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LV. 60TH BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION
Last Updated:
2025-02-07 12:18:35
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Hopelessly Devoted LVI. NEW QUEEN OF THE HOUSE
As the evening wore on, Markus and I made our way to the dinner table, where the rest of the Montenegro family was already seated. The table was set with fine china and crystal glasses, and the air was filled with the delicious aroma of roasted meats and steaming vegetables. As we took our seats, Markus reached out and took my hand in his, giving it a gentle squeeze. I smiled up at him, feeling a sense of warmth and comfort in his presence. But not everyone at the table was pleased with our display of affection. Raphael, who was seated across from us, looked on with a disapproving scowl. He seemed to be seething with anger, his eyes flashing with resentment as he watched his father hold my hand. As the dinner conversation began, Raphael remained silent, his eyes fixed intently on me. I could feel his gaze like a weight on my skin, and I knew that he was waiting for the perfect moment to strike. That moment came when the waiter arrived with the main course, a delicious-looking roas
Last Updated : 2025-02-07Hopelessly Devoted LVII. DANCING WITH MY OLD LOVER
As the reception came to a close, Markus and I took to the dance floor, swaying to the slow music that filled the air. It was a romantic moment, one that I had been waiting for. And as we danced, I couldn't help but feel a sense of satisfaction. Our plan was finally coming together, and I was now a part of the Montenegro family. As we twirled across the dance floor, Markus suddenly stopped and turned to me with a smile. "I want you to get to know my sons better," he said, his eyes shining with warmth. "Claus, come here and dance with your new stepmother." I felt a surge of surprise at Markus's request, but I tried to play it cool. I gave him a awkward smile as he passed my hand to Claus. Claus took my hand in his, and we began to dance. He placed his hand on my waist, and I felt a sense of awkwardness. We both smiled and laughed, trying to make light of the situation. "This is a funny thing to do," Claus said, his eyes twinkling with amusement. "I know, right?" I replied, trying
Last Updated : 2025-02-07Hopelessly Devoted LVIII. DESIRE
I took a deep breath and made my way back inside, the cool air conditioning enveloping me like a welcome hug. I scanned the room, my eyes searching for Markus, and spotted him sitting on the couch, sipping a glass of wine. I made my way over to him, my heels clicking on the marble floor. As I sat down beside him, I couldn't help but let my eyes drift over to Raphael, who was standing across the room, his back to me. I smiled to myself, a small, secret smile. Markus noticed it and turned to me, a questioning look on his face. "What's making you smile, my dear?" he asked, his voice low and husky. I just shook my head, not wanting to share my thoughts with him. "Nothing," I said, trying to sound nonchalant. But Markus's eyes lingered on me, a hint of curiosity in their depths. I knew he was wondering what was going on, but I wasn't about to enlighten him. As I sat there, I became aware of Riezel's gaze on me. She was staring at me, her eyes narrowed in suspicion. I felt a thrill of
Last Updated : 2025-02-08Hopelessly Devoted LIX. CENTER OF ATTRACTION
The next morning, we all gathered around the breakfast table, the tension palpable. Riezel, sensing the awkwardness, tried to break the silence. "So, Ava, how was your night with Markus?" she asked, her eyes sparkling with curiosity.I stopped eating, my fork hovering over my plate, as I stared at Raphael. Markus, oblivious to the undercurrents, held my hand, giving it a gentle squeeze. "It was a beautiful night," I replied, my voice barely above a whisper.Raphael's eyes met mine, a small smile playing on his lips. Riezel, noticing the exchange, raised an eyebrow. "And what about you, Raphael?" she asked, turning to her husband. "You look like you're in a good mood. What did you dream about?"Raphael's gaze drifted to me, his eyes locking onto mine for a brief moment before he looked away. "I just dreamed something beautiful," he said, his voice low and husky.Riezel's eyes narrowed, her expression skeptical. She couldn't help but feel suspicious about the two of us. The air was thic
