Hazel, taken aback by the unexpected request, hesitated for a moment. Her mind raced, unsure of how to respond. Before she could gather her thoughts, Francisco, with a sly smirk, interrupted, "It's okay."A mix of relief and confusion played on Hazel's face. She was about to express her thoughts, but Francisco, once again, cut in, "But I will come here to see you another time."His words hung in the air, leaving Hazel in a state of mild astonishment. Francisco's demeanor, a blend of charm and mystery, intrigued her. As he climbed back into his car, the engine hummed to life, and he rolled down the window."Until next time, Hazel," he said, a glint of playfulness in his eyes.As the car slowly pulled away, Hazel stood there, watching the vehicle disappear into the night.**Max returned to the mansion, his face a storm of anger that left no room for interpretation. His clenched jaw and furrowed brow painted a picture of frustration and resentment that was hard to ignore. As he made his
Diana was acutely aware of how to hurt and annoy him, a strategy that seemed to bring her a strange sense of satisfaction.Max shifted his gaze away from Diana, his thoughts tangled in the web of hurt and resentment.Diana's soothing voice cut through the tense atmosphere, a deceptive calmness masking the storm that brewed beneath the surface. "You should now get some rest," she advised, her words carrying a hint of concern."Call her right now," Max urged, his tone a sharp command.Diana pursed her lips, the rage bubbling within her threatening to explode. The wounds of jealousy and pain were fresh, and Max's insistence on reaching out to the maid reignited the flames of her anger.Diana, her face stern and determined, put the first aid kit box on the table with purpose. Max remained on the bed, his posture unchanged, caught in the crossfire of their unspoken conflict.She stood up and went to get a glass of water for him."Take this."Max's laughter echoed, a bitter sound that reve
Diana, with a deep breath, gathered the strength to make Max look at her. There was an unspoken understanding between them, a silent agreement that transcended words. Yet, Max, interpreting her silence as a green light, continued his tender gestures."Not tonight, Diana," Max's words carried a magnetic force, and for a moment, she felt the pull of his charisma weakening her resolve.However, Diana, though ensnared by the chemistry that crackled in the air, remained steadfast in her decision.She maintained a stoic silence, a silent battle waging within her. Max, interpreting her silence as a reluctant affirmation, leaned in to place a devoted kiss on her neck.His lips met the tender skin, and for a fleeting moment, time seemed to stand still. Diana's hand instinctively stroked through Max's hair, entangled in the fervor of the moment. But soon, a realization struck her—Max was not moving."Not tonight, Max."She mumbled, a sigh escaped her lips.Diana carefully shifted Max beside her
"Oh, Max." Diana, caught off guard by the directness of the conversation, responded, "No, I haven't gone to his room." "Give him the utmost attention. He must come round as soon as possible." The weight of Francisco's words hung in the air, and Diana replied with a simple, "Yes." Her stunned manner reflected the unexpected nature of the conversation. "Just who do you want to come round?" The atmosphere in the mansion shifted as Max's voice reverberated through the room. Buttoning his shirt, he descended the stairs with a nonchalant demeanor. Diana instinctively averted her gaze, but as Max approached, he turned to face her with a frigid gaze that seemed to lack any sentiment. Francisco, engrossed in his laptop, seemed unfazed by Max's entrance. "We were speaking of you, Max. How are you feeling now?" he inquired, maintaining a composed tone. "Me?" Max feigned ignorance, adding, "What has happened to me?" With a casual glance towards Diana, Francisco said, "I've heard you're
"Hazel!" He called, prompting her to turn back. Her posture exuded professionalism as she faced him. "Yes, sir," she responded, her eyes meeting his. Francisco, intrigued by her promptness and composure, took a moment before asking, "Why are you leaving?" Hazel, momentarily caught off guard, gathered herself. "I consider this to be an important call for you," she replied with a confident smile, revealing her understanding of the intricacies of his role. A smirk played on Francisco's lips at her response. He took a deep breath, nodding approvingly. "You are my PA, so you don't have to leave every time." His words were a mix of acknowledgment and a subtle invitation to delve deeper into the layers of her professional persona. "Ah my mistake." "I sincerely apologize." Hazel's lowered her green eyes. Francisco, with a tilt of his head and a smirk playing on his lips, acknowledged her words. "Come here," he casually beckoned, a tone of intrigue in his voice that Hazel found bo
Francisco, turning to face Hazel, murmured, "Karan, that's extremely kind of you.""But my PA will pick out my clothing this time."Hazel felt a mixture of astonishment and responsibility. The weight of choosing attire for someone as influential as Francisco stirred a sense of importance within her.Mrs. Karan, though momentarily surprised, gracefully acquiesced to Francisco's decision.Hazel's eyes narrowed as she heard Francisco's directive, but he paid no attention to her reaction, casually settling onto a plush couch and lighting up a cigarette. Mrs. Karan, seemingly unperturbed, extended an invitation."Please come. I will show you the men's area," Karan said with a slight smile.Hazel, a bit nervous as it was her first visit to a renowned branded store, followed Karan towards the men's section. In the midst of high-end fashion, curiosity got the better of Mrs. Karan."It seems Francisco really depends on his PA more than his girlfriend," she remarked.The mention of a girlfriend
