Julia's eyes blinked open, a gasp escaping her lips as she found herself trapped within Jared's proximity. Bewilderment painted her features, her thoughts echoing in the aftermath of her shock. Why was he so close, invading her personal space with an intent that mirrored a lover's desire?Yet, her musings held a rational thread. The idea of Jared harboring romantic inclinations towards women seemed far-fetched, a notion defying his station and appearance. Surely, if his heart inclined towards the fairer sex, he would have forged relationships, perhaps even fathered children.Jared's countenance bore a shadow, a cloud of melancholy darkening his features. Had it not been for Joseph's intervention, he would have triumphed, tasting the sweetness of her lips. "What's the matter?" Julia inquired, her voice laced with curiosity, unaware of the tumultuous thoughts swirling within Jared's mind.Joseph, too, grappled with an unsettling mixture of emotions. Nervously, he stammered, "Mr. Scott o
Unknowingly, she rose from her seat, her eyes wide with anticipation, as if her very gaze could make her desires cling to Jared's form.Julia's perceptive eyes captured every nuance of Naomi's reactions, revealing a quiet satisfaction. There was no longer a need for her to assert herself; Naomi's remorse was palpable, like a bruised ache in her very core."Are you Jared? How could you possibly be Jared? Isn't Jared an unsightly, balding man?" Naomi's astonishment left her words stumbling and incoherent."Naomi!" Neil's stern reprimand cut through the air, a signal for propriety to reclaim its place. His gaze shifted to Jared as he continued, "My daughter can be impulsive with her words. Please overlook it, Mr. Jared."Jared's aloof gaze grazed past Naomi in a fleeting manner, the disengagement happening within the span of a few heartbeats."Congratulations," Jared directed his attention toward Joseph."Yes, boss." Joseph presented a carefully prepared gift to Jared.Approaching Anthon
Passion ignited within Julia as her pupils expanded like blossoming flowers, and a surging electric thrill cascaded through her entire being.He embraced her with a kiss, a learning curve of intimacy unfolding in their union.She hadn't merely brushed his lips; she had skimmed across them, her touch leaving a delicate impression.Now, he held her closely, their connection lingering like a sweet ache.Was it possible for a single kiss to set hearts ablaze and paint cheeks with a rosy hue?His arms enfolded her, almost as if fate had molded them into one entity, and in this juxtaposition, a sense of profound longing took root.A sense of loss, unfathomable, swept over her in this newfound connection."You—you…" Naomi stammered, her emotions oscillating between anxiety and indignation, her face flushed with a mix of red and purple hues.Julia tenderly nudged his shoulder, signaling an impending end to their charade.Reluctantly, Jared released his hold on her slender waist, his grip reli
Karla's voice reverberated, a tempest unleashed as she confronted Conrad with burning intensity.Her origins were humble, hailing from the rustic countryside with a family of meager means. A stroke of fortune led her to college, where she crossed paths with Conrad.Conrad, the embodiment of affluence and charm, a beacon of opulence. Karla pursued him relentlessly, orchestrating strategic "chance" encounters, delving into his passions, and allowing affection to bloom. Their intimacy grew, an illusion of camaraderie blossoming into love's embrace.Yet fate dealt a cruel hand, thrusting Conrad into a fiery ordeal, forever altering his visage in a single night. From a campus heartthrob, he emerged a disfigured figure, his past allure diminished.But for Conrad's Watson lineage and his gentle demeanor, Karla might have abandoned him in his altered state long ago.In this charged moment, Julia entered the scene."No need for decisions, don't underestimate my brother's intelligence. When he
Conrad's reflection in the mirror stirred a symphony of astonishment within his eyes. Pupils widened and trembled like ripples on a tranquil pond, as his voice caught in his throat."Well, how could—"How could such rapid improvement transpire before his very eyes? He had braced for the worst, orchestrated plans for arduous recovery, only to be confronted with the unexpected speed of transformation.While not fully restored to its previous state, his countenance bore semblance to normality, an appearance passable without the lens of scrutiny."In a fortnight's time, your visage shall mirror its former glory," Julia assured, an air of amusement dancing in her eyes as she beheld her brother's disbelief.Conrad turned his gaze upon Julia, his gratitude a tumultuous river begging release through words."Brother, in uttering gratitude, you distance me as a bystander," Julia admonished gently.Stunned momentarily, Conrad then offered a wry smile, punctuated by a playful pinch of Julia's che
A realization dawned—she was trapped.Struggling desperately, Julia's breath hitched as a low, resonant voice whispered in her ear, "It's me."A stillness overcame Julia as her frantic struggles ebbed away. She raised her gaze to meet the man's eyes, and in that moment, a rush of emotions swelled within her. Her heart, once suspended in fearful anticipation, found solace.Tears welled up, cascading down her cheeks, splattering onto the man's waiting palms. Each drop, a release of pent-up emotions, a testament to the trials she had endured."Don't cry," the man whispered, his touch tenderly brushing her tears aside."What? I... I didn't cry," Julia stammered, momentarily surprised.Her response tugged at the man's heartstrings, a poignant reminder of the facade she was trying to uphold even in the face of overwhelming circumstances."Apologies for my tardiness," Jared's voice, tinged with regret, resonated softly.His arms encircled her gently, drawing her into a protective embrace.El
"What's happening in there?"Julia forcefully pushed Jared against the door inside the room, breathing heavily. She tried to calm her racing heart, to maintain some semblance of sanity amidst the chaos.A fire seemed to consume her from within, threatening to engulf her entirely."Mr. Brooks," she began, trying to gain his attention, "I need to discuss something with you."Jared stood tense, his body taut like a drawn bow."Do you need my assistance?" he asked, trying to read her.Julia exhaled deeply, the heat evident in her breath. "I can't administer this injection to myself in my current state."She wouldn't have made such a request if circumstances had been different."Listen, if you help me now, I assure you, if you ever desire a divorce in the future, I'll grant it without hesitation. We can get the certificate the moment you decide. What do you say?"Hearing this, any fire that was burning within Jared died down instantly.Is this her way of suggesting a divorce?The idea was
Neil's face registered shock while a surge of anxiety gripped Naomi. Their shared glance conveyed a silent question: had their secret been uncovered?Their apprehension grew when Jared entered the room, each step exuding a chilling authority that seemed to freeze the very air around him."Mr. Brooks," Neil began, attempting to feign ignorance, "what brings you to our home at this late hour?"Without uttering a word, Jared glanced at Joseph, who motioned for the bodyguards. Moments later, a group of battered homeless individuals was ushered in. Neil and Naomi's faces drained of color upon seeing them.One of the homeless men cried out, desperation evident in his voice, "Mr. Brooks, please spare us! They hired us. We had no idea she was your wife!"Naomi, her voice shaking, retorted, "You're lying! When did I ever commission such a thing? Your actions are your own. My father and I are not involved!"Neil, his anxiety peaking, stumbled backward, clutching the sofa for support. "Dad, are