The first rays of morning light filtered through the bedroom curtains, casting a soft glow over the room. Lilly stirred beneath the covers, her mind slowly coming out of its restful state. For once, she felt a faint sense of exhaustion lingering, something she wasn’t used to. She wasn’t accustomed to waking up tired—her usual mornings were marked by clarity and readiness for whatever tasks lay ahead. But today, her body felt different.She opened her eyes, squinting slightly at the brightness, and realized Ray was still fast asleep next to her. His arm was draped over her waist, his breathing steady and calm. He looked peaceful, his features relaxed in a way that only came when he was deeply at ease.No one would have believed the ball of cuteness beside her made her scream so loud the previous night. Last night intimacy was something else, it was basically mind blowing. She had never cum that had since they got together and the fact that she felt drained afterwards was unexpected, it
The boardroom was buzzing with quiet anticipation. Press conferences like this one were always meticulously organized, with reporters and photographers lining up their equipment, ready to capture the moment that would make the headlines. The Anderson Empire’s recent turmoil had the media’s full attention, and now, everyone was waiting for the bombshell Lilly had alluded to.Lilly stood in front of the mirror in the dressing room adjacent to the boardroom, pulling her blazer tight. She observed her reflection, her expression composed. Every detail was precise—the fit of her suit, the neatness of her hair, and the cold calm she exuded. She had always been calculated, every step planned, but today, there was more at stake.It time she face Liliana demons and over with it already, the world will be certain that she is alive after today and there won’t be anymore doubts on their minds, the Anderson family will be shaken to the core with this move of hers.Ray appeared behind her, adjusting
Ray’s entrance seemed to silence the room as if his presence alone commanded a certain reverence. The air crackled with the weight of the moment, every eye locked onto the couple standing before them. Together, they were an undeniable force, and the reporters knew it.Lilly stood with her head held high, her composure never wavering, while Ray exuded quiet strength beside her. It was clear now—this wasn’t just a press conference about Anderson Empire’s financial future. This was a changing of the guard, a public declaration of a new era, and the media could feel it.Ray approached the podium with ease, the room once again stilling. His voice was deep, measured, and commanding. “As my wife mentioned, Anderson Empire is now under my leadership. This isn’t just a transition—it’s a transformation. We’ve spent the last several months restructuring and preparing for the future. You’ll see that reflected in our upcoming projects and initiatives.” Calling ‘my wife’ in front of so many people
The press conference had barely ended, and the internet was already ablaze. Social media platforms flooded with reactions, memes, and conspiracy theories. News outlets scrambled to publish breaking headlines, and Anderson Empire was trending globally. The public, as always, was quick to react—and even quicker to judge.On Twitter, a trending hashtag had already emerged: **#icequeenLives**. Alongside it, another hashtag was gaining traction: **#AndersonEmpireReborn**. People couldn’t stop talking about Lilly’s dramatic return, her marriage to Ray Manchester, and, of course, the kiss that had set the internet on fire.“**Did anyone else just see that? Liliana Anderson—sorry, Manchester now—literally dropped the mic with that kiss! ICONIC. #icequeenLives**” “**So... poisonings, secret marriages, and now Ray Manchester in charge of Anderson Empire? This is better than any TV drama. #AndersonEmpireReborn**” “**Is it just me, or does anyone else think Ray and Liliana planned this whole
James Anderson stood frozen, the phone pressed to his ear, the board member’s frantic words still echoing in his mind. The Anderson Empire—his empire—no longer belonged to him. The family legacy he had killed for even though Liliana was in charge he still felt in control now belongs to Ray Manchester, how the hell did this happen.“Turn on the news?” James repeated, his voice cold. He could feel the slow burn of rage building inside him. He didn’t need to be told what was happening. He had a feeling that Liliana had just made a public statement that would send shockwaves through the business world.He hung up the phone without another word and strode over to the television. His hands shook as he grabbed the remote and flicked it on. The screen lit up, showing the aftermath of a press conference. Reporters were still in a frenzy, flashing lights illuminating the sleek boardroom where Liliana and Ray Manchester had stood just moments ago. “...in a surprising turn of events, Liliana And
Matilda paced the room, her heels clicking against the marble floor as she frantically dialed Ellen’s number. Her hands were trembling. The sight of Liliana’s betrayal on the television had ignited a storm of rage, but it was Helena who now posed the greatest risk. If Helena saw any of this—if she even *suspected* what had happened—it could unravel everything.The changes in Liliana came as a big shock to her, and her sudden interest in investigating her poisoning was unexpected. What changed? What happened to the old Liliana that does even give a fuck what happens around her. Ellen picked up on the third ring. Her voice, as cool and calculated as always, soothed Matilda’s nerves for a brief moment. "Mrs Anderson, what is it?" she asked right away, she may love Helena but she does give a flying fuck about anyone of her family.“Ellen, I need your help.” Matilda didn’t waste time with pleasantries. “You need to keep Helena away from the news—away from anything to do with Liliana and R
In the grand Manchester estate, sunlight streamed through the tall windows, casting a warm glow on the lavishly decorated sitting room. Mitchell, was seated on a cushion, her eyes glued to the television screen. The news of her son’s marriage to Liliana Anderson had just broken, and Mitchell’s lips curled into a wide, triumphant smile.“I knew it,” she said, turning to her husband,, who was sitting nearby with a newspaper in hand. His gaze shifted from the paper to the screen, where Liliana was coolly conducting an interview. She was elegant, poised, and utterly unapologetic about her recent takeover of Anderson Empire. Mitchell’s heart swelled with pride.“You see that, hubby?” Mitchell’s voice rose with excitement, the usually composed woman unable to contain herself. “That’s *our* son’s wife. She’s a force of nature! Look at her—fearless. She’s not like those other women, all demure and helpless. Liliana knows exactly what she wants, and she’s not afraid to take it. The Andersons d
Chloe stepped into her car, starting the engine as she mentally prepared for the drive to Jerry’s house. She had to deliver some documents and assist with investigating Felix’s Aunt Ava, as ordered by her boss. The past three months had been filled with surprises, but the biggest one was the transformation in her boss. A woman who once didn’t care about any man now seemed entirely enmeshed with a Manchester, practically handing her empire over to him on a silver platter. *What if he betrays her?* Chloe thought, her fingers tightening on the steering wheel. *Men can’t be trusted with power, especially not when they already have plenty of their own.* Still, she had to trust her boss’s judgment. She had never made a wrong business decision before, and Chloe could only hope this wouldn’t be the first. As she checked her G****e Maps, making sure she was heading in the right direction, the thought of seeing Jerry made her grimace. He made her skin crawl with the way he stared at her—like h
Before either man could respond, there was a knock at the door. A moment later, the butler stepped in with a polite bow.“Sir, Miss Ana has arrived. She requests an audience with you.”Grandpa Manchester smirked, already anticipating the tension this would stir. “Let her in.”Mitchell turned to him sharply, eyes blazing. “Father, can you stop using Ana to bother your grandson already? He has enough on his plate without you constantly dangling her in front of him like some sort of temptation.”Grandpa Manchester merely raised an eyebrow, clearly unfazed by her outburst.Mitchell pressed on. “Making him look like a cheat to his wife isn’t going to help anyone. The world already believes he’s divorcing Liliana for Ana. Do you have any idea what that could do to her, especially now?”Andrew crossed his arms, nodding in agreement. “She’s right, Father. If you keep pushing Ana into this, you’re only adding fuel to the fire. Liliana is already dealing with the revelation of her true identity
Mitchell stared at her father in disbelief. “Wait… you know Evelyn Altee?”Grandpa Manchester let out a low chuckle, his fingers tapping rhythmically against the armrest of his chair. “Know her? Oh, Mitchell, everyone in my circle knows Evelyn Altee—though most wish they didn’t.”Andrew, who had been silently processing everything, finally spoke up. “What do you mean by that?”Grandpa Manchester leaned forward, his expression darkening. “Evelyn Altee isn’t just some ordinary woman. She was once one of the most cunning and unpredictable players in high society. Some saw her as a tragic figure, others as a ruthless manipulator. But one thing was certain—wherever she went, chaos followed. And I can one forget the woman who made one of the Russo men break away from his family all in the name of love “Mitchell scoffed, crossing her arms. “Well, that explains a lot. Liliana has been through hell because of that woman. She’s been led to believe her mother was dead for years, only to find ou
Helena turned to her mother, stunned. Even she’s taking his side?Matilda’s expression was unreadable as she nodded. “Stay off the media. Don’t make things worse.”A hot, bitter rage bubbled inside Helena’s chest.Are they not satisfied with what they’ve done to me these past few weeks?She clenched her fists. “Do you guys even care about me?” Her voice cracked with raw emotion. “Neither of you picked up my calls. You just handed me over to the Russo family, locked me away like I was some prisoner!”James’ eyes darkened, his patience wearing dangerously thin.Matilda’s lips curled in irritation. “Helena—”“And now you want to do it again?!” Helena shrieked, her face twisted in frustration. “You want to control me like some puppet? Just say you hate me and be done with it!”Tears burned in her eyes, but she refused to let them fall.She knew it.Ellen had been right.They didn’t care.They never had.“You’re both horrible!” she spat, her voice cracking as she cursed them both under her
James’ patience was hanging by a thread.“Woman, have you lost your senses?!” His voice echoed through the room, laced with sharp disbelief. “Or are you seeing things that aren’t there? Who the hell is this Master you keep calling me?”James looked at her like some lunatic, what up with her?Matilda’s breath hitched. The moment the words left his mouth, it felt like ice water had been thrown on her.James took a step forward, staring at her as if she were a stranger. “I don’t remember promising you any of those things. What are you even talking about?” His fingers curled into a fist at his side. “Matilda, I swear, if you’ve gone crazy, now is not the time for it.” What does she has do be a bitch when not needed.For a moment, Matilda only stared at him, disoriented. The pounding in her head grew worse. The name had slipped out so easily, so naturally—had she really lost herself that much?James exhaled sharply, rubbing his temples. “What happened to my wife? The woman who loved me? Wh
“They would have what?” Ellen cut in smoothly, arching a brow. “Fought for you? Demanded your freedom?” She tilted her head. “Then why haven’t they?”Helena’s throat felt dry.Ellen sighed again, shaking her head. “Sweetheart, you need to understand… They’re done. They don’t know what to do with you anymore. You’re a problem they can’t solve, a burden they’d rather not carry.”Helena’s nails dug into her palms.No.That’s not true.But hadn’t she already asked herself the same questions? Hadn’t she felt that quiet, suffocating doubt creeping in every time another day passed without a visit?Ellen watched her, eyes glinting with satisfaction as the walls of Helena’s resolve began to crack.“You know I’m telling the truth, don’t you?” she murmured, reaching out to trail a finger along Helena’s jaw. “They left you to me, Helena. Because I’m the only one who truly knows what’s best for you.”Helena clenched her teeth, shaking her head. “That’s not—”Ellen gripped her chin firmly, forcing
Helena stretched her arms above her head, a lazy smile tugging at her lips. The realization that she was finally going home filled her with relief, but there was something else—something unsettling. A weight in her chest that she couldn’t quite place. Over the past week, she had rediscovered herself in ways she never thought possible. Ellen had opened doors she never dared to approach before, and now… could she really just walk away?The thought of returning to her old life—where she was ignored, treated like a fragile inconvenience—made her stomach churn. Here, in this confined space, she had felt something new. Something exhilarating. Something dangerous. And if to be sincere she has never noticed that her parent treated her in such manner, this is all thanks to Ellen opening her eye and making her see the reality of things.I shouldn’t feel this way, she told herself. Ellen kept me locked up. She took my choices away.And yet… hadn’t she also given her something no one else ever h
The search was relentless.Every street. Every alley. Every backroad and hidden passageway in the city.Nothing.It was as if Lilly had disappeared into thin air.Ray stood at the edge of an empty intersection, his hands clenched into fists. His chest rose and fell in heavy, ragged breaths.Five hours.Five agonizing, tormenting hours.No leads. No clues. No sign of her.Ray pressed his fingers against his temple, trying to stop the pounding headache threatening to split his skull.His mind raced with worst-case scenarios.What if she was hurt?What if she crashed?What if someone else found her before they did?His heart clenched painfully. No. No, she’s strong. She’s smart. She wouldn’t let anything happen to herself or the baby.But then again…Lilly was in control.And Lilly was reckless.Goddamn it, Lilly. Where the hell are you?Just as Ray was on the verge of losing his mind, his phone rang.Jerry.Ray snatched it up so fast, he nearly dropped it.“Tell me you found something,”
Ray’s heart dropped the moment he saw her.Lilly stood beside the car, her back to him, her hands clenched at her sides. The trunk was still open. And inside—An unknown stranger that he couldn’t recognize but he wasn’t seeing his face properly.Ray felt his breath hitch.What the hell am I looking at?“LILLY!”His voice cut through the eerie silence of the empty road, but the second Lilly—or rather, Lia—heard him, her body stiffened.Then—she bolted.Straight for the driver’s seat.Ray’s eyes widened in pure disbelief.“LILLY, STOP!”He ran.His feet pounded against the pavement, the rush of adrenaline surging through him like wildfire. Too fast. Too reckless.He barely made it to the car before the door slammed shut.She was leaving.Ray banged on the window, his voice desperate. “Lilly, don’t do this! Open the door!”But she didn’t.Her hands trembled on the wheel. Her breathing was uneven.And then—she floored it.The tires screeched as the car lurched forward.Ray barely jumped ba
David had felt fear before. He had studied it, manipulated it, made it his weapon. He had seen it in countless eyes—victims, test subjects, even his own colleagues when they realized what he was truly capable of.But this?This was different.A moment ago, she had been trembling. The fear had been thick, suffocating. It had been delicious.But now—Now, the woman standing before him was nothing like the fragile thing he had expected.Her eyes burned with something primal. Something wrong.The bloodlust radiated off her in waves, curling around her like a living entity. Her lips were curled, not in fear, not in pain, but in something far, far worse.Rage.David had always considered himself the puppeteer. He pulled the strings. He dictated emotions, controlled his creations.But the thing before him?She was not under his control.And she knew it.Lia’s lips parted, her voice a whisper—low, sultry, dripping with a wicked amusement that sent a shiver down his spine.“Come on.”David’s b