Accepting the packet, Hazel swiftly entered a designated changing room. The space was sizable, surrounded by large mirrors that reflected her every move. Taking a quick glance in the mirror, she efficiently dressed herself.The gown she found in the packet featured a combination of black and maroon, mirroring Francisco's outfit. The colors blend seamlessly to create an elegant ensemble.As Hazel stood ready to touch the mirror, a girl's voice surprised her from behind."Hello, ma'am," the girl greeted.Hazel jumped in surprise, not expecting anyone else. The girl quickly reassured her, "I was brought here by Mr. Francisco to do your makeup. Don't be surprised."Hazel processed the information and nodded, "Ah, okay.""Please take a seat. He gave me ten minutes," the girl said with a friendly smile.Realizing the limited time and Francisco's punctuality, Hazel promptly took a seat.After a few minutes spent in the dressing room, Hazel emerged alongside the other girl, the anticipation o
Diana, maintaining an air of composure, tilted her head and somberly remarked, "I apologize for not seeing you." "Do you need something?"Max seized her hand, "Okay, let's go now." Her compliance seemed a momentary respite, but her next words cut through the fragile peace.Diana replied as Max seized her hand, "Do you not have something to do, Max, or do you simply want to be fired from Francisco's company?" "In what sense do you mean that?" Max arched his brows, a mix of confusion and frustration clouding his expression."I advise you to quit being a bodyguard and look for another job. I know how to defend myself well."Her proficiency in martial arts and the use of firearms were not to be underestimated, a skill set born out of the shadows of her own dark experiences.Max, persistent in his attempt to take her home, held her hand and urged, "Diana, get off your duff. Now, let's get home." However, Diana was not one to be easily swayed, and she smoothly freed her wrist from Max's g
"Yes…"A heavy silence filled the air."Yes, you will be free."Francisco’s voice was firm, unwavering. His blue eyes held no warmth, only a cold determination.Hazel let out a bitter chuckle. "Liar!"Francisco didn’t flinch. Instead, he met her gaze and spoke again, his tone deadly serious."I promise you again…"Hazel’s fingers curled into fists."I will do whatever you ask."Her breath hitched."But—"Her eyes locked onto his, waiting, expecting."But you can’t push me away from you during these months."Francisco leaned closer, his voice almost pleading but still wrapped in authority."I want to be with you… and our child."Hazel inhaled sharply.She searched his face, trying to read beyond his words, beyond his promises.This man—who had taken everything from her—was still trying to claim more.Minutes passed.Francisco called her name again. "Hazel…"She finally exhaled and gave in. "Okay."Francisco shut his eyes for a moment, and then, suddenly, he pulled her into a tight embr
Hazel’s breathing grew ragged, her vision fading into darkness.The world around her blurred.Dizzy… too dizzy…Her body swayed.“Miss…?”“Miss Hazel, what’s wrong?”No response.Then—she collapsed.Lily’s eyes widened in horror. The guards stiffened, panic flashing across their faces.If something happened to Hazel, Francisco would not spare them.“Miss Hazel!” Lily cried, rushing forward, catching Hazel before she hit the ground.Her hands trembled as she patted Hazel’s cheeks, but there was no reaction.“Quickly! Take her to the room! I’ll call Miss Diana!” she ordered.One of the guards wasted no time. He lifted Hazel’s unconscious body into his arms and hurried toward the staircase.But just as he reached the first step—They all froze.A dark figure stood before the door.Francisco.A heavy silence fell over the room.Lily and the guards felt their hearts drop, their faces going pale.Behind Francisco stood Max, his expression unreadable.He had returned.From Italy.And now—he
"Please, let me go from here," Hazel pleaded, her voice trembling with desperation.Lily's face fell, her expression filled with concern.She shook her head and said softly, "Miss, please calm down.""It won’t be good for you."Hazel’s eyes narrowed as she looked up at Lily."What?" she asked, her voice rising."Why?""Let me go! Francisco isn’t even here!"Lily pressed her lips together, trying to find the right words. But before she could respond, Hazel’s breathing grew erratic.She started shaking her head violently, her emotions spiraling out of control."Miss, please," Lily whispered, reaching out to hold her.Hazel’s chest rose and fell rapidly."Let me go!" she screamed.Her hands trembled as she shoved Lily away from her with all her strength.Lily stumbled backward, her eyes widening in shock.Hazel’s heart pounded as she turned toward the door.Without thinking, she rushed forward, yanking the door open.Her pulse spiked when she saw two guards standing there, looking at her
