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
"Hello, lovely," he greeted her, reaching out to hold her hand. However, instead of shaking hands, Hazel bowed her head and offered a polite smile. Andrew, surprised by her response, grinned."It's nice to meet you as well," he said, seemingly amused by Hazel's formality.The tone of the conversation took an uncomfortable turn when Andrew remarked, "It seems Emily's leaving is now cut off from him. Are you his new one?"Hazel, taken aback by the directness of Andrew's question, widened her eyes in discomfort. The inquiry about her relationship with her boss, posing so casually in front of her boss, caught her off guard. She pondered how to respond, aware of the need to navigate the situation diplomatically.Hazel stammered in response. She shifted her attention from Andrew to Francisco, seeking guidance on this unexpected exchange.Francisco, maintaining his stoic demeanor, observed the exchange between Andrew and Hazel. "No, I am not his girlfriend. I work as his private assistant,"
The room buzzed with the low hum of murmurs as the attendees exchanged glances, processing the information. In the world of organized crime, where power dynamics and alliances have shifted like quicksand, any deviation from the norm raises eyebrows.Within this clandestine network, criminal organizations were symbolically represented by totemic animals—dragon, lion, wolf, and snake. Francisco Hilton, a formidable player in this sinister chessboard, bore the emblem of the snake.Among those present was James, a key player in this intricate web of criminal enterprises. As he lit a cigarette, his gaze shifted to Andrew, and he inquired with a hint of curiosity, "Where is your phony friend?"Andrew, nonchalant in his response, remarked, "He is completely immersed in his new PA.""PA?" James questioned, seeking clarification on the term."Yes, he did employ a female as his PA."James chuckled and replied, "Ah, how intriguing. I believed he only permitted his depraved fantasies in his house
James, perceptive as ever, read the intentions behind Francisco's smirk like an open book. The unspoken challenge had sparked a flame of anger within him, threatening to consume reason. Just as the impending clash seemed inevitable, Andrew intervened, playing the role of a mediator before the situation spiraled out of control.“Francisco, stop and consider everyone’s matter,” Andrew interjected, a note of urgency in his voice.“Everyone’s matter?”Francisco retorted with a sardonic smirk, a master of turning any conversation to his advantage. His words lingered in the air, a subtle reminder that, beneath the guise of camaraderie, they were here to discuss matters of business, not engage in a clandestine power-play.Andrew, his face now etched with sternness."Are we friends who come here to discuss business, or are we holding some kind of party?"He tilted his head in mock contemplation.With a nonchalant demeanor, he crossed his fingers, a gesture that seemed to symbolize the intrica
As the romantic song enveloped the atmosphere, Hazel closed her eyes, allowing the rhythm to guide her movements. With a subtle sway of her hips, she expressed the joy of the music coursing through her.Rafael, captivated by her rhythmic waggling, couldn't resist the allure. He placed his hands on her waist, syncing his movements with hers.Hazel leaned against him, feeling the connection as they moved in unison to the melody. With a gentle pull, Rafael drew her even closer, the heat of their bodies merging in the intimate dance.Turning to face him, Hazel placed a delicate hand on his chest, her eyes expressing the emotions the music evoked. They took a step back, only to lean on each other again, their bodies perfectly attuned to the romantic rhythm.Taking a step back, they maintained their proximity, leaning on each other as the music played on. Rafael guided Hazel in the dance, his firm grip on her midriff creating a sense of security and connection. Hazel, feeling the strength i
Hazel, still swaying slightly from the effects of the wine, raised her head to meet the gaze of the man who had abruptly yanked her away. To her tipsy senses, he appeared like a good-looking figure, and she greeted him with a casual."Hey."The person who had forcefully intervened was none other than Francisco. He held Hazel in his arms, his eyes momentarily locking onto hers before shifting to Rafael, who stood a short distance away."Mr. Francisco, you shouldn’t have pulled her in this way. She could be hurt."Rafael admonished, his tone carrying a hint of anger as he clenched his fists in disapproval.Francisco's anger, palpable and etched on his face, flared in response."How dare you touch my PA?"He spat, the words filled with a possessiveness that revealed more than a professional attachment."She is your PA, not your girlfriend. So, dare not say it."Rafael retorted defiantly, drawing a line between professional boundaries.As the tension escalated on the dance floor, Hazel,
Hazel struggled with the car door, frustration etched on her face as she prodded Francisco with both her hands and knees. He remained stiff, seemingly lost in his own thoughts.Amidst the tense atmosphere, Francisco ordered the driver to head directly to the mansion. “Drive home quickly.”His terse command hung in the air, emphasizing the gravity of his mood. The driver, experienced at discerning his boss's temper, nodded subtly and accelerated the car."I want to go back…""Hey, stop the car."The driver, recognizing the intensity of his boss's glare through the rearview mirror, chose to ignore Hazel's plea. He kept his focus on the road, determined to fulfill Francisco's instructions promptly.Undeterred, Hazel persisted. "Let me go." She extended her hands towards the door, attempting to unlock it in a desperate bid to change their course.The car sped through the city streets, each passing moment adding to the tension inside. Hazel's attempts to alter their destination were met
"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