Last Updated : 2025-02-08Hopelessly Devoted LX. REMINISCIN
As we continued walking through the mall, I noticed two kids playing tag nearby. The little girl, giggling and carefree, accidentally ran into Riezel, bumping into her and causing her ice cream to stain her dress.Riezel's face turned red with anger, and she pushed the little girl hard, sending her tumbling to the floor. The little girl cried out in pain and shock, and I couldn't believe what I was witnessing.I quickly rushed over to help the little girl up, trying to calm her down as she sobbed uncontrollably. Riezel, still fuming, took a step closer to the little girl, her hand raised as if to slap her.But I wasn't having it. I grabbed Riezel's hand, holding it tight as I glared at her. "Don't," I warned, my voice firm.Riezel's eyes flashed with anger, and she tried to shake off my grip. "Don't interrupt me," she spat, her voice venomous.But I stood my ground, refusing to back down. That's when I saw Raphael walking towards us, a concerned expression on his face. I knew I had to
Last Updated : 2025-02-08Hopelessly Devoted LXI. ICE CREAM
Markus and I were sitting in the garden, sipping our coffee and enjoying the peaceful morning, when Riezel stormed in, her face red with rage."You have to shut down that video!" she demanded, her voice shrill. "It's not true what they're saying about me! I'm not a cruel daughter-in-law!"Markus and I exchanged a calm glance, and then Markus spoke up. "Riezel, I don't like your tone of voice," he said, his voice firm but gentle. "You're speaking to my wife in a way that's unacceptable."Riezel's face turned even redder, but she didn't seem to care. Instead, she started to brag about her own importance. "You don't understand, I'm a prominent figure in this community," she said, her voice dripping with arrogance. "I have a reputation to uphold, and this video is ruining everything for me."I watched her with a mixture of amusement and disdain. She was so caught up in her own self-importance that she didn't even realize how ridiculous she sounded.Markus, however, was not amused. "Riezel
Last Updated : 2025-02-08Hopelessly Devoted LXII. TORN APART
As we finished our meal at the restaurant, Raphael suggested that we head to a nearby hotel to continue our conversation in private. I agreed, and we hailed a taxi to take us to the hotel.As we rode in the taxi, Raphael's hand brushed against mine, sending a spark of electricity through my body. I turned to him, our eyes locking in a gaze that seemed to hold a thousand unspoken words.When we arrived at the hotel, Raphael paid the taxi driver and we stepped out onto the sidewalk. The cool evening air was filled with the sounds of the city, but all I could focus on was the man standing beside me.We walked into the hotel lobby, and Raphael approached the front desk to check us in. I stood beside him, my arm brushing against his as we waited for the receptionist to hand over our room key.As we made our way to the elevator, Raphael's hand found its way to the small of my back, his touch sending shivers down my spine. I leaned into him, my head tilting up to meet his gaze.The elevator
Last Updated : 2025-02-08Hopelessly Devoted LXIII. THE TABLES TURN
As the sunset approached, Raphael and I settled into the sand, his arms wrapped around me, holding me close. The sky was painted with hues of pink, orange, and purple, a breathtaking sight that seemed to match the emotions swirling inside me.As we sat there, watching the sun dip below the horizon, I felt a sense of sentimental wash over me. I couldn't help but think about the journey I had taken to get to this moment, to be back in Raphael's arms. All the pain, the heartache, the struggles – it had all been worth it, because in the end, I had found my way back to him.But as I gazed into his eyes, I couldn't help but wonder – if he knew everything, would he still love me? Would he still accept me, flaws and all? Or would he turn away, horrified by the secrets I had kept hidden for so long?I stared at him, lost in thought, and Raphael noticed. He smiled, his eyes crinkling at the corners, and asked, "What's wrong? Why are you staring at me like that?"I hesitated, unsure of how to an
