Hailey Hitch

"Did you think that I would marry you instead of her? C'mon, you are only an orphan. No one knows where you originate from," Vickson's words kept repeating in Hailey's head after he had just embarrassed her by choosing her stepsister as his mate instead. As if that was not enough for him, he still forced himself on her. And Hailey is blamed by her adoptive mother, as she forces the both of them to get married. She didn't want to bear the shame of what people would say. But her stepsister, Ava, would rather die than watch the two of them live in peace as husband and wife…. Ava becomes their worst nightmare!

Nova scrambled backwards, panting hard, her short locks clinging to her damp forehead as she watched this predator stalk towards her. The vibrant and lively forest hushed, almost holding its breath to watch the scene unfold. Great, she had an audience for what would surely be a gruesome death. Death looked... a little... rugged and in nothing but a loin cloth, defined by slabs of muscle, a trail of hair leading down to such a small piece of cloth to hide a large- A spine-chilling growl snapped her gaze back up to meet his golden-red eyes, fiery, and intense, glaring at Nova as he slammed his hands either side of her head. Pieces of bark crumbled down from the impact. "I told you not to run..." He threatened, his eyes piercing hers, his voice more guttural than she'd heard from any male. His eyes clenched shut as his body trembled. "My instinct is to always stalk, always chase... until I get what I want.." Their faces were inches apart. She could feel his hot breath fanning her face. The forest was humid and hot, and his body was so close to hers that it was almost unbearable. The gruff voice, those words and the intensity of those eyes that reminded her of sunsets caused goosebumps to flourish across her arms. "What do you want?" Nova swallowed, not recognising her voice. She was so out of her depth. His chest rumbled, and more bark crumbled down from behind her head. "You..." Her breath hitched. "To. Do. As. You're. Told." - Paradise was what Nova Winslow was promised when her boyfriend whisked her away to Isla De Tayun, the perfect getaway for their busy lives. It was untouched, pristine, a hidden gem. But it had remained that way for a reason. The island doesn’t want visitors. And neither do the natives. What should have been a romantic retreat, drinking from coconuts and lounging on white-sandy beaches together, turns into a holiday from hell. Mid-argument with her soon-to-be ex, Nova stumbles into a lake. When she resurfaces, her boyfriend, the path she came from, and the resort have vanished. Alone, stranded, and with little survival skills, Nova has only a wet phone with no signal, a pair of heels, and an irrational fear of bats—which are everywhere. She is out of her depth when she falls into a mystical world of beasts. Hunted by tribesmen, stalked by beasts that shouldn't exist, and hearing animals speak, she has no choice but to trust the wild beast the forest itself fears—Yoa, a wanted man. Together, they flee the tribes pursuing them all while battling her growing attraction to Yoa. Can she survive the wild and make it back to her civilised life? Or will she lose herself to the untamed world—and to the man who belongs to it? #Beast #Ssssteamy #Adventure #Mythical #R18 -- THERE WILL BE MATURE CONTENT!! -- If you are enjoying the story, please vote with a power stone, leave comments and review! -- Cover Image: In the middle of getting one commissioned. My Instagram: @kelly_starrz My new discord server: https://discord.gg/MHMdRRqUYa

"Let's divorce. I'm finally letting you go," she said with scarce emotion on her lovely face. Seeing her resolve, he felt heaviness in his heart. His face darkened, clenching his jaw. "You can't leave me. You are bound to me for eternity." He forcibly grabbed her, pinning her on the wall, his hands started caressing her sensitive spots. "And your body... doesn't LIE," he whispered sensually, lips gently nibbling on her earlobe. Her breath hitched, her heartbeat racing.  Seeing her struggle to resist him, he smirked triumphantly. "You yearn for my touch and my kiss. You also desire me." The next thing she felt was his lips roughly brushing against hers in a hungry kiss. **** Neglected by the King Enslaved by the Queen Bullied by her royal siblings Hated by The Kingdom's Hero Ostracized by her own people EVE HAD ENOUGH! She ripped off her disguise and began to fight back, flaunting her skills and talents– extremely beautiful, highly intelligent, proficient in medicinal knowledge, great combat skills, and with rare talent– Beast Taming!  Eve– the Forsaken Princess will ascend to the throne, not just conquering kingdoms but also capturing the hearts of the powerful gentlemen– A Hero Knight, An Infamous Hunter, and the Tyrant Crown Prince! Like a phoenix rising from ashes, Eve reruns her life, determined to trample everyone with her vengeance. [ Warning: Mature Content, R18+ ]

