and rotten to the core. All you know how to do is hurt our Victoria!” The office door had been cracked open at some point. A few students peeked in, heads crowded together. Their whispers carried clearly. “So she really did bully Victoria…” “She seems so quiet. Didn’t expect her to be this vicious.” “Heard even her own parents didn’t want her. No wonder she’s so twisted.” Those words pricked my ears like needles. I took a deep breath. Forced myself to stay calm. I raised my hand again. Signed the words: “I didn’t.” But halfway through, the instructor cut me off. He frowned, his voice thick with impatience. “Seraphina, can you stop with these cheap tricks? If you have something to say, say it. Stop putting on a show.” I froze. My fingers hung in the air. So even my silent defense—the only defense I had—was just another performance to them. Right then, the office door was pushed open gently. A girl stood in the doorway. Her voice was small and shaky. “Sir… she’s not putting on a show. That’s sign language.” Everyone turned to look at her. She kept her head down, fingers gripping the hem of her shirt so hard her knuckles were white. But she gathered her courage and added, quietly: “My brother was deaf. I picked up some sign language when I volunteered there over the summer. What she just signed was ‘I didn’t.’ And… she’s really mute. She’s never spoken a single word at this school. Everyone knows that. She doesn’t have a wolf no one has ever heard her wolf. How could she have bullied anyone like this?”

The air in the room froze solid. The girl stood in the doorway, her cheeks flushed red. But she repeated herself, word by word. “I’m not making this up. ” The instructor pushed his glasses up. Skepticism dripped from his voice. “You’re sure about that? This isn’t something to joke about.” The girl lifted her chin. Her eyes were steady. “Sign language has fixed gestures. I wouldn’t get it wrong. And—Seraphina has never spoken. Not once.” The office went silent. My parents’ faces shifted. Mom looked at me. Her lips moved. She seemed about to say something. A flash of guilt—barely visible—crossed her eyes. But then Victoria let out a few sharp sobs. She wiped her tears with one hand and spoke softly. “Sister, even if you’re too scared to admit what you did, you can’t just hire someone to put on a show and pretend to be mute.” Her crying cut like a blade—sliced right through whatever faint guilt my mother had felt. Dad’s face went hard. He whipped around to face me, rage blazing in his eyes. “Seraphina, you really are something! To dodge punishment you’d even cook up a lie like this? And drag in an accomplice to act it out? You’re rotten to the bone!” I was trembling. I reached into my pocket and pulled out the folded piece of paper—my healer’s certificate. The one that documented my condition. I wanted to show them. But the second my fingers touched the paper, Dad snatched it away. He didn’t look at it. He tore it in half with both hands. The thin sheet became confetti. I stared at him. The tears fell. “You little liar!” Dad’s voice was raw with contempt. “You need to be taught a lesson. Learn not to mess with your Alpha. I’ll have you sent to the West border, be close to the Rogues may beat some sense into you. Then we’ll see if you keep playing this little trick!” Mom turned on me too. She held Victoria close, her eyes full of scorn. “Seraphina, we were so wrong about you. To think you’d stoop this low just to escape what you’ve done. You’re a disgrace.” Victoria leaned against Mom’s chest. The faintest smirk tugged at the corner of her mouth. But her face was still a mess of tears—the perfect picture of a wronged angel. “Dad, Mom, don’t be so hard on her. Maybe she’s just confused. She didn’t mean it…” “Confused?” Dad let out a cold laugh. “She’s beyond saving. Someone this twisted will only poison our Pack. I’m summoning Garrett right now to come take her away.” The instructor stood to the side, his expression shifting between light and shadow. He looked at me. Then at my parents. In the end, he just sighed and waved at the girl in the doorway. “You can go. We’ll handle things here.” The girl opened her mouth. She wanted to say more. But the instructor’s look stopped her. She gave me one long, final glance—full of sympathy and helplessness—then turned and left. I stood where I was. Looked down at the scraps of paper scattered on the floor. And laughed. So this was it. Everything I had—every last shred of proof—was just a joke to them. I never mattered in this family. Not for a single second. I crouched down slowly. Picked up the pieces one by one. A paper edge sliced my fingertip. I didn’t feel it. Compared to the pain inside, what was a little cut?

Watch👉 https://cps-front.novelix.live/app-api/ext/new/20260619Vjs5PVChgN 🌟 Continue the story here 👉🏻 📲 Download the “Novelix” app 🔍 search for “ni844288”, and watch the full series ✨! #Novelix

On the way to our holiday trip, I broke up with Rhys in the airport departure lounge. “You’re dumping me just because she got the seat next to mine instead of you?” He laughed. “Yes.” He smirked and tapped the voice memo app on his phone. “Fine. You chose it. Don’t regret it.” We’d known each other since we were seven, and started dating at eighteen. He thought this was another one of my dramatic episodes. He was so sure I’d never actually walk away from him. What he didn’t know was that the seat assignment was just the excuse. I’d already canceled the ticket he booked for me and changed my destination. And in a few hours, we’d be flying to different cities, starting different lives. ………………………. Rhys held the phone up between us. He was indicating to me that he was recording. I kept my voice flat. “May 1st, 2026. Day 2,591 together. Liora is breaking up with Rhys.” He paused for a second, then shook his head like I was being ridiculous. “Okay, how long are we breaking up for this time? What’s our record, three days? Four?” He scrolled through his phone and tapped on another recording. “Rhys, I miss you so much. I take it back, please don’t break up with me.” My own drunk, sobbing voice cut through. A few travelers turned to stare. He grinned. “That one’s from three months ago.” His finger kept scrolling, looking for more. I shoved the phone away from my face. “I mean it this time.” The smile dropped off his face. His eyes hardened. “You’re seriously breaking up with me over a seat assignment? Babe, come on. Aren’t you better than that?” “No. I’m not.” We’d planned this holiday trip to Miami with his friends months ago. Then his intern, Talia, decided she just had to come along. To make it work, Rhys canceled the original tickets and rebooked the whole group on a different flight. Somehow, he and all his friends ended up in Rows 3 and 4. I was the only one stuck back in Row 35. The seat next to him? Saved for Talia. He’d even posted a screenshot of the seat map on his Instagram Story. [Who’s coming on a spontaneous trip with you?] Their two seat numbers, side by side, were impossible to miss. “Liora, don’t be like this.” “I already explained. I forgot to add you when I booked the first time. By the next morning, the only seats left were in the back.” “It’s a four-hour flight. You’re really gonna get jealous over four hours?” He said it like forgetting to book his girlfriend’s seat was nothing. Like I was the crazy one. I took a deep breath. “You don’t get it. This isn’t about who’s sitting next to you for four hours.” “Okay, okay. I’ll buy us first-class tickets right now, just the two of us. Happy?” I just stared at him. I was so tired. “Are you guys upgrading? Rhysie, can I come too? I’ve never flown first class before.” Talia popped up out of nowhere. She slid an iced Americano into Rhys’s hand and started sipping from her own iced latte like she belonged there. She caught the tension and tilted her head at me. “Oh, sweetie, I didn’t know what you liked. I always grab them an Americano and a latte, total habit. I totally spaced on getting you one.” I turned to leave. Talia grabbed my arm. “Liora, please don’t get the wrong idea. Rhysie and I are just friends.” “I’m just an intern, you know? Graduation’s coming up and I’m honestly so stressed out. That’s the reason he lets me tag along when you guys do stuff.” “Don’t let little things mess up what you two have, please.” “Little things?” I laughed in her face. “Asking my boyfriend to a movie alone is a little thing? Sending him pics of you in dressing room outfits is a little thing? Crashing our couples’ trip is a little thing?” “You’re not stressed. You’re just blind. You don’t see a single line you shouldn’t cross.” “You want him so bad? Take him.” Talia’s eyes welled up instantly. She bit her lip and looked down at the floor. “Liora, that’s enough!” Rhys grabbed a napkin and handed it to her. “I get that you’re pissed, but take it out on me. Why are you screaming at her?” A tear rolled down Talia’s cheek. “Rhysie, please don’t fight. This is my fault. I shouldn’t have come.” She turned and hurried toward the exit. Rhys sighed and went after her. The crowded terminal felt thick and suffocating, like I couldn’t get a full breath.