Last Updated : 2025-02-08
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Hopelessly Devoted LXX. BEAUTIFUL MEMORIES
As we stepped off the plane in New Zealand, I could feel the weight of our past tragedies slowly lifting off our shoulders. The crisp, clean air and the stunning natural beauty of the country seemed to envelop us in a sense of peace and tranquility.Raphael and I had decided to take a vacation to New Zealand to refresh our minds and hearts. We wanted to leave behind the memories of the past and start anew, and what better way to do that than in one of the most beautiful countries in the world?We spent our first few days in Auckland, exploring the city and its surroundings. We visited the iconic Sky Tower, where we took in breathtaking views of the city and harbor. We also walked along the waterfront, enjoying the street performers and food vendors.But it was when we left Auckland and started exploring the rest of the country that our vacation really began to take off. We rented a car and drove to Rotorua, where we spent a day exploring the geothermal wonders of Wai-O-Tapu. We marvel
Hopelessly Devoted LXIX. THANKYOU, GOODBYE
Riezel's voice was tearful as she asked Raphael, "Do you still love Delilah? Even though she's changed her name, even though her face is not the same? Does your heart still beat for her?" Raphael's eyes never left mine as he looked down and nodded without hesitation. It was as if he was confirming his love for me, no matter what name I went by or what I looked like. Riezel's face contorted in agony as she broke down into tears. Her body shook with sobs, and her voice was barely audible as she asked Raphael again, "Did you ever love me? Did you ever care for me? Did your heart ever beat for me?" Raphael remained silent, his eyes still fixed on me. He didn't even glance at Riezel, and his silence was deafening. Riezel's tears continued to flow as she begged Raphael to answer her. But he just shook his head and said, "It's all my fault, Riezel. If there's anyone you need to punish, it's me, not Ava." Raphael took a step forward, his eyes locked on Riezel's. "I'll take the blame for
Hopelessly Devoted LXVIII. CONFESSION
As I slowly opened my eyes, I was met with the familiar sight of the Montenegro hacienda's bedroom. I was lying on the bed, my head pounding with a dull ache. I tried to sit up, but a wave of dizziness washed over me, forcing me to lie back down.As I looked around the room, I realized that I was alone. There was no sign of Claus, no sign of anyone. I tried to call out for help, but my voice was hoarse and barely audible.I struggled to get out of bed, my legs shaking beneath me. I stumbled to the door and began to pound on it, calling out for someone to help me. But there was no response.I pounded on the door for what felt like hours, but no one came. I was starting to get desperate, starting to feel like I was trapped.And then I remembered the staff. They must have been instructed not to help me. Claus must have told them to leave me alone.I felt a wave of despair wash over me. I was trapped, alone and helpless. I slid to the floor, tears streaming down my face.Raphael. Oh, Raph
Hopelessly Devoted LXVII. TELL ME IT'S NOT A DREAM
As Raphael drove the car, I sat beside him, feeling worried and scared. The events of the party were still fresh in my mind, and I couldn't shake off the feeling of unease.Raphael glanced at me, concern etched on his face. He saw the paleness of my skin, the shock still evident in my eyes. He reached out and held my hands tightly, trying to reassure me that he was there for me, that I wasn't alone."Where are we going?" I asked, my voice barely above a whisper.Raphael smiled softly. "Somewhere no one will find us," he said. "Just rest, Ava. You need it right now."I tried to lean back and rest my eyes, but my mind was racing. I couldn't forget what I had witnessed at the party. The image of Markus's lifeless body, the sound of Riezel's screams, it all kept replaying in my mind.As I drifted off to sleep, I had a nightmare. The party was repeating itself in my mind, and I was reliving the horror all over again.When I woke up, gasping for breath, I found myself in an unfamiliar room.
