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94. Mockery

Penulis: Athena
last update Terakhir Diperbarui: 2025-03-02 23:07:10
***Patricia***

Finnish class in the morning, events in the afternoon, and self-defense class later in the day—that’s been our routine lately. Rachel Vanderbilt, the demure yet insistent socialite, has been relentless in dragging us into her world of elite activities. I never imagined I’d be part of this high-society circus, but here I am, playing the role of the dutiful best friend. Hyacinth, my best friend, is married to a young billionaire, and her life is a whirlwind of glamour and obligations. As her assistant, I’m along for the ride, earning a paycheck while trying to keep up.

The most exciting part of this new life? Self-defense classes. I’ve taken a liking to kickboxing with Seth, while Hyacinth trains in more lethal techniques involving knives and sharp objects. Our Russian coach is exceptional—so skilled that she’s almost intimidatingly attractive. And no, I’m not bisexual or a lesbian, but I can appreciate beauty when I see it. She’s stunning in a way that feels dangerous.

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  • Forced to Marry My Stepbrother   95. Hyacinth's First Gala

    **Hyacinth** The party in the building was a whirlwind of excitement and exhaustion. The constant social interactions left me drained, and I couldn’t help but feel like I was playing the role of a housewife for Raven. Yet, amidst the chaos, I couldn’t shake the thought of diving deeper into the business world. Was there still room in my packed schedule to learn and grow? “You look stunning,” Raven said, his voice warm as I turned to show him my gown for the Gala. The crimson red dress hugged my curves perfectly, its mermaid cut flowing elegantly to the floor with a subtle slit for ease of movement. The off-shoulder design featured cape sleeves adorned with intricate embroidered spirals and shimmering gems that caught the light with every step. It was breathtaking—and undoubtedly expensive. “Are these real?” I asked, gesturing to the gems that sparkled like stars against the fabric. “Of course, darling,” Raven replied, his grin widening. “Your husband *is* from a mining and jew

    Terakhir Diperbarui : 2025-03-03
  • Forced to Marry My Stepbrother   96. Af Forselles Legacy

    **Hyacinth**The gala was a dazzling spectacle of opulence and elegance, a symphony of shimmering gowns, polished tuxedos, and the soft clinking of champagne glasses. Crystal chandeliers cast a warm, golden glow over the room, their light reflecting off the intricate jewelry adorning the guests. The air was thick with the mingling scents of expensive perfumes and the faint aroma of hors d'oeuvres being carried by impeccably dressed waiters. It was a world I was still getting used to, but one that felt strangely familiar, as if my mother’s presence lingered in every corner.Meeting so many people who knew my mother filled me with a warmth I hadn’t expected. Their stories painted a picture of a woman who was not only brilliant but deeply loved. The Af Forselles name carried weight here, and I couldn’t help but feel a surge of pride. Perhaps I should shed the Dawson name entirely and embrace my mother’s legacy. My father and Rosie had painted her as someone she wasn’t, but here, among th

    Terakhir Diperbarui : 2025-03-04
  • Forced to Marry My Stepbrother   97. Front Page

    ***Raven***Hyacinth was the flower of the night—the only bloom that thrived in the moonlight. She was radiant, captivating, and effortlessly enchanting, much like the woman who had raised her, Margarette Sinclair. Though I hadn’t yet formally met the Sinclairs, it was clear that Hyacinth had brought a sense of joy and peace to Margarette’s family. Watching her interact with Margarette’s eldest son, I could see how her honesty and authenticity had won them over. It was impossible not to fall under her spell. She was introverted, yet she had a way of connecting with people, especially those with old souls. She was extraordinary, and I was endlessly proud to call her mine.After the event, I finally collapsed onto the bed beside her, my body aching from the long evening. Gently, I began massaging her feet, which were undoubtedly sore from hours of standing and walking in those impossibly high heels. I regretted letting the stylist choose such impractical shoes. Next time, I’d make sure

    Terakhir Diperbarui : 2025-03-05
  • Forced to Marry My Stepbrother   98. The Stalker in New York

    *** The Stalker ***I made sure my face was concealed, either with a prosthetic or by obscuring my features enough to mislead anyone who might try to identify me. I wore cheap, nondescript clothing that covered me from head to toe, and beneath my winter hat, I tucked away a set of fake dreadlocks. Disguise is an art, and I am its meticulous artist. The headlines had confirmed what I already knew: Hyacinth is perfection incarnate. A flawless wife, a goddess among mortals. Today, she sat in that café near Central Park, the one she frequents. She was draped in a white trench coat, leather boots hugging her slender legs, and a mini dress that teased just enough to drive me mad. Beneath it all, thick socks climbed up her thighs, and the mere thought of peeling them away, of touching her skin, sent shivers of desire through me. But then, my mind wandered to her sister Rosie, who had the audacity to tarnish Hyacinth’s purity. Rosie, who claimed Hyacinth lost her virginity at fifteen—or was

    Terakhir Diperbarui : 2025-03-06
  • 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

    Terakhir Diperbarui : 2025-03-07
  • 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

    Terakhir Diperbarui : 2025-03-08
  • 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

    Terakhir Diperbarui : 2025-03-09
  • 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

    Terakhir Diperbarui : 2025-03-10

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  • Forced to Marry My Stepbrother   135. Europe R18

    Hyacinth I’ve always dreamed of touring Europe, and now, with our budget secured, we finally could. The private jet made the trip hassle-free, and as we stepped onto foreign soil, I intertwined my fingers with my husband’s. But he brushed my hand away, handing me my purse instead. I pouted, only for him to secure his own bag across his chest before resting a firm hand on my waist. My irritation melted into a grin when he winked at me. “So, this is the surprise birthday trip you planned for me?” he asked. “Yes,” I confirmed. “I would’ve preferred it if we were alone, you know.” His grin turned wicked as he wiggled his brows. “Locked in our room for days—lazy, indulgent, just us. I’d never get tired of that.” “But I would,” I shot back, squinting up at him. “It’s bad for me.” He laughed as I did, then pushed open the door to the first café we spotted. The place wasn’t crowded, but the rich aroma of coffee and pastries was intoxicating. My eyes locked onto the cinnamon Dani

  • Forced to Marry My Stepbrother   134. The Lawyer

    –Patricia–I had invited Anthony with Hyacinth’s approval, and they unexpectedly showed up together. I was surprised that Hyacinth had brought our favorite yogurt set, while Raven handed me the apple container.“You can eat all of that since you’re single,” Raven remarked with a pitying look. It was irritating, but I had to endure his constant jibes—after all, my best friend was paying me to tolerate his face.I put the yogurt in the fridge, only to be interrupted by a hand that appeared behind me, placing something next to it. I turned, nearly colliding noses with the newcomer. He quickly raised his hand and apologized, “Sorry, I didn’t mean to scare you.”“No, it’s fine,” I replied with a grin. “You’re not trying to flirt with me, are you?” I teased.“What if I am?” he shot back, laughing and nodding.“You’ll have to ask my best friend’s permission first,” I quipped.He chuckled and patted my arm. “Sure thing. By the way, I have some questions,” he said, extending his arm. I gracefu

  • Forced to Marry My Stepbrother   133. Unspoken Oath

    ***Raven*** Rosie had put on quite the show. After days of comforting my wife and convincing her not to blame herself, it seemed to be working—somewhat. But I needed to double down. I had to find that last copy and destroy it, especially now that my wife was gaining fame. Maybe we should stop attending galas altogether. “Why are you packing so much?” I asked as she counted a few items. “We’re off to Europe,” she replied casually. “Babe, we’re not going to Finland again,” I teased. “I didn’t say Finland,” she said, rolling her eyes. “I have work.” “You can work from there. Besides, I made sure the jet is packed.” She winked and held up a piece of lingerie—tempting, to say the least. “Wow, second honeymoon?” I approached her, but she raised a finger to stop me, carefully placing the lingerie into the luggage. “Now I remember—our anniversary is coming up,” I said, walking around her and pulling her waist toward me. “Are you planning to make love to me?” “No way! After

  • Forced to Marry My Stepbrother   132. Suicide

    –Raven–As soon as I answered his call, the first thing I heard was his heavy breathing.“I will kill her. I will kill Hyacinth,” Samuel said, as though Hyacinth wasn’t his daughter. His words sent chills down my spine. Even his own flesh and blood—he wanted her dead.“Killing Hyacinth won’t do you any good, Samuel,” I replied, keeping my tone casual.“She said something to Rosie. She must have. Now, tell me—what else did she say to Rosie?”I frowned.“I have no idea what you’re talking about. And whatever Hyacinth said must be true.”“I will end you both!”I sighed and hung up, immediately calling Samuel’s nurse. She answered after a few moments.“What’s going on in there?” I asked.“Unfortunately, Miss Rosie sent a message. She tried to overdose on pills. She’s currently in the emergency room.”I was silent for a moment, processing the news. Rosie—always desperate for attention. No, she wasn’t just seeking attention; she was demanding it. Just earlier, she had threatened Hyacinth, v

  • Forced to Marry My Stepbrother   131. Fire

    —Stalker’s Point of View—Smelling her, touching her—it almost drove me insane. But it wasn’t just her that consumed me. It was something our family was meant to possess. Her mother was perfect. The epitome of intelligence. A woman who had it all, despite being a commoner, not royalty. Yet everyone wanted her as their daughter-in-law. A genius in everything… except love. “I was thinking that maybe Hyacinth was also a victim of love.” I stood, pacing around my desk, glancing at the piles of recently filed cases. Boring paperwork, but necessary. Even the bomb incident was just another file to clean up. I hadn’t meant to kill anyone—just to isolate her. If everyone around her was gone, taking her would be effortless. But no matter how many times I tried, they clung to her. Maybe I should ruin her relationship with Darcy. “How do I do that?” My fingers tapped against the windowsill as I watched Hyacinth step out of her apartment across the street, her bodyguards trailing like

  • Forced to Marry My Stepbrother   130. Turmoil

    –Hyacinth— I was certain she intended to become my husband’s mistress. Proposing in front of me? Bold. But I had seen Raven flinch multiple times. That woman—Minerva—sat across from him, her foot subtly grazing his ankle, then sliding higher, testing his restraint. Raven’s discomfort was palpable. His glare could have scorched her where she sat. When our orders arrived, I draped my hand possessively over his lap. He shifted under my touch, but I only leaned closer, crossing my legs to shield him from Minerva’s advances. Let her try. “If you want, you can visit the site with us,” Colton offered. “Are we hiking, or…?” I trailed off, waiting. “Fly. We’ll fly,” Dane cut in, grinning. “I’ll be your pilot.” Raven’s hand settled on my thigh, a silent claim. “Let me taste that,” he murmured, nodding toward my tuna. Without hesitation, I fed him a bite, rice and all. Colton groaned. “Oh, come on! I don’t want to be a third wheel here.” I smirked. “Minerva’s here. You don’t

  • Forced to Marry My Stepbrother   129. Business Partners

    –Hyacinth– My feet ached as I finally let them rest flat against the cool hardwood floor. Never again, I vowed, glaring at the discarded high heels lying near the closet. But duty called—tonight, Raven’s business partners expected us for dinner. We’d met them briefly at the gala, but between the endless introductions and the suffocating crowd, we’d barely exchanged more than pleasantries. Three days had passed since then, and though my social battery was still drained, I couldn’t postpone this any longer. My mind, however, refused to relax. Even now, I found myself checking my phone—again—for updates on Penny and David. They were safe, I knew that, but the memory of their close call still coiled around my chest like a vise. A soft laugh drew my attention to the living room, where Kelly and Calisto were curled together on the sofa. Calisto, still recovering from his head injury, had his arm draped lazily over Kelly’s shoulders. The two of them had adjusted well to their new realit

  • Forced to Marry My Stepbrother   128. The Spotlight

    —Patricia— The Silver Gala was a spectacle of wealth and power—crystal chandeliers dripping light over marble floors, the air thick with the mingling scents of expensive perfumes and champagne. The elite moved in a slow, calculated dance, their laughter sharp as cut glass, their smiles never quite reaching their eyes. And among them, Hyacinth stood out like a rare gem in a sea of polished stones. No—not just a gem. Something far more precious. She was the kind of brilliance that made people want, that made them covet. And why wouldn’t they? With a net worth in the billions, an inheritance that could topple empires, she was more than just a woman—she was a prize. I stayed close, as always. My role was to observe, to protect in my own way. My gaze flickered to the right, where a man in a black suit stood motionless against the wall. Seth. His presence was a quiet reassurance—Hyacinth’s shadow, her shield. Then Eino approached, swift and purposeful, another man from his famil

  • Forced to Marry My Stepbrother   127. Surprise Gift

    Hyacinth For the first time in what felt like forever, we’d finally had days of good sleep. Kelly and Cal seemed to be healing each other—attending therapy together, flanked by three bodyguards and a standby nurse in case Cal had another seizure. But lately, his recovery had been startlingly fast. The shadows under his eyes had lightened, his smiles came easier, and whenever Kelly was near, he looked… happy. I was glad. Relieved, even. Yet, I couldn’t shake the unease gnawing at me. Cal’s parents still despised Kelly—or rather, they wanted nothing to do with her family. Raven had mentioned some past conflict between them, something buried deep enough that neither side spoke of it openly. All I knew was that they’d once been close. Now? They were strangers with grudges. “Rachel said this gala will expand your business knowledge,” Raven murmured, handing me a thick, embossed invitation. His fingers lingered against mine. “So, you’ll pick out our outfits?” “Yeah, of course.” I

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