Kevin Hilton, the former leader of the Snake Clan, was a man whose name commanded fear and respect. He was Francisco’s grandfather, a man who had built a legacy so powerful that no one dared to challenge his authority. His influence remained unshaken, his status immovable.As Francisco’s words echoed through the room, Kevin slowly turned back to face him. His expression remained unreadable, but his sharp eyes studied his grandson carefully.Francisco kept his gaze lowered, his hands clenched into fists.After a brief silence, he finally spoke. "And I want to spend my whole life with her."Kevin blinked slowly, fully turning toward Francisco this time. His presence was overwhelming, his voice firm and demanding."Is that so?" He arched a brow. "It seems you’ve already made up your mind."Francisco didn’t respond. He remained silent, his body tense.Kevin exhaled, his patience thinning. He could see that Francisco would not bend to his will, not this time. His voice grew colder, more co
"How are you, my dear?" Francisco said in a low tone.Hazel remained soundly asleep.Francisco gently traced his fingers over her head, his touch soft and lingering. Hazel shifted slightly, as if comforted by his presence.He kept his gaze on her for a few minutes before whispering, "Thank you."The Next MorningHazel woke up, blinking away sleep. She sat up on the bed and gazed out through the Thai glass doors leading to the balcony.Last night... I felt someone was here with me. Was it Francisco? She clenched her jaw. I know he messed up something—that's why he vanished.I don’t know when this will end. When will I be free from this monster?I hate him.I just hate him.One Month LaterIt had been a month, and Hazel felt restless. Her period was late, which made her uneasy.She finally asked Lily to call Diana.Now, Diana sat in front of her, her expression unreadable."I missed my period," Hazel murmured, her voice laced with irritation.She couldn't understand what was wrong with
"Then let me go," Hazel said firmly.Max’s expression remained stern, his eyes narrowing.She stepped closer, lowering her voice. "Francisco isn’t here. Just let me go. I promise I won’t cause any trouble for you or anyone else."Max arched an eyebrow, clearly unconvinced.Hazel’s gaze locked onto his, her heart pounding. For the last time, God, let my manipulation work, she prayed silently. But Max’s face remained impassive. Suddenly, he shoved her backward, his voice cold and sharp. "If you weren’t Francisco’s girl, I’d kill you right here and now.""Better if you cooperate with Francisco and stop thinking about escaping," he added, his tone dripping with finality.Hazel stood still for a moment, trying to steady herself. Her chest tightened as frustration surged through her. "I was just trying to save you and your friend from more trouble," she said, her voice laced with sarcasm. "But it seems you’re not interested."Her tone shifted, quieter but full of bitterness. "Fine, then. Le
Max led Hazel through the mansion's expansive backyard. With each step, the path grew darker, the faint glow of the house fading into the night. Hazel’s unease deepened as they ventured further into an area she had never explored.She had never seen this side of Francisco’s estate. Francisco always kept her confined to another mansion—one far removed from the old one where she had once worked undercover as a spy. It was there that she had betrayed Francisco, leading to his capture. But now, inexplicably, she was back in this place, even though Francisco himself wasn’t there.The air felt heavy, and her heart beat faster as Max suddenly stopped.“Why did you bring me here?” Hazel demanded, yanking her hand free from his grip.Max didn’t respond. Instead, he knelt on the ground and began brushing aside a layer of dried leaves with deliberate movements. Hazel stepped closer, squinting in the dim light, and her eyes widened when she saw it—a rusted iron hatch embedded in the ground.“What
Lily suddenly held Hazel’s hand, her voice calm but firm. “Calm down! Let me call him. But you have to finish your meal first,” she said before walking out of the room.Hazel sat back on the bed, irritation bubbling inside her. This is too much, she thought, clenching her fists.After a while, the door creaked open, and Max entered, his presence commanding the room. He glanced at the untouched meal on the table, his brows furrowing in displeasure. Though his temper flared, he reminded himself to stay composed—for Francisco’s sake.“You haven’t even touched your food,” Max said, his tone edged with restrained annoyance.“Exactly,” Hazel replied, crossing her arms defiantly. “I need to talk to Francisco!”Max sighed, running a hand through his hair as he tried to maintain his calm. “He’s not available right now, and I can’t reach him either. It could be a network issue.”Hazel narrowed her eyes. “Where is he?”“He went to his grandfather’s house,” Max answered after a pause.Hazel raise
Hazel noticed Lily downstairs and quickly descended the stairs. As soon as Lily saw her, she hurried over with a worried expression.“Ms. Hazel, you’re awake! You could have called me,” Lily said, her tone full of concern. “You must be hungry. Please, go back to your room. I’ll bring something for you to eat.”Hazel frowned, confused by the strange tension in Lily’s voice. Something felt off.“Wait a second,” Hazel said, stopping Lily with a hand. “First, tell me what’s going on here. Why is everyone acting so weird?” She glanced around at the house, now filled with bodyguards stationed at various points. “And why are there so many guards here?”Lily hesitated, fidgeting nervously. “Ms., Boss arranged all of this. They’re here for your safety. And I’m here to take care of anything you need.”“For my safety?” Hazel’s tone rose as her confusion turned to frustration. “Why do I need this? I don’t need any of it!” Her voice sharpened as she arched a brow, waiting for answers.Lily sighed