Francisco and Hazel sat together at the dining table. The warm aroma of chicken soup filled the air as Francisco placed a bowl in front of her.Hazel picked up the spoon, staring at the soup for a moment. She didn’t feel like eating, but she knew Francisco wouldn't let her off so easily.“Just take a sip,” he said, watching her closely.She pressed her lips together, then hesitantly took the spoon to her mouth. The flavor was mild, not too spicy, just warm enough to be comforting. She took another spoonful, then another.Slowly, she finished the bowl.Francisco observed her, satisfied. He turned to Lily and said, “Help her get ready.”Hazel looked at him, brows slightly furrowed.“Are we going somewhere?” she asked.“Yes…” Francisco said, his tone unreadable. “We’re going to the hospital for a check-up.”Hazel blinked, processing his words. She said nothing, simply stood up and went upstairs to get ready.**A short while later, they were in the car, driving toward the hospital. The a
"Francisco..."Diana’s voice was weary. She no longer had the strength to argue. Max had tried and failed. Now, so had she.With a deep sigh, she murmured, "I really don’t know what to say to you."She looked at him, her expression filled with concern. "But I don’t want my brother to lose himself over someone else.""You’ve already made so many mistakes, Francisco."Francisco’s gaze remained cold. "Diana, no matter what happens, I will not leave her."His voice was firm, unwavering. "This is my world… and no one has the power to challenge me."Diana studied his face, searching for even a flicker of doubt. There was none.She sighed again, softer this time. "You don’t understand.""You’ve bound her to your dark world, Francisco. You’ve dragged her into danger. She can easily become prey to your enemies."Francisco arched a brow, his voice turning sharp. "Before that happens, I will destroy everything."Diana’s eyes widened in disbelief.Diana let out a weary sigh and nodded. "Actually,
The moon hung low in the night sky, casting an eerie glow over the hillside campsite. What was supposed to be a peaceful weekend getaway had turned into a nightmare. Chaos reigned as gunfire echoed through the trees, and the scent of burning pine needles filled the air. Terrified campers huddled together in tents, seeking refuge from the unfolding violence. Screams and frantic footsteps merged into a symphony of panic. Among them were a group of college students who had stumbled upon this grim spectacle unwittingly, their plans for a relaxing escape shattered. Hidden amidst the mayhem were the drug traffickers, their faces contorted with both fear and aggression. They had arrived with the intention of striking a deal, but fate had other plans. A rival gang had set a trap, catching them off guard. Unbeknownst to them, they were about to be pulled into a deadly showdown. The first shots rang out, a cacophonous "Bang! Bang!" that shattered the night's fragile tranquility. Gunfire erupt
Three long years had passed since the chaotic night on the hillside, and the world had irrevocably changed. In a dimly lit factory, the rumble of machinery formed a constant backdrop. Max ascended a creaking staircase to the second floor, his footsteps echoing through the cavernous space. The room he entered held an air of quiet anticipation, and his eyes fell on the figure sitting within, the one he had searched for all this time. "Francisco, James hasn't given us any updates. What should we do next?" Max's voice held a note of urgency. Francisco was a strikingly handsome and enigmatic young man. His ocean-blue eyes, as deep and unfathomable as the sea itself, stared off into the distance as he casually exhaled a plume of cigarette smoke. "You are aware of our methods in this case, Max," Francisco replied calmly, his voice carrying the weight of experience. He turned his gaze towards Max, and it was as if he carried the secrets of the world within his eyes, a knowledge that transc
"Don't let up. We have not sent them to the border yet," James urged, his words carrying the weight of their precarious situation. James's voice crackled over the phone, laced with anxiety and an unmistakable edge. He had reason to be concerned; after all, they were dealing with a man as cold-blooded and unpredictable as Francisco. Bruce's response was swift and unwavering. "Okay, sir. I will inform you of everything after boarding those girls out of here." With those words, Bruce hung up the phone, his mind focused on the task at hand. He knew that their operation had to proceed smoothly and without a hitch if they were to avoid Francisco's interference. However, as Bruce lowered the phone, an unexpected touch on his head sent a shiver down his spine, like the cold steel of a pistol against his skin. His eyes grew wider with realization, and his heart raced uncontrollably. At that moment, Bruce had a sinking feeling that they had underestimated Francisco's cunning and determinati
