'Am I cursed with fire incidents?' Yaslyn thought as she faced another flame.Sensing the urgency and noticing that Sheldon was still in shock, she grabbed his arm and ran to the emergency exit.While running, Yaslyn discovered the fire started on the third floor. They were on the fifth floor, and the fire had blocked their path. Stairwells were filled with flames, and smoke clouded the air.Taking the elevator was not an option. A crowd had gathered at the third-floor stairwell's entrance, but the fire's intensity made it impassable.Without hesitation, Yaslyn sprinted in another direction. Still dazed, Sheldon tightened his grip on her hand and asked anxiously, "Where are you going?"Yaslyn glared at him. "Do you really have to ask? Where else would I go during a fire if not to find a fire extinguisher or a water source?""I'm coming with you!"Yaslyn shook her head. "Stay here. The fire's too strong. One distraction could be fatal."Sheldon's confusion was evident. "Do you v
"You misunderstood," Yaslyn replied casually, hoping to brush off Sheldon's observation."Fine. If you don't want to tell me, I won't ask."Sheldon was surprisingly cooperative, and Yaslyn felt a weight lifted off her chest.However, Sheldon asked, "Do you think we might die here today?"Hearing the grim possibility, Yaslyn snapped, "With me here? How could we possibly die?"Sheldon grinned as if he had won some unspoken battle. "So, you're implying you'll protect me?"Yaslyn rolled her eyes. "Stop it and focus on staying alive."While the pair bantered, a shadow quietly observed them from behind. Yaslyn sensed their intense gaze and sharply turned around. To her shock, it was Josie, whom she had not seen in ages.Josie stared at Yaslyn in disbelief. "You... You're still alive?"Yaslyn hesitated, knowing she had not informed anyone of her faked demise. It was a secret, after all. However, upon seeing Josie's bewildered face, she admitted, "Yes, I'm still alive, but—""Mrs. Ca
Yaslyn rushed to the hospital. Josie had already been taken to the emergency room, and Yaslyn sent Sawyer away to wait alone.Hours seemed to pass, and the emergency room light remained lit. Eventually, a somber-looking doctor emerged."Who's the patient's family?"Yaslyn stepped forward quickly. "I am.""The patient has suffered severe burns. We managed to save her life, but we can't restore her skin to its original state."Yaslyn understood that it was the best possible outcome under the circumstances. "It's okay. As long as she's alive."She would handle the rest.When Josie awoke in her hospital room, only Yaslyn was there. "Yaslyn..."Josie's voice was parched. Handing her a cup of tea, Yaslyn watched as Josie took a few sips, her discomfort somewhat alleviated."Do my injuries look bad?" Josie asked, knowing how women valued their appearances.Yaslyn tucked Josie's blanket in with a reassuring smile. "Not at all. Don't worry. Like I said, I'll ensure all your wounds he
After multiple flights and layovers, they finally reached Montana.Yerick led them to his home, which was more than just a mansion—it was a vast estate.Yaslyn, taking in its size, could not help but become suspicious. Given Yerick's prolonged stay in their home country, how could he maintain such a massive property abroad?"How did you get such a grand estate abroad, considering you've spent so much time at home?" Yaslyn asked.Without acknowledging her inquiry, Yerick unlocked the front door, guiding Helen and Josie inside."Yerick, did you buy this on credit?" Yaslyn called after him, quickening her pace to catch up.At her remark, the typically indifferent Yerick turned around sharply and replied in annoyance, "My father bought it!""Father?"Yaslyn was momentarily thrown off. Her thoughts still lingered on Stephen. However, it dawned on her that Yerick was no longer a Warren. Could it be that mysterious man, Geoff?Yaslyn pondered, following them inside.The interior arc
Upon hearing Helen's voice, Yaslyn quickly regained her composure. "It's nothing. I'm considering finding a job."Helen was delighted. "Getting a job is a good idea. We can't rely on Doctor Warren to support us forever."Yerick gently added, "It's fine. I can afford it."His comment made Helen even more uncomfortable. "It's not right. Even if you're wealthy, Yaslyn shouldn't get disheartened and listless."'Disheartened and listless?'Yaslyn was even more determined to work. "I've made up my mind. I'll start working tomorrow and only come back once a week."Yerick responded calmly, "You can work, but it has to be at my company."She knew where he wanted her to work, yet he was stubborn. Yaslyn was frustrated.Helen seemed to agree. "It'd be better for her to work at Doctor Warren's company. At least she would have someone to watch over her. Besides…"Helen hesitated, seeming to remember something. "Doctor Warren, isn't your company in the medical field?""Yes, it is."Helen
Yaslyn woke up early.She had prepared everything the night before and to get to work punctually. During the day, the red-light district was relatively quiet, its vibrancy mostly reserved for nighttime.However, she arrived early to acquaint herself with the neighborhood's layout and setting. While gathering information was straightforward, navigating the intricate streets of the red-light district was a different challenge.The red-light district in Montana was remote, roughly a ten-minute drive away. Such establishments were legal, which meant there were only a few police patrolling the area. Instead, the streets were mainly filled with satisfied men who were worn out and headed home.It was sickening.Suppressing her disgust, Yaslyn continued walking. Suddenly, she stopped at the sound of a whistle from behind. Turning around, she saw a blonde, blue-eyed man who looked somewhat mischievous. He was handsome in a classic way.When he saw Yaslyn, a typical beauty, he whistled aga
Xoan contemplated for a moment, looking displeased. "I hope your company's president will keep his word."The other man chuckled, extending a particularly greasy hand. "Rest assured, I'll never deceive you. My name is Nabeel White. You can call me Mr. White."'Mr. White…'Xoan's assistant rolled his eyes in silent judgment.Xoan continued, "Mr. White, what are your president's intentions?""Our president asked me to ensure you're treated well, so I'll be devoting all my time to you."Noticing Xoan's lack of intention to shake his hand, Nabeel pulled it back without any sign of embarrassment. "I suppose you've never been here before. There's plenty to enjoy. I'll show you around."The assistant snapped angrily, "Our president's time is precious. He doesn't have days to waste with your games.""Two companies discussing cooperation don't require an assistant to provoke me repeatedly," Nabeel retorted.Though his tone remained friendly, his words made it clear he knew the rules bu
Xoan stared the swaying figure before him. Nabeel followed his gaze and smirked, misinterpreting his interest for attraction."Mr. Xoan Warren, you've got quite the taste. She's among the most beautiful I've seen in this place," Nabeel commented happily, "If you fancy her, we can call her over to serve you."For once, Xoan did not refuse. Seeing the woman leaning close to another man, an unexpected pang of discomfort arose within him.Xoan nodded slightly. "Fine."Nabeel took the lead with Xoan right behind him. As they passed Yaslyn, Xoan did not even spare her a glance.Nabeel was puzzled. Did Xoan not just express interest in her? Why the indifference now?Nonetheless, Nabeel hurried to match Xoan's stepsYaslyn, lost in her own world, was almost brushed by the very man she had been steering clear of. Her gaze, however, stayed locked on the muscular man in front of her. She flashed him a flirtatious smile."How much for a night?" he asked in a gruff tone.She replied with a
Whitey glanced back and forth between them, shaking her head. "You two are a mystery."Suddenly, Doniel stood and waved Whitey over. "Hey, Whitey. Come here for a second."Confused but compliant, Whitey walked over.In a swift move, Doniel took her hand. With a smug look at Matheo, he announced, "I'm taking Whitey off your hands for a bit."Matheo's expression turned steely. "What's your game?""Don't sweat it, she'll be back soon."With that, Doniel led Whitey out.They reached a more secluded spot before Doniel finally released her hand. "Whitey, you're not hurt, right?"Whitey shook her head, twirling in front of him to prove her point. "See? I'm totally fine."Doniel reached out and gently tapped her forehead. "Someone hit you, didn't they? Your face is still swollen, and here you are, telling me it's nothing."Whitey playfully stuck out her tongue. "I just didn't want you to worry. Besides, I'm not the one who got seriously hurt. It was Matheo.""I know. Matheo really d
"Don't make that call!" Whitey screamed in a panic.A harsh slap struck her face as the ringleader yelled, "Shut it, woman! Who said you could talk?"The man, not satisfied after hitting her, gave in to his fury and kicked her. However, before he knew it, Matheo, who was standing nearby, had silently moved behind him. Suddenly, a sharp crack echoed as Matheo snapped the man's fingers with raw force.Matheo wrapped his arms around Whitey and quickly retreated."I can't take it! I'm done. I don't want anything else. Just do it!"The ringleader was seething with rage, the throbbing in his fingers ruining his will to fight Matheo.A few thugs had been itching for a reason to go after Matheo, and they wasted no time grabbing their weapons and launching an assault.Matheo fought back while dragging Whitey out of harm's way, but as the fight dragged on, he started losing ground.A vicious knife cut to Matheo's leg sent him tumbling down with a grunt."Matheo!"Whitey crouched beside
Whitey shook her head. She did not have a clue, and even if she could guess, she did not know what to do about it."I was actually about to..."Before Matheo could finish, a deafening crash rang out.Startled, Whitey clapped her hands over her ears. Matheo wrapped her in his arms and glanced at the rear window.A random stone had shattered the car's back glass, leaving a gaping hole.The chaos erupted out of nowhere, catching both of them off guard. They had been deep in conversation when suddenly, a line of cars barricaded the road, trapping them.Matheo gently patted her head, a silent plea for calm.Whitey, frantic, nodded and fumbled for her phone, only to find it had mysteriously powered down."Stay put in the car and don't worry," Matheo said, handing her his phone."If things go south, call the cops, call anyone."He was ready to step out and face the unknown threat head-on.Whitey protested. "Matheo, we don't know what we're dealing with. Don't just rush out there."
Whitey was back to her usual routine—classes by day, radio station by night. However, she had a luxury she did not have previously. A private car service, ensuring her safety was never in question.Doniel's lips were sealed, not breathing a word of her injury to anyone. Except for Matheo, who had somehow stumbled upon the secret.That night, after her radio gig, Whitey stepped out expecting to see the familiar pink sports car tucked away in its usual spot. However, it was nowhere in sight.Moreover, he had not even bothered to call her. A knot of worry formed in her stomach. Did something happen to him?Whitey had called his number three, maybe four times, but got nothing.As she was wrestling with her thoughts, a familiar yet unsettling figure approached her.Matheo.Why was he there?Nobody knew about Whitey's job at the radio station except Doniel."Doniel's tied up today, so I'm your ride," Matheo said.Alarm bells rang in Whitey's head. How did Matheo know about Doniel
The nurse nodded, gesturing for Doniel to give them some space.Once the bandaging was complete, Doniel returned with a treat—Whitey's beloved chocolate cupcakes."For you. Why didn't you say it hurt? He was so rough, and yet you asked me not to hold it against him."Whitey, her mouth full of frosting, mumbled a reply. "It's not that bad. Besides, you two are usually on good terms. Why fight over pointless things because of me?"Doniel tapped her head gently. "You're such a goof. What are you even talking about? Meaningless things?""I just thought that you two grew up together, so it'd be a shame to fall out over something so small, right?"Doniel huffed, "I never really cared for him, you know.""Okay, let's figure out a plan B. This mess means I might be stuck in the hospital longer, so I'm counting on you to smooth things over back home."Doniel looked at her with a teasing grin. "Relax, I've got this."Somehow, Whitey could always pick up a strange vibe from his smile, an
Whitey was injured, and Doniel rushed her to the hospital that very night. It was just a slash on her arm, but Doniel was beside himself with worry.Watching Whitey grit her teeth through the stitching, Doniel's face turned a shade of stormy gray. "I'll track down that driver's family if it's the last thing I do!"Whitey winced in pain, but seeing Doniel's fury, she tried to soothe him. "Really, it's not so bad."Doniel looked at her bandaged arm. "Thirteen stitches, Whitey. If you're not in pain, I'm in pain for both of us."Whitey was always the center of attention—a princess who was doted on from the day she was born. She had never experienced an injury as severe as that. As Doniel reached for his phone to call Whitey's parents, she quickly stopped him with a hand gesture, wincing as she accidentally grazed her wound, "Please don't call them. They'll just scold me again if they find out.""I told you to let me drive you home. Now, look at what happened because you didn't li
Whitey gripped the edge of her skirt, a new kind of worry blooming in her chest.'What if Matheo was…'She shuddered at the thought, her mind a garden where fears grew into giant oaks, so tall and dark that they scared her.Looking up again, Whitey's eyes widened as she noticed the taxi had taken a wrong turn, heading into unfamiliar territory.In the rearview mirror, she caught a glimpse of the driver's unsettling smirk.Taking a cab late at night was proving to be a bad idea, her heart racing with fear. If only she had accepted a ride from Doniel, none of that would happen. Regret washed over her as she scrambled for her phone, desperate to call for help.Sensing her panic, the driver floored it to a secluded spot and then abruptly stopped the car.Whitey's head snapped forward, hitting the seat, and as the world spun, her phone slipped from her grasp. Then, the driver was toying with her phone, his grin wide and wicked."Planning to call the cops or a friend, sweetheart?""
As time swiftly marched on, three years went by.Whitey nailed her entrance exam into the top university in Jefferson City—Jefferson City University.As for the others, Caleb turned 30, tied the knot, had kids, and took control of Sheldon's international ventures. He and his family packed up and moved overseas, while the rest stayed back."Thanks for tuning into 'Moonlit Wishes,' your go-to spot for all things heartfelt. I'm your host, Macie."At the stroke of ten, Macie's soothing voice filled the evening airwaves."Let's hear from our first caller tonight. Hey there, sir, what's on your mind?"Macie's voice was soothing, soft yet strong enough to coax secrets from the most guarded of hearts."Here's the thing, Macie. I've been head over heels for this girl, but she's always kept me at arm's length, saying I haven't done enough. However, today, I caught her in another guy's arms. What gives?"The man's voice quivered with barely concealed tears, slurred slightly by alcohol.M
"So, just because you're into him, you decide to set me up? How does that make any sense?"Whitey could not help but find her logic almost laughable."Because I noticed he always had a soft spot for you, jealousy clouded my judgment, and that's why I..."Jade inhaled deeply, as if bracing herself for what was to come. "Well, you've uncovered the truth, so there's no point in hiding anything. Punish me however you see fit."What was the point in pleading guilty then?Jade stood there, a mix of defiance and dignity, stubborn even in the face of her mistake.Whitey was not looking to lay blame. "I'm not going to take this to the principal, and I won't breathe a word of it to anyone else. However, as of today, our friendship is done. I'll find a new place to sit when we get back."Whitey let out a tired sigh. "There's something else you should know. He's got a girlfriend now."Jade's eyes widened in disbelief. "Wait, are you two an item now?""No, I'm not the one he's dating."Wi