Breaking Surface Tension

She gave up her dream of shining on the ballerina stage —for him. She sacrificed her self-respect —for him. She forgot her true identity —for him. But even after all that, she couldn’t compare to the woman who held Ryan’s heart. Arwen Quinn, heiress of prestigious Quinn family, realized too late that no matter what she did, she would never win Ryan’s love. The future that awaited her was a life trapped in endless misery of a loveless marriage. So, decisively, she ends their relationship and walks away. What she didn’t expect was that in breaking free from Ryan, she had opened the door for Aiden to enter her life — a chance that he had been waiting for. Aiden Winslow, an enigmatic CEO isn’t just mysterious —he is determined, and won’t allow to take Arwen away from him again. ____ Excerpt: Aiden narrowed his eyes, “Are you sure about this?” “If I wasn’t sure, I wouldn’t have asked,” Arwen replied coolly. “Stop dawdling. If you’re unwilling, I’ll find someone else who can get the marriage certificates today.” His expression darkened as he pulled her close. “Once offered to me, it’s mine alone.” Unfazed, Arwen asked, “So, do you accept? If yes, we’ll get the certificates now.” “On one condition,” he said. “I don’t do contract marriages. The woman I marry will be the woman I share my bed with. If you agree, then we’ll—” “Not a problem. Let’s go,” Arwen said without letting him finish, pulling him into the Civil Marriage Bureau.

In his first life as 'Caine Wilson', was the villain—ruthless, cunning, and very powerful. He played his part perfectly, crushing the so-called "protagonist" and parading his enemies, their families, and anyone who crossed him naked through the streets. He watched with glee as the "hero" lay broken, stripped of his dignity, before finally ending his pitiful existence. But just as Caine, thought he had finally won and secured his place at the top, 'Higher ups' intervened. A booming, ethereal voice—like the universe’s pissed-off judge—shook the skies: "You have violated the sacred code of villainy! The villain shall not win. The balance has been broken. Caine Wilson, the world hereby rejects you!" Before he could even enjoy his victory, his world blinked out, like a story whose writer just erased the last chapter in frustration. Everything went dark. And when he awoke, he wasn’t Caine Wilson anymore. He was 'Su Xiaobai', a nobody on 'White Cloud Star', a world of cultivation, martial arts, and endless struggle. But this time, things were different. He could feel it—he could see through the cracks of reality itself. He could break the fourth wall! He wasn’t just some reincarnated soul; he was a villain who had 'seen the system', who understood the game. And he was about to flip it upside down. --------------- A/N: Buckle up, you miserable bunch! It’s a parody, so shut your brains off, toss 'em in the trash, and dive headfirst into this deep, glorious shithole! Don’t come whining to me when you laugh so hard you choke on your own damn tears! --------------- Discord: https://discord.gg/dsc4fftBeF **Cover Page is not owned by Author**

He possesses unparalleled martial arts, all the great Young Masters are under his feet! He has heaven-defying medical skills, even the dead can be brought back to life! He also has a pair of Supreme Quality Divine Eyes, capable of fighting, hypnotizing, you name it! Fan group: 677382696 VIP group：647949669

He looked at the girl in red, her mischievous eyes looking seductively at him. "Why don't you accompany me tonight?" She said in a soft voice. He was startled at her words. "To the ball, silly" The girl said licking her lips. Reyhaan swallowed the lump in her throat and mustered enough courage to hold her hand when, "Wake up, brother! Why are you sweating so much?" "Oh, another dream about her! This cannot be true, to dream of a girl every night whom I have never met before! what is happening to me?"

Ellie Yeo thought she could escape her one-sided love for her boss, Simon Sa, by accepting an arranged marriage to Ethan Jung. However, just when she plans to leave Simon’s world behind, he pulls her back into a whirlwind of emotions with one last business trip together. Torn between her growing attachment to Ethan and her unresolved feelings for Simon, Ellie faces her deepest emotional conflicts. As secrets unravel and difficult choices arise, Ellie must decide whether to follow her heart or break free from the man who refuses to let her go. Will she finally escape Simon’s grip, or will their twisted relationship trap her once again?

In a world where ambition drives humanity to reshape nature itself, the sprawling, artificial megacity of Phoros stands as the pinnacle of human achievement—a continent-sized labyrinth of steel, neon, and secrets. Amidst its shimmering skyline, the Alaric family reigns supreme, a lineage of heroes, visionaries, and enigmatic leaders whose influence spans continents and industries. When Gerald Alaric, a celebrated war hero and patriarch of the Alaric dynasty, strikes a daring pact with a brilliant but desperate scientist, Hyde Sync, the result is the Ashvin Project—a groundbreaking experiment that transcends the boundaries of science, morality, and human potential. From this collaboration are born Sebastian and Aura, two genetically crafted children heralded as the next step in human evolution. But as the Alaric family gathers to witness this momentous creation, buried tensions, clashing ambitions, and dangerous secrets bubble to the surface. The Ashvin twins represent more than just technological marvels—they are symbols of power, legacy, and a new future. However, such creations seldom come without a cost, and the consequences of meddling with the very fabric of humanity threaten to unravel the delicate balance of a world teetering on the edge of progress and ruin. (This novel will be published in RoyalRoad)

The story takes place in a fantasy world called "Xuantian Continent", where there is a rich cultivation culture and powerful sect forces. The protagonist is named "Yun Yi" and is a genius disciple of the "Tianjian Sect". Due to an accident, he lost all his cultivation and was ignored by the sect and ridiculed by his peers. During a sect trial, Yun Yi unexpectedly discovered the truth of his family's destruction, which was originally related to the high-ranking members of the sect.

Stuck in a seemingly endless cycle of rebirth Alex, a modern thief, tries to find a way out. Xianxian-ish style (more or less) cultivation novel. A birthday gift to my dear brother Tom.

The book introduces the central conflict, sets up the forbidden nature of their relationship, and builds the tension between the vampire, Vladimir, and the werewolf, Lyra. It establishes their initial meeting and the undeniable pull between them, even as they both remain cautious and unsure of where this will lead.

Mia has always dreamed of returning to the U.S., a place filled with childhood memories and distant family ties. But after a grueling journey, her arrival takes an unexpected turn. Instead of staying with her grandparents as planned, Mia learns her family has already secured jobs and a new house. The sudden shift leaves her questioning what secrets her parents might be hiding. As Mia adjusts to her new life, strange sensations ripple through her—tingling bones, heightened awareness, and an inexplicable connection to the world around her. When these sensations reveal a hidden power she never knew she had, Mia is thrust into a journey of self-discovery, danger, and a mystery far greater than she imagined. In this gripping tale of family, transformation, and hidden truths, Mia must embrace her newfound abilities and uncover the secrets that could change her life—and the world—forever.

En un mundo destruido por la mano de los dioses, donde los humanos son meras piezas de ajedrez en un juego cósmico, Kael es un hombre que desafía su destino. Tras ser retornado al pasado, su memoria intacta de los horrores futuros, Kael descubre el "Sistema de la Rebelión", una fuerza que lo conecta con el poder de aquellos que se han rebelado contra los dioses. Con una marca ardiente en su muñeca y cicatrices de batallas perdidas, su lucha por la supervivencia lo llevará a enfrentarse a monstruos, aliados inesperados, y, finalmente, a los mismos dioses que han despojado a la humanidad de su libertad. ¿Podrá Kael cambiar el curso del futuro y romper las cadenas que atan a su mundo? La rebelión comienza, y el juego de los dioses está a punto de cambiar para siempre.

Callum Dorian, a sharp-tongued and dangerously intense werewolf Alpha, is accused of murdering Felicity Graves, a powerful collector. Vivienne "Vivi" Kane Supernatural Law is dragged into a deadly conspiracy. Felicity’s death isn’t just a crime—it’s a spark threatening to ignite a war among supernatural factions, and the Council is eager to blame Callum. Forced to clear his name, Vivi must navigate treacherous alliances, dodge killers, and unravel the mystery of a missing cursed relic tied to Felicity’s murder. As tensions rise, so does the heat between Vivi and Callum. Their fiery clashes ignite into an intense, forbidden connection that neither can ignore. But when a night of passion leads to something far more permanent, Vivi faces an impossible choice: protect her independence or embrace the vulnerability of being mated to one of the most powerful—and infuriating—men she’s ever met. - Taking a Long break will resume when have 50 collections

Wow, Here comes the Fatty.. You're really a whale thing... The invisible is home..... You eat too much that's why you're fat... these are some of the words words Lena receives everyday of her life because she's fat .

Intrigued by the possibility of quick earnings, Jay Garrick, a 23-year-old graduate student, impulsively accepts a dubious job offer. However, this decision takes a harrowing turn when he is abducted and transported to an undisclosed facility. Unveiling the nature of the task, he realizes he's bound to infiltrate a stranger's consciousness and extract concealed information—an irreversible commitment. Within the enigmatic realm of another person's mind, Jay encounters a mysterious entity named X, the gatekeeper of sought-after knowledge. Despite repeated attempts to extract the information, he fails, plunging into a desperate quest for escape from this mental labyrinth. To break free, he's forced to engage in a series of challenges and games orchestrated by X, revealing a fantastical world teeming with dragons, magic, cities, and spaceships—transcending genres. As the stakes escalate, Jay grapples with unraveling the enigma that binds him to this alternate reality. Hidden within the recesses of his mind lies a profound mystery, intricately linked to his past and present. Determined to escape the clutches of his own psyche, Jay must decipher the underlying reasons for this surreal ordeal, ultimately striving to expose the truth that holds the key to his liberation. The question remains: Will he triumph in extracting the vital information and conquer the illusions within, or will he be ensnared forever in this kaleidoscopic maze of the mind?

Adam was a kid with a harsh childhood born into a poor family that struggled each day just to make ends meet. On his 11th birthday he was gifted a laptop which let him play "Theatre Of The Gods" it was his only escape from his harsh reality. As the years went by he tried his best to conquer his fate of mediocrity and became a nouveau riche playboy at a very young age. But what happened? Adam ends up being stabbed in the chest by a vengeful ex lover he doesn't even remember the name of? What else? Instead of dying he becomes a villain in his favorite game called Adam Alastair Dacre with no physical abilities and talent who dies in every possible outcome of the game's story. Adam slams his desk with rage and announces to the world: "IT HAD TO BE THIS BULLSH*T WORLD THAT'S JUST A CHESSBOARD FOR THE GODS??? WATCH ME AS I FLIP THE ENTIRE BOARD!!! ". This time Adam will go all out with all the knowledge he had from the game.

Jay Riemman , disappointed in the oppressive reality of the 22nd century is given a chance to destroy the society of the rich and powerful when Rifts begin to appear on Earth. [This is my effort in creating a somewhat of a "villain" protagonist who is not supported by a super system designed for him nor an immense plot armor, but who survives by using logical thinking, relying on strong teammates, and using underhanded methods] [A lot of my inspiration comes from other novels that deal with the concept of portals to other worlds, but I am trying to make this work differentiate as much as possible by mixing various other concepts and some of my original ideas] [Oh this is already too long but closing, I need to emphasize that this novel is something I do for fun and every possible feedback will be very helpful] (The cover picture doesn't belong to me, if you are the artist that created it please message me or leave a comment if you want it removed)

Unibook: Roses and Thorns – Just for Them In this vibrant and intimate project, each page is an invitation to explore the strength, vulnerability, and challenges of women, young ladies, or girls who take the lead in their own stories. Through short and fascinating narratives, readers will dive into a mosaic of emotions where female characters face their dilemmas, discover their inner strength, and leave indelible marks on the world around them. Creating or breaking passions, these stories unfold in a realm where monotony finds no place. But as with every blooming rose, thorns also have their role. Here, male interactions play a fundamental part in emotional development and story climaxes, bringing tension, complicity, and sometimes the most unexpected lessons. "Unibook: Roses and Thorns – Just for Them" is more than a title; it is a call to celebrate the complexity of human relationships, where femininity and masculinity intertwine to craft stories that captivate and provoke deep reflections. "Welcome to Unibook... A universe of stories that are not just about them, nor merely for them, but lovingly created with them – embracing everything they represent. Here, feminine strength integrates, acts, and shapes destiny with its unique essence. A world where no one, man or woman, could reach their full potential without the initial drive of this strength, this care, this devotion. A world that celebrates the thorns that protect and enhance the beauty of roses. After all, we are here, Just for Them."

Katarina, a sheltered and naïve young woman, moves to Sierra-Madre to live with her aloof and intimidating step-sister, Sharon. While Katarina tries to adjust to her new life, Sharon’s cold demeanor and domineering presence make it clear that living under the same roof will be anything but easy. One night, an innocent mistake leads Katarina to uncover a secret side of Sharon’s life—a world of control, seduction, and forbidden desires hidden behind the elegant exterior. Oblivious to the implications, Katarina brushes off the discovery, but the tension between them begins to smolder, slowly unraveling Sharon’s carefully guarded control. Sharon finds herself drawn to Katarina’s innocence, despite knowing the risks of crossing the line. Meanwhile, Katarina is inexplicably captivated by her step-sister’s commanding presence, even as she struggles to understand the new and confusing emotions stirring within her. As their lives become intertwined, the walls of propriety crumble, giving way to a passionate and dangerous connection that could either break them apart or bind them forever. In a house filled with secrets and desires, innocence may be the first thing to shatter. Breaking Her Innocence is an intense and provocative journey of forbidden attraction, emotional conflict, and the thin line between restraint and surrender.

Yohan's life was tragically cut short when he drowned at the young age of 25, without ever discovering who or what caused his untimely demise. But to his surprise, Yohan woke up as a younger version of himself - only twenty years old! His first life had been full of misery, no one even knew he existed, not even his loved ones. This time around, however, all Yohan wanted was to live happily and forget about the past once and for all. But it seemed that fate had other plans for him, from the beginning of his second chance at life, everyone he tried so hard to avoid began reappearing in his path once again...

After living a mundane life for seventy years, an ordinary man named Ethan dies. Only to awaken as Caelan Aetherisin,in a world beyond his wildest imagination. Reborn as a member of a prestigious vampire royal family, he finds himself entangled in the complex power dynamics of the vampire aristocracy. With five ancient vampire houses ruling the night, tensions brew beneath the surface—old rivalries, political machinations, and deep secrets threaten to tear them apart. Yet, as they face a looming, sinister force that threatens to annihilate their kind, alliances must be formed, and the balance of power will shift in unexpected ways. As the main character navigates his newfound immortality, he must master his powers, understand his role in this dangerous world, and deal with his growing harem—each member more mysterious and powerful than the last. But with desire comes darkness, and he will soon uncover disturbing truths about his family and the world of vampires. Warning: This story contains explicit adult themes, including violence, gore, and disturbing content (incest, and more). Reader discretion is advised.

Elle Rick thought she knew the rules of survival in Nicholas Greg’s world: stay composed, keep her secrets hidden, and never get too close. But one reckless night with the ruthless billionaire shatters the boundaries she’s carefully built. A scandal at a glittering gala forces Nicholas to claim her as his fiancée, plunging Elle into a dangerous game of deception. What begins as a charade spirals into chaos as love, betrayal, and revenge collide. Nicholas, a man hardened by power, and Elle, a woman haunted by her past, are drawn to each other in a tempest of desire and distrust. But their fragile connection fractures when devastating truths surface—hidden lovers, stolen children, and shocking betrayals that leave both their lives in ruins. As vengeance becomes their weapon of choice, they spiral toward destruction, only to discover that some bonds refuse to break, no matter how much pain they inflict.

Jen’s world is one of promises and pressure—both self-imposed and forced upon her. When a math test goes terribly wrong, she fears the wrath of Adele, her former friend-turned-bully, who holds her to a reckless promise: fail, and Jen must buy Adele’s lunch every day. With no way out and her pride on the line, Jen’s stress mounts, even as her loyal friends try to help her break free from Adele’s grip. But standing up to a queen of manipulation isn’t easy, and as tensions rise in the cafeteria, a battle of words turns into a public spectacle. With everyone watching, Jen must decide—will she submit to Adele’s control, or will she finally fight back? Friends and Foes is a gripping story of friendship, rivalry, and the power of standing up for yourself when the odds are against you.

In a realm where noble bloodlines and political intrigue intertwine, Shangguan Ning, the Grand Prince of the Wu Dynasty and the newly appointed sovereign consort, finds himself navigating the treacherous waters of the royal court or the Demon Empire. Despite his illustrious lineage, Ning grapples with the complexities of his marriage to Helan Li Qiang, the Second Prince of the Demon Empire, as he seeks to forge a genuine bond amidst the expectations of duty and tradition. With a fragile peace treaty uniting the human and demon realms, tensions simmer beneath the surface as both sides vie for power and influence. As alliances shift and hidden motives surface, Ning must balance the weight of familial loyalty with the pursuit of his own happiness. Caught in a web of ambitions, he must navigate a court where every smile may hide a dagger. Will Ning succeed in protecting his place in the court and securing his future, or will the machinations of those around him threaten to unravel everything he holds dear? _____________________________________ (Picture on the book cover not mine) Ongoing/Slow updates (Disclaimer:This is an original story created entirely from my imagination and does not draw from any existing works. I am not a native Chinese speaker; rather, I am an enthusiastic fan of ancient Chinese novels and their rich storytelling traditions. Any cultural references or elements included in this narrative are inspired by my admiration for the genre and are not intended to accurately represent actual practices, beliefs, or customs. I hope readers can enjoy this tale for its creativity and the unique perspective it offers.)

--- Beneath Her Surface follows the life of Lolita, a young woman who finds herself trapped in the grip of a dangerous and manipulative world. Born into poverty, with a mother who needs constant care, Lolita’s life has always been a struggle. But when she becomes entangled with the wealthy and powerful Monica, who introduces her to a lavish yet perilous new world, Lolita is forced to confront her own strength and resilience. As she is thrust into a masquerade of wealth, deceit, and control, Lolita must navigate the tricky dynamics of those around her, including Sofian SAI, the enigmatic figure at the heart of it all. Monica’s cold manipulation and the glittering allure of the life she promises tug at Lolita, but her deep love for her family and her desire for freedom remain her guiding light. Every move she makes is a calculated step toward something bigger — a step toward proving that she is not just another pawn in someone else’s game, but a woman with a mind of her own. The story explores themes of power, survival, and the complexities of personal sacrifice. As Lolita takes risks, faces betrayals, and fights for her place in the world, she uncovers the deeper strength that lies within her — one that may be enough to alter the course of her life and free her from the strings others try to pull. ---

In the wake of a zombie apocalypse, Ash and Eve are forced together by survival, but their differences ignite a dangerous tension. Ash, sweet and naive, clings to the last remnants of hope, while Eve, hardened by a brutal world, is determined to keep her walls up. As they clash over every decision, the threat of the undead is the least of their worries—it's the growing pull between them that might just break them. In a world where trust is a luxury and love feels like a betrayal, will they survive each other—or will their enemies be the least of their problems? This is a post apocalypse lesbian love story. *Updates daily* I will be posting this story on RoyalRoad.com

When Lali marries into the powerful and wealthy Jeon family, she expects a life of respect and luxury. But behind the grand walls of the Jeon mansion, she finds herself surrounded by mystery, tension, and secrets no one dares to speak of. Lali begins to uncover clues about a hidden past that seems strangely connected to her. A mysterious portrait, coded messages, and a family that guards its secrets fiercely pull her deeper into a web of lies. Her husband, Gguk, is distant and guarded, but his quiet presence stirs emotions in her that she can’t ignore. As Lali tries to get closer to him, she realizes that love may be the only thing strong enough to face the darkness. Can Lali unravel the truth without breaking apart her marriage and the family? Or will the Jeon family’s secrets destroy her before she uncovers them all?

Ryzel, a nineteen-year-old guide, was expecting to marry Dwight, but the man changed his mind a month before the wedding. “I’m sorry, Ryzel. I wanted a nice and compassionate wife, so I am going to marry Sean instead. Unlike you, who were usually preoccupied with other things, he always showed concern for me. Not to mention how highly compatible we are with one another. I've actually met him before, but he persuaded me to date you because he feels sorry for you." Without even waiting for Ryzel's response, the man left. Ryzel, who was left behind, can't even bother caring about his heart because he's been dealing with a lot of issues as a result of the sudden rejection. He was turning 20 in a month, which meant he had to be married according to the federation's laws. After he reaches the age of 20, the government's assistance will cease, leaving him to fend for his own expenses. If he is not married to a powerful sentinel, he will not be able to reclaim his inheritance and will be forced to die on the front lines. He instantly began looking for solutions, but his hope kept dwindling as his birthday approached without a proper solution to his problems. On the day he felt all hope was lost, his ex’s superior, General Lewis, proposed to him. "I'm not gentle and kind; my priority probably won’t be you; our compatibility may not be high; do you still want to marry me?" Ryzel questioned, fixing his gaze on the general. "It's okay, I don't need my wife to be gentle and kind. Our compatibility is also high. You can focus on your studies, job, or dreams. As long as you remember that you are my guide." “Okay, let’s get married.” ------------------------ This is the story of Ryzel's advancement in career and love life, even with all the troubles surrounding him.