Francisco rose from his chair, his presence commanding and confident. As he walked over to Max, he leaned in closer and whispered, "You understand what to do. She must be here for us."Max, who had a sharp eye for subtleties, looked at Francisco and raised one eyebrow, seeking clarification. "Us or you?"Francisco's stern face made it clear that the matter was significant, and Max, recognizing the gravity of the situation, got straight to the point."Okay, I can handle this. But you know the police are waiting for you," Max said, addressing the issue at hand.Francisco's response was nonchalant, his confidence unshaken. "They are so daring to come here."Max couldn't help but acknowledge the audacity of the situation. "It seems so," he agreed.However, Max received an irritated glance from Francisco, who added with conviction, "If they take me along, they will never be able to imprison me for even a single day."Francisco turned his attention back to Hazel, emphasizing the importance
Francisco and Rafael had a longstanding history of conflict, each harboring a deep-seated animosity toward the other. Their interactions were often charged with tension, and this meeting was no exception.As Rafael continued to make his statements, his intentions were clear, but Francisco opted for silence. He simply fixed his gaze on Rafael with a piercing intensity, a strategy he often employed to unnerve his adversaries.Finally, Francisco rose from his seat, his patience waning. His words were laced with sarcasm, and he wasted no time in expressing his dissatisfaction."I was attending an interview, and you guys came here to chit-chat," he quipped, his voice laden with thinly veiled annoyance."Be calm, Mr. Francisco," Rafael said.Rafael attempted to diffuse the situation, advising calm, but his words fell on deaf ears. Francisco's response was resolute, and he didn't hesitate to vocalize his point of view."I am calm," he retorted. "After all, it's just a port, and my men have e
Hazel was reading a book, attempting to dispel the boredom that lingered in the empty room. Flipping through the pages, she immersed herself in the world of words.Unbeknownst to her, someone else had entered the room. The subtle sounds of footsteps and the rustling of papers went unnoticed by the engrossed Hazel. It was only when she felt a warm breath grazing her ear, tangled in her hair, that she snapped out of her literary trance.Turning to her left, Hazel found herself mere inches away from Francisco. Their faces were so close that a slight movement could have bridged the gap, making their lips meet. A sudden rush of nerves coursed through Hazel as she quickly shifted to the side, putting some distance between them."Sir!"She stammered, her voice betraying a mix of surprise and anxiety.Francisco chuckled softly at Hazel's reaction, his eyes retaining their usual sternness despite the playful atmosphere. He casually rested his elbow on the sofa, observing Hazel with an amused
Ben did not give up hope and made another proposal to Diana."Then would you bother if I dropped you off at home?"Ben's proposal was sweet. But Diana's lips were tightly sealed. She knew Ben was her colleague but every time she could not just reject him.'What's wrong if I go on a date with him? I have no real relationship with Max. Going on a date with Ben can't hurt...' Diana contemplated, glancing at Ben. Finally, she agreed to his proposal."Then let's leave."As they were about to depart, Max's voice unexpectedly echoed, calling out to Diana."Diana!"They quickly made a U-turn. Diana, caught off guard by Max's sudden appearance, found her thoughts lingering on him even as she stood there with Ben.Diana raised an eyebrow at Max's audacious claim. She maintained her composure and responded to Max with a calm tone, "Why are you here?"A smirk played on Max's lips as he confidently moved closer to Diana. He replied in a playful manner, "Of course, I am here to pick up my girlfrien
On the other side of the story, in the confined space of Max's car, a tense exchange unfolded."Let me go, Max."Max, unmoved by her shouts, pushed her into the car without a care for her well-being. As he stepped into the car, he locked the door and started the engine. In a matter of minutes, the car accelerated, the urgency in Max's actions palpable."Max, what are you doing?" Diana questioned, the unease evident in her voice."Don't you want to talk to him? Why not you call him right now?"Max gritted his teeth in response, his tone cold and detached.After driving a short distance, Max came to a sudden stop at the corner of the road. The silence inside the car was shattered as he gripped Diana's hand with force."Max!"Diana exclaimed, furrowing her brow as she attempted to loosen his hold. However, the more she struggled, the tighter Max's grasp became."Diana, do you really think to call that man?"Max questioned, the intensity of his gaze locking onto hers."Yes, I will give h
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
"Hazel."Francisco gently guided her to sit beside him, closer than before. He didn’t wait for her response."Our baby will play like them, right?" His voice was soft, almost hopeful.Hazel remained silent.Then, suddenly, she felt a touch on her belly.She froze.Francisco's large palm traced over her stomach, slow and deliberate. Her heartbeat quickened."I wonder how much he or she has developed inside you," he murmured. His words echoed in her mind, stirring something deep within her.When Hazel first learned she was pregnant, her immediate thought was to end it. She didn’t want to carry the child of a man who had turned her life into a nightmare. A mafia king—a ruthless, heartless man.And yet… she couldn’t.Francisco was right. Their child would play one day.She took a deep breath, trying to steady herself, and slowly raised her eyes.The moment she did, she met his gaze.Francisco was leaning in closer, watching her intently.A wave of discomfort washed over her. She didn’t wa
"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