She was never supposed to love him, he was the one person she despised, but for how long could she deny the flutter and Sparks he made her feel. ******* She is an assassin, the princess of the witches, sent to marry the Vampire King with one purpose—to kill him and secure her clan’s victory in a war that has raged for centuries. He is Rhydian, the brooding king burdened by his father’s bloody legacy, forced into the alliance to protect his people from the looming Dragon Empire. Rhydian distrusts the witches, while Seraphina resents the vampires, but neither is prepared for what fate has in stall. As they face palace intrigues, ancient prophecies, and brewing rebellion, their indifference begins to shift into something neither expected—love, an emotion they both try to deny, but is impossible to ignore. I won't call this an enemies to lovers because she is the only one who hates him, also...this will contain R18 scenes, I'll always highlight that on every chapter so you can skip if you want. A/N: I hope you all will stick with me till the end, feel free to check out my other book, I'm in love with a grim reaper, you might like it, I hope you do. Excerpt; Her fingers brushed against his forehead before he could react, her warm palms cupping both sides of his face as she studied him intently. His breath hitched at the sudden intimacy, his heart giving an involuntary stutter. What the hell was she doing? His gaze traced over her face, mapping every detail—the sharp glint of her violet eyes, the delicate curve of her nose, and her lips... God, her lips. Plump, red, slightly parted as she assessed him. He wanted to taste them again, to claim them fully. "Your fever seems to be coming down," she murmured, tilting her head slightly. "My blood really did the trick, I see..." His jaw clenched. Did she have to check his temperature this way? There were plenty of other ways to do it—ones that didn't involve tempting him with that mesmerizing face of hers. She started to pull her hands away, but before she could, he caught her wrist, stopping her. She looked up at him, startled. "If you wanted to check my temperature, you could've done so in a simpler way," he said, his lips curving into a playful grin. He tugged her closer, his grip firm but gentle. "Are you trying to seduce me, Purple?" Her heartbeat stuttered against his chest. He could hear it. Feel it. Then, to his surprise, she didn't pull away. Instead, a slow, wicked smile spread across her lips. She leaned in, her body pressing against his just enough to make his muscles tense. "What if I am?" she whispered, deliberately biting her bottom lip. Rhydian's breath caught. The last of his control snapped. "You asked for it," he growled. In the next second, he crashed his lips against hers. The kiss was deep, desperate, consuming. His hand tangled in her hair, tilting her head to deepen the angle as his tongue swept into her mouth, claiming her fully. She responded instantly, matching his hunger with equal fervor. She wasn't perfect at kissing yet—he could tell she was still learning—but she made up for it with pure intensity, and damn if it didn't make his blood boil. His other arm wrapped around her waist, pulling her flush against him as his lips moved against hers with feverish need. His tongue tangled with hers, teasing, tasting, drinking her in as if she were the only thing that could satiate him. He bit down softly, drawing a gasp from her, and that little sound sent a violent pulse of arousal straight through him. He was already rock hard, aching with need. He hadn't touched a woman since the marriage arrangement was made. Maybe that was why he was losing control so easily. Or maybe it was just her. Maybe it had always been her.

Ethan's head throbbed violently as he opened his eyes, his vision hazy and unfocused. A dull ringing filled his ears, drowning out his thoughts. "What’s happening…?" he thought, his mind sluggish, struggling to catch up with reality. One moment, he was asleep—or at least, he thought he was—and the next, searing pain forced him awake. His vision swam, shapes blurring together in a disorienting mess. But then, muffled noises filtered through the haze—frantic, panicked sounds. Someone was trying to scream, their voice smothered, choked by something. A cold shiver ran down his spine. As his sight gradually sharpened, Ethan's breath hitched. He was on all fours, looming over someone. A girl. Her body twisted and writhed beneath him, ropes biting into her wrists and ankles. Her mouth was gagged, muffling her cries. Her wide brown eyes, brimming with fear and fury, glared up at him. Ethan's body locked in place, his blood running cold. "What the…?" His mind reeled, thoughts slamming into each other in chaotic disarray. "What kind of bizarre dream is this?" Panic clawed at his chest. His breath came in ragged, uneven gasps as he scrambled backward, only to realize his limbs felt sluggish, uncooperative, like they didn’t belong to him. "Is this… is this some kind of twisted fantasy I never knew I had?" A sickening thought slithered through his mind, making his stomach churn. The girl's frantic squirming slowed for a moment, her gaze flickering with confusion as she took in his expression—his trembling hands, his wide, horrified eyes. But the fear returned just as quickly. She struggled harder, her body arching, her muffled screams rising in pitch. Ethan wanted to speak, to say something, anything, but before he could force out a word, a glowing blue window materialized before his eyes. His breath caught. A translucent, hovering screen? "What…?" Lines of glowing text scrolled across its surface. --- [System Activated…] [Host Confirmed.] [Simulating Previous Data…] Ethan awakens in a mysterious world, shackled by a curse that clouds his judgment and drives him toward choices he never wished to make. Burdened by guilt and responsibility, he must navigate the fallout of his actions while unraveling the truth behind the curse—and his place in this enigmatic new reality.

WhatsApp: +1 (443) 859 - 2886 Email @ digitaltechguard.com Telegram: digitaltechguard.com Website link: digitaltechguard.com Planning a wedding is stressful enough without having to deal with scams. As a wedding planner in Brisbane, I was organizing a couple’s dream wedding when I paid AUD 12,000 to a vendor for decorations and catering. The vendor seemed legitimate, and everything appeared to be in order. But as the wedding date approached, the vendor disappeared. The website went offline, and the phone number was disconnected. Panicked and unsure of what to do, I reached out to Digital Tech Guard Recovery. I provided them with all the details: the fake website, transaction records, and emails from the scammer. Their team was incredibly supportive and reassured me that they would do everything possible to recover the funds. Using their expertise in digital forensics, they began tracing the scammer’s digital footprint. They quickly identified the offshore account where the money had been transferred and started working with international authorities to freeze the account. The process was detailed, involving collaboration with law enforcement agencies across borders. Despite the challenges, Digital Tech Guard Recovery worked tirelessly, keeping me informed every step of the way. Within a few weeks, they successfully managed to return the AUD 12,000. The relief I felt was overwhelming. Not only had I avoided a financial loss, but I also regained the trust that I had lost in the industry. Digital Tech Guard Recovery didn’t just recover my money they saved the wedding and helped restore my faith in my profession. Thanks to their efforts, I was able to find a legitimate vendor and ensure that the wedding went off without a hitch. The couple’s special day was preserved, and I was able to continue my work as a wedding planner with confidence. Digital Tech Guard Recovery’s dedication and expertise made all the difference, and I will forever be grateful for their help in turning a nightmare situation into a success. Their service was not just about recovering funds it was about safeguarding a dream.

