Chapter One
The body lay in perfect repose on the Victorian fainting couch, looking more like a sleeping beauty than a victim. Detective Sarah Chen had seen enough death in her ten years with the Metropolitan Police's Special Cases Unit to know that natural death never looked this peaceful. Something was very, very wrong.
'No signs of struggle, no marks on the body, and yet...' She leaned closer, studying the victim's face. Charlotte Mills, aged 28, was found by her roommate this morning, apparently having passed away in her sleep. Her expression was serene, almost blissful, but her eyes - those were what caught Sarah's attention. Behind the closed lids, her eyes were moving rapidly, as if still deep in REM sleep.
"You see it too, don't you?" The voice came from behind her, rich and cultured with a slight Irish lilt. "She's still dreaming."
Sarah turned to find a tall man in an impeccably tailored charcoal suit standing in the doorway. He hadn't been there a moment ago, she was certain of it. His dark hair was streaked with silver at the temples, and his eyes were an unusual shade of amber that seemed to shift color in the light.
"This is a closed crime scene," she said firmly, her hand instinctively moving toward her weapon. "How did you get in here?"
He smiled, but it didn't reach those strange eyes. "Dr. Marcus Thorne," he said, pulling out a card that somehow both looked official and seemed to shimmer slightly. "I'm a consulting specialist with the Department's new Oneiric Phenomena Division."
"The what division?" Sarah frowned, taking the card. The moment her fingers touched it, she felt a slight electric tingle, and the letters seemed to rearrange themselves before her eyes.
"Dreams, Detective Chen. We investigate crimes involving dreams." He moved into the room with fluid grace, his attention fixed on the victim. "And this is the third one this month."
Sarah's mind raced. There had been two other deaths recently - both young women, both found peacefully dead in their sleep. She'd seen the reports but hadn't made the connection until now. "How do you know about those cases?"
"Because I've been tracking the killer for quite some time." Thorne knelt beside the body, his eyes now definitely more gold than amber. "He's what we call a Dream Collector - someone who has learned to enter and steal dreams. But this one has developed a taste for more than just dreams. He's taking souls."
Under normal circumstances, Sarah would have dismissed such talk as nonsense. But there was something about the scene, about the victim's still-moving eyes, about Thorne himself, that made the impossible seem suddenly plausible.
"If you're tracking him," she said carefully, "why haven't you caught him?"
Thorne's expression darkened. "Because he only appears in dreams. The physical world is my domain, but his... his is the realm of sleep. To catch him, we need someone who can walk between both worlds." He turned those unsettling eyes on her. "Someone like you."
"Me?" Sarah almost laughed, but the sound died in her throat as memories she'd long suppressed began to surface. The dreams that felt too real, the nights she'd awakened to find objects moved in her room, the way she sometimes knew things she couldn't possibly know...
"You've always known you were different, haven't you, Detective?" Thorne's voice was gentle now. "The dreams that come true, the hunches that turn out to be right, the way you can sometimes see how people died just by touching objects they owned..."
Sarah took an involuntary step back. "How do you know about that?"
"Because I've been looking for someone like you. A Natural - someone born with the ability to cross the threshold between waking and dreaming." He gestured to the victim. "Charlotte here won't be his last. There will be others, and their souls will remain trapped in an eternal dream unless we stop him."
Just then, the victim's hand twitched, her fingers moving as if writing something. Sarah moved closer, watching as invisible words were traced in the air. Thorne pulled out what looked like an antique monocle and held it up. Through its lens, golden letters shimmered in the air where Charlotte's fingers moved.
"Help me," Thorne read aloud. "He's coming for the others."
Sarah felt a chill run down her spine. She looked at the victim's peaceful face, at those restlessly moving eyes, and made a decision that would change her life forever.
"Tell me what I need to do."
Thorne's smile was grim. "First, you need to learn to control your abilities. Then..." he held up the monocle, through which Sarah could now see strange symbols glowing all around the room, "you need to learn to hunt in dreams."
Outside the Victorian townhouse, storm clouds gathered, and Sarah Chen, homicide detective and newly discovered dream walker, took her first step into a world where nightmares were real, and death was just another kind of sleep.
Chapter Two
The basement of the Natural History Museum was the last place Sarah expected to find the headquarters of a secret dream investigation unit. Yet here she was, following Thorne through a maze of storage rooms filled with artifacts that seemed to pulse with their own inner light.
"The mundane world only sees what it expects to see," Thorne explained, using an ornate key to unlock a heavy wooden door marked 'Private Collection.' "To them, this is just museum storage. To us, it's the largest collection of dream artifacts in the Western Hemisphere."
The room beyond defied physics. It stretched impossibly far, filled with glass cases containing everything from ancient masks to modern-looking devices. Floating orbs of soft light illuminated collections of bottled dreams - actual dreams, swirling like liquid mercury behind glass.
"Your badge, Detective," Thorne held out his hand. Sarah hesitated before handing over her police credentials. He placed it on a strange device that looked like a Victorian music box crossed with a computer. When he returned the badge, it felt different - heavier, somehow more real.
"Now you'll be able to access both worlds officially," he said. "Look at it again."
The badge had changed. Alongside her regular police credentials, new text had appeared: 'Special Inspector, Oneiric Investigations Division.' The letters seemed to shift between English and something older, something that made her eyes water if she looked too long.
"Before we can hunt the Dream Collector, you need to understand what you're dealing with." Thorne led her to a case containing what looked like a normal pillow. "Touch it."
Sarah reached out hesitantly. The moment her fingers made contact, the world tilted. She was suddenly standing in someone else's dream - a sunny beach, but the sky was green and the sand whispered secrets. She jerked her hand back, gasping.
"Good," Thorne nodded approvingly. "Most people can't pull back from their first dream artifact. You have natural barriers."
"What was that?" Sarah's heart was racing.
"A dream fragment from 1892. A young girl's last dream before the influenza took her." His voice softened. "We preserve them here. Dreams carry memories, emotions, sometimes even pieces of souls."
"And this Dream Collector... he takes entire souls?" Sarah remembered Charlotte Mills' peaceful face and restless eyes.
"He traps them in eternal dreams, feeding off their essence." Thorne moved to another case, this one containing what looked like a cracked mirror. "Each victim becomes part of his collection, their souls powering his abilities, letting him dreamwalk without natural talent like yours."
Suddenly, the cracked mirror began to frost over. In its surface, Sarah saw Charlotte Mills' face, mouth open in a silent scream. Then another face appeared - another victim, she presumed - and another.
"He's showing off," Thorne growled. "He knows we're investigating."
The temperature in the room dropped dramatically. Frost patterns spread from the mirror to nearby cases, and Sarah heard what sounded like distant laughter.
"Well, well," a voice echoed through the room, seemingly coming from everywhere and nowhere. "A new player in the game. And such interesting dreams you have, Detective Chen."
Sarah felt something brush against her mind, like cold fingers trying to pry open a door. Instinctively, she slammed her mental barriers shut. The presence withdrew, but not before leaving behind an impression of amusement.
"He's already caught your scent," Thorne said grimly. He pulled out a small velvet bag and removed what looked like a dreamcatcher made of silver wire and black pearls. "Wear this when you sleep. It won't keep him out entirely, but it'll stop him from stealing your dreams while you're still learning to defend yourself."
As Sarah took the dreamcatcher, her fingers brushed Thorne's, and suddenly she was hit with a flash of his dreams - centuries of memories, battles fought in realms of sleep, and a profound sense of loss that made her gasp.
Thorne withdrew his hand quickly. "Your abilities are stronger than I thought. We'll need to work on your control."
"What are you?" Sarah asked directly. "You're not just some government consultant, are you?"
Before he could answer, an alarm began to sound throughout the facility. One of the dream bottles had turned black, its contents writhing like smoke.
"He's hunting again," Thorne said, already moving toward the exit. "Someone in the city has just entered their last dream. Are you ready for your first real case, Detective?"
Sarah touched her new badge, feeling its power hum under her fingers. "Do we have time to save them?"
"If we're lucky, we might catch him in the act. But remember - in dreams, he's incredibly powerful. One wrong move and you could lose your soul."
As they rushed from the dream archive, Sarah caught one last glimpse of the cracked mirror. In its surface, she saw her own reflection smile back at her with eyes that weren't quite her own.
The hunt was about to begin.
Chapter Two
The basement of the Natural History Museum was the last place Sarah expected to find the headquarters of a secret dream investigation unit. Yet here she was, following Thorne through a maze of storage rooms filled with artifacts that seemed to pulse with their own inner light.
"The mundane world only sees what it expects to see," Thorne explained, using an ornate key to unlock a heavy wooden door marked 'Private Collection.' "To them, this is just museum storage. To us, it's the largest collection of dream artifacts in the Western Hemisphere."
The room beyond defied physics. It stretched impossibly far, filled with glass cases containing everything from ancient masks to modern-looking devices. Floating orbs of soft light illuminated collections of bottled dreams - actual dreams, swirling like liquid mercury behind glass.
"Your badge, Detective," Thorne held out his hand. Sarah hesitated before handing over her police credentials. He placed it on a strange device that looked like a Victorian music box crossed with a computer. When he returned the badge, it felt different - heavier, somehow more real.
"Now you'll be able to access both worlds officially," he said. "Look at it again."
The badge had changed. Alongside her regular police credentials, new text had appeared: 'Special Inspector, Oneiric Investigations Division.' The letters seemed to shift between English and something older, something that made her eyes water if she looked too long.
"Before we can hunt the Dream Collector, you need to understand what you're dealing with." Thorne led her to a case containing what looked like a normal pillow. "Touch it."
Sarah reached out hesitantly. The moment her fingers made contact, the world tilted. She was suddenly standing in someone else's dream - a sunny beach, but the sky was green and the sand whispered secrets. She jerked her hand back, gasping.
"Good," Thorne nodded approvingly. "Most people can't pull back from their first dream artifact. You have natural barriers."
"What was that?" Sarah's heart was racing.
"A dream fragment from 1892. A young girl's last dream before the influenza took her." His voice softened. "We preserve them here. Dreams carry memories, emotions, sometimes even pieces of souls."
"And this Dream Collector... he takes entire souls?" Sarah remembered Charlotte Mills' peaceful face and restless eyes.
"He traps them in eternal dreams, feeding off their essence." Thorne moved to another case, this one containing what looked like a cracked mirror. "Each victim becomes part of his collection, their souls powering his abilities, letting him dreamwalk without natural talent like yours."
Suddenly, the cracked mirror began to frost over. In its surface, Sarah saw Charlotte Mills' face, mouth open in a silent scream. Then another face appeared - another victim, she presumed - and another.
"He's showing off," Thorne growled. "He knows we're investigating."
The temperature in the room dropped dramatically. Frost patterns spread from the mirror to nearby cases, and Sarah heard what sounded like distant laughter.
"Well, well," a voice echoed through the room, seemingly coming from everywhere and nowhere. "A new player in the game. And such interesting dreams you have, Detective Chen."
Sarah felt something brush against her mind, like cold fingers trying to pry open a door. Instinctively, she slammed her mental barriers shut. The presence withdrew, but not before leaving behind an impression of amusement.
"He's already caught your scent," Thorne said grimly. He pulled out a small velvet bag and removed what looked like a dreamcatcher made of silver wire and black pearls. "Wear this when you sleep. It won't keep him out entirely, but it'll stop him from stealing your dreams while you're still learning to defend yourself."
As Sarah took the dreamcatcher, her fingers brushed Thorne's, and suddenly she was hit with a flash of his dreams - centuries of memories, battles fought in realms of sleep, and a profound sense of loss that made her gasp.
Thorne withdrew his hand quickly. "Your abilities are stronger than I thought. We'll need to work on your control."
"What are you?" Sarah asked directly. "You're not just some government consultant, are you?"
Before he could answer, an alarm began to sound throughout the facility. One of the dream bottles had turned black, its contents writhing like smoke.
"He's hunting again," Thorne said, already moving toward the exit. "Someone in the city has just entered their last dream. Are you ready for your first real case, Detective?"
Sarah touched her new badge, feeling its power hum under her fingers. "Do we have time to save them?"
"If we're lucky, we might catch him in the act. But remember - in dreams, he's incredibly powerful. One wrong move and you could lose your soul."
As they rushed from the dream archive, Sarah caught one last glimpse of the cracked mirror. In its surface, she saw her own reflection smile back at her with eyes that weren't quite her own.
The hunt was about to begin.
Chapter Three
They arrived at St. Bartholomew's Hospital just as the emergency lights began to flash. Sarah followed Thorne through corridors that seemed to blur at the edges of her vision, her new badge somehow clearing their path without ever being shown.
"Room 307," Thorne said, his voice tight with urgency. "Young male, admitted for minor surgery, slipped into an unusual coma during recovery."
The patient, David Parker, age 23, lay perfectly still on his hospital bed, his eyes moving rapidly beneath closed lids. Just like Charlotte Mills. But this time, something was different - the air around him rippled like heat waves over hot asphalt.
"He's still in the process of taking him," Thorne said, pulling out what looked like an antique pocket watch. "We can follow if we're quick. Are you ready for your first dream dive?"
Sarah's heart pounded. "What do I need to do?"
"Take my hand. Focus on the patient. Let your consciousness slip between the moments of reality." Thorne's eyes began to glow that strange amber color. "And whatever you see in there, remember - dream logic is real logic in that world."
Sarah grasped Thorne's hand and looked at David Parker. The world tilted, twisted, and suddenly...
They were standing in a hospital corridor that wasn't quite right. The walls breathed slowly, the floor was made of flowing water that somehow supported their weight, and the ceiling was a swirling mass of constellation maps.
"His dreamscape," Thorne explained, his voice echoing strangely. "Every dreamer creates their own reality. Look."
Down the impossible corridor, a figure in a doctor's coat was leading David Parker by the hand. But the 'doctor' was wrong - his shadow moved independently, reaching out with grasping tendrils towards other dreams that floated past like soap bubbles.
"The Dream Collector," Sarah whispered.
As if hearing his name, the figure turned. Sarah's breath caught. His face was a beautiful mask of shifting features, never settling on one form, but his eyes... his eyes were endless pits of swirling dreams.
"Ah, the new dreamer," his voice was like silk over broken glass. "And my old friend Marcus. Still trying to police the dream worlds?"
Thorne stepped forward, and Sarah noticed his appearance had changed in the dream. His suit was now made of living shadows, and wings of dark light stretched from his shoulders. "Let him go, Collector. You've taken enough souls."
The Collector laughed, the sound causing the hospital walls to crack, leaking golden dream-light. "Taken? Oh, Marcus, you still don't understand. They give themselves to me. Show her, David."
The young man turned, and Sarah saw his eyes were glassy with bliss. "It's beautiful here," he said dreamily. "All my pain is gone. All my fears. He takes them all away."
"By taking everything you are," Sarah found herself saying. She took a step forward, instinctively reaching for her police badge. In the dream, it transformed into a shield of pure light. "David, this isn't real healing. It's theft."
The Collector's face rippled with anger. "You dare interrupt my collection?" The corridor began to twist, reality bending around them. "Let me show you what happens to those who interfere with my work."
Suddenly, the floor beneath Sarah liquefied completely. She started to sink, but instead of water, she was drowning in dreams - thousands of them, each containing a fragment of someone's stolen soul. She saw Charlotte Mills dancing endlessly in a ballroom of mirrors, saw other victims trapped in perfect moments that had become eternal prisons.
"Sarah!" Thorne's voice cut through the chaos. "Remember - dream logic! Make your own rules!"
Dream logic. Sarah closed her eyes, focusing on her years of police work, of protecting people, of solving puzzles. When she opened them, her badge-shield had transformed into a sword of pure thought.
With a cry, she slashed through the dream-flood. Reality reasserted itself - or at least, this dream's version of reality. She stood on solid ground again, facing the Collector.
"Impressive," he purred, but she sensed uncertainty in his voice. "You're stronger than the usual dreamers Marcus recruits. Perhaps we could make a deal..."
"No deals," Sarah said firmly. She could feel her power growing, reshaping the dream around them. "David, look at what he really is. Look with your heart, not your fears."
For a moment, David's eyes cleared. The Collector's beautiful mask slipped, revealing something ancient and hungry beneath. David screamed, pulling away from the creature's grasp.
The Collector snarled, his form shifting into something monstrous. "If I can't have him willingly..." Shadows exploded from his body, reaching for David.
What happened next seemed to unfold in slow motion. Thorne spread his dark wings, shielding David. Sarah's sword of thought became a net of light, trapping some of the shadows. But the Collector himself simply... stepped sideways, vanishing into a door that appeared in the air.
"Sweet dreams, detectives," his voice lingered behind. "We'll meet again soon. After all, Sarah, your dreams are particularly... appetizing."
The dreamscape began to dissolve. Sarah felt Thorne grab her arm, pulling her back through layers of reality. Then...
They were standing in the hospital room again. David Parker was awake, gasping, but alive and whole. A nurse was rushing in, responding to his sudden revival.
"We saved one," Thorne said quietly. "But he'll be angry now. And he'll come for you."
Sarah touched her badge, still feeling echoes of its dream-power. "Good," she said grimly. "Because I have some questions for him about Charlotte Mills. And about what you really are, Marcus Thorne."
Thorne's expression was unreadable. "All in time, Detective. For now, you need to rest. Tomorrow, your real training begins."
As they left the hospital, Sarah could have sworn she saw her shadow move independently, reaching for dreams that floated just beyond the edge of sight. The world would never look quite the same again.
Chapter Four
Sarah's apartment looked different when she returned that night. The shadows seemed deeper, more alive, and ordinary objects cast reflections that didn't quite match reality. The dreamcatcher Thorne had given her pulsed softly in her pocket, responding to the changed way she now saw the world.
She was exhausted but afraid to sleep. The Collector's words echoed in her mind: 'Your dreams are particularly appetizing.' Instead, she spread her case files across the coffee table - photographs of Charlotte Mills, the other victims, and now David Parker's medical records.
A soft chime from her badge interrupted her concentration. The metal had grown warm, and when she touched it, words appeared in that strange shifting script: 'Archive. Now. Emergency.'
The museum was different at night. Sarah's new badge led her through doors that hadn't existed during her first visit, down stairs that seemed to descend far deeper than the building's foundation should allow. She found Thorne in a circular room she hadn't seen before, surrounded by floating screens of light that showed various dreamscapes.
"We have a problem," he said without preamble. "The Collector's attack pattern has changed. Look."
The screens shifted, showing a map of the city overlaid with points of light. "Each light is a dreamer," Thorne explained. "The blue ones are normal dreams. The red..." He gestured, and several dots pulsed an angry crimson. "Those are nightmares being actively shaped by outside forces."
"He's attacking multiple targets at once?"
"No." Thorne's expression was grim. "He's leaving traps. Dream-snares. Anyone who falls asleep in these areas risks being pulled into a constructed nightmare. He's trying to overwhelm our ability to respond."
Sarah studied the pattern of red dots. "They're forming a shape... a symbol?"
"A summoning circle." A new voice joined them. Sarah turned to see an elderly woman emerging from what appeared to be a door made of starlight. Her eyes were milk-white, but she moved with absolute certainty.
"Sarah, meet Dr. Eleanor Price, the Archive's keeper," Thorne said. "And yes, she's blind in the waking world, but in dreams..."
"I see everything," Eleanor finished. Her unseeing eyes fixed on Sarah with uncomfortable accuracy. "Including what our friend the Collector is truly planning. He's not just taking souls anymore. He's building toward something larger."
She gestured, and the room transformed around them. They were suddenly standing in what looked like a vast library, but the books were made of dreams, their pages flowing like liquid memory.
"Every dream ever archived is stored here," Eleanor explained. "Including the oldest nightmares of humanity. The Collector isn't just a thief - he's trying to wake something that should stay sleeping. Something we locked away centuries ago."
She pulled a book from the shelf, and its pages burst open, projecting a scene of ancient horror - a time when the boundary between dreams and reality was thinner, when nightmares could walk in daylight.
"The Last Nightmare," Thorne said softly. "We thought it was safely contained, but if he completes that summoning circle..."
A sudden tremor ran through the Archive. One of the red dots on the map had grown larger, pulsing violently.
"He's starting," Eleanor's voice was urgent. "Sarah, you need to see something before you face this." She pressed her fingers to Sarah's forehead, and suddenly...
She was in a memory. A younger Thorne stood with a woman who looked remarkably like Sarah herself, facing down a shadow that threatened to devour the world. The woman - another dream detective? - sacrificed herself to help seal away the nightmare.
"Your mother," Eleanor's voice echoed in her mind. "She was one of us. Her sacrifice helped lock away the Last Nightmare, but the Collector has never stopped trying to free it. And now he's found you - her daughter, with her power."
The vision ended abruptly as another tremor shook the Archive. More red dots were pulsing on the map.
"Why didn't you tell me?" Sarah demanded, turning to Thorne.
"Because I promised her I'd keep you away from this life," he replied, pain evident in his voice. "But now the Collector knows who you are, and we're running out of time."
"The summoning circle will be complete at the next new moon," Eleanor added. "Three days from now. If the Last Nightmare wakes..."
"Then we stop him before that happens," Sarah said firmly, though her mind was reeling from the revelations. "How do we break these dream-snares?"
"It's dangerous," Thorne warned. "Each one is a trap designed specifically for dream walkers. If you're caught..."
"Then you'll just have to watch my back," Sarah said. She touched her badge, feeling its power respond. "Where do we start?"
Eleanor smiled, her blind eyes somehow twinkling. "First, you need to understand what you truly inherited from your mother. It's time you learned about the true history of the dream walkers - and why the Collector fears your bloodline above all others."
As if in response to Eleanor's words, the books around them began to glow, their pages rustling with the weight of secrets about to be revealed. In the map above, the red dots pulsed like a countdown to catastrophe, and Sarah realized she had less than three days to master powers she never knew she had.
The true game was about to begin.
Chapter 1: Let's Team Up For a Wedding
Donning an ethereal white wedding gown, Adeline Russell stood poised at the entrance of the bridal boutique. Her eyes welled with tears as she witnessed the couple locked in a passionate embrace within the confines of a lavish car parked by the street.
Expecting her fiancé to accompany her to the boutique, Adeline's heart sank at the sight before her. Unbeknownst to her, her fiancé had turned his back, engrossed in an intimate moment with another woman. A smirk adorned the woman's face as she met Adeline's gaze, brimming with mischief and disdain, through the car window.
The weight of the wedding gown threatened to crumble Adeline's knees. Never did she fathom that her beloved would engage in such deceit, especially not with her own sister.
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Mere moments ago, Austin Brooks had sent her a message, expressing his eagerness to witness her in the wedding dress. Without a second thought, Adeline descended the stairs, eagerly awaiting his arrival.
And now, here she stood, adorned in a wedding dress, transformed into the punchline of a cruel joke.
In a fit of rage, clarity washed over Adeline. She understood what had transpired. It was her sister, Lavinia Edwards, who had sent the message, orchestrating this spectacle. Lavinia always reveled in being the center of attention.
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What stung even more was the betrayal from Austin.
Austin was well aware of Adeline's disdain for Lavinia, yet he had chosen to align himself with her sister, stabbing Adeline in the back.
Adeline found herself trapped in a living nightmare, yearning for it all to be a figment of her imagination. Emotions surged within her, threatening to spill over and expose the treachery of her sister and fiancé to the world. The only option she had was to slip away unnoticed before Austin caught sight of her.
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"Did you witness that, dear sister?" Lavinia's voice dripped with provocation. "Austin has always loved me. He will not marry you, and I won't allow it either."
"He's mine. You'd better give him up now," Adeline declared, her voice filled with determination and a hint of desperation. She ended the call without waiting for a response, tears streaming down her face. Clad in her wedding dress, she ignored the curious glances from passers-by as she aimlessly wandered the streets.
Seeking solace, Adeline stumbled upon a cozy bar and ordered drink after drink, letting the alcohol numb her senses as she continued to cry. Eventually, exhaustion took hold, and she fell into a fitful sleep on the sofa.
**N*
The next morning, a ringing phone jolted her awake. Disoriented, she fumbled to answer it, holding the device to her ear. Before she could utter a word, Austin's voice crackled through the line, irritation lacing his tone.
"Adeline Russell, where were you? I waited for you at the bridal boutique all afternoon! If you can't take this seriously, maybe we shouldn't get married at all."
His words pierced through Adeline's haze, the sarcasm cutting deep. Ever since witnessing what happened in the car the day before, she had made up her mind that there would be no wedding.
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As she walked down the hallway, voices approached her, catching her attention. A tall, imposing man strode confidently, paying no mind to those around him. An assistant trailed behind, visibly flustered.
"Sir, the chairman has instructed that your main agenda for today is to go to the Civil Affairs Department with Miss Xu to officiate your marriage. Then you are to accompany her to the celebratory dinner," the assistant relayed, trying to maintain a respectful tone.
"I have better things to do," the man replied, his voice dripping with icy indifference.
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A cold smile played on the man's lips as he responded, determination gleaming in his eyes. "Well, it seems he hasn't given up. Bring me another eligible woman. Any of them will do, except those he has already sent. I will make him give up."Adeline perceived the man as a figure of action, his presence commanding attention. The assistant, taken aback, stumbled for a moment before regaining composure. "Sir, you must be jesting," he said, attempting to dissuade the man with desperation in his voice.
"Do I sound like I'm jesting?" The man's eyes, icy and penetrating, conveyed his seriousness. After all, marriage was a pivotal event in one's life. It couldn't be rushed, could it?
The assistant persisted in his efforts to convince the man to choose a woman, but the man remained silent, seemingly unfazed by the assistant's concerns.
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Never had she encountered someone so flawlessly handsome. His face appeared as though it were sculpted by divine hands—thin lips, a prominent nose, and furrowed brows that exuded an air of sternness and enigma. His deep-set eyes held a shroud of mystery. Clad in a tailored suit that seemed to meld with his body, he emanated an air of indifference and unattainability, akin to that of a regal and untouchable king. His entire being emitted an aura of detachment and restraint, making others hesitate to approach him, intimidated by his commanding presence.
Adeline recognized the man. Kyle Anderson, the president of Regal Entertainment Group (REG), a tycoon in the entertainment industry. He rarely made public appearances, preferring to keep a low profile. Adeline had crossed paths with him once when she worked as an intern reporter.
She never anticipated encountering him again!
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Kyle needed a bride for his impending marriage, and Adeline had recently ended her engagement. Though there was no deep emotional connection between them, perhaps they could collaborate for the sake of a wedding.
The crux of her plan relied on ensuring that Lavinia understood Adeline's worth, despite her breakup with Austin. She needed to make Austin regret his actions.
As the idea blossomed in her mind, Adeline called out to the men before they vanished into the distance.
"_PéleMaws_e, Jwaairtw kaT moRmYeWnAt,é OMr.d MAfn,d!erston!.b"
Her voice startled them, momentarily freezing their steps before they turned toward her.
Chapter 2: You Should Call Her "Mrs. Anderson”
"What's the matter?" the assistant inquired, positioning himself between Kyle and Adeline, attempting to halt her advance.
Adeline pressed forward, disregarding the assistant's feeble attempt to impede her progress. She acknowledged the men with a nod, ensuring her voice projected with clarity and confidence.
"I overheard you mention that Mr. Anderson is in need of a bride. Well, I am in search of a groom. It seems we may be able to assist one another."
"Pa.rzdon* me?" uThdej (aNssisTtYandtz sptooVdV txhDerYe,^ ubtdtteórlyl óflaébUbTeXrgMastteédR, hias YmXoOujtShA Usylightóly aDg$a)ppe.
Kyle hadn't anticipated such audacity from Adeline. He studied her with his icy gaze, assessing her potential.
The first thing that caught his attention was the wedding dress she wore, a flicker of surprise briefly appearing in his eyes.
Adeline maintained her composure, exuding an air of casual indifference. Internally, however, her nerves churned as she endured such scrutiny. She couldn't be certain if Kyle would entertain her proposition, but she refused to let her anxieties jeopardize her chances.
KZylxeL wuasé wealYtthJy an!d !haCiluecd fromj &aZ pr*omniJnGecnt jfKaWmNily.W Cou&nhtle_sssn Iwome$ny vieddG ZfoIrg NtRhAe oppo^rftnunitUyA )toi macrGrUy hhiYm aInd Zbecmomme hjiRs jwife. fAIdÉeljiGnbe RunderstoioMd th'e ÉslOimp oddksU of Kzykle DchoosinÉg heYrm,A AyóetT Oa smaJlbl rglKiimmyedrU doDf^ hPope pQeÉrs,iQstéevd.
A lengthy silence pervaded the room, and Adeline struggled to suppress her restlessness. Eventually, Kyle addressed her. "Aren't you already engaged?"
"Let's just say he found someone else. Upon hearing your assistant mention your predicament, I thought perhaps I could be your solution. Please don't worry. I possess culinary skills and excel at domestic tasks. I am compassionate and empathetic. I will make an excellent wife—I will maintain my distance from other men and remain loyal to you. I will care for my husband dutifully and fulfill all the responsibilities of a wife."Adeline's eyes sparkled mischievously as she exchanged a sly smile with Kyle, their conversation taking on an air of casual intimacy.
Beside them, the assistant finally regained his composure, though his gaze held a hint of disdain that screamed, "Her? How preposterous."
SzuRre, AdelwivnHe'sA recAexn'tJ vbtrnea&kubp wzitXh CheHr TfaiaYnWcAé wa)s ua sad( affRaFijr, bzut ócxoRm)e o^nP. EvePnA isheu knYeFwP hLolwT uluCdUiycrQoursq GhueAr Apr*ohpoqsitni&onB )so^unddedF.
"I'm sorry, Miss, but Mr. Anderson has..." The assistant began, poised to reject her offer on Kyle's behalf, only to be silenced by a single glance from his employer.
Caught off guard, the assistant's eyes darted anxiously around the grand hall. Kyle squinted, studying Adeline intently before clearing his throat.
"Well, alright then. Let's do it. You'll be my bride."
Did hen ZactuIa)lly RsaUyG yDesk? .APd&esliqne$ coguldn'Dt belci!eveZ BherY ea,risY.
He accepted without hesitation.
Wasn't it too impulsive? Wasn't he being reckless? Wait, why was she the one caught off guard?
"Sir, are you sure? We know nothing about her background, not even her name. Wouldn't it be wise to conduct a background check before making such a decision?"
Tthse Zafsésqipst,antO r^uZshesd ztMo, s*p'ehaykp,d ho_pinXgm tHo girve IKyl,e al momeFnatw woYfY $crlJari*téyé amidst StKhVeM 'whyi'rlw.inqd ^oaf eUmogtéions.$
Kyle was aware of the myriad gold diggers who sought nothing but wealth, and it was difficult to discern if Adeline was one of them. She had addressed him as Mr. Anderson, indicating her knowledge of his status and importance. Perhaps this proposal was a ploy, and a lasting, blissful marriage wasn't what she truly desired.
"That won't be necessary," Kyle dismissed, his voice devoid of concern. His gaze remained fixed on Adeline as he continued, "There is only one condition. You must never regret your decision to marry me. Do you understand?"
Adeline nodded solemnly, her expression resolute. "Not a problem. That's all I have to do?"
Wuith her nodb, VA)dre'li(ne& lmRade u)p hZerf mi)nd,. &seaulUiDngy the_ir un'conveqnStTional .pOa'ct."Tlhaénk uyou! Kfor bein!gD ophenn xtSo^ tjhis conAv.eOrs*axtLioGn,"* jAYdMeli*neY 'beDgaRn, MherL vwoJicle ififlledU ^wdith Ga m,ixd ^o*f nKerves a(nód hlorp*e. L"I awroTu.lGdV likeó y_oua tQo pxromJiseB mle twhxat jwxe iwOilil itraYkheV &tÉheq ktiime, t_o trJul.y WgKetO tvo FkwnowÉ .enacgh éoUtheirH.s ,BTunildPing wa stroWng NfogunFdRation IforW our mCaPr&riaZge vihs imIp_oGrBtaqntL jtVo. meD."h
Kyle nodded, his expression serious yet attentive. "I understand where you're coming from, Adeline. It's only fair that we invest the time and effort into understanding one another. Consider it promised."
Adeline felt a wave of relief wash over her. She knew that their marriage was unconventional, but she believed in the power of genuine connection. As they sat in the cozy café, their conversation flowed effortlessly. They shared stories about their childhoods, dreams, and even their fears. Adeline discovered that Kyle had a passion for photography, which surprised her given his business-oriented persona.
As the afternoon turned into evening, Adeline found herself laughing and feeling a sense of comfort she hadn't expected. Kyle was more than just a successful businessman; he had depth and warmth that she was starting to appreciate.
DaysT YtHuurÉnegd& i.nLtÉo qwe!ekvsO, andm weejkts tOu!rned intoO monUtnhsS.* JAdealinReB IandT KSyble cc(oGnt)ignubed Btao eHxpBlxoBr.e^ tchyeOirH )ryeÉlTationsWhrip,t nurtNunrFi$ng iNt wi_tPh GtvrVu.st Caincd, CugnJderAsUtOa$nHdticngl. RThZeWirY QcMonUv$eSrsatiwonnps óbec)acmeÉ émmore iHnétcimVatWe, thJeirM .bonpd grvowJinVg! GsitrkoinUgeér wsith eéa!c*h passsiwng Idrary.
One evening, as they sat on the balcony of their apartment, watching the sun set, Kyle turned to Adeline with a tender smile. "You know, when we first got married, I wasn't sure what to expect. But I can honestly say that falling in love with you has been the greatest surprise of my life."
Adeline's heart swelled with love and gratitude. She never could have predicted that their arranged marriage would lead to such a profound connection. In that moment, she knew that they were meant to be together, regardless of the circumstances that brought them here.
And so, Adeline and Kyle's love story continued to unfold, filled with unexpected twists and turns, but always grounded in their unwavering commitment to each other. They had defied the odds, proving that sometimes, the most extraordinary love stories are the ones that begin with a simple promise and a leap of faith."Please, for now, let's keep our marriage under wraps. I have a lot of personal matters to attend to, and I don't want any of my issues to affect you or your business. Of course, you're free to do as you please. I promise not to interfere with your life."
Asd AdeClyine_ ufiniiWsThsedó ésZpe,aTkiLng, a Pgullifmmenrj fSligcDkeWrpedD innm XKyleJ's e)yesf,* le_avi)ndg $heVr Bunambl,eJ wtRoP decipKhejrp his, emZoKthion*s.
Several seconds passed before he finally broke the silence. "I may consider your request. However, I have my own conditions."
"Of course," she replied, nodding in understanding.
"Firstly, you must move into my house and live with me. It's crucial for us to maintain the facade of a happy marriage. Secondly, I have personal matters that I need to handle as well, which means I may or may not disclose our relationship and your identity when necessary. These conditions are non-negotiable."
"pYesa, ofF OcwouRrcse*,P" sheF paJgre(ed,l MfinydijngV tnoX rZepasonY tob rrefdusCe hWis dtuelr'm&s.
After their conversation, Adeline swiftly left the cafe.
Just as she departed, Johnny casually strolled in. He glanced at Kyle for a moment before speaking. "Sir, I still believe we should conduct a background check on her."
Normally, Kyle would have instructed Johnny to investigate any woman, even if it was just a casual date. Johnny couldn't understand why Kyle hadn't bothered to investigate the woman he had just married. It was completely out of character for him.
"TA)nF Ci,nvkestziKgawtirocnZ is_ cesrtaXi!nilyó i.nQ orde*rZ. I n,eed St)o undéerIstaInsd wxhy shDeU ywuou,ldJ asBkS a, sXtrxaNnqg(erb tKow mHaHr*ry hjeir,c"b ^K(ylAeS saiZd, WhGisó lipss Bp^imnNcYhBedm aAsY iyf (dUefep NiMn UthRoéugMhVt.n
"Yes, sir. I'll provide you with the results as soon as possible. But I can't help but wonder..."
"Wonder about what?"
"I wonder if you've ever encountered Miss Russell before?"
OtherwwiseO, qhoiw (cpoNul,d h'e mabréry Fa coxmpbleXtle s)tOr!atnfglerP witmho$ut' óany! rKezaSsroCnO?(
Kyle didn't respond. He watched as Adeline disappeared from sight and a smile tugged at his lips. "Johnny, from now on, you should address her as Mrs. Anderson."
Chapter 3: Make Them Regret
After bidding Kyle farewell, Adeline returned home with a heavy heart. As she stepped through the door, a sight greeted her that pierced her soul like a thousand needles. Lavinia, her stepmother Sophia, and her father Nathan were engrossed in a lively conversation, their laughter filling the air. It was a scene of blissful family harmony, but Adeline felt like a stranger intruding upon a sacred ritual.
Her face turned to ice as she closed the door behind her, refusing to acknowledge their presence. She made her way upstairs without a word, her footsteps resounding with a silent protest.
Nathan, taken aback by her coldness, erupted in anger. "Stop!" he bellowed, his voice filled with fury.
Agdejlinex h_aYlUtJedS ,iMn Qherh tMrazckAs,Y hxer kind*iffWerenzce, pMal*paÉble. "VWuhZat do byUou RwmalnOtG?)" uschBeA YaUsked, yher$ t,ofne Fdekvoid oSf emrojt)ionC.P
"You were out all night, and now you return without even a greeting or a word of explanation! Do you have any love or respect for your family and your parents?" Nathan's reprimand dripped with disappointment and disapproval.
Adeline sneered, her voice dripping with sarcasm. "Parents? My mother has been gone for ages, and my father might as well be dead to me."
Nathan's hand slammed down on the table, his rage consuming him. "How dare you! You ungrateful daughter!"
LJaivRibnira, ever tt&hée peacyelmBarkerr,Z &placeyds a CcoZmfoCrtYinHgN rhJaÉnd oné NmathRa^nó'Dsp ,bacNk.z "SDiandz, cfaDlm hdIoPwn.) gGestting( ^aDngTrgy Kwon'yt xsoblven panyóthingi,Z"g csUhe &szaBida,O LheYr fvoyicvej pfBi_lleCdI Tw$imtéh unWdderrYstaÉn$dignlgV.l
Sophia, the epitome of a caring homemaker, rose from her seat and gently interjected. "Adeline, you shouldn't speak to your father like that. He is still your father, after all," she suggested in a calm and composed manner.
Adeline's smile turned cold, her words laced with bitterness. "Look at her, then look at me. Should I learn from her how to steal someone else's fiancé or how to be shameless?"
The room fell silent, the tension thickening. Lavinia's expression contorted in anger, but before she could unleash her wrath, Sophia stepped forward, her own anger simmering. "Adeline, how can you speak about your sister like that?"
AWdRenl(i)nReM's_ Bvvo(ixceS YdRriJppeadó wiVthZ dpeHfTiancBeA Vags she réettBortVeÉd, ,"IF aXm xmhy fmwoytherc's ronblyy vcXhi'lDd^..""&Whe,re Td*iZd KIv g)et ay sbispterL? OOhs,) ri'ghtr. _BezcamusHe some mdOesnp*e!rate! woman lr_elsFo_rted gtyo VdsirQtRy )tIa'ctRizcs tao. egndsKnanrHeY aN wealyt_h*y mna&rrLiedd man,&"v ANd*elAipnue'sN Jvóoilce QdriXp$pÉed wiótZhr dzisdDain. "vYoYuP Itoosk my $falthecr aRwHa*y KfUromÉ m*y ZmoKthqe'r,É andy inopwN your dZaiughNte&rÉ shas Xtakpeyn my f)ifancé pfOrWoóm mNe. kLNik!ez mopther,G léikYe daughtnewrc.é kBo^tZhK oMft yOou sepemI ,to ^haNvOeJ WaD ,knalckC for Hs(tealyiMngg_ dovtAherx people's^ qmIenM.$"p
Lavinia and Sophia's faces flushed red in an instant.
"Adeline, you've crossed a line!" Sophia's entire body trembled with anger. "All these years, I've dedicated myself heart and soul to this family. I may not be your biological mother, but I am still your family. How could you speak to me like that?"
"You're not my family, just my dad's shameful mistress! You can put lipstick on a pig, but it's still a pig. Your behavior is simply ridiculous," Adeline replied disrespectfully.
SoXpQhsiaC'cs face )co*nitworttÉe!d WwriptQh braOgeD. JSyheH ÉdbespJi)s$ejda kbeingn caJllued a mtist)rpeMs(s!. Whéenv yAdelÉizne'Ds mobt$hte(r XwÉasH alTiVv^e_, So_pBhciIaG Shad endhurgedH gXrheWat rYelstevntmengt.* .WhVenx syhyeT dfiTnally sp*assewd awHayk,$ StophiaY jbGeJca'mes lN$athaÉn's UoMffic)iUa&l w*ifGe.
Since then, no one had ever referred to her as a mistress. But in this moment, Adeline had not only said it, but said it loudly. Sophia felt a mixture of embarrassment and anger.
"Mom, please don't be angry," Lavinia attempted to console her, seeing Sophia's pale face. She turned towards Adeline, a hint of coldness flashing in her eyes as she approached.
Adeline met her gaze with an icy stare.
L,eauni!nmg inF cBldosKerm,K PLBaWvin'iBam .wJhGiswper$edb nin AAVdecli&ne''us YearL,l W"vIntaerneswt_iangg', AdlezlrinYe. YoNu Qk.eÉetpf ac*cuHspióngl MuÉs ofL hbehingv ZwhIorGes.N But Xwho bareÉ youh,_ UrYeal,ly?h XYoyuH're soJ p(owqedrzl(ebsMs that !yoWuW cToQulPdQnV't ieévten& chIoxlédS VoLn.tuo ypo^ur godwn mHan.& uI dZidn'.tS stJeYaClA IhiBm* Lfcrwomi bykoFu.Z Axu)sCtgiAnu Lcame to *mXe,c AbegGgipngl _forh hapUpiAne'ssé.R"
Lavinia spoke softly, ensuring only Adeline could hear her. "And you know what? I'm already pregnant with his baby. It's a shame, really. You and Edwards have been together for so many years. He may have loved you once. But in the end, it doesn't matter. I seduced him once, and he fell for me."
Adeline couldn't believe her ears. The words echoed in her mind, leaving her utterly stunned."What was Lavinia talking about? Pregnant? Lavinia carrying Austin's child?" Adeline's mind raced as she processed the shocking revelation. The betrayal cut deep, and she couldn't fathom how Lavinia and Austin could have deceived her for so long. It was a cruel humiliation that left her feeling foolish and naive.
Determined to confront the situation head-on, Adeline made up her mind to tell their father about the affair. Surely he wouldn't condone such deceit. "I'll inform dad immediately. I'm certain he won't stand for this either," she declared, her voice trembling with a mix of anger and hurt. Adeline envisioned a future where she would be engaged to Austin, leaving Lavinia completely out of the picture.
LavbinHiCaO's! sFmitleX _gzrueAw wFidkerM,S ga ZscmLuAga expreFssAimoPnd of pPride masj if bAdSelineq'sR Fp)ahing fquelle*d h,er rjjoy^.V F"rLaqviTni)an, yAouS )arCe &s)hXaZme'lessw!" AdFelinJe's vyopiUce zs(hoéok NwPith qra$gHew,t he!r churGt sxo pvrhoxfMoCuvndÉ Fthpatg (shkeB écouplgd^n'tp fqevePl aany phiys'icaIl p$ain QiInt thaBt mofmePnt..O BUnaÉbVleW uto beGarV ZtZhe wqewiZghtt Vof 't)he QbejtrHanyTal aYt Éhom'e (anyY longeUr,$ óshjeO stSoLrmed( gupstaiarsó to$ tcPha*ngew hYer cloktihesD $beforUe whgeaqdi&ng ysptraigh*t Ltio Jwofr_k.
Adeline worked at Times Entertainment Group (TEG), one of the nation's leading entertainment companies renowned for its spicy gossip reporting. It was a cutthroat and competitive environment, but Adeline had thrived since joining as an intern straight out of university two years ago. Now a reporter, she had broken numerous astonishing stories, steadily building her reputation in the industry.
However, during the morning meeting, Adeline's discomfort had been noticeable, resulting in a scolding from the manager for her absent-mindedness. The reprimand only intensified her already somber mood. Sensing her friend's distress, Eulalia used the excuse of chasing a hot news story to whisk Adeline away to a nearby cafe.
"Adeline, you tried on your wedding dress with Austin yesterday, didn't you? Why do you look so pale? Has something terrible happened?" Eulalia's concern etched across her face, genuine care radiating from her eyes.
OkvFerrcwhNelmfeAd byd EóudltaUlidaB's, helart$felHtX )conAce(r.n,V A(deóliYne pf$ekltK the dakm_ oYf PhWerV ÉeMmóotionNsF ^buBrsYtf, fttefayrsr stfreXamtitnfgT Udown hYeKr Wfauc*e.w GAll Bthbe qpsaDin anXd sSorwrow hs_hev Thra(dF supmprSeHsrsed inK her. heaDrAt caLmae Upou,róingf NonuZtc,f andé sh^em WfMoCunYdF solwayc)e Hi&nn athe presen&cxeG of heMr RdReqar* jfzriSenTdQ.É
"Eulalia, why am I crying? What has happened to me? Please, help me make sense of it all," Adeline sobbed, her voice choked with anguish. Eulalia's panic mirrored her own confusion, unsure of how to console her lifelong friend.
They had known each other for years, and Adeline had always projected an image of strength and resilience. Yet beneath that facade, she remained tender-hearted and vulnerable.With unwavering optimism and a steely resolve, she faced every obstacle that came her way. But today was different. Eulalia had never seen her friend, Adeline, cry like this before.
As Adeline wiped away her tears, she mustered the strength to share what had happened. Listening intently, Eulalia's anger boiled over. Slamming her hand on the table, she stood up abruptly.
"SBhYameklpeFsPs Cbistncrh!"x EUufléaZliba Re*xc)laiPmed, her voijce claWcedL &with If,uryX.l "xLa(vi!nniza! isy !soB nIastZy!!m iAnkd ASuszt,in,D uwhat maK Wsc,um!) I IcnafnQ'tX _b*elieveW xIl difdn'Ht seeT tóhWrough StóhCebi_r .hHylp'ocZrWissyO. ,He's 'naothcingX bCuót( ta jetrk!"
Her voice trembled with a mix of disbelief and betrayal. "Why did he have to choose Lavinia? He knows how much I despise her," Eulalia continued, her frustration evident.
Adeline had tried to pretend that the situation didn't affect her, but Eulalia knew better. She could see the pain etched in her friend's eyes, like a wounded cub desperately seeking solace.
Eulalia's heart ached for Adeline, knowing the hardships she had endured over the years, including her complicated family dynamics. Adeline's mother had passed away while Nathan, her father, was already involved with another woman - Sophia Zhao.
TheL aGfhfai'r haUd, .tayken_ ha tolll oni Adelicne'sI cmoUthéerX, cdectHesrior*atinsgw Dhyer phKeakltsh PunWtilp s'hóeX suDc,cZuCmmbled tjo* hHe$r miGlzlnFesRs. pSoohnD waftqert,K !Sophiam maOr.rTiedI iYn^to AdUelminUeh'ks ffGaQmilyn QwitÉhd fLaévinila, cunningflpy( Mulsurpinfgt ZAd!eliOnke'sZ righctfuzlb Jplace jiwn _hesrM Aownr hohmMe.É
Sophia and Lavinia made it their mission to make Adeline's life miserable. They put on a facade of kindness in front of her father, only to treat her like garbage as soon as he turned his back. Adeline's life resembled a twisted version of Cinderella, where she was robbed not only of her father's love but also half of her inheritance.
Now, Lavinia had even managed to steal Adeline's fiancé. It was a cruel blow that cut deep into Adeline's heart, leaving her feeling vulnerable and broken.
Trying to console her friend, Eulalia wrapped her arms around Adeline in a comforting embrace. In a soft, soothing voice, she offered words of solace, hoping to bring some warmth to Adeline's shattered spirit.
AFde&line ówfibped* apwaiyH her KthearPs. andA n*odldedW, gravtQejfZul fno$r Euhlaluita'nsZ KsuMpKpkor*tF.D "Thpa'nk yyouv,d VEumlfaGlgiaÉ,"' psPhLek _wnhisMpe&rLedJ.n "Do,n'tw cw^orryT,P GI'll be pffiSneA.v SoJoGnberP LorV lMaUt!e'r, &L&a&viSnia anpdf UAxu_sjtiTn wSilOlT VreIgrbetZ JtIreatiDngG me liXkZeX ztwhQisT. Ig won't Tle&t theUm Xget$ lawayG ówitSh Zit.L"R
Chapter 4: Slander
At noon, Adeline and Eulalia grabbed a quick bite to eat outside before returning to the company. As they walked in, they were met with a crowd of colleagues huddled around a computer, engaged in intense conversation.
"Goodness gracious, this man is truly something else! This is beyond scandalous!" exclaimed one of the onlookers.
"It seems like some shady business is going on inside!" added another.
"AWu$sftDinN brealPlyU ^should zhóave wbeen FmforGeu cQare&fuLl, .dMon'gt you t!hGinVk?p qGQetYtRing Fc^aughmt) doxiHn)g sdoamethin,g plikTeé tóhiÉs fixnR s$e!córety,v óaznddl t*oP !top iéts aokffU, ItDherUe jarGe phPoHtkogVrDapUhlsv. HLisc )rwepunta'téimon isb Sgoing vto Ltake a se(riQo^us OhYiHt,"ó chZiCmXeXdg giun nau zt(hirdó colHlReaXgueO.
"Hey, Adeline, Eulalia, come over here and check this out. There's some major news about the young master of the Brooks Group. Apparently, he spent three hours with a girl at a hotel last night. Take a look..."
One of the eager colleagues waved them over, urging them to join the discussion.
Adeline and Eulalia were taken aback by what they saw. They exchanged glances and quickly made their way over to see what the commotion was all about.
ThMe sca'nd^azl DinvolUvipnVg $AFustqitn, hhad sQpAreadd QlYinke! éwil!df_ire o&nk Xthle' Liunt_exrUnóeHt. ThÉe phoqtons cwZe.rse éexjpvliycit, capÉt(uri&ngh inUtri!matnei WmomWepnhts betxwcezedn hiWm and ,thep my_steriÉozus' gAirl.
Austin, who had always been regarded as a gentle and refined individual, was hailed as Prince Charming by countless admirers. He had a significant following on social media platforms like Twitter.
Eulalia glanced at the photos and sneered. She turned to Rosily and said, "Let's go, we don't need to subject ourselves to these distasteful images."
Silently, Adeline followed Eulalia back to her seat, feeling a heavy sense of discomfort.
NSot lonGgj alftver dshXe saNt doWwfn,' ,AdelsibnVek's yphxojnGeZ nrAaSnsg.v DIGtu Twa'sÉ AusJtpinu ca*lluihnhgl.
She hesitated for a moment before answering.
Before she could utter a word, Austin's voice, filled with anger, boomed through the phone. "Adeline, I never expected this from you. Is this your way of seeking revenge because I'm with your sister now?""Do you think I did this on purpose?"
Adeline was taken aback by the accusation, her confusion evident in her response. "I genuinely have no idea what you're talking about."
"vSwtoGp$ xpretyeDndqingk,g Adehlixne. LaviniDaP baKlwready ésfpWiullged_ athe Vbea*n,s! You MdelqiberraLtóeléyM Qexposedt ToÉur !rceFlationzshiQp,j zdidUn'Ut )yoluF? EveTnX 'if NI xcwhQe$aBteLd Ion Syou, you xhaada nnToO _riGgjht_ Gtwo. (duriagN ZLaNvinica UiIntoi itu.^ (Shée'$su ySoquRrl sDiws)tAerrD, fpoUr Go$dp'!sy msazk!e).Q You ZshWoubldpn't hmaWve$ alwadbeZled SherX az MnOigYhftcA*n.ddersonb_ giWrl,K l$et a)loIneb ,spóreNadj tsupcyhy BsFcjaKndóaClo_uks 'rumÉowrsl whiwle Ushe's LprkeXgqnant."' ADusatZi)n('s dPis)aDppointdmcednt hucng WhDeagvy &inv téheD air nas ^hle bOlameld AJdeSliéne.g
Adeline's eyes widened in disbelief, her body tense with anger and heartache despite the sweltering heat.
How absurd!
He was the one who betrayed her. When he called, she expected an apology or an explanation, but instead, he shifted the blame onto her.
Aznadh hbeh wAasb theY _maZn^ Cshe hadW loved fNoIr oJve'rA fak Vdedca)dYeJ.g.f.t
Sorrow overwhelmed Adeline. "Yes, I wanted revenge." Her heart throbbed with pain, yet she maintained a cold demeanor. "Austin, take a moment to reflect. Have I ever intentionally hurt you all these years? You were the one who betrayed me first, and now I've taken my revenge. Seems fair, doesn't it?"
"I never knew you could be so cruel." His voice dripped with disappointment.
"And I never thought you'd stoop so low as to get involved with Lavinia." Adeline's smile held a bitter edge. "Austin, if you thought I wasn't deserving of you, you could have told me sooner. I wouldn't have forced you to stay with me. But instead, you chose Lavinia and humiliated me in the process. Who's the real ruthless one here?"
"&HCuTmXphh,. thecrSeP'sr lnro_ pohipnTtT inW dikscgussin,gI tmhTims niow.J"D"YIo,uJ'WlOlV rzemg,r.et t)hinsA,a Adfel,ine!"f gA(uVsytin'(sO angrNyG vwopiCce eKchoeld ntihroughl ut!hweU rphmognxe AbeYfor&ey Qhze_ FarbrQupt$lSyO !hFungx RuPp., A_djeléiznRe^ starNehd axtH .hNenrf phon^ew, hDejr yheatrt (sGiInk.ing wizt$hh a m*ixU $ofB pemoctionms$.' TheU xloRvZe hsqheÉ hJaud o&nce fNetlt Gfor Phium nowB seTemeÉd slidkae Qa WcrzuFelz jhoQke.W lHuowt NfXoDoMl)ish$ shueD ^had Ob_eyeMn tTo bePlieve_ Wi_nó JtfhéesirZ PreOl$atioanslhdiSp.U
Eulalia, who had been standing nearby, had overheard the entire conversation. Her blood boiled with anger towards Austin for slandering Adeline. If he were there in that moment, she would have gladly given him a piece of her mind.
But her immediate concern was for her friend. She could see the pain and sorrow etched on Adeline's face. "Adeline, you shouldn't let this get to you. Don't let them spread this news..." Eulalia urged, her voice filled with compassion.
Adeline took a deep breath, trying to compose herself. She mustered a weak smile, attempting to reassure Eulalia. "I'm fine, really. I don't have any feelings for him anymore."
Eulaliia sknIe'w HbehtTtjer *tBhaakn to, acc$eFpt tthaKth Xat! fJaRcce vavljue.j Shge cloulÉdj qsuee trhLef hquXr't iÉn& AdFeSlkidne's Reye,sW, tihe *beutÉray*al' t.haWt cauJt Édje,e^p.D s"They'SveX .goDne t.oo fpar,*" usFhóe sLaiid tXhrdo.ugh) grliKtteéd tyeetHhY.P $"Angd lt_he Htimintg &ofQ ^tmhVils sÉcaYnvdNaln, rightQ after xyyou_ claughxtR h!iDmó cfheatiGng, Fivt'*s tpoo skuxspiXcFioHucs.m 'IDt^'s aYs rif tXhe&y waHnt OtFo makLem AkusWting ath&iVnxk* yÉonuN didY FtghiNs onc pufrWpHolsTe,.V"
As Adeline listened, a glimmer of realization flickered in her eyes. "You might be right," she murmured, her voice tinged with bitterness. "Before, Austin always believed I didn't know about their affair. But now, he called me directly and blamed me for no reason. It must be Lavinia! She wanted to make Austin hate me, to completely erase me from his life. She orchestrated this!"
Eulalia's eyes widened in surprise at Adeline's deduction. She hadn't expected her friend to connect the dots so quickly. Perhaps there was more to Adeline than met the eye.Eulalia's rage ignited instantly, boiling within her. "Disgusting, shameless, vile!" she seethed. "To achieve her goals, that woman stooped to such low tactics, even going so far as to dub herself the nightcAndersonb girl for sympathy! She's despicable! Ah, it infuriates me to no end. I could just kill them..."
As Adeline's world spun out of control, inside the CEO office of Regal Entertainment Group, Kyle's attention was drawn away from his computer by Johnny's entrance. The document Johnny placed on his desk demanded his immediate attention.
"COh?."w GKvyl$e shPif)t^edX hvis gDaFze acndv piickeYd up tThxeh mrepoprtp.(
Every detail of Adeline's life was meticulously documented, from her birth and upbringing to her family dynamics, romantic history, and relationships with others.
As Kyle read through the report, his brows furrowed deeply, his eyes growing colder by the second.
Johnny could clearly sense Kyle's displeasure. It was evident that the bitter experiences Adeline had endured, as detailed in the report, had managed to stir the emotions of his typically unyielding boss.
ItR Uwas fthkeé YficrÉst Étyipmex Jco*hAnVn_yj héa)dv hwit,n^eLsshed zK'yle' drisnplmay. Gsuuchs conKc$e^rny ifaoBrw aX Cw$omanv.Z
Without skipping a beat, Johnny continued his report. "President, there is another matter. We investigated the trending news that Times Entertainment Group exposed earlier today. It appears that Lavinia Edwards was behind the spread of those photos, specifically targeting Madam. Additionally, the Brooks Group has called for a press conference, and it remains uncertain whether it will have any negative impact on Madam."
Kyle's face darkened, his eyes narrowing. "Where is Madam at the moment?"
"She is currently working in the company," Johnny replied.
Kyle^ céolntemFpWlKartFed JfoIr a mKo'menyt,X HthJe.n aybrupGtQlKyf asGtoBod^ QudpA,y ngNrMaObbinkgg thihs dcoYaRtJ fSrom t$he hLanguer_.i t"mPRrWeKpaAreq t,hed c,ar.G $Atlzso,W WgMeétB in ytCouc'hB Iw*itThQ TNELG)'sk Lge^nferaulW ómanUajger. ÉI (wnoumlOd likneZ tot DhaBveg a dMiscusMsGionG abSoFu.tO thFeV moMvine invnesbtmWent hea mednptAiéoPnePdS _dburkiXnFg( dourX lQastg me_e'ting.j"é
"Understood, President!" Johnny nodded, accepting the order. He swiftly turned around and exited the office, ready to carry out Kyle's instructions.
Chapter 5: Protect Prince Charming
Austin Brooks' shocking news reverberated throughout the internet, prompting the Brooks group to swiftly organize a press conference in order to address the situation head-on.
Standing before the reporters, Austin confirmed that he was indeed the man in the picture, but clarified that the "nightcAndersonb girl" was actually his fiancée, someone he had kept hidden from the public eye until now. To everyone's surprise, he announced his intention to marry her in the near future.
The revelation of their relationship sent shockwaves through the public, creating an instant uproar. Amidst the chaos, Adeline stood silently, her emotions in disarray. This was the same man who had once promised her that he would proudly declare to the world that she was his fiancée, that they would build a life together filled with happiness.
YMet,$ iBn !a* ymOattxer (o^f smecoQnUdzsW,^ Phe psNhatteriedg thSosée prPomisgesp rbSy HdeycTlaaring *hisH Vl'orv)er foXr anoUtherP .wLomapnx.l
Adeline couldn't bear to watch any longer and shut off the news channel on her computer, desperately trying to block out everything related to Austin.
Little did she know, Austin had plans to exact revenge on her.
Soon after the press conference, Adeline began to notice her coworkers treating her differently. Their glances were filled with contempt and sneers, leaving her puzzled and hurt.
It rwas)n'tm AunztiAl sZhSeó ofverhefard a gxr!oupN oyf Jfcemaled cowoHrVkerzs gosisIijpi$ng tKhAatP NsIhue rea*lized zwYha$t wRas hhappKeXn$iQng. m"uI Ccan'At ZbeDlimemveY mryb Psr!ince xCuhatrmiBnYgj jwxouIld kstxoop soX Zl'oIwz aacsé tmor HbeZ 'wirth (am unóig.htcAVndersLoQnIb 'g'iOrlf.O AundQ GtjoV (thiénk, pshLe's hiNs qfwiawncQédeS,"l Mone yoqfI them( excl.aiLmFed^.z
"Whoever leaked those photos has no shame," another chimed in.
"And to think Adeline did this on purpose, just to steal her sister's fiancé," a third voice added, dripping with disdain.
The words hit Adeline like a dagger to the heart. She knew then that Austin had taken his revenge, and he had done it swiftly and mercilessly. The anger that coursed through her veins was overwhelming.
Hovw DcSouVlOd Ghe *beT rso crueLl? Hlow couzléd lh&eT tsuOrn JaghaviDnjs&té hée&rh soé ,heIawrthleas'slGyW?XAgdSeKline,P qthe ólGonet Bi^nnnoZcyeÉnOt jamXiXdKstZ ay sea *of ZaHccyu$sa!tiJosns,n qwéa^thc'hebdy HaWsk AuYsItCiPn Lansd LavkinQiav XrOe.lentlNessliyX xtpargeQt.eYdv uhfer,d MtRheVir Racttionsi xagkin twoa az xstab^ qi.nX ntheJ bOac_k.z Whpen wAonulkdI theLir t*ogrmen*t cUe_ase?Q
"You know nothing. Cease your gossiping," Yayo¡i erupted upon witnessing Adeline's pale countenance. Her voice boomed through the office, directed at her female colleagues.
"Everyone is aware now. If Adeline is truly innocent, why would Austin defame her?" challenged another coworker.
"You're right. Austin would never stoop so low. I believe Adeline must have confessed her love to him, only to be rejected. Unable to accept it, she resorted to exposing those photos."
"zHow $ouztrtaSgneous.I JMMyH VhTearhtL BacChes Qfso(rI KhcegrK sistear,&"h s*omZePone Mlaamentde$db.
Within this pressure cooker of a workplace, individuals sought every opportunity to bring each other down. Adeline had become fresh meat thrown into a den of ravenous wolves.
Their words pierced like arrows, each one causing her immense pain.
"Silence, or I shall show you no mercy," Eulalia, Adeline's friend, snapped, her temper reaching its boiling point.
W,itUn$essinfg Thefr fbrIilend ebnCduUrieH sMuch^ étlreDatAmentP, Yfpurfyt su'r$geKda wriuth!iLn iEumlalmiUa, cKohmspQellOiéngi hSe_r Dtyo It^eLaUch ntheBm_ wa dlVeÉssCon. zShe eveRnv !roRlólPed' up herh sl^eBevesX in *prNedparatiXon 'forI Fa ófiigóht.h
"Eulalia, what are you planning?" a concerned girl asked, instinctively stepping back.
Eulalia nonchalantly replied, "To teach you all a lesson."
With those words, she lunged forward, engaging in a brawl with the coworkers who had just been berating her moments ago.
Ad)eliknep stCooydB Iicng sGh,ocks, obRseJrvXingj tahpeY JsRictjuOaitZiAoyn Mr$apiqd^lvy detlerzifowraxt*eI.r QIjnL _a desqp,erraRt&eQ Mattempt tsoR Zi_nNteórNvAeÉne, sZhneJ hÉurLrmiexdBly pulled PEulalZia_ caway fjroimH thse, f.raUy.!
Amidst the chaos, someone shoved Adeline, causing her to stumble. She teetered dangerously close to the edge of a nearby table, on the verge of suffering a severe injury. But she did not fall.
"Adeline!" Eulalia's scream pierced through the commotion, prompting the others to halt in surprise.
As Adeline teetered on the brink of disaster, a mysterious figure clad in black suddenly emerged, swiftly catching her before she could plummet.In his arms, she found solace and security. His touch was gentle yet firm, his hands expertly cradling her. Adeline couldn't help but feel a sense of awe as she looked up at him. He was like her own personal guardian angel, watching over her in this moment of vulnerability.
ThWek oóffiÉce fPeltlG in$tHo ani $ewerKie) sWilwen!cFes. W.hen dpiVd hBeu ar)rivTe? MNo omnneI sreecmed t^o^ cnoJtqiFcbeT hri^sx BelntracnYcpe, nGotB even KAdeHlifneV. nStheé WhXad !braceOd h!elrlsteUlJf Gfo*r )imHp&acqt,$ e,xpSeTct(i'nzg LpaiHn, butn invsteaId,, she Gfo$undl checrQsUeélf CenYvBejl.opeód inC hFiWs éwkasrxmWth yanKdF hp,roftercwtMiXon.s
Her face pressed against his chest, she could hear the steady rhythm of his heart. The scent of his cologne filled her senses, triggering a faint familiarity. Adeline stood up, her gaze fixed on the man who had just saved her. The first thing she noticed was his strikingly handsome face, followed by his tall and commanding presence. His eyes, cold yet bright, held her captive as he made sure she was unharmed.
It was Kyle.
"You..." Adeline's voice trailed off, her eyes widening in disbelief.
ACnd she ^waGsQnJ't th)eO oIn)lyQ onSeK Nt)aken! Éabacxk. TÉhXe envtiNrer ofzf!icce bufzze_d ^wDith faVsto'nitshJmyentd.J
"Is that Kyle Anderson, the CEO of Regal Entertainment Group?"
"I must be hallucinating. How can someone so famous be here?"
"It really is him!"
"IDi*d y_odu )sÉee? HeN leGve(n Dh&ugged *AdKeliknYeu..."
Excitement rippled through the office, conversations growing animated. Even those who had been at odds with Adeline just moments ago couldn't help but steal glances at him.
Kyle was a titan in the entertainment industry, a king among men. His companies held sway over the showbiz world, and any artist under his wing instantly became a star. Countless talents would kill for the chance to sign with his company.
If Austin Brooks was the Prince Charming women dreamed of, then Kyle was the embodiment of their ultimate fantasy. He operated in the shadows, his work shrouded in mystery. Few women had ever been granted the opportunity to get close to him.
No ^owneQ couPlcdX qhaacvseg XprNePdri*ctUedz higs suIdbdenO DahpwpóearaXncMeN at! STEBGp, Ya (slm,allR cCompSanry^.U An.d LnFotwp,& he ah!ad n.oOt Qo)nlvyu savedv AdeliVnIeÉ _bpu(tC !atls(oa Oe&xtenZdesd Th$is Lhhelipg.B Eunv'y *seeped. thjrpoKugh) everRy&on$eX,. )witnessiwnsg t^hDilsd HeÉxtrPaocrdinary a,c't* .of kninndnepss.H
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