Hopelessly Devoted LXVI. THE PERFECT GIFT
I sat in the dimly lit room, my heart racing as I recounted every detail of my conversation with Markus to Claus. He listened intently, his eyes narrowing as he processed the information.When I finished, Claus leaned back in his chair, a calculating look on his face. "We need to make Markus silence," he said, his voice low and menacing.I felt a shiver run down my spine as I heard his words. "What do you mean?" I asked, trying to keep my voice steady.Claus didn't answer me directly. Instead, he leaned forward, his eyes glinting in the dim light. "Let's just say that I have ways of dealing with people who become a problem," he said, his voice dripping with malice.I felt a wave of fear wash over me as I realized what Claus was suggesting. "You're not going to try to kill him, are you?" I asked, my voice barely above a whisper.Claus didn't answer me. Instead, he leaned back in his chair, a cold smile spreading across his face. "Let's just focus on our goal, Ava," he said. "If I find
Hopelessly Devoted LXV. GOOD LOOKING
As I walked into the bathroom, I didn't expect to see Riezel waiting for me. But there she was, her eyes blazing with anger and hatred. She pushed me against the wall, her hands closing around my neck like a vice.I struggled to breathe, but Riezel just leaned in closer, her face twisted in a snarl. She was enjoying this, enjoying the power she had over me. She was going to kill me, and she was going to enjoy every moment of it.But then, something inside me snapped. I started to giggle, and then I laughed, a cold, mirthless sound. Riezel's eyes widened in surprise, and she backed away from me, looking at me like I was crazy.And maybe I was. Maybe I had finally lost my mind after everything I had been through. But I didn't care. I was beyond caring.Riezel's voice was shaking as she asked me, "What's your relationship with my husband?"But I just smiled, a cold, calculating smile. I tied my long hair back, and then I started to walk towards Riezel, step by step.I didn't answer her q
Hopelessly Devoted LXIV. NEW ALLIES
As I walked into my condominium, I couldn't shake off the feeling of anger and resentment that had been building up inside me. I hurriedly made my way to my secret room, my heart racing with anticipation. And as I opened the door, I was met with a surprise that made my blood boil.Claus was sitting in my chair, a look of calmness on his face. But as soon as he saw me, he turned around, a hint of surprise in his eyes. I didn't give him time to react, though. I immediately grabbed him by the collar, my fingers digging deep into his skin."What did you tell Raphael?" I demanded, my voice low and menacing. "What lies did you and Riezel tell him to make him break into pieces like that?"Claus looked at me, confusion etched on his face. "Ava, I don't know what you're talking about," he said, trying to calm me down.But I wasn't having it. I pushed him away, my hands shaking with anger. "Don't lie to me, Claus," I spat. "I know all about it. Raphael told me everything."Claus looked at me, s
Hopelessly Devoted LXIII. THE TABLES TURN
As the sunset approached, Raphael and I settled into the sand, his arms wrapped around me, holding me close. The sky was painted with hues of pink, orange, and purple, a breathtaking sight that seemed to match the emotions swirling inside me.As we sat there, watching the sun dip below the horizon, I felt a sense of sentimental wash over me. I couldn't help but think about the journey I had taken to get to this moment, to be back in Raphael's arms. All the pain, the heartache, the struggles – it had all been worth it, because in the end, I had found my way back to him.But as I gazed into his eyes, I couldn't help but wonder – if he knew everything, would he still love me? Would he still accept me, flaws and all? Or would he turn away, horrified by the secrets I had kept hidden for so long?I stared at him, lost in thought, and Raphael noticed. He smiled, his eyes crinkling at the corners, and asked, "What's wrong? Why are you staring at me like that?"I hesitated, unsure of how to an
Hopelessly Devoted LXII. TORN APART
As we finished our meal at the restaurant, Raphael suggested that we head to a nearby hotel to continue our conversation in private. I agreed, and we hailed a taxi to take us to the hotel.As we rode in the taxi, Raphael's hand brushed against mine, sending a spark of electricity through my body. I turned to him, our eyes locking in a gaze that seemed to hold a thousand unspoken words.When we arrived at the hotel, Raphael paid the taxi driver and we stepped out onto the sidewalk. The cool evening air was filled with the sounds of the city, but all I could focus on was the man standing beside me.We walked into the hotel lobby, and Raphael approached the front desk to check us in. I stood beside him, my arm brushing against his as we waited for the receptionist to hand over our room key.As we made our way to the elevator, Raphael's hand found its way to the small of my back, his touch sending shivers down my spine. I leaned into him, my head tilting up to meet his gaze.The elevator