A HAPPENING love story❤ or a RUTHLESS tale? Hailey Roosevelt a business woman Escaping from the streets of agony, dust of distress dragging behind the wheel of past .few incidents change her life path , in qatar Hailey finds her counterpart Jack Harrison son of the most famous lawyer,will she be able to soften herself? Does melted waxes recatch fire ? INHALE! EXHALE! INHALE ! read to find out !

Five years ago, Anastasia Laurent broke his heart. To her, their college romance was just a careless game—toying with a love she never took seriously. To Dante Alexander Montgomery, it was the ultimate betrayal. Now, he’s back. No longer the lovesick senior she abandoned—but a ruthless billionaire who owns half the city. When Anastasia’s best friend begs her to go on a blind date in her place and ruin it, she agrees—after all, how bad could it be? Bad. Very bad. Because her date? Dante. And he’s not just here to rekindle old flames. He’s here to destroy her. Before she can run, Dante traps her in a deal she never saw coming: Marriage. Publicly, they’ll be the perfect billionaire power couple. Privately? He’ll make her regret the day she walked away. But as the lines between revenge and obsession blur, Anastasia realizes one thing— She thought she was done with Dante. But Dante was never done with her. --- Excerpt "You think you can run from me again, Anastasia?” Dante's voice was calm, but the storm in his eyes told another story. She backed into the wall, pulse racing as he stalked closer, his towering frame cutting off every escape route. “I-I’m not—” she stammered. His fingers tilted her chin, forcing her to meet his cold gaze. “You didn’t just break my heart,” he murmured darkly. “You shattered it. And now? Now, you’ll pay for it.” Her breath hitched. “Congratulations, Anastasia,” he whispered, leaning in until his lips brushed her ear. “You just became my wife.”

Anne, a shy and introvert woman, was in love with Denis for ten years. But Denis had someone in his heart. When his girlfriend left him to pursue her career, he finally noticed Anne and asked her to be his girlfriend. Anne stayed devoted to him for three years, but Denis cheated on her with his first love. Worse, his scheming ex-girlfriend killed her. Fate gave her another chance. Anne was reborn. This time, she vowed to take revenge on everyone who had hurt her. Augustine, the CEO of the Sphere Group of industries, was powerful and wealthy. But he died from his family’s conspiracy. Reborn, he was determined to punish those who had schemed against him. In his past life, he had failed to protect Anne, his savior. This time, he vowed to love her and keep her safe with his life. But Anne no longer believed in love. ~~~~~~~~~ “Will you marry me?” Augustine’s eyes sparkled with anticipation and nervousness. However, Anne was calm. “Yes,” she replied blankly. “I’ll marry you. But don’t expect anything from me. Love is the last thing I can give you.” He smirked and took a step closer to her. “Miss Clair,” he pinched her chin, “are you sure you won’t fall for me? Can you resist my charm?” Anne’s breathing hitched, her stomach fluttering. The challenge in his eyes and his husky voice threaten to shatter her resolve to never fall in love again. “Let me promise you one thing: in this life, I’ll love you, cherish you always. All I want is your faith.”

Carmela never wanted to marry Logan Cross, the cursed and forsaken fifth prince. Thrown into exile within a desolate palace, he was treated as if he didn’t exist, unloved and unwanted. When Carmela's family was forced to sacrifice one of their daughters to wed him, she was chosen against her will. Filled with resentment, she treated Logan with cruelty, neglected him, and ultimately betrayed him. She eloped with another man only to learn too late that he had used her to gain wealth and power, all while secretly loving her own sister. By the time she realized her mistake, Logan had already risen to the throne, no longer the powerless outcast she once scorned. And his first act as king? Sentencing his unfaithful wife to death. As the guillotine fell, Carmela closed her eyes, awaiting the end. But when she opened them again, she was back in her wedding gown ten years in the past. This time, she will not make the same mistakes. She will love Logan, cherish him, and protect him from the fate that once awaited them both. But will he ever trust her after everything she had done? And more importantly, is the curse truly as simple as everyone believes? --Excerpt The iron scent of blood filled the air. Carmela’s knees ached against the cold, hard platform as rough hands forced her down, the heavy chains around her wrists biting into her flesh. The crowd below roared in anticipation, their faces filled with scorn, with hatred. She wanted to scream, to tell them she wasn’t the same woman who had once scorned their king. But it was too late. Above her, the executioner stood poised, his hands gripping the lever of the guillotine. The sharp steel glinted under the dim sunlight, its edges stained with old blood. "Adulteress," the royal advisor announced. "Traitor to the Crown. Unworthy of His Majesty’s mercy." Carmela lifted her head, her tear-streaked face searching for him. And there he was. Logan Cross. No longer the outcast prince she had once abandoned, no longer the quiet, unwanted shadow that the world ignored. Now, he was a king a powerful, terrifying one. His once hollow golden eyes burned with icy fury, his lips pressed in a firm line. He sat on his throne, watching as justice was carried out, unmoved. She had done this. She had pushed him away. Betrayed him. Left him to suffer alone. And yet, she had loved him too late, far too late. "Your Majesty," the executioner spoke, awaiting his command. Logan’s gaze met hers for the briefest moment, filled with something she could no longer understand. "Proceed," he said. Carmela's breath hitched as the blade came down. Darkness consumed her. Then— She woke.