I’d packed until past midnight the night before, and now my head was killing me. I went to grab a coffee, hoping the caffeine would clear it. That’s when I heard the familiar voices coming from the seating area outside the Starbucks. Rhys’s friends were posted up there, killing time before boarding. “Where’s Liora? She not coming with you?” “She’s threatening to break up again.” Someone snorted. “Seriously? You haven’t even taken off and she’s already starting? What is it this time?” “She’s mad I didn’t save her the seat next to mine.” “That’s it?” The guy shrugged. “Honestly, only you could put up with her.” Rhys ran his fingers through his hair, pushing it off his forehead. “Yeah, I need a break too. I’ll deal with her once we land in Miami.” Another one of his buddies jumped in. “Bro, you spoiled her rotten. This is what you get.” “Honestly though, give me a chill girl like Talia any day. Hey Tal, what’s your type? You into guys like me?” Talia covered her face and giggled. Looked like Rhys had already smoothed things over with her. Before she could answer, Rhys kicked his friend’s chair. “Back off, dude.” Then his voice softened. “Stay away from this guy. He’s a serial cheater. If he tries to add you on Instagram, do not accept.” They started cracking up. “Damn Rhys, why so protective of Tal?” “You bring her along but won’t let any of us talk to her? What’s that about?” “Trying to keep her for yourself, huh?” Talia’s cheeks went pink. “You guys, stop. Even if I was into someone like Rhys, he’d never go for me anyway.” Every head turned to Rhys. He just smiled. He didn’t say a word. Talia gave a small, self-deprecating laugh. “See? That’s a no. So please, if any of you know someone good, set me up.” Rhys finally spoke, slow and casual. “Didn’t say no.” I set my coffee cup down on the counter. They erupted in laughter. “Oh shoot.” Talia suddenly froze, counting heads on her fingers. She fumbled for her phone. “Oh my god. I screwed up the room reservations.” “I just looked at the headcount, four guys and three girls, so I only booked three rooms…” She kept scrolling. “The hotel is completely sold out now. What do I do?” Then she looked up and spotted me across the lounge. She got up and walked straight over. “Liora, I swear it was an honest mistake.” “There’s another hotel right next door but it’s like a thousand bucks more a night. I mean, you guys aren’t exactly hurting for money, right? Maybe you could just book it?” I stared at her, expressionless. “You really have it out for me, don’t you? Out of seven people, somehow I’m the one who has to pay extra?” “And you screwed up the booking. Why am I the one fixing it?” She made a pained face. “Liora, I’m just an intern, okay? I’m not even out of school yet, my paychecks are basically nothing…” I cut her off. “You’re the one who insisted on handling the bookings. We already Venmo’d you our share. If you couldn’t handle it, you shouldn’t have volunteered.” Talia dropped her head and started quietly crying. “Enough.” Rhys came up behind her. He said it like it was no big deal. “It’s not the end of the world. We just book another room.” “Liora, you’re an adult. You should be able to roll with stuff like this.” I laughed coldly. “Roll with your intern freezing me out, you mean?” Talia looked at Rhys with watery eyes. “I really didn’t mean to.” Rhys lowered his voice. “Liora, Talia’s a sweet girl. She doesn’t think like that. You’re being unfair to her.” “I’ll book us an ocean view suite. Drop it. Stop making a scene.” “I’m the one making a scene?” I let out a sharp laugh. My phone buzzed. I didn’t have the energy to keep arguing. I picked up the call and walked away from them.

Watch👉 https://cps-front.novelix.live/app-api/ext/new/20260619PVDMv3dvUE 🌟 Continue the story here 👉🏻 📲 Download the “Novelix” app 🔍 search for “ni536550”, and watch the full series ✨! #Novelix

“Chad, slow down…” Chad let out a low laugh. “Can’t keep up already, babe?” My legs went weak. I just closed my eyes and let him do what he wanted. I spent five years in a secret relationship with him—my bestie’s little brother. He liked it rough, loved pushing boundaries, so bit by bit I molded myself into exactly what he craved in bed. Five years of this recklessness. Three marriage proposals. All three rejected. “Chad, my family gave me an ultimatum. I have to get married this year.” His movements paused. He kissed my ear softly. “Just… wait a little longer.” Then, right before Memorial Day, my bestie grabbed me, her face lit up with excitement. “Sera! Guess what I just found out! Chad—the one who never even looks at women—is planning to propose! He already bought the ring!” My heart lurched. Hope bloomed in my chest like a flower breaking through concrete. “Really? You already know?” She looked at me in surprise. “You know, too? Oh, right, she’s an intern at his company. I think she was your younger classmate.” I froze. The bitterness rose in my throat. I swallowed it down, agreed to my family’s arranged marriage, then turned to her. “What a coincidence. I’m getting married Memorial Day weekend, too. Beach wedding. Come be my maid of honor.” … Maya—my bestie—grabbed my arm, shock written all over her face. “I’ve introduced you to so many guys over the years, and you turned them all down. Why the sudden wedding?” I hesitated. “Family arrangement. I can’t wait anymore.” Maya sighed, her heart too big to hold grudges. “Yeah, I guess. Your grandma’s getting worse. She just wants to see you married before…” I looked down. My grandmother raised me. Now Alzheimer’s was stealing her away, and all she wanted was to see me married while she could still understand what that meant. Chad knew. But all he ever said was “wait a little longer.” Five years of hiding, and I couldn’t take it anymore. Maya shoved my shoulder playfully. “Forget that. Show me a picture of your guy!” I forced a weak smile and reached for my phone. The screen lit up. A hand reached over my shoulder and snatched it away. We both whipped around. Chad stood there, holding my phone in one hand, a smirk playing at the corners of his mouth. “Sera’s got a boyfriend? Let me see too.” But I could see exactly what he was doing—deleting the few photos we had together. My heart clenched like someone had wrapped a fist around it. Did he think I was about to show Maya our photos? Even now, he wouldn’t let our relationship see the light of day. “You little punk, how dare you grab Sera’s phone?” Maya snatched it back and shoved it into my hands. “I just wanted to make sure he’s good enough for her.” Chad’s eyes flicked to me, loaded with meaning. “Sera’s like a little rabbit. So innocent. Easy to take advantage of.” Heat flooded my face. That’s what he called me in bed. Said I was in my thirties, how come I didn’t act like a woman with any fire in her—still playing the innocent. Maya scoffed, then suddenly looked at me. “Sera, why are your eyes red?” “It’s nothing. I’m tired. I should go.” I left quickly. Behind me, Maya shoved Chad. “Go apologize! I’ll be right there after I pay.” Chad caught up with me in the parking garage. The lights were dim. He pinned me against the car door, his chin pressed into my shoulder. “Babe mad at me? I just didn’t expect you’d want to tell everyone about us so suddenly.” He was too close. Close enough for me to smell the cologne I’d given him. Close enough to see the lipstick mark on his collar that wasn’t mine. My heart felt like someone had squeezed it. Acid rose from my chest to my throat. I used all my strength to push him away. “Weren’t you going to drive us home? Let’s get in.” Chad clearly froze. In five years, I’d never used that tone with him. No matter how much he played around, how wild he got, I’d only sigh softly and let him go. He paused, then opened the passenger door. But I slipped into the back seat instead. He climbed in after me, impatience creeping into his voice. “I have my own plan. I’ll tell them eventually. Why the rush?” I turned to look at my reflection in the window. At the crow’s feet at the corners of my eyes. My voice came out quiet. “I’m getting married.”

Chad went rigid. The next second, his phone rang. A soft, sweet voice came through—Daisy. His company’s intern. Five years younger than him. “Chad, I messed up a spreadsheet…” “Don’t worry, I’m on my way.” He hung up, pressed his forehead against mine like he’d misunderstood something. “I’m still young. I need to focus on my career. Marriage can wait.” He pulled open the car door and dragged me out with him. “Something urgent at work. Go home with Maya.” He circled back to the driver’s seat, leaving nothing but exhaust fumes. I closed my eyes. Last time was exactly like this. He said he wanted to see the ocean. I researched beaches for weeks, found the perfect spots. He said he wanted seafood. I compared restaurants one by one, made all the reservations. At the airport, one second he was holding me, saying: “It’s so great going on trips with you, babe. You plan everything perfectly.” The next second, his phone rang. Company emergency. Then he walked away without looking back. I waited in the Maldives for a week. He never came. “Sera!” Maya finally ran over. “Where’s that punk?” “Work thing. He left.” Maya let out a cold snort. “Bet it was that Daisy again.” “I really don’t get it. Besides being young and pretty, what’s so special about her?” Young. Pretty. I turned those words over in my mouth. They only tasted bitter. Five years ago, when Chad was chasing me, he said I was young and pretty too. Last month, in bed, he grabbed my waist with a hint of disgust masked as teasing. “Babe, you really need to work out more.” Maya pulled me into a cab. Inside, she kept venting. “You don’t even know—that Daisy once booked a client incentive trip and somehow ended up booking herself instead!” “Chad went to comfort her! Spent a whole week with her in the Maldives! A whole week!” My brain exploded. Maya had already pulled out her phone. “I added her as a friend. Chad tried to cover for her, said since she went to the same college as you, he couldn’t be too harsh.” “Look, this post.” The date matched exactly—the week I was alone in the Maldives! Every location in the photos I recognized. They were from the itinerary I’d sent him. Daisy’s caption read: [Day One with him!] My mouth opened, but no sound came out. Our five-year anniversary had been their first day in the light. After dropping Maya off, I said goodbye as calmly as I could. But when the door closed, I gave the driver Chad’s office address. I’d been to this building many times, but they all thought I was just his sister’s best friend. They didn’t know he’d pin me against the couch in his office, against the floor-to-ceiling windows, on his desk—every reckless thing imaginable. The office door was half-open. I was about to push it when I heard voices inside. “Let’s take a trip this Memorial Day weekend.” My hand froze mid-air. Chad’s voice came after a few seconds. “Perfect. There’s something I need to tell you anyway.” My heart contracted. I shoved the door open hard. “What a coincidence. My wedding’s Memorial Day weekend too.”

They both turned to stare. The air went still. Daisy quickly walked over to me, smiling. “You’re getting married over Memorial Day weekend, Sera? Then, as your bestie’s brother, Chad definitely has to come to the wedding, right?” “I’ll catch up with Chad another time.” After Daisy left, Chad walked over to me. His proposal trip ruined, he’d completely lost his gentle facade. “Why did you follow me here?” “Are you that desperate to get married? Do you have to force me into it?” Desperate. Force. My mouth opened. My chest felt like it was caving in. “Enough.” Chad let out a cold laugh, his eyes drifting to the window. “Just go home.” I paused, then realized—outside the window, Daisy and several coworkers were staring in. I looked down. I’d come to tell him we were done officially. But suddenly I realized there was no point in saying it. Breaking up requires having been together. And in his eyes, we probably never were. The last thread of hope inside me snapped. I turned and left. After that, Chad never came back to our apartment. I thought about all the times we’d fought before. I was always the first to apologize. He always said it was because I was the more mature one in the relationship. But I get tired too. So much so that these past few days, beyond the hurt, I actually felt… relief. Meanwhile, Maya enthusiastically helped me prepare everything. “The timeline’s tight, but you’re getting everything a bride deserves!” She dragged me to try on wedding dresses. That night, she posted photos of us at the bridal shop. Then, at the bar, I got the first message from Chad in days. [You really dare to try on dresses with my sister? You think you can actually tell her about us?] I lifted my drink and drained it in one go. “Maya.” “Yeah?” “If I told you I dated your brother… would you be upset?” Maya stared at me for a long time, then smiled. “Actually, I suspected before. He chased you, didn’t he?” I nodded. Maya suddenly threw her arms around me tightly. “It’s all in the past now. You’re getting married. He’s about to propose. It doesn’t matter anymore.” Right. It doesn’t matter. Five years of suppressed emotions suddenly burst through like a dam breaking. I didn’t know how long had passed before I heard Maya’s husband arrive. “Why’d you drink so much…” Another pair of hands lifted me up. I opened my eyes. Chad stood in front of me, brow furrowed. They left first. Outside, only he and I remained. I crouched by the curb, arms wrapped around my knees. Chad tossed his jacket over my head and half-dragged, half-carried me toward his car. But the next second, he suddenly let go. I stumbled. My knee hit the ground. I hissed in pain. A group was walking toward us—Chad’s friends. Daisy was with them. Chad hesitated, then helped me up again. When they asked, he paused. “This is Seraphina. You’ve met her—my sister’s best friend. She had too much to drink.” I suddenly wanted to laugh. But then I remembered he once said my laugh lines were too deep when I smiled. So I just nodded, playing along. Cutting ties. “Here’s my wedding invitation. You’re all welcome to come.” I pulled out the invitation we’d just printed yesterday. Inside were both the bride’s and the groom’s names written out clearly. The moment I handed it over, Chad’s hand shot out.

Watch👉 https://cps-front.novelix.live/app-api/ext/new/20260619hMuwDBeSyD 🌟 Continue the story here 👉🏻 📲 Download the “Novelix” app 🔍 search for “ni492793”, and watch the full series ✨! #Novelix

The San Francisco Bay Bridge Expansion Project. The biggest infrastructure contract in a decade. And my wife just let some punk summer intern swap out the precision explosives for blue fireworks. I moved to stop him. He shoved a termination letter in my face. “Who the hell are you to question me? Do you know who my wife is?” He grabbed my three years of bridge designs—every calculation, every blueprint—and lit them on fire with a Zippo. “Blue fireworks, precision charges, whatever. When this bridge is done, it’s taking MY name.” My eyes locked on his left hand. On his ring finger sat my wedding band. Custom platinum with micro-engraved coordinates. One of a kind. The same ring that disappeared from my nightstand three months ago. I smiled. Then pulled out my phone and called the Federal Bridge Authority. “Hey, Director William. I heard the project got privately contracted. I’m pulling out.” — The second I hung up, Blake grabbed the remaining structural plans and hurled them out the window. They tumbled down toward the bay. Thirty floors down. He lit a cigarette, looking at me like I was dirt. “I don’t care if you call God himself. You’re done here.” Watching three years of work hit the water below—getting soaked, ruined— My fists clenched. I lunged forward and grabbed his collar. “Do you have any idea what you just destroyed? You don’t have enough lives to pay for this!” Security grabbed me before I could finish. Threw me out the conference room door. I hit the floor hard. Knees screaming. Blake flicked ash on my face. His laugh echoed through the office. “Couple pieces of paper. Only wage slaves like you get worked up over trash.” “I’m Ava’s handpicked project director. Get the fuck out before I have you arrested.” The whole office erupted in laughter. “Blake’s an Ivy League grad. Those designs? He can redraw them in five minutes.” “Blake’s marrying the boss. He’s gonna OWN this company. Firing a barking dog like you? Child’s play.” I ignored the pain in my knees. Stared Blake down. “Ava’s husband?” “You want her to stand here and say that to my face?” Funny thing was, the woman who shared my bed last night— The woman who promised to reveal our secret marriage once the FBA project finished— Was apparently Blake’s wife now. Blake made a show of it, flashing his ring finger. My eyes widened. That ring. MY ring. The one I had custom-made when I proposed. The only one like it in the world. Three months ago, it vanished. Ava told me I probably left it at my workstation during an all-nighter. I’d torn that office apart looking for it. Now I understood. The ring and her heart both went to someone else. Of course I couldn’t find it. Blake’s voice dripped contempt. “You? You’re nobody. Why would my wife waste her time on trash like you?” “You want to keep your job? Get on your knees. Three kowtows. Promise you’ll never question my decisions again. Maybe I’ll let you stay.” I didn’t move. Just swept my gaze over the vultures behind him. “Mountain blasting isn’t a game. Every explosive is calculated to the gram. Swapping them last minute—using goddamn fireworks—one mistake and this project kills people. Who’s taking that responsibility?” Then Blake sneered. “Liam, quit the fear-mongering.” “You’re just jealous Ava gave me the project. So you’re trying to sabotage me.” “Don’t forget—I’m her husband. If something goes wrong, I’ve got plenty of people covering my ass.” The office door opened. Ava walked in.

Blake spun the story before she could see the truth. “Ava, thank God you’re here. Liam publicly challenged my authority. He said he’s going to throw me out of the company.” Ava’s eyes turned to ice when she looked at me. “Liam. Who gave you permission to fire MY people?” I kept my voice level. “First, I didn’t fire him. He tried to fire me.” “Second, his material budget makes no sense. The calculations are wrong.” “Ava, are you really going to let your boy toy build a death trap that’ll kill innocent people?” *CRACK.* Her hand came out of nowhere. Open palm across my face. A perfect red handprint bloomed on my cheek. “Guilty minds see guilt everywhere.” “Blake graduated top of his class from Yale’s Architecture program. He’s a genius I brought in at considerable expense. His designs are flawless.” “You, on the other hand—you’re spreading lies because you’re jealous. You owe Blake an apology.” I worked my tongue against my stinging cheek. Bitterness spread through my chest. I couldn’t remember the last time Ava defended me like this. Blake, a Yale Architecture grad? Funny. As a tenured professor in that exact department, I’d never heard his name. She didn’t know, of course. Didn’t know this federal bridge project only went to her company because I pulled strings. Because I asked my father to call in favors. Without me, she wouldn’t have even been considered for the bid. I gave her everything. And now she wanted to kick me to the curb. Before I could process it, Ava was already at Blake’s side. Her voice went soft, doting. “Don’t worry. I won’t let anyone question your abilities.” Blake played the victim perfectly. “Ava, maybe we should let Liam lead the project after all. He’s trying to destroy my reputation. How am I supposed to work in this industry after this?” Ava’s expression hardened even more. “Liam. You want to stay at this company? Apologize to Blake. Right now.” “Or pack your shit and get out.” The employees smelled blood in the water. Started piling on. “Ava, you don’t know what it’s been like. Liam acts like he owns the place just because he’s close to you!” “Exactly. Blake earned his position. Unlike some people who wave around fake authority.” Listening to them tear me apart, Ava’s glare turned colder. “Liam, you’re out of control! You finished ONE small project and now you think you run this company. You’re even bullying the expert I brought in!” “If I let you continue, you’ll tank the whole business!” Her eyes gleamed with calculation. “Effective immediately, you’re no longer the chief engineer. You’re Blake’s assistant.” “From now on, he gives the orders. You follow them.” I stared at this woman I’d spent five years with. Laughed quietly. To help Ava’s company establish itself, I’d turned down offers from global firms. Goldman. McKinsey. Arup. To secure this bridge project—this career-defining, national spotlight project—I’d used my family’s connections. Called in every favor. And for what? My wife was fucking a summer intern. Wearing my wedding ring while she did it. Ava whispered in Blake’s ear, her eyes full of admiration. Blake kept glancing at me, smug satisfaction radiating from every pore. Ava noticed I wasn’t moving. Her affection turned to irritation. “Assistant Liam. What are you waiting for? Apologize to Director Blake. Now.” Something in me died right then. I met Ava’s eyes. Spoke clearly. “Ava. I want a divorce.”

Ava froze. Then something flickered in her eyes. Almost like relief. “Liam, are you sure? This is YOUR idea. I’m not forcing you.” I caught the subtext immediately. She’d been wanting this divorce. Just waiting for me to say it first. No wonder she’d been so obvious with Blake. I laughed bitterly. “I’m sure.” She pulled a folder from her desk and threw it at me. “Then sign.” I opened it. Of course—divorce papers. Already drafted. Her signature already on the line. I read through the terms. My eyebrows shot up. “You want me to leave with nothing?” Ava’s tone was casual. “That’s right. You leave with nothing, Liam. It’s what you promised.” “Don’t remember? Let me refresh your memory.” She pulled up a video on the projector. Me in a tuxedo. Holding flowers. Grinning like an idiot. Off-camera, someone asked: “Liam, what happens if you betray Ava or ask for divorce?” My past self answered immediately: “That’ll never happen. I’d never do that.” “Words are cheap, Liam. Promise something real on camera.” I looked at Ava beside me—stunning in her white wedding dress, tears of joy in her eyes. “If that day ever comes, I’ll leave with nothing.” “Ava, I love you. You’re the only woman I’ll ever love.” The video cut off. Ava drummed her fingers on the conference table. Smiled smugly. “You made that promise on camera. You’re not backing out now.” I stared at the frozen frame. The two of us looking at each other. Eyes only for each other. But the real Ava stood next to another man. Looking at me with contempt. When I recorded that video, I believed we’d grow old together. Turns out my “forever” lasted five years. The other employees looked at me with pity. Blake couldn’t hide his greed and excitement. “Ava.” My voice was calm now. Empty. “Fine. I’ll leave with nothing.” “And I’m withdrawing from the bridge project.” I signed the papers and turned to leave. Needed to get out of this suffocating place. “Stop.” Ava’s command froze me mid-step. I didn’t turn around. “Liam, the bridge project has already started. You can’t just quit.” “I’ve already submitted the personnel roster to the FBA. If you go around badmouthing Blake and me, who takes responsibility?” “What do you want?” “You need FBA approval to leave. Until then, you work as Blake’s assistant.” I spun around, staring at her in disbelief. Taking everything wasn’t enough? She wanted me to stay and be humiliated by Blake? Blake grinned at me, malicious and triumphant. “Assistant Liam. Looking forward to working together.”

Watch👉 https://cps-front.novelix.live/app-api/ext/new/20260619G1OUYBR1Eg 🌟 Continue the story here 👉🏻 📲 Download the “Novelix” app 🔍 search for “ni475062”, and watch the full series ✨! #Novelix

I gave the stolen sandwich to a scrawny girl shivering in the alley, and she became my shadow. Two orphans with nowhere else to go. We survived together. At sixteen, I found Seraphina cornered by three gang punks behind the bodega. I grabbed a broken bottle and took down four before their leader showed up with his crew. They left me half-dead on the pavement. Two weeks in bed before I could walk again. Seraphina loved music. On her seventeenth birthday, I broke into a high-end music store in SoHo and stole a vintage keyboard. Got arrested that same night. Spent two weeks in juvie. When I got out, she was waiting with red-rimmed eyes. “Never do something that stupid for me again,” she whispered. At nineteen, Seraphina got her acceptance letter to Juilliard. I wasn’t built for college, but I so happy when I got the news.I worked three jobs—sometimes pulling double shifts at the construction site—just to cover her tuition. By twenty-four, Seraphina was a rising star. Piano prodigy. Concert halls across the country. We moved into a penthouse on the Upper East Side. Twenty-six years old, and I was still breaking my back on construction sites. She’d just won the International Tchaikovsky Competition. Gold medal. Front page of every music magazine. I saved for weeks, bought a secondhand keyboard, and planned to surprise her. Play something I’d been practicing. Tell her I loved her. I sat at that keyboard all night, waiting. She never came home. The next morning, my phone blew up with notifications. “Piano Prodigy Seraphina Wells Goes Official with Music Dynasty Heir Sebastian Thorne!” The photo showed her leaning into him, her eyes soft in a way I’d never seen. Not for me. Never for me. I knew Sebastian. Old money, Juilliard graduate, violin virtuoso. Everything I wasn’t. I pressed a key on the keyboard. Dead silence. The batteries had died. Just like us.

“Bro, you’re really coming back?” Leo’s voice crackled through the phone, disbelief bleeding through every word. “After everything you did for Seraphina—she’s a superstar now and you’re leaving?” “Is she coming with you?” I dug my thumbnail into my palm, forcing my voice to stay light. “Just me. She’s got her career in Manhattan. Big things happening.” Silence. Then: “Something happen between you two?” I didn’t know how to answer. How do you explain that love dies slowly? That we’d been boiling in the same pot for years, and the water had evaporated without either of us noticing? “There was never anything to begin with,” I said. “You not happy I’m coming home?” “Hell no—I mean, hell yes! You’re my best friend, man. Come back anytime.” When I hung up, I stared at the penthouse. Two years we’d lived here. Fifteen years we’d survived together. Seraphina had carved herself into every corner of my life. Letting go wasn’t an option—it was an impossibility. But I had to try. I grew up with nothing. No parents. Bounced between shelters and streets, begging for scraps. Then I met Seraphina. She was eleven, same as me. Gas leak explosion took out her entire apartment building. She came home from school to black rubble and police tape. The girl had nothing left. When she saw me stealing bread from a dumpster, she recognized something—kinship, maybe. Desperation. She followed me for three days before I finally split my sandwich with her. We’d been inseparable ever since. I saved her life more than once. Pulled her out of the East River when bullies threw her off a dock. Gave up my shot at trade school to work construction so she could attend Juilliard. When she got that acceptance letter, she sobbed into my chest. “I won’t let you down,” she’d promised. “I’ll make this worth it.” And she did. Within six years, she was headlining Carnegie Hall. We traded the crumbling studio in Queens for a penthouse with floor-to-ceiling windows. But the gap between us grew wider with every standing ovation. She was a prodigy. A sensation. I was a high school dropout with a criminal record. We didn’t fit anymore. Maybe we never had. Especially after Sebastian entered her life. “Sebastian has such a deep understanding of Chopin. He can hear the smallest variations in my tempo.” “Sebastian and I are planning a joint recital. His violin with my piano—it’ll be incredible.” “Sebastian helped repair the old Steinway today. He even knows how to voice hammers.” Then, a week ago: “Won’t be home tonight. Celebrating the gold medal with Sebastian.” I needed to see him. Needed to understand what kind of man lived in the space I used to occupy.

Lincoln Center felt like a cathedral built for people I’d never be. I stood in the marble lobby wearing a faded jacket I’d owned since I was nineteen. Every person who passed me radiated wealth—tailored suits, silk scarves, designer shoes. I was a stain on their pristine world. “Excuse me, sir. Are you here for Miss Wells’ rehearsal?” The voice belonged to a man in an immaculate navy suit. Warm smile. Perfect posture. The kind of guy who’d never had to fight for anything. Sebastian Thorne. I recognized him from the photos. “I’m looking for Seraphina. Can you point me in the right direction?” His smile dimmed. “Miss Wells is in rehearsal. I’m afraid she can’t be disturbed right now.” He studied me like I was a vagrant who’d wandered in from the street. “Who are you to her?” The question stabbed deeper than it should have. “I’m the person who raised her,” I paused,and added, “Her brother.” The words felt like a surrender. His expression softened immediately. “Oh,Welcome! You’re Seraphina’s brother. I apologize—I didn’t realize.” He gestured down the hall. “I’m actually headed to the rehearsal space now. You can walk with me.” I followed him through the labyrinth of hallways, past musicians warming up in practice rooms, past posters of Seraphina’s face plastered on every wall. People greeted Sebastian like royalty. He responded to each one with practiced charm. When we reached the rehearsal room, Seraphina was just stepping out. She froze when she saw me. Her eyes darted to Sebastian, then back to me. “Jax. What are you doing here?” Her tone wasn’t warm. It was guarded. Almost… afraid. Afraid I’d embarrass her? Afraid I’d hurt Sebastian? I opened my mouth, but nothing came out. Sebastian broke the tension. “Your brother came to see you. I thought we could all grab dinner together.” She didn’t refute it—not a word, not a single flicker of denial. The restaurant was the kind of place where they don’t list prices on the menu. I sat across from Sebastian and Seraphina, watching them speak a language I didn’t understand. “The rubato in the third movement needs to breathe more,” Sebastian said. “You’re rushing the diminuendo.” Seraphina nodded, her eyes bright. “I was thinking the same thing. And the left-hand voicing in measure forty-seven—” “Needs more weight,” Sebastian finished. “Exactly.” They smiled at each other. I might as well have been invisible. Sebastian glanced at me, almost apologetic. “Sorry—this is all technical jargon. Seraphina and I talk shop constantly. Occupational hazard.” He said it kindly. Like he was trying to include me. But it only made the gap more obvious. I pushed food around my plate, swallowing words I couldn’t form. The conversation swirled around me, a current I couldn’t enter. After dinner, Sebastian insisted on showing me around Lincoln Center. We walked past rehearsal halls and performance spaces, Sebastian pointing out details I didn’t care about. Stagehands whispered as we passed. “Miss Wells and Sebastian Thorne are perfect together. Total power couple.” “A piano prodigy and a violin genius? They’re like something out of a movie.” “Who’s the guy in the old jacket? He looks so out of place.” I heard every word. That night, I bought a one-way ticket back to Montana.

Watch👉 https://cps-front.novelix.live/app-api/ext/new/202606197AGBGp7tv4 🌟 Continue the story here 👉🏻 📲 Download the “Novelix” app 🔍 search for “ni905569”, and watch the full series ✨! #Novelix

The swimming pool turned crimson. My son’s body floated to the surface, covered in holes. Blood leaked from everywhere—his arms, his legs, places I couldn’t even see yet. I dove in and dragged Leo to the edge. His swimsuit was writhing. Leeches. Hundreds of them. Someone had stuffed his trunks full of bloodsucking parasites before the race. The woman responsible stood poolside, laughing. Her son—the real culprit—slapped me across the face. Once. Twice. Ten times. “How dare a scholarship kid compete against the richest family in Manhattan?” She grabbed my hair, forcing me to my knees. “This is what happens when trash tries to climb above its station.” Her smile was venomous. “One word from me, and you’ll be exiled from New York society forever. Try me.” I raised an eyebrow. Since when did the sole heir to the Sterling fortune become a “charity case”? I wiped the blood from my lip and pulled out my phone. Speed-dial: my husband. “Richard,” I said calmly. “I heard a rumor that the Sterling family has a… bastard son. Is that true?” — A male voice answered. Not Richard’s. “Who the hell is this?” The assistant’s tone was sharp. “Mr. Ashford doesn’t have time for this. Vanguard Holdings will sue you into the ground if you keep harassing him.” I froze. Ten years of marriage. He didn’t even have my number saved. The voice on the other end kept yelling, but I wasn’t listening anymore. My eyes locked onto the woman’s wrist. A jade bracelet. Translucent green. My family heirloom. And the boy beside her—her son—was wearing the limited-edition watch I’d given Leo for his birthday. So that’s how it was. If I hadn’t come home early from my business trip, I never would’ve known. Richard had a mistress. And judging by the boy’s age—exactly Leo’s age—he’d been cheating since the day we conceived our son. He’d been eating at my table for a decade. Now he wanted to feast somewhere else. Fine. Let’s see how he likes his last meal. I hung up. The referee smirked. “What’s wrong? Realizing your little stunt didn’t work?” She gestured toward the mistress with exaggerated respect. “This is Simone, wife of Richard Ashford, CEO of Vanguard Holdings. If you know what’s good for you, you’ll pull your son from the competition right now.” The other parents chimed in. “Everyone knows Chase is the favorite to win. Why’s some scholarship brat even allowed in the pool?” “Honestly, I’m worried my kid will catch something just swimming near him. Poor people carry diseases, you know.” Their stares felt like knives. Leo trembled in my arms, his small body shaking. He clutched my sleeve, voice barely a whisper. “Mom, I didn’t do anything wrong. I just… I heard first place gets $500. I wanted to buy you a present.” His lips were white. “And if I get into the training program, it’s free. Room and board. You won’t have to spend money on me anymore.” My heart shattered. Three years ago, I left for Europe to handle overseas operations. Before I left, I explicitly told Richard: give Leo a $50,000 monthly allowance. And now my son was competing for five hundred dollars. Before Leo could finish speaking, a swim goggle flew through the air. It hit him square in the groin. Chase sneered. “My dad booked out the entire Ritz for my victory party tonight. You really thought you could steal my trophy?” Leo collapsed, curling into a ball. Simone and Chase exchanged a glance. Her smile turned predatory. “If your son wants attention so badly, let’s give him some.” She raised her hand. A pack of photographers surged forward, cameras flashing. One of them grinned. “‘Elementary School Swimmer Uses Leeches to Cheat—Story at Eleven.’ This is gonna trend for sure.” I stared at the flashing lights, my voice colder than ice. “Whichever outlet publishes a single photo will be erased from Manhattan by morning.” The authority in my tone made every camera freeze mid-click. Leo’s tears streamed down his face as he clutched himself, gasping in pain. “Mom… it hurts…” I pulled up his sleeve. The leeches had burrowed deep. Dozens of puncture wounds covered his skin. God only knew how much worse it was in the places I couldn’t see. My hands shook as I dialed. “Arthur,” I said quietly. “Leo’s been injured. I need the best trauma team in the city at this location. Now.” A pause. “And freeze all of Richard’s access to company assets. Bring him to me. I don’t care if you have to drag him.” Arthur’s voice was steady. “Understood, Miss Sterling. I’m en route.”

Before I could lower my phone, Simone slapped it out of my hand. She tilted her chin up, eyes filled with contempt. “Still trying to call for backup? Pathetic.” “You’re not leaving until you and your brat get on your knees and apologize to my son.” I laughed bitterly. “You attack my child, and you want us to apologize?” Chase crossed his arms, smug. “Everyone at school knows the rules. Anyone who crosses me crawls around the playground on all fours. Like a dog.” He looked at Leo, his smile cruel. “Your son’s the best at it, by the way. So obedient…” Leo whimpered and covered his head, his whole body trembling. I stroked his back, my voice soft. “It’s okay, sweetheart. I’m here now. The doctors are coming.” Simone laughed. “Doctors? Let me show you what real power looks like.” She snapped her fingers. Within seconds, every road leading to the venue was blocked. Barricades. Security. Nothing in or out. Leo’s temperature spiked. Every second we waited, the leeches burrowed deeper into his flesh. My fury finally erupted. I slapped Simone across the face. “You gold-digging trash. You think you can block MY son from receiving medical care?” “The entire hospital network in this city is owned by the Sterling family. You have no authority here.” I raised my voice, addressing the crowd. “My name is Victoria Sterling. I am the true owner of Vanguard Holdings.” “If there are any medical professionals present, please help my son. The Sterling family will repay you generously.” Silence. No one moved. Simone recovered from the slap, her face twisted in rage. “What are you waiting for?! Grab her!” Seven bodyguards rushed me. Within seconds, I was pinned to the ground. Simone’s eyes gleamed with malice. “Make this bitch kowtow. Ninety-nine times. I want to hear her skull crack.” Thud. Thud. Thud. My forehead slammed into the tile floor again and again. Warm blood trickled into my eyes, blurring my vision. Simone pulled out her phone, her voice sickly sweet. “Honey? Someone’s bullying me. She says her name is—” Richard didn’t even let her finish. “I don’t care who she is. No one in this city can touch my wife and get away with it.” His voice was firm, protective. “Do whatever you want to her. I’ll handle the rest when I’m done with this meeting.” The crowd whispered, delighted. “Did you hear that? Mr. Ashford doesn’t even know who she is.” “She’s insane. Everyone knows Richard worships the ground Simone walks on. She’s done for.” Leo crawled toward Chase on his hands and knees, his voice breaking. “Please. I’ll do anything. I’ll be your dog. Just… don’t hurt my mom anymore…” Chase kicked him in the face. His shoe ground into Leo’s cheek. “Too late for begging now, loser.” A voice boomed from the entrance. “STOP!”

Watch👉 https://cps-front.novelix.live/app-api/ext/new/20260619hdx0uC6GE3 🌟 Continue the story here 👉🏻 📲 Download the “Novelix” app 🔍 search for “ni377250”, and watch the full series ✨! #Novelix

I caught my wife cheating on Christmas Eve. The proof? One million people watched her do it on TikTok. Christmas was three days away. After five years of marriage, my wife Chloe finally agreed to take me home to meet her parents. I wanted to bring the two bottles of 1945 Romanée-Conti wine. My father left for me—worth five million dollars. But when I went to the cellar, the bottles were gone. Chloe flew into a rage, accusing me of being broke and pretending to be rich. That night, she took our daughter Lily and left for her parents’ house without me. On Christmas Day, a video exploded across TikTok. On the dining table sat two identical bottles of wine. The caption: [Generous Son-in-Law Brings Million-Dollar Wine to Christmas Dinner] Just as I thought it was an impossible coincidence, Chloe’s face appeared in the video. My hands trembled with rage. I left a comment under the video: [Does stolen wine taste good?] Later, I slapped the divorce papers down in front of Chloe Morrison and immediately withdrew all my investments from her company. She stared at me. “You want a divorce? Because of two bottles of wine?” I nodded, my voice steady. “Yes.” … My comment was quickly buried, but not before catching some attention. Less than five minutes later, Chloe’s call came through, her voice exploding through the phone. I thought she’d apologize. Instead, the moment I answered, she started screaming. “Ethan Carter! Are you out of your mind? Who told you to leave comments under Jared’s video?” “Do you know Jared has one million followers? His image is everything! If your comment starts a hate campaign, it’ll destroy his career! Can you take responsibility for that?” I forced down my anger, my voice ice-cold. “Destroy his career? He stole my wine to show off. Tell him to return it, or I’m calling the police.” “You dare!” Chloe’s voice shot up even higher. “Ethan, can you act like a man for once and be more generous? The wine was going to my dad anyway. What’s the difference if you give it or he gives it?” “Jared is a public figure. He needs this persona! And those wines—how much can they even be worth? I’ll Venmo you two hundred dollars, okay?” First she accused me of being broke and faking wealth. Now she accused me of being petty. Some people have a talent for twisting black into white. “Chloe, I’m telling you one last time—” “Enough!” She cut me off brutally. “Delete the comment now, and post an apology pinned to the top! Or we’re done!” She hung up. Listening to the dial tone, my heart turned cold. Years ago, I hid my true identity as the sole heir to Carter Group just to win her heart with sincerity, not money. For five years, I gave her every resource to fulfill her entrepreneurial dreams, helping her rise from a junior employee to CEO of a public company. It was time to end this. Just then, the regional director from Porsche called. “Mr. Carter, the Porsche Panamera you ordered for Mrs. Carter has arrived. When would you like to pick it up?” I froze. I’d ordered this car two weeks ago. To make it up to her, and to give her face when visiting her parents, I’d custom-ordered this fully-loaded luxury car as a surprise. I took a deep breath, about to say I’d postpone the pickup. But the director hurriedly added. “Oh, sorry Mr. Carter. Mrs. Carter just picked up the car with another man. My colleague just told me. Apologies for disturbing you.” “What did you say?” I sat bolt upright. My head buzzed. I hung up immediately, opened TikTok, and clicked into Jared’s profile. Two minutes ago, he’d posted a new video. The background was the dealership entrance. Jared leaned against a brand-new burgundy Porsche Panamera, dangling the keys, his face lit up with smug satisfaction. Chloe stood beside him, intimately adjusting his collar. The caption read: [Christmas Gift!!! Is This What Being Loved Feels Like? Obsessed with New Ride! #NewCar #Porsche #Blessed] The comments section exploded. [Wow! She spoils you so much!] [He gives million-dollar wine, she gives a fully-loaded Panamera!] [Tears of envy streaming from my mouth—is this what power couple love looks like?] Chloe replied with a blushing emoji. [As long as you’re happy, this car is worth it! ] My fingers tightened around the phone. At that moment, I finally gave up hope. I opened the company group chat and dropped the screenshot. Caption: [How generous of CEO Morrison—stealing her husband’s money to her assistant, wine and cars for Christmas.]

The message went out. Within a minute, the group chat exploded. But the response was completely opposite of what I expected. I thought the employees would be shocked. But I forgot—though I was the one who invested in this company, nobody knew, even Chloe. Chloe’s message immediately popped up. [Ethan Carter, what’s your problem? Why are you talking nonsense in the company chat?] [Do you have any idea how much profit Jared’s livestream sales brought the company this past six months? This car is his year-end bonus. What’s the issue?] [You, on the other hand, as a grown man, you’re petty and vindictive.] What a masterclass in gaslighting! That car was bought with MY money! Before I could type a response, the employees started kissing up. [Exactly, Mr. Carter. Jared is the company’s backbone now. It’s just a car. CEO Morrison’s decision was right.] [Some men are just insecure. When they can’t succeed themselves, they get jealous of those who can.] [Mr. Carter, I heard you can’t even afford decent gifts for CEO Morrison. Now she’s rewarding a top performer and you’re bitter about it?] Watching message after message attacking me and praising Jared, watching Chloe’s blatant favoritism, my anger strangely dissipated. The greatest sorrow is a dead heart. Chloe continued, tagging me in the chat. [Ethan Carter, delete that message NOW and post an apology to Jared! Or face the consequences!] [Don’t force me to humiliate you during Christmas!] Jared chimed in with a fake, pathetic voice message. “Miss Morrison, please don’t fight with your husband over me. I’ll return the car. As long as he’s not mad and doesn’t misunderstand us, I’m fine taking this hit.” Chloe’s response came instantly. [Don’t you DARE return it! You earned this car! Let’s see who dares say otherwise!] Watching this pair of bitches playing their little theater, I let out a cold laugh. [The wine is worth five million dollars. The car is worth five hundred thousand dollars. Transfer the money by tomorrow, or I’ll see you in court.] After sending that message, I didn’t hesitate. I left the group chat. Instant silence. My marriage had been stable until Jared returned from abroad. He was Chloe’s college junior—her “innocent little boy,” as she called him. When Chloe was pregnant and craved sour food, I drove all night across the city to find it. She complained it tasted terrible. Jared casually shipped her a box of lemon. She called it heaven-sent. Gradually, she came home later and later. She mentioned Jared more and more. Now I understood. Chloe’s heart had left home long ago. I sat in the empty living room and texted my lawyer. [Draft divorce papers. Also, withdraw all investments from Chloe’s company.] After finishing, I stood up to leave. The moment I opened the door, I came face to face with my wife and daughter. Chloe’s expression darkened when she saw me. “Ethan Carter, how long are you going to keep this up? My parents just called asking what the hell is wrong with you! Do you know how embarrassing this is?” I ignored her, my eyes falling on our five-year-old daughter Lily. I wanted to carry her to her room, to spare her from adult problems. But suddenly she screamed. “Get away! Bad Daddy!” The toy in Lily’s hand came flying at my face. The sharp edge hit my brow bone. Searing pain. Warm liquid trickled down my temple. I covered my forehead, staring in disbelief at the daughter I’d cherished since birth. Lily hid behind Chloe, glaring at me like I was her mortal enemy. “You’re a bad person! You bullied Jared! Mommy said Jared is a hero and you’re demon!” “I don’t want you as my daddy anymore! I want Jared to be my daddy!” Chloe didn’t scold her. Instead, she stared coldly at my bleeding forehead. “See? Even your own daughter is disgusted by you. Ethan Carter, you’ve failed as a human being.” “By the way, Dad’s hosting his wine tasting dinner tonight. Jared’s livestreaming the whole thing. If you don’t show up and apologize, we’re getting divorced!” In that instant, I heard something inside me shatter completely. I turned to my briefcase, pulled out freshly printed documents, and slammed them down in front of Chloe. “You don’t need to threaten me. We’re getting divorced.”

Chloe froze. She looked down at the divorce papers, then let out a scoff. “Ethan, you’re serious? Over a few bottles of wine and a car, you want a divorce?” I nodded, my gaze steady. “Yes.” “Fine! Don’t regret this!” Chloe grabbed the papers and signed her name without hesitation. “Let’s divorce!” “Lily, we’re leaving! Let’s go find Jared!” My daughter stuck her tongue out at me. “Blehhh! I’m going to ride in the sports car!” The door slammed. The house returned to deathly silence. I touched the dried blood on my forehead and dialed a number. “Marcus, it’s me. Ethan Carter.” An excited voice came through the phone. “Mr. Carter? You’re finally contacting me! After your father passed, the company has been waiting for you to take charge!” “I’m coming back.” My voice was flat. “Also, notify the group. Cut off all funding to Morrison Enterprises and Chloe Morrison personally.” “Yes, Mr. Carter! I’ll handle it immediately!” “One more thing.” I glanced at the wall clock. Six hours until their dinner party. “Run a paternity test between me and my daughter, Lily Carter. I need results in two hours.” My assistant agreed repeatedly. After hanging up, I made another call. Watching Jared’s preview video for the wine tasting, I smiled. I hope your party goes smoothly tonight. I sat in the back of the Rolls-Royce, watching the livestream on my iPad. The stream was packed—over two hundred thousand viewers online. Jared wore a custom-tailored suit, sitting beside the head of the table like the man of the house. My daughter Lily sat in his lap. The two looked strikingly similar. Chloe sat beside him, smiling tenderly. Chloe’s parents held my two bottles of vintage wine, showing off to the camera. “Everyone, look at this wine! My wonderful son-in-law Jared gave us this! I heard it’s worth tens of millions!” The comments flooded in with praise. [Jared’s amazing! Even the bottles look extraordinary!] [This wine looks like the legendary reserve collection? I heard it was owned by top elites in elite circles.] Jared basked in the flattery, humbly telling the camera. “Thank you, everyone. This wine is indeed rare. I pulled a lot of strings and bid on it at an auction, all to make my future father-in-law happy! As long as they’re happy, it’s worth it!” Chloe looked at him adoringly. “Jared, you’re so thoughtful.” Just then, my assistant sent the paternity test results in electronic version. Looking at the results, I laughed bitterly. The last trace of warmth in my eyes vanished completely. “Stop the car.” The Rolls-Royce came to a smooth stop at the hotel entrance. I pushed open the door and strode toward the banquet hall. Since they wanted to play this game of wealth and status, I’d give them a performance they’d never forget. I kicked the banquet hall doors open. The loud crash interrupted the celebration. Every eye instantly locked onto me. Chloe saw me, her face turning black with rage. She shot to her feet. “Ethan Carter, I told you to come apologize, not crash the party.” I stared coldly at this family of clowns, pointing at the wine on the table and the car keys in Jared’s hand. “Jared, stealing my wine, driving my car, flaunting wealth online—aren’t you afraid it’ll shorten your life?” The livestream exploded. Comments flew past in a blur. But Jared didn’t panic. He gave the camera a helpless, bitter smile. “Everyone, this is the gold-digging loser I’ve mentioned before. He has no skills himself, so when he sees his ex-wife doing well, he gets jealous.” My mother-in-law spat on the ground. “Pfft! What do you mean YOUR wine? Have you ever even SEEN wine this expensive? This is from my wonderful son-in-law Jared, who spent big money to honor us!” I turned to Chloe. “Chloe Morrison, we haven’t finalized the divorce yet. Are you that eager to acknowledge your new husband?” Chloe looked at me with pure disgust. In front of all the relatives and the livestream camera, she wrapped her arm around Jared’s. “Ethan Carter, stop flattering yourself. In my heart, only Jared deserves to be my husband.” My father-in-law stood up, announcing loudly to the camera. “Listen up everyone, from now on, the Morrison family only recognizes Jared Robinson as our son-in-law. This Carter guy has nothing to do with us—he’s just a shameless leech!” “Security! Get this lunatic out of here!” Following his shout, four burly men surrounded me. “I’d like to see who dares touch me!” My sharp command, backed by years of authority, made the guards hesitate. But then a wine glass came flying, smashing against my leg. Red wine splashed all over my pants. I looked down. It was Lily. She still had a piece of cream cake in her hand, which she hurled at my face. “Bad man! I’ll hit you! Don’t bully my daddy!” Cream covered my eyes. I was a mess. But Lily clapped and laughed, throwing herself into Jared’s arms. “Daddy, I chased away the bad guy! Take me to Disneyland!” Jared stroked her head lovingly, looking at me with provocation. “Good girl, you’re amazing.” In that moment, my heart twisted like a knife. Turns out I didn’t even need to read that paternity test. Just looking at this identical cruelty, I knew whose child she was. “Beat him! I’ll take responsibility!” Chloe ordered. The guards stopped hesitating and rushed forward. Four against one. I was forced to the ground, fists landing on my face. Blood seeped from the corner of my mouth. Jared walked over, looking down at me. His shoe pressed onto my hand, grinding hard. “Ethan, do you see reality now?” Before I could respond, the doors burst open again. The livestream comments went insane. [Holy shit! Isn’t that—isn’t that the billionaire who’s always on the news?!] [Oh my god! Jared’s connections are insane! Even a billionaire came to toast him?] A man with a powerful aura walked in, surrounded by an entourage. Jared clearly hadn’t expected such a big influence. After a moment of shock, he became ecstatic. Thinking his fame had attracted this important person, he quickly straightened his clothes and approached with a wine glass, his smile obsequious. “Mr. Sterling! What brings you here! This is such an honor!” However, Mr. Sterling didn’t even glance at him, completely ignoring his outstretched hand. After scanning the room, his brow furrowed slightly. Suddenly, his gaze locked onto the two bottles of opened wine on the table. Mr. Sterling’s face instantly turned to shock. He pushed past Jared and rushed to the table, his hands trembling as he picked up the bottle to examine it closely. My father-in-law, thinking the VIP liked the wine, said proudly. “Sir! This wine is from my son-in-law Jared—worth tens of millions dollars! If you like it, I can pour you a glass?” “Your son-in-law gave this?” Mr. Sterling whipped around, staring daggers at Jared, his voice carrying a hint of killing intent. “You’re saying this wine—you gave it, you bought it?” Jared was startled by the intensity, but thinking of the hundreds of thousands watching the livestream, he raised his head confidently. “Yes! I got this at an auction—” “BULLSHIT!” Mr. Sterling’s hand cracked across Jared’s face, spinning him in place. Half his face instantly swelled up. “How DARE you steal from the Carter family!” “I personally gave this wine to Old Mr. Carter years ago. There are only two bottles like this in the world. What gives YOU the right to touch them!”

Watch👉 https://cps-front.novelix.live/app-api/ext/new/202606191MRDYHU6jS 🌟 Continue the story here 👉🏻 📲 Download the “Novelix” app 🔍 search for “ni642246”, and watch the full series ✨! #Novelix

I am a Soul Guide, walking the veil between life and death. When a wolf’s heart stops, if their soul reaches my hands before midnight—before the Moon Goddess seals The Threshold—I can ferry them back to the living world. In my past life, Silas came to me broken. The acrid scent of gunpowder and raw desperation clung to him as he stood in my doorway. He begged me to save Seraphina, the pack doctor who’d been ambushed during a rogue hunt. I agreed to help her. Three months later, Silas courted me with a display of dominance and honor. He presented me with his claws—trophies from every kill he’d made defending the Great Pack Alliance. “I swear on my Alpha blood,” he growled, amber eyes molten with intensity. “I will protect you for the rest of our lives.” We mated in a ceremony before the entire Blood Moon Pack. Every wolf witnessed our bond snap into place. I didn’t know that when I went into early labor, Seraphina,the same she-wolf I’d pulled back from death,would slice my belly open with a silver blade. She tore my pup from my womb while I screamed, the metallic tang of my own blood flooding my mouth, choking me. Blood pooled beneath me, warm and sticky, as I begged Silas to save our child. His eyes flashed cold,He strapped an incendiary device to the pup’s blanket. “Soul Guide?” His lip curled back, exposing canines. “You’re just a fraud who got lucky.” “I only mated you to make Seraphina jealous. You told the Alpha King before I could back out. You forced my hand. You made her cry.” “If you’re really a Moon Seer, then save yourself and this bastard pup.” The fire consumed us both. The smell of my own burning flesh was the last thing I knew. When I opened my eyes again, I stood in front of my door. Silas stood on my porch, shoulders heaving, eyes red-rimmed. Begging me to save Seraphina. This time, I slammed the door in his face. “The Goddess chooses who lives and dies,” I said through the wood, my voice hard. “I’m just a fraud, remember? I can’t help you.”

“Elara! Please, you have to save her! She’s so young…” Silas’s voice cracked through my skull like thunder. My body jerked. I stared at the Alpha standing before me in blood-stained combat fatigues, fists clenched at his sides. The burn of silver still seared my skin. I scanned my surroundings. Antiseptic sharp enough to make my wolf recoil, fluorescent lights humming overhead, the rhythmic beeping of monitors. The Pack’s main healing den. My breath caught. I’d been reborn. In my previous life, he’d stood just like this. Broken. Desperate. His wolf whimpering beneath his skin, begging me to resurrect Seraphina from death’s door. I’d spent every ounce of power dragging her soul back from the Moon Goddess’s realm, felt my own life force drain away with each whispered incantation. Then they murdered me. Murdered our pup. Never again. I met his desperate gaze with ice. “No.” Silas’s head dropped. His shoulders shook like he’d taken a physical blow, his wolf’s anguish bleeding through the bond all Alphas project. I turned to leave. A young enforcer sprinted toward us, nearly tripping over his own boots. “Alpha Silas! Doctor Seraphina—she’s awake!” Silas and I both froze. We burst through the door. Seraphina sat propped against pillows, skin pale as moonlight but lips curved in a radiant smile. Silas rushed to her bedside, his large hand engulfing hers. “Sera, you’re okay. Thank the Goddess.” His head whipped toward me. Eyes narrowed to slits, wolf rising behind them. “Elara. So much for your ‘gift’ of seeing death coming.” “You heartless bitch. You refused to help her out of spite.” “Thank the Goddess Seraphina saves lives every day. The Goddess’s grace brought her back. If she’d died, her blood would be on your hands.” Every wolf in the room turned hostile eyes on me. The air thickened with their combined aggression,raising every hair on my arms, making my wolf snarl in warning. Seraphina squeezed Silas’s hand, her voice soft and sweet as poisoned honey. “It’s okay. Maybe Elara is still angry with me…” Silas snarled, the sound vibrating deep in his chest, rattling the windows. “Angry about what? You earned your position as pack doctor through skill!” “Soul Guide? Moon Seer? You might fool the others, but not me. You’re a charlatan, and I’ll never let you endanger my wolves.” The same man who’d nearly fallen apart moments ago now looked at me like I was his sworn enemy, his scent turning acrid with rage. His voice dropped to a lethal rumble that made lesser wolves back away. “You’re jealous Seraphina became pack doctor. So you let her die.” “A snake like you? I should rip your throat out right now.” I watched him rage for Seraphina, his chest heaving with each breath, muscles coiled tight. My mind drifted. He’d been the same in my past life. The smallest scratch on my skin made him shift half-feral with protectiveness. A papercut made him weep, cradling my hand like it held his entire world. I shoved down the twisted feeling in my chest. Then I noticed the wisp of smoke curling behind Seraphina’s shoulders, visible only to those who are dying. Recognition slammed into me. She wasn’t healed. This was the death surge—the final brilliant flare before the soul departs. She had twelve hours. Maybe less. Her smug expression made my decision easy. Last time, I’d saved her life. She’d repaid me by cutting my pup from my womb. This time, I’d let Fate take its course.

Watch👉 https://cps-front.novelix.live/app-api/ext/new/20260619kklG7TSjsO 🌟 Continue the story here 👉🏻 📲 Download the “Novelix” app 🔍 search for “ni181301”, and watch the full series ✨! #Novelix

In my last life, she caused me to lose my arms and legs. Now that I’d been reborn, I was going to take revenge. In my past life, right after graduation, Ashley used the promise of high pay to recruit our entire class to work summer jobs at her family’s factory. She even promised that after working the summer, we’d get fast-tracked into management positions at her family’s company after college. But two days into the job, a machine malfunctioned and severed both my arms and legs. By the time I got to the hospital, it was too late. When my parents confronted Ashley, she showed zero remorse. “I warned her not to touch the machines. It’s her own fault for being clumsy and stupid.” My childhood friend Ryan defended her too. “Everyone else was fine. She’s the only one who got hurt. Obviously she’s just trying to scam money.” The entire class split my settlement money and testified against me. My parents believed I was a con artist. Ashamed of me, they abandoned my body in the morgue. They even gave our entire family inheritance to Ashley as “emotional damages.” When I opened my eyes again, I was back to the day Ashley invited us all to work at her factory. — “Don’t you guys want to earn money? Well, I pulled some strings to get our entire class jobs at my family’s factory—over ten thousand a month!” “And if you work this summer, after college graduation you can go straight into management at my company. Pretty generous of me, right?” Ashley’s smug announcement made me realize—I’d been given a second chance. Everyone cheered, thanking her for the opportunity. But my body still remembered the electric shock from the machinery, the agony of my limbs being ground to pulp. I grabbed my bag and headed for the door. Ashley’s hand shot out, catching my arm. “Emma, where are you going? Everyone agreed to work at my family’s factory. You’re the only one who hasn’t answered.” I yanked my arm away. “I’m not going. I’ve got other plans.” Ryan crossed his arms and stepped beside her, his voice dripping with disapproval. “Where’s your sense of gratitude? Your parents spent years paying for your education. You should be jumping at the chance to earn money and pay them back!” My fists clenched. “I borrowed some money online before finals. This summer I have to go to Mexico to pay it back. I already signed the contract. People from there are coming specifically to find me.” Ashley’s eyes narrowed, looking me up and down skeptically. “Mexico? That place is crawling with criminals. You’re asking to get killed.” Her fake concern made my skin crawl. Still better than her sabotaging me, letting a machine tear me apart so she could pocket the insurance money. I shrugged, playing regretful. “But I already gave my word. If I don’t go, their boss will come looking for me here, and everyone will get dragged into it.” When the class heard Mexican gangsters might show up, they immediately backed off. “If she doesn’t want the opportunity, forget her! Ashley, we’ll all go without her!” But Ashley wouldn’t let it drop. “Problem is, I already applied for all of you. My dad will only hire the group if everyone comes. We can’t be missing anyone.” “So you’re saying you want the whole class to lose this money-making opportunity because of you?” The same classmates who’d just dismissed me now shot me resentful glares. Ryan tore into me. “What Mexican gangsters? If they come for anyone, it’s you. Get yourself to that factory first and make up the headcount. Don’t drag the rest of us down with your problems!” Everyone else piled on, like they wanted to rip me apart. “Ashley worked so hard to get us this opportunity! If you don’t go, we’ll report you for abusing your position as class president to bully students. We’ll get you expelled from college!” “Exactly! We’re counting on working our way into management at Ashley’s family company! If you ruin our futures, we’ll make you pay!” They closed in on me like a mob. Ashley raised an eyebrow, her voice dripping with pressure. “Emma, this isn’t just about you anymore. You’re hurting everyone’s interests. Want the whole class to hate you forever?” I clenched my fists and finally nodded, buying myself time. “Fine. I’ll go to her family’s factory with you.”

The second I got home, I bought a plane ticket to Mexico. No way was I going to that factory when I knew Ashley was after my insurance payout. Once I left the country, I could avoid my past life’s fate. The day I was supposed to leave for the airport, the entire class showed up at my front door. Ryan cheerfully dragged me outside, telling my parents, “Mr. and Mrs. White, we’re all working at the Davis factory this summer. Emma won’t be home for two months!” My parents had trusted Ryan since we were kids. Seeing the whole group of students, they agreed without a second thought. Ashley fake-politely pulled me onto the bus, waving to my parents to reassure them. Ryan, terrified I’d escape, wrapped the seatbelt around me several times. “Don’t worry, Emma. Ashley’s factory is way out in the middle of nowhere. Even if those Mexican guys come looking, they’ll never find you!” “After you finish these two months, you can pay off your debt! Then you should get on your knees and thank Ashley. She’s your boss!” Ashley waved her hand, laughing with hidden meaning. “She’s OUR boss! We’re all getting paid because of her!” The class burst into laughter, thinking she was mocking me. Only I knew—she meant every word. The bus was about to merge onto the highway. If I didn’t get off now, once we reached the factory gates, there’d be no escape. I forced myself to stay calm and shouted, “Tell the driver to stop! I need to use the bathroom!” Ashley glared at me, annoyed. “Hold it. We’re almost there.” “It’s your family’s factory—what’s a few minutes? Unless you’re planning to treat us like slaves from day one?” My sharp retort made the other students nod in agreement. Reluctantly, Ashley told the driver to stop at a gas station. “You can use the bathroom, but everyone hands me their phones first. Just to make sure nobody tries to run off. We’re all in this together, right?” I glared at her, teeth clenched. She was clearly targeting me. Ryan was first to hand over his phone, frowning at me. “Hand it over! You’re always causing problems!” Everyone stared me down, pressuring me. “Come on! We all gave ours up. Ashley’s just trying to keep things fair!” We were on the outskirts now, not too far from the airport. If I could just get off this bus, I could run there and still make my flight. Reluctantly, I pulled out my phone and tossed it to her, then tried to dash off the bus. Ashley suddenly screamed, “Grab her!” Ryan and the others yanked me back by my collar. She slammed my phone against my forehead. “I knew she was up to something! She bought a ticket to Mexico—for this afternoon at 2 PM! She was planning to run!” The class looked at the boarding notification on my screen, then shoved me back into my seat. “Emma! If you make us lose this money-making opportunity, you’re dead!” “You better sit still! Or we’ll tie you up ourselves!” Ryan pulled out rope from somewhere and bound me tightly to the seat. “I knew you’d try something! No way you’re getting away! Ashley promised we’d all interview together. Every single one of us!” I struggled hard, but the ropes didn’t budge. Watching Ryan and Ashley exchange congratulatory looks made my blood run cold. At Ashley’s signal, the driver pulled back onto the road. As the city disappeared behind us, my heart sank.

When we arrived at the factory, everyone happily dragged their luggage off the bus. Some planned how they’d spend their paychecks after two months. Others grinned about landing management positions at the Davis company after college. Only I stared at this decrepit, ominous factory, my entire body trembling. I had to escape today. Tomorrow, I’d die here just like in my past life. Ashley yanked on the rope dragging me along. Unable to break free, I tried warning the others. “Why do these machines look so old? Ashley, you sure your family’s equipment won’t kill someone?!” Everyone paused. Ryan immediately defended her. “Don’t be dramatic! Ashley’s from the richest family in the City. The machines just look old—they’re obviously state-of-the-art!” The others looked at her adoringly. “Exactly! Everything the Davis family owns is top quality. You’re just poor and jealous. Talk trash about Ashley again and we’ll all turn on you!” “Ashley’s giving you this opportunity out of kindness. One more bad word and we’re cutting you off completely!” Ashley, who’d looked nervous at my question, relaxed when everyone defended her. She laughed, yanking my hair. “Emma, you’re poor and haven’t seen anything nice, so I’ll forgive you! But since you bad-mouthed my family, you better lick my shoes clean when you get your paycheck!” My scalp burned. Watching everyone eagerly fill out interview forms, I realized—no one was going to help me. While everyone crowded around the interview table, completely ignoring me, I saw my chance. Ashley had my phone, but I still had my smartwatch. I crept into a corner and dialed 911. When someone answered, I whispered urgently, “Officer! There’s illegal labor trafficking here. My life is in danger! We’re at—” Before I could finish the address, Ashley ripped the watch off my wrist and smashed it. “Emma! You called the cops?!” Everyone stopped their interviews, shooting hateful glares my way. Ryan crushed the watch under his heel and slapped me across the face. “You idiot! Are you trying to destroy all of us?! Can’t stand seeing us succeed, can you!” The slap left me dizzy. I bit out, “If this factory’s legit, why can’t I call the cops?! What are you hiding that you’re so scared of police investigating?!” Ryan’s eyes shifted, and my heart plummeted. He was in on it with Ashley. He knew I’d been brought here to die in a machine “accident” so they could split the insurance money. But Ashley didn’t even flinch. She said coldly, “The Davis family is the richest in the City. We can handle anything. I just don’t want cops wasting everyone’s work time!” “If we lose even a dollar, will you compensate us?! Besides, we signed contracts—we have to complete two months before we can intern at my company!” Everyone turned on me, shoving me around. “You troublemaker! You’re trying to ruin everything for us!” I stumbled and hit my head on a machine, pain exploding in my skull. Ashley stepped on my head, self-righteous and furious. “We can’t let her destroy our futures! I propose we make her sign a contract—if she leaves the factory, she pays each of us a hundred thousand dollars. That’ll keep her here!” My eyes widened. “That’s illegal! That contract wouldn’t hold up!” Ashley smiled coldly, holding a handwritten note. “Once you sign and fingerprint it, it’s binding. Emma, unless you’re planning something, why won’t you sign?” Ryan and the others grabbed my wrists, forcing my hand toward the paper. “Ashley just wants a guarantee from you! As long as you don’t leave, nothing happens. Just sign!” “Ashley’s looking out for us! Our patience is running out!” As my hand got closer to the paper, I panicked and threw myself toward a bottle of acid in the corner. I knocked it over with both hands, the acid eating away my fingerprints instantly. Gasping with relief, I said shakily, “No fingerprints now. And I won’t sign.” Ashley’s eyes went ice cold, her laugh chilling. “I was going easy on you. Just wanted a signature for everyone’s peace of mind. Guess we’re doing this the hard way.” She pulled a syringe from her bag, advancing on me with murderous intent. “This is something my family developed. One injection and you’ll be brain-dead for life, only capable of repeating one action over and over.” My teeth chattered as I struggled desperately. But Ryan and the others held my arms down, preventing any resistance. Just as the cold needle touched my arm, police sirens wailed outside.

Watch👉 https://cps-front.novelix.live/app-api/ext/new/202606190yVtzqXtDU 🌟 Continue the story here 👉🏻 📲 Download the “Novelix” app 🔍 search for “ni383523”, and watch the full series ✨! #Novelix