The young girl gave a slight nod, her trust in Hazel evident. In a world filled with uncertainty and danger, Hazel's words were a lifeline of hope. Drawing the girl close, Hazel wrapped her arms around her, holding her tightly. She knew that sometimes a simple hug could offer comfort that words couldn't convey. But just as a fragile sense of solace settled among the girls, another gunshot rang out, this time dangerously close to their cabin. Panic and alarm swept through the captive group, their hearts racing as fear overtook them. The young child, trembling and frightened, clung to Hazel, her small frame shaking. She whispered in a trembling voice, her words a poignant cry for the comfort of home. "I don't want to go. I want to see my mom." Hazel held the trembling girl firmly, offering what little comfort she could in the midst of their shared terror. But the fragile peace they had found was shattered when the cabin door burst open and a group of 7 or 8 masked men stormed in, th
Police officers rushed in, their authoritative figures in stark contrast to the masked men who had held the girls captive. "Is everyone all right?" one police officer inquired, his voice laced with concern as he surveyed the room. A collective exhale of relief swept through the captives as they realized the nightmare might finally be coming to an end. For the first time in what had felt like an eternity, they dared to hope. The young girl, who had been clinging to Hazel, summoned the courage to speak, her voice trembling with both fear and longing. "Can I go to my mom?" Hazel, her heart touched by the girl's innocence and vulnerability, patted her head gently and offered words of reassurance. "Now we can all go home." A warm, genuine smile passed between Hazel and the young girl, a shared moment of understanding and relief. ** The police officers worked tirelessly, providing information and help to each of the rescued girls and helping them arrange to return to their homes. The
A maid diligently wiped the bloodstains from the floor. The shadows cast by the curtains seemed to elongate and contort, as if they held their own secrets. Amid the solemn task, the maid's senses pricked with awareness as she detected approaching footsteps. An uneasy shiver traveled down her spine, and she turned her gaze toward the doorway. There, she saw a woman—a presence unexpected at that hour. The maid's voice quavered as she stammered, "Ma'am... you! At this time?" The woman, with an air of quiet confidence, offered the maid a sweet smile. Her grace and poise in that moment seemed incongruous with the chaos that had unfolded in this very room not long ago. "Where is he?" she inquired, her voice carrying an undercurrent of urgency beneath the sweetness. The maid, caught off guard, hesitated momentarily. She gestured toward the bathroom, the place where the enigmatic Francisco had retreated after the night's tumultuous events. A knowing smile graced the woman's lips as she
"Francisco..."Diana’s voice was weary. She no longer had the strength to argue. Max had tried and failed. Now, so had she.With a deep sigh, she murmured, "I really don’t know what to say to you."She looked at him, her expression filled with concern. "But I don’t want my brother to lose himself over someone else.""You’ve already made so many mistakes, Francisco."Francisco’s gaze remained cold. "Diana, no matter what happens, I will not leave her."His voice was firm, unwavering. "This is my world… and no one has the power to challenge me."Diana studied his face, searching for even a flicker of doubt. There was none.She sighed again, softer this time. "You don’t understand.""You’ve bound her to your dark world, Francisco. You’ve dragged her into danger. She can easily become prey to your enemies."Francisco arched a brow, his voice turning sharp. "Before that happens, I will destroy everything."Diana’s eyes widened in disbelief.Diana let out a weary sigh and nodded. "Actually,
Francisco and Hazel sat together at the dining table. The warm aroma of chicken soup filled the air as Francisco placed a bowl in front of her.Hazel picked up the spoon, staring at the soup for a moment. She didn’t feel like eating, but she knew Francisco wouldn't let her off so easily.“Just take a sip,” he said, watching her closely.She pressed her lips together, then hesitantly took the spoon to her mouth. The flavor was mild, not too spicy, just warm enough to be comforting. She took another spoonful, then another.Slowly, she finished the bowl.Francisco observed her, satisfied. He turned to Lily and said, “Help her get ready.”Hazel looked at him, brows slightly furrowed.“Are we going somewhere?” she asked.“Yes…” Francisco said, his tone unreadable. “We’re going to the hospital for a check-up.”Hazel blinked, processing his words. She said nothing, simply stood up and went upstairs to get ready.**A short while later, they were in the car, driving toward the hospital. The a
"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