She stared at the shimmering stream, her vision blurred by the relentless flow of tears. Her chest ached, my frustration bubbling over. "You wouldn't understand!" Ginny shouted, her voice cracking under the weight of her pain. "I don’t want to." His voice was sharp, cutting through the night like a blade. She whipped around, glaring at him. Rude jerk. Ginny let out a bitter hiss, hugging her arms around myself. "I hate my life." He said nothing. That silence only made it worse. She scoffed. "Of course, you wouldn’t say anything. My life was never perfect, but now... now it can never be." "It doesn’t need to be." His voice was calmer this time, steady. I turned to him, my lip trembling. "Why not? Everyone else gets to be happy. Why can’t I?" His dark eyes softened as he exhaled. "I’m not happy. And I’m far from perfect. We’re just two imperfect people existing in the same timeline." Somehow, his words reached her, settling deep in her heart. She sniffled, forcing a shaky laugh. "Trust me, we’re not even in the same timeline to begin with." His gaze locked onto hers, unwavering, as if he saw straight through her. Ignoring her words, he stepped closer. "It’s okay." His voice was almost a whisper. "We can be two imperfect beings in this imperfect world, making imperfect choices." His hand brushed against mine—warm, grounding. "But," he continued, "the most perfect life has been is the time spent with you." Her breath hitched. Her heart stilled. Ginny blinked up at him, stunned. 'Shit.' She hissed under my breath, looking away. "What the hell am I supposed to do with that.. information?" *** Ginny was just an ordinary woman—until she woke up in a historical Korean setting as the infamous villainess doomed to a tragic fate. Trapped in a world of palace intrigue, power struggles, and an infuriatingly handsome yet equally frustrating man, she must navigate her way through a story that was never meant to have a happy ending. But Ginny refuses to let fate dictate her life. If the script says she’s the villain, then she’ll rewrite her role—one dramatic scene at a time.

"I know exactly who you are," he murmured, his voice a low growl as he pressed me against the cold stone wall. His body caged mine, heat radiating from him like a wildfire waiting to consume. I lifted my chin, ignoring the way my pulse betrayed me. "Then you know why I’m here." His lips brushed dangerously close to my ear, not touching—just enough to make my breath hitch. "Do you?" His fingers traced a slow, deliberate path down my arm, stopping just before my bound wrists. "Because you don’t look like a hunter right now." I swallowed hard. "And you don’t look like a monster." He chuckled, dark and amused. "Oh, little hunter, you have no idea”. In a world where humans and werewolves are sworn enemies, fate weaves a different tale. Violet, the daughter of James—descended from a long line of legendary werewolf hunters—has spent her life preparing for one mission: to kill Alpha Zain, the feared Demon Alpha. To prove herself worthy, she must bring his head as a trophy. But when she finally faces him, destiny shatters everything she’s ever known. While her sisters, April and Jade, eagerly await news of her death, Violet finds herself entangled in a fate far more dangerous than she imagined. Because the greatest threat isn’t the battle between hunters and werewolves—it’s the bond that should have never existed.

Rowan sees beauty in death. The Order he has sworn to obey only sees defilement. As the reviled Caretaker of the Order, Rowan has accepted his role as a dutiful outcast because he believes it is the only way to prove his worth to the man who holds his sisters’ souls as collateral. With his magic and his voice, Rowan can absorb death and transform it, but only in ways the Order deems acceptable to maintain the stability of the reality it claims to protect Order must subdue Disorder. Reality must triumph over illusion. He is tainted and always will be. Rowan has never questioned those lessons, but that changes the night he harvests a crimson soul that is more than human and chooses to keep it a secret. When Rowan’s song transforms that soul into a beautiful and mysterious man he names Wren, he is forced to accept that sometimes duty is a lie and illusion is the only thing you can trust. As the fabric of the Order begins to unwind and a new kind of Disorder takes hold, Rowan will need to choose again, stand with the Order that held him down, or forge a new path with Wren at his side. He may be the only one who can restore balance to the worlds, but only if he can find balance within himself first. ************************************* Updates 3-4 times per week. Note: This story focuses on relationships. I promise an epic romance, lots of swoon-worthy moments, and a healthy amount of fluff. When it does get steamy…you might get burned. Fair warning for explicit content. I don’t shy away from my spice. There are lots of side characters and couples to fall in love with, in addition to the main couple. If you love the idea of found family, you will be happy. This book is set in a non-heteronormative world, so you will see various gender identities/expressions and types of love. ************************************* Excerpt (if you want the full steamy version, you will have to read the book!): Still reeling from the new magic that coursed under his skin and unsure of how to react to the desire that threatened to take control of him, Rowan froze. Wren's hot breath against his mouth sent a jolt of pleasure through his body, and he choked back a groan. A different kind of panic flared in Rowan's chest, burning him as if he were the one on fire. This was what he wanted, what he'd thought about every night since Wren left. But wanting more was one thing. Acting on it was another. He'd spent so much of his life hiding, he didn't know how to do anything else. One corner of Wren's mouth twitched as Rowan pulled away. When he attempted to free himself from Wren's grasp, Wren just hauled him closer. Rowan liked that he didn't have to think about what to do next. His bare chest thudded against Wren's torso, and the heat from Wren's body merged with Rowan's skin, melting him from the inside out. "What did you just do to me?" Wren's deep voice vibrated against Rowan's chest. "The Disorder of your illusion was holding you captive. I…I absorbed it." "Oh? Where did you learn to do that? Have I been gone that long?" Wren's grip loosened slightly on Rowan's wrists as if he was satisfied now that Rowan was practically sitting on top him. Rowan stared at Wren's lips. He opened his mouth to protest, but immediately closed it again. "I know you aren't going to say that I shouldn't touch you." Wren's free hand splayed over the small of Rowan's back. "Not when you started it." Rowan's breath hitched. "No. I'm not going to say that anymore. Not to you." "I thought you were afraid to be touched." Wren's fingers traced a circle over the curve of Rowan's spine as if testing for a reaction. "I know that I'm not afraid of you." Rowan waited for the panic to set in, but all he felt was desire. "With you, I want…" "You want what?" "I want more." Triumph flared in Wren's gaze before he narrowed his eyes. "Really? Then why are you still trying to get away from me?"

Nyssa has a friend count of... zero. Because she is, however, the adoptive daughter of the Luminary Institute’s headmaster, she decides to enroll at the start of the new term as a ploy to get more friends. Sure, the Luminary Institute was built for training those with high-potential powers to become the next generation of heroes or hunters, and, sure, her motivation for enrolling was a little suspect. Yet, with the power to shapeshift into any animal she wants—fictional or real—she becomes the newest student of Class Zero. Nerve-wracking. The class is filled with people who have ‘problematic powers with high potential for destruction! The class has been nicknamed the ‘f- around and find out’ club by its own members! So, while her powers might fit in without a hitch, her goals in life certainly did not. After all, her ‘f’ing around’ consisted of taking five naps in a day... --- It's going to be a very slow cute slice of life like all my other stories :D I'm not proof reading this one really because its a uhh... low expectation story i'm just writing to lift off pressure from myself so don't expect too much I'll be (hopefully) posting daily, so we'll see :) This will also be posting on RoyalRoad and ScribbleHub :D Join my discord to talk! (and also for reference images!) also join my p@treon to read ahead by seven chapters!! Cover art is not mine btwwww

#Rated 18-Mature Themes Violet’s life was never her own—her father’s crushing debt made sure of that. But when the debt collector kidnaps her as payment, she takes a desperate deal: become a servant and spy on the mysterious and tyrannical Lord Cain, the ruler of her Werewolf district. There’s just one catch: Lord Cain only permits male servants in his house. Disguised as a boy, Violet cuts her hair, flattens her chest, and dons a voice-altering band to pull off the deception. Everything goes according to plan—until Cain, a man known for his cold personality starts to take a peculiar interest in her. Violet’s disguise becomes a prison as she battles her own growing attraction to him. But this is no love story. Cain’s obsession to her is dangerous. Beneath his icy gaze lies a mind fractured by years of affliction by a curse. A curse made by Violet's biological mother: A powerful witch. ************* "TAKE IT OFF!" Violet’s knees nearly buckled at the thunderous command, her chest tightening with panic. The raw anger in Cain’s voice was as sharp as a blade. "My lord! I-I’m a man!" she stammered, gripping her shirt tightly, her fingers trembling as they clung to the fabric. "I don't like other men!" she cried, a desperate plea in her voice since the second she took her shirt off and he discovered that she was a woman was the moment she died. Painfully. Cain’s glare was unyielding, his voice dropping into a growl. "Don’t insult me, You think I do. You kissed me!" Her breath hitched as he stepped closer, his presence suffocating. "If you don’t take it off," he said, his tone low and dangerous, "I’ll rip it off myself." Violet’s mind raced, panic threatening to overwhelm her. She couldn’t let him find out—he’d kill her. Painfully. Glancing away to avoid his gaze when she caught the undeniable bulge in his trousers. Heat flushed her face, her thoughts spinning in desperation at the only idea she could think of to make him back off. 'This has to work. It has to…’

She Thought College Would Be an Amazing New Experience. She Was Dead Wrong. Irene Blair had everything friends, romance, freedom, and a future at Weiss University. Life was simple and normal. Until a driver’s recklessness destroyed it all. In an instant, her world shattered When her best friend, Hailey, is nearly struck by a swerving car, Irene doesn’t hesitate, she pushes her out of harms way and is Struck Instead. Her head slams against the pavement. Bones shatter. Blood spills. Rushed to the hospital, she fights to stay alive. She loses. Irene Blair dies. That should have been the end. But an hour later, the impossible happens. As Hailey sobs over her lifeless body, a blinding light engulfs her. Wounds vanish. Bones mend. Her heart beats again. She’s alive. But she’s not the same. Half her soul belongs to Heaven. A power so rare, so dangerous, even Heaven hid it from the world. Now? Everyone knows. Heaven. Hell. Creatures beyond mortal comprehension. They feel it—the surge of divine energy, the awakening of something that should never exist. And now, they’re coming. Some want her power. Some want her dead. And those who would fight for her? They may not be enough. Irene’s sacrifice should have saved Hailey. Instead, it dragged her into the chaos. Now, no one in her life is safe. Her only hope? David Russell. A half-angel, just like her. The one person who should understand what she’s going through better than anyone. The only one who knows what’s coming. The only one who can help her survive. Too bad he’s an arrogant, infuriating, self-righteous jerk. Or at least, that’s what she thinks. But none of it will matter if she can’t figure out who she is, what she’s becoming… and the destiny she and David are bound to face together. She thought college would be an exciting new chapter in her life. She never expected it to be the first battleground of the apocalypse.

I can't help falling for you. you've unraveled me in ways I never thought possible... -------------- Imagine you go to work like every other day, but you never expected to confront an agent of death, an event that will change your life forever. Natasha was having a regular day at work until life threw a curveball—she meet and confronts Drogen, a grim reaper, in the garage, talk about tough luck. And just when things couldn’t get any worse… bam! a car crash. Dead? Yeah. But not for long. Drogen broke every grim reaper rule and brought her back to life, convinced she was the key to ending his curse. Now they’re bound by a blood pact, and things start getting weird. Natasha experiences flashes of a forgotten past—a past that’s somehow tied to Drogen. A meeting that started with fear and death soon transforms into a sweet, passionate love experience that neither of them could resist and she finds herself helplessly falling in love with this mysterious being. But here's the thing, these two were never supposed to meet again. Excerpt: Drogen's expression softened as he stared down at her lips, a rare glimpse of raw desire shining in his eyes. "You know," he began, his voice dropping to a whisper, "I've been desperately wanting to do this since you hugged me." Before she could protest, his lips claimed hers, soft but insistent, catching her completely off guard. Her breath hitched as his tongue teased hers, coaxing a response. She froze for a moment, her heart racing wildly, but as his warmth enveloped her, she gave in, kissing him back. Her hesitation melted away as his touch deepened, slow and gentle, yet ignited sparks through her whole being. His hands found her waist, pulling her closer until there was no space left between them. She gasped softly when she felt his bulge pressed hard against her, her cheeks heating in response. He didn't seem to care—if anything, it turned him on even more. His grip tightened as though he couldn't get enough of her, his kisses growing bolder, more demanding, yet still carrying an undeniable tenderness. Her fingers gripped his shirt for balance, holding on as the intensity of his touch left her breathless. He kissed her like he was savoring her, like every second mattered, and it sent a thrill through her. Every brush of his lips, every press of his body against hers, made her forget where she was. All she could feel was him. Finally, he pulled back, their foreheads resting together as they tried to catch their breath. His voice was low and rough, full of longing. "You're driving me crazy, Nat." Her lips were still tingling from his kisses as she met his gaze, her own voice trembling but steady. "Then don't stop." His dark eyes blazed with desire, and a faint smile touched his lips. "You don't know what you're asking for," he murmured, his hand slipping lower, his touch firm yet careful, as if she might disappear if he wasn't careful. "Maybe I do," she whispered, a small smile playing on her lips despite the way her heart pounded in her chest. Something in his expression softened, but the hunger in his eyes remained. She had undone him completely, and for once, he didn't want to fight it. Whatever this was, he wasn't letting go, and neither was she. For fans of forbidden love, a rebellious heroine, steamy romance, dark fantasy, a tragic past life and happy endings, this book is for you TRIGGER WARNING: This book contains R18 scenes, detailed descriptions of violence, cruelty, murder and death.

~•No Escape•~ "Are you running away from me, my sweet girl" spoke a voice in the hallway that made her stop in her tracks. The hallway had turned dark with only the wall lamps that burned brightly casting the shadow of the man on the floor as he slowly emerged from the other end. "What are you doing here, your majesty," She said and bowed immediately as she saw him approach her with slow but steady steps. "You haven't answered me, sweet" The man said with a sweet smile that made her wary and he heard the way her heart skipped a beat. He stood before her and used his index finger to raise her chin. He tilted his head as he gazed into her green eyes that looked back at him with fear. He took a step forward closing the distance between them and his eyes narrowed when she took a step back, but that didn't stop him from cornering her. "Did you think you can escape from me?" He continued to question and she didn't miss the mockery behind his words. "I…I" she felt her words tied to her tongue because of the man's daunting aura. She felt him trace her forehead with his finger down to her jaw. He continued moving his hand down to her neck and to the top of her swell and her thudding heart hitched when his hand continued to stay there. "Did you think you can escape from me?" He bent towards her as he spoke. His breath fell on her neck which sent a jolt that traveled down her body. "I told you, you're tied to me and me to you" _______________________ Perdita Kartar was a winsome yet strange young lady. She had an appealing beauty with her green eyes that invoked and impelled anyone who gazed into them. She had fooled her villagers so she could live and protect herself and her remaining family from the night creatures and also humans. But what was bizarre of all, was that Perdita had a secret she shared with no one. She had lived in the village since she was little, and over the years, she had been discreet with each move she made. Unfortunately, things didn't go as she planned. Despite her cautious decorum and fight to stay out of sight, a pair of glacial red eyes falls on her, which followed and refused to leave her out of sight.

When a graduation trip becomes a nightmare. Ethan Carter was your average 8th grader, excited about spending the night at a famous amusement park with his friends and girlfriend for his graduation celebration. It would be a night of fun, laughter, and memories that would last a lifetime. But at 1 AM, everything changed. A cold-blooded gang kidnaps Ethan and 14 other students and takes them to a hidden underground complex where they are thrown off a massive chasm, abandoned to perish. Miraculously, Ethan survives the plummet, running away into the depths of the mysterious building. In peril at every turn, he discovers their next horrific scheme and escapes by a hair's breadth. But there's a hitch. He lost his phone. Now the world believes he's dead: His girlfriend, his friends, everybody. But Ethan is alive and kicking, and he's not going to stay silent. Determined and bound to save the others, uncover the secrets of the facility, and take down the organization that tried to kill him, Ethan embarks on a perilous journey. With time ticked away and the kidnappers hot on his heels, Ethan must prove himself to be no mere lost victim. He is the survivor who they never considered.

Zephyrine should have died that night. It was her wedding day, but it turned out to be a mourning day for her. She lost her parents, the Alpha and Luna, and worse still, she was framed for their deaths by the fiancé she was expected to marry. Zephyrine barely escaped death and promised herself to avenge her parents death. She became a queen—a fearless queen with a pack. She crushed those who stood in her way, even challenging great Alphas and those of high authority. Despite all this, little does she know that fate had other plans in store for her. She finally found her mate, and he was none other than the Lord of the Grims. She refused to let the mate bond tie her down and chose to grow stronger while protecting her pack. The Lord of the Grims was forbidden from having a mate following the betrayal from the werewolves that happened centuries ago. But despite it all, the Lord couldn't help but fall deeper in love with Zephyrine. He protected her and acted as a shield, refusing to leave her side despite how she pushed him away. Zephyrine and the Lord encountered different situations of life and death, bringing them closer. Unaware of his true identity, she began to fall in love with him. Those from each realm found out about this forbidden love and decided to put a stop to it. Zephyrine discovered his true identity, realizing what the werewolves had done to his kind. She chose to fight for love despite all odds. Because some loves are written in fate. And some must be fought for in blood. Will she be able to stand against the two realms and still fight for the one she loves? What other danger lay ahead in their love story? Excerpt from the book "You carry yourself like you're untouchable," Caden said, his voice low and smooth. "Like no one can reach you. But I see right through that mask, Zephyrine." I held my ground, unwilling to let him see how much his presence was affecting me. "If you think you can intimidate me, you're mistaken. I've stood against worse than you." His lips curved into a faint smile, but there was something deeper in his gaze now—something that felt like fire. "You feel it, don't you?" he murmured. I stiffened, my wolf practically clawing to get out. I did feel it—the pull, the undeniable connection that tied me to him. My mate. The realization hit me like a tidal wave, and I hated how vulnerable it made me feel. "You're wrong," I said sharply, though my voice wavered. "Whatever this is, I don't want it." Caden's eyes softened, but he didn't back down. Instead, he took another step forward, closing the distance between us until I could feel the heat radiating from him. He raised a hand, brushing his fingers lightly against my cheek. "Deny it all you want, Zephyrine," he said softly, his touch sending sparks through my skin. "But your wolf doesn't lie. You can feel it, just like I do." I shivered, hating how my body betrayed me. My breath hitched as his thumb gently traced along my jawline. "I've been waiting for you," he continued. "And now that I've found you, I won't let you go." I clenched my fists, forcing myself to stay firm. "I don't need a mate," I whispered, though the words felt hollow. Caden's smile widened, but it wasn't mocking—it was warm, almost tender. "You may not think you require me," he said, his voice steady, "but I promise you, Zephyrine, you'll want me. And when that time comes, you'll submit—not because I demand it, but because you'll choose to." The way he said it made my heart stutter, and for a moment, I forgot how to breathe. Before I could respond, he leaned closer, his lips brushing against my ear as he whispered, "You'll see, my queen. You can try to fight it, but you'll be mine in the end." He pulled back, his intense gaze locking with mine one last time before he turned and walked away, leaving me standing there, breathless and trembling. My wolf was practically purring, but I wasn't going to give in. Never.

Hailey's life takes a sharp turn when she's betrayed and kicked out of her pack, left to fend for herself. With debts looming over her head, she escapes to a new town, cherishing her newfound freedom. But when her cousin calls with a tempting offer to nurse a mysterious wounded man, she can't say no. Little does she know, he's the billionaire Alpha of the largest pack. As she nurses him back to health, he offers not just money, but vengeance and a proposal: be his Luna. Will Hailey accept his offer, and could their quest for revenge lead to something more? Full of action, suspense, 18+explicitly scenes, BDSM, drama

Betrayed by her fated mate and branded an outcast, Hailey's life has been nothing but pain—until she’s saved by Asher, the powerful Lycan king who becomes her second chance at love and freedom. But her past refuses to stay buried. Levi, the mate who rejected her, returns with a dangerous vendetta, while her presumed-dead twin, Celeste, reemerges with a deadly mission of her own. Caught between a king’s unwavering protection and a storm of old betrayals, Hailey must decide: fight for the love that could save her, or risk losing everything to the ghosts of her past.

When Aria turned five her grandmother told her that their family has never been blessed with a mate and not having a mate doesn't mean they won't find love. When Aria turned eighteen, her desire to have a mate became stronger because her best friend whom she had a crush on found his mate and the pure joy in his eyes when he told her about the mate bond, place a emptiness in her heart. "You are special, Aria. You have the power to turn back time." That was what her grandmother told her when she claimed she was cursed and even though she was not satisfied with that answer, she never asked again. Two years later, Aria got a call from the hospital and found out that her grandmother has been poisoned and the only way for her to save her grandmother was to accept this deal made by the Alpha of the Shadow Moon pack "Marry Alpha Tristan, have him fall for you and then kill him." It was the only way to saved her grandmother so she agreed despite knowing that she was walking into a lion den, because how was she going to kill a man who despite losing both his sight and his mate, command enough power and authority to still be called a Alpha. How will Aria feel when she realized that the man she has been task to kill has been waiting for her for five lifetimes and have just two years left to live? What situation will Aria find herself that will require her to turn back time and what price will she pay for altering time itself? ----------- Excerpt Aria felt uneasy by his silence and wondered if it was the right moment to use the techniques, Hailey has taught her. Taking a deep breath, Aria stepped closer and closed her eyes as she brushed her lips against Tristan's. Tristan stiffened when he felt her lips on his and without thinking, he immediately pushed her away. Seeing the angry look on his face, Aria felt like it was all over; she was definitely going to be killed now. But Tristan expression was shadowed by more than anger. How had she gotten so close without him sensing her? And why--why was his heart racing like this?

The World Changed Overnight, Without warning, portals from other realms tore through the sky, opening gateways to nightmarish creatures that threatened to wipe out humanity. Cities burned. Nations crumbled. The monstrous invaders—ranging from grotesque goblins to towering beasts—massacred everything in their path. Amidst the chaos, a new force emerged: The Awakened—humans who mysteriously gained supernatural abilities in response to the invasion. Light burst from their bodies, fire ignited in their palms, water coiled into deadly spears, winds howled at their command, shadows shifted with their will. These resemble as Fire, Water, Earth, Wind, Light, and Darkness—became humanity’s last hope against extinction. Kai Jin. A cold, intelligent high school student from Korea, Kai had long abandoned the idea of relying on others. Orphaned at a young age, he grew up alone in a modest apartment, surviving through sheer will and independence. His past trauma left him emotionally closed off, but beneath his calm, detached exterior, a fire burned—a refusal to ever be powerless again. Then, the portals opened, and his world turned upside down. The night was eerily silent. Kai sat in his dimly lit apartment, eyes locked on his laptop screen. The news was flooded with reports of strange anomalies appearing across the globe—massive gates hovering in the sky, creatures emerging from their depths. Some called it a phenomenon. Others called it the end of the world. Then— Scratch. Scratch. A faint noise echoed from the hallway outside his door. Kai frowned. His neighborhood was quiet at night—too quiet for random footsteps. Then— BAM! The apartment door slammed open. A goblin. Small, grotesque, with sickly green skin, jagged teeth, and glowing red eyes. It sniffed the air, its sharp claws twitching in anticipation. Kai’s breath hitched. His mind raced. He had no weapons. No powers. Nothing but his instincts. Move. Now. The goblin lunged. Kai grabbed the closest thing within reach—a wooden chair—and swung it with all his strength.The impact sent the creature stumbling backward, snarling in rage. His heart pounded. His hands trembled, but he forced himself to stay steady. He couldn’t afford to freeze. He had to kill it. Spotting a kitchen knife on the counter, he dove for it—just as the goblin recovered and charged again. At the last second, he twisted his body, dodging its claws, and in one swift motion— STAB! The knife sank into the goblin’s skull. It shrieked, its body convulsing violently before collapsing lifelessly to the floor. Kai stood there, panting. His clothes were splattered with dark, sticky blood. The room reeked of iron and death. Then— Ding! A floating, translucent system window appeared before his eyes. [Awakening Process Complete.] [Congratulations!] [You have awakened.] Kai’s eyes widened. His nightmare had just begun.

“What's done is done! Let's just forget it!” He said and acted nonchalantly, even though he was cowering in fear because something was telling him that the stranger in front of him didn't intend to let go. The man's frown increases and Hayden swears that the temperature in the room increases multiple times. After winning over his heart and stealing his first, this boy wanted to avoid responsibility, which made Zenos annoyed. “You want to run away from me?” He asked in annoyance, and suddenly Hayden found himself under the man without even knowing how. “I'm just…” Hayden wasn't able to finish his words before he was domineeringly kissed by the stranger. Zenos used his left hand to pin Hayden's hand on top of Hayden's head effortlessly. Hayden tried to struggle and blocked the stranger's tongue from dominating his mouth by pressing his lips against each other stubbornly, but the man unexpectedly bit Hayden's bottom lips, making Hayden yelp in pain. The man used that chance to clean all the taste of strawberries in Hayden's mouth, while his right hand continued to stroke Hayden's body wantonly. When Hayden was starting to go dizzy due to shortness of breath, he was released by the man's assault. He breathed in and out rapidly and thanked heaven for the chance to live again. “You can't run away from me… You are mine” Zenos growled into Hayden's neck possessively. Hayden felt a shiver run through his spine after hearing the stranger's words. His breath hitched as the man licked his earlobe and kissed his neck with extreme familiarity, domineeringly. “Mine,” the stranger proclaimed again. The stranger gave a low curse word and rolled off Hayden's shivering sensitive body, “I'll spare you because you're still in pain. You won't be as lucky next time” he said and lifted Hayden's chin to peck him one more time while Hayden stared dumbfounded. Cover isn't mine, found online My new bl novel is out: The Journey Of Chasing After The Transmigrated Straight Shou

Dylan Carter, a wealthy and charismatic heir to a billion-dollar empire, faces an impending family crisis. To secure his inheritance and adhere to an ultimatum from his dying grandfather, he must find himself a wife within three weeks. Haunted by the tragic murder of his parents at the hands of his uncle, Dylan grapples with the weight of familial expectations and the looming threats he still faces. **Determined not to let family loyalty drive him to insanity**, he explores options for a marriage of convenience. Hailey Thompson, a fiercely independent woman with a tragic backstory, is grappling with her own demons. After her father’s untimely death, her mother’s favoritism towards her sister, Linda, forced Hailey to endure betrayal as she was stripped of her rightful inheritance—the family business. Feeling like a perpetual outcast, she refuses to let her mother’s disdain define her, working tirelessly to keep the business afloat and prove her worth. However, behind her resilient facade lies a deep-seated desire for acceptance and heartache from a broken engagement with her high school sweetheart, Miles. Their paths cross serendipitously after a drunken night leads to an unexpected one-night stand. After realizing the potential of their spontaneous encounter, they decide to draw up a pragmatic marriage contract. The arrangement promises financial security for Hailey and a convenient cover for Dylan, but neither anticipates the emotional complexities that arise. As they navigate their unconventional partnership, tensions arise from outside threats, particularly from Dylan's obsessive former flame, Ariana, who despises Hailey. Emotions run high as secrets surface—that reveal Hailey’s connection to the very family Dylan is trying to escape. The two are forced to confront their pasts, their growing feelings for one another, and their families' toxic influence. Enthralling high-stakes drama unfