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72. Cuddling in the Dark

Penulis: Athena
last update Terakhir Diperbarui: 2025-02-08 22:55:26

*** Hyacinth ***

The soft glow of the moonlight filtered through the curtains, casting a serene ambiance in our bedroom. Raven’s arms were wrapped around me, his warmth seeping into my skin as we lay there, basking in the afterglow of our love. His fingers traced lazy patterns on my arm, and I couldn’t help but smile, feeling utterly cherished. Raven made me feel like the most important person in the world, like nothing else mattered when we were together. His love was my sanctuary, a place where I could be completely myself, vulnerable and unguarded.

As we made our way downstairs, his hand never left my side, his possessive and tender touch. I loved how he always seemed to need to be close to me as if even the slightest distance was too much. His PJ pants hung low on his hips, and I couldn’t help but admire the way his muscles moved with every step. Raven was effortlessly handsome, his dark hair tousled, his eyes always holding a hint of mischief. But it wasn’t just his looks that ca
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  • Forced to Marry My Stepbrother   73. Roses for Hyacinth, Letter for the Husband

    **Raven**The morning sun filtered through the curtains, casting a warm glow over the house. I was already on edge after Irene handed me that letter, “This is surprisingly yours, sir.” Irene said. The single black rose in the bouquet for Hyacinth sent a chill down my spine. A black rose meant something dark. Whoever sent it knew too much, and I wasn’t about to let anything threaten my wife. I slid the letter into my pocket, determined to deal with it later.“That’s for Hyacinth,” I pointed to the bouquet. “Burn it.” “Yes, sir.” She nodded and went back to the guard’s house while I went back inside the house. I went close by the windowsill and watched as they lit up As I turned, Hyacinth descended the stairs, her hair tousled from sleep, her eyes still heavy with drowsiness. She was breathtaking, even in her half-awake state. I met her at the bottom step, pulling her into my arms. Her lips met mine, soft and warm, and for a moment, the world faded away. But of course, Patricia had to

    Terakhir Diperbarui : 2025-02-09
  • Forced to Marry My Stepbrother   74. Hyacinth's Collection

    *** Hyacinth ***My beloved keyboards. I was over the moon as I arranged the new ones, each encased in the protective acrylic covers my husband had gifted me. Vintage mechanical designs—each one a masterpiece. I adored them, worshiped them even. But for now, I’d be using the keyboard Raven had bought for me, the one that felt like an extension of my thoughts, my creativity.“Hyacinth,” my mother-in-law’s voice chimed in, pulling me from my reverie. I turned around, my fingers lingering on the keys for a moment longer.“Yes, Mom?” I replied, my voice soft but attentive.“We’re off to check on the place for our New Year celebration. It won’t be in the city, but somewhere where we can watch the fireworks,” she explained, her tone light and cheerful.“Yes,” I agreed, though a flicker of unease passed through me. Fireworks in the woods? I couldn’t help but think of the birds, the animals—the chaos it might bring to them. But we’d only be watching from afar, and perhaps that made it alright

    Terakhir Diperbarui : 2025-02-10
  • Forced to Marry My Stepbrother   75. Rosie and Venla

    *** Hyacinth ***The drive back to the main city was a blur of passing lights and idle chatter, but the moment we stopped by BGC, the air shifted. Conti’s cafe stood there, a familiar haven, and the promise of Mango Bravo ice cream was enough to lift my spirits. But as soon as I stepped out of the car, my heart stuttered. There they were—Venla, her tall, elegant frame impossible to miss, and Rose, her laughter ringing out like a bell. They stood there, shopping bags in hand, sharing a moment that felt too intimate for my comfort. My stomach twisted. Rosie’s presence always spelled trouble, and the thought of her whispering venom into Venla’s ear made my chest tighten. Venla would tell Eino, and then… I shook my head, trying to dispel the anxiety clawing at me. “No,” I told myself. “I shouldn’t care.”Patricia nudged me, her touch grounding. “Come on,” she said, her voice firm but kind. “Let’s get the cake.” I followed her into the store, my eyes darting back to the glass wall where

    Terakhir Diperbarui : 2025-02-11
  • Forced to Marry My Stepbrother   76. Fountain Pen

    **Raven**I had identified the type of paper and the fountain pen used in the mysterious letter. I’d even enlisted an expert to analyze the nib, the ink, and the handwriting. The results had arrived earlier that day, but for now, my focus was singular. I needed to know whose handwriting this was. The answer felt close, yet elusive.“Raven!” Hyacinth’s voice pierced through the silence as she burst through the door, her chest heaving as though she’d been running for miles. She leaned against the doorframe, catching her breath, her eyes wide with urgency. “Come out, now!”“What’s the rush?” I asked, calmly sliding the analysis report into my desk drawer before standing. My wife looked flustered, her cheeks flushed, and her hair slightly disheveled. I approached her, my curiosity piqued. “What’s going on?”Without a word, she grabbed my hand and pulled me downstairs, her grip firm yet trembling with excitement. We stepped into the garden, where a peculiar sight awaited us: a delivery sof

    Terakhir Diperbarui : 2025-02-12
  • Forced to Marry My Stepbrother   77. Seeking Evidences

    ***Raven***I don’t have concrete evidence that Anthony is the one behind the assault on the private investigator. He’s currently in the hospital, and we’ve already collected his statement. The investigator also found a sample of Anthony’s handwriting, which I sent for forensic analysis. The results were inconclusive—while the handwriting matched, there were peculiarities in each stroke. The forensic expert Janice consulted pointed out that handwriting can be replicated, and some people even share similar styles naturally. But would Hyacinth’s stalker go to such lengths to deceive me? It’s a question that gnaws at the edges of my mind, leaving me restless.“Raven,” Hyacinth’s voice broke through my thoughts, soft and drowsy. I thought she was asleep, but she sat up, her arms wrapping around my back in a warm, sleepy embrace. “You’re still awake.”“Sorry, babe,” I murmured, turning to face her. Her eyes were half-lidded, her hair tousled from sleep, and her expression a mix of concern

    Terakhir Diperbarui : 2025-02-13
  • Forced to Marry My Stepbrother   78. 3rd Engagement Ring

    **Rosie**It’s the perfect way to ruin Hyacinth in the eyes of those who know her. Too bad Dad isn’t here to witness it. I have all the intimate videos of Hyacinth and Raven from their teenage years, filmed in her bedroom. Not many people know they were step-siblings back then. I haven’t shown Venla the footage of Raven and Hyacinth. She might think I’m unethical. But my friends are well aware of how close Hyacinth and Raven were during their teens. The awkward, ugly teenager Hyacinth somehow managed to seduce a handsome boy like Raven. Then again, men will sleep with anyone, regardless of looks. “I’m so glad you invited me last minute, Auntie,” I said to Darcy, flashing my most innocent smile. She responded with a hum and a lopsided grin. “Oh, dear. This place isn’t exactly your father’s style,” she remarked, though her comment made little sense to me. No matter—I’m here to have fun and ruin this party. “Venla, dear,” Darcy called out sweetly. “I’ve prepared a room for you and Ei

    Terakhir Diperbarui : 2025-02-14
  • Forced to Marry My Stepbrother   79.

    ***Rosie***I never had seen anyone get her attention so much. She’s like a child getting pampered. I know exactly how it works. Just a little manipulation, a few well-placed words, and she could get whatever she wanted. But what caught my attention more was the ring she’s wearing now. It was gaudy, really—full of colors, rare gems, and that obnoxious diamond in the middle. It screamed desperation, as if she needed to prove something to the world. Or maybe just to herself. “It seems that you are not enjoying it much,” Venla commented in her crisp British accent. “I see you like it loud and drinking more…” “Yes,” I said, my voice dripping with feigned boredom. “It’s kind of boring here, isn’t it?” I asked her, though I knew she wouldn’t answer. She’s too polite, too refined to admit the truth. I smiled lopsidedly, my eyes flicking to that *doctor*, the dermatologist I’ve been trying to book an appointment with. He’s currently engrossed in some mindless video game with that blonde man

    Terakhir Diperbarui : 2025-02-15
  • Forced to Marry My Stepbrother   80. New Year's Full of Secrets

    **Hyacinth**I couldn’t take my eyes off the drive clenched in Janice’s hand. There was something on it—something Rosie was planning to reveal. But I didn’t want to confront Rosie directly. It felt like all of Raven’s friends were in on some secret, and I was the fool left in the dark. The thought gnawed at me, a quiet ache that refused to fade. I forced a smile, pretending to be happy for the New Year. This was supposed to be a fresh start for us—a chance to live happily and trust each other without secrets. But as I stared into Raven’s eyes, I couldn’t help but wonder, What else is he hiding? Why is he keeping me out of the loop? The doubt crept in, cold and unrelenting. “Bud,” he murmured, kissing my nose. “Why are you looking at me like that?”I shook my head, not wanting to ruin the party. But the question lingered, heavy in my chest. I glanced at my best friend, who seemed to notice the shift in my mood. Her eyes met mine, and for a moment, I thought she might say something. B

    Terakhir Diperbarui : 2025-02-16

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  • Forced to Marry My Stepbrother   107. Taking Cal Away

    ***Hyacinth***It all happened so quickly, like a whirlwind tearing through our lives. We arrived at the airport to meet the private plane Raven had sent to transport Cal to a specialized facility. The place they chose was renowned for its state-of-the-art care, the best money could buy. Cal was still unconscious, trapped in a coma, and the sight of him lying there, so fragile, was a dagger to my heart. Kelly, too, was suffering, left behind in her own hospital bed. Despite our pleas, Uncle Hayden insisted she remain there, though I couldn’t shake the guilt of leaving her alone.The hospital where Kelly was staying was top-tier, but the facility Cal was being moved to offered even more personalized attention. We ensured he was settled into a VIP suite, with a dedicated nurse monitoring him around the clock. I stood by, watching as they adjusted his IVs and checked his vitals. His eyes fluttered open a few times, only to close again moments later. It was progress, albeit small. He even

  • Forced to Marry My Stepbrother   106. The Scapegoat?

    ***Kelly***I remember it all too vividly. Cal was driving carefully, his hands steady on the wheel, his eyes focused on the road. But that car—it came out of nowhere, swerving deliberately toward us. Cal’s reflexes were quick. He threw his right arm across me, shielding me as best as he could. But it wasn’t enough. The impact was brutal. Our car slammed into the post on my side, the sound of crunching metal and shattering glass echoing in my ears. I felt the searing pain in my right arm and leg, but it was nothing compared to the horror of seeing Cal’s head hit the windshield with a sickening crack. The glass splintered, and he went limp. “Kelly, I’m so sorry, darling.” My mother’s voice trembled as she reached for my hand, her fingers squeezing mine gently. Her eyes were red-rimmed, her face pale with worry. “Don’t lose hope. Cal’s strong. He’ll pull through. He’ll be out of the ICU soon, I promise.”“I need to see him,” I begged, my voice breaking. “Even if it’s just from the out

  • Forced to Marry My Stepbrother   105. Won't Sit Idly

    ***Hyacinth***I sat in my swivel chair, my mind racing as I tried to figure out what to do next. My imagination spiraled with ideas on how to catch that *bastard*. Restlessness gnawed at me, and sleep felt impossible. I glanced at my husband, Raven, who was hunched over his computer, laser-focused as he made yet another call. It was well past midnight, and here we were, still tirelessly checking on our friends back in the Philippines.“Raven,” I called out softly. He paused, his fingers hovering over the keyboard, and turned to look at me. Our eyes locked, and for a long moment, we just stared at each other. I opened my mouth to speak, but the words caught in my throat. “Never mind,” I muttered, looking away as I turned back to my laptop. I could feel his gaze lingering on me, heavy with unspoken concern.In that moment, I couldn’t help but wish I had run away with Raven years ago. I wished there were no stalkers, no threats, no shadows lurking in our lives. Why did this person want

  • Forced to Marry My Stepbrother   104. The Twist

    ***Zian***When we arrived at the hospital, Cal was standing outside the operating room, his arms stained with blood that still dripped onto the floor. Kelly’s parents hadn’t arrived yet, but my concern was entirely on him. His white shirt was soaked in crimson, and his face was pale, his eyes wide and unfocused. He looked shattered, broken in a way I’d never seen before.“Cal,” I called softly as I approached him, my voice trembling with worry. “You’re hurt. We need to get you checked up.”He pushed me away weakly, his hands shaking. His eyes were dilated, his breathing uneven. My heart ached seeing him like this—so lost, so consumed by guilt and fear. “Bro!” I shouted, trying to snap him out of it. “You’re bleeding! You need help!”“She’s in there…” he muttered, his voice barely audible as he pointed toward the operating room. His hand trembled, and he exhaled slowly, as if the weight of the world was crushing him.Before I could say more, I heard the sound of rushing footsteps. Ke

  • Forced to Marry My Stepbrother   103. His Games

    ***Raven***I forced myself to stay seated during the meeting, even though every fiber of my being screamed to leave. Hyacinth had assured me she was fine, but the unease gnawed at me. My partners and our business dealings were important—crucial, even—but nothing mattered more than my wife. “I’m sorry, but I need to leave immediately. There’s an emergency,” I said, rising from my chair. My voice was steady, but my heart raced.Colton Pines, the first of the three partners I’d met who shared my passion for rare gems, leaned back in his chair, his tone casual. “What’s going on?”“My wife needs me,” I replied, my words clipped.“Wife?” Dane’s head snapped up, his expression a mix of surprise and mock offense. “You got married without inviting us?” His voice rose, and I raised a hand to silence him, my jaw tightening.Minerva, ever the dramatic, rolled her eyes and pushed her fiery red hair back. “Oh, bummer. Guess we’re not important enough for wedding invitations.”“I’ll introduce you

  • Forced to Marry My Stepbrother   102. Even in Other State

    ***Darcy***I couldn’t help but laugh when Raven and Hyacinth told me how Regina had outsmarted Samuel. It all came rushing back to me now—the reason Samuel married me. It wasn’t love. It was my alimony from my first husband. Samuel was handsome, sure, but not nearly as striking as Raven’s father. He had married Regina for her business acumen, hoping she’d save his failing company. And she did. But what he didn’t know was that Regina had already secured her wealth, transferring most of her assets to her mother and Hyacinth. Hyacinth, my dear girl, is now richer than any of us, thanks to her mother’s foresight. I couldn’t be prouder of Regina for that.But there’s one thing weighing heavily on my heart—proof that Regina’s death wasn’t an accident. Hyacinth needs closure, and I’m determined to help her find it.“Take care, my dear,” I said, waving at the screen as Hyacinth blew me a flying kiss.“Love you, Mom,” Hyacinth replied, her voice soft and sweet. I nodded, a lump forming in my

  • Forced to Marry My Stepbrother   101. To Washington

    ***Raven***I was pleasantly surprised when my wife greeted me at the door, wearing an adorable apron and a warm smile. She helped me remove my coat and necktie, her hands gentle and efficient. She even made sure I slipped into my home shoes, leaving my dirty ones by the rack until they were clean enough to be stored in our shoe closet. She handed me a damp, hot towel to clean my hands, her touch lingering for a moment longer than necessary. Then, with a playful grin, she led me to the round table near the balcony, where the city lights sparkled like a sea of stars. The soft hum of romantic music filled the air, and the flickering candles added a touch of magic to the scene. Patricia, Seth, and Irene were eating in the dining room, but my wife had prepared something special for just the two of us. She looked stunning in an olive green dress, her hair twisted into a low, messy bun. My mind wandered to all the things I wanted to do with her tonight, but for now, I focused on the momen

  • Forced to Marry My Stepbrother   100. Raven's Sister

    **Raven**I’ve always been a man who values loyalty and integrity, which is why the situation with Seth and Patricia has been gnawing at me. I know for a fact that Seth was married, but there’s an undeniable attraction brewing between him and Patricia. As much as I want to stay out of their personal lives, Patricia is like a baby sister to me—spoiled, sharp-tongued, and always two steps ahead of everyone. She’s Hyacinth’s best friend, and I don’t want Hyacinth to worry about her either. So, I’ve decided to keep a close eye on things, even if it means stepping into territory I’d rather avoid.I leaned back in my ergonomic chair, the soft hum of the office filling the silence as I scrolled through the list Hyacinth had sent me. It was all photos—handbags, shoes, and a few pieces of jewelry. My wife has always had an eye for elegance, and I couldn’t help but smile at her impeccable taste. I called for my assistant, who appeared promptly, her heels clicking softly against the polished flo

  • Forced to Marry My Stepbrother   99. Raven's Billionaire Wife

    **Raven**Understanding the immense influence Hyacinth’s mother held in the business world only fueled my determination to provide for Hyacinth in every way possible. Her mother’s wealth was hers, not mine, and I respected that boundary. But every penny I earned, every success I achieved, was for Hyacinth. She was my purpose, my driving force. I built my empire not for glory or power, but to ensure she lived a life free from worry, surrounded by the luxury she deserved. Yet, no amount of wealth could erase the pain etched on her face when she spoke of her mother. The emotional scars from her family ran deep, and it pained me to see her cry. Her mother, a brilliant mind who had saved countless companies, had left behind a legacy—and a final message to secure her daughter’s future. It wasn’t just the Charles Law Firm searching for Hyacinth; Sinclair was also in the mix. The weight of it all was overwhelming, but I would shoulder it for her.We left the mansion late that night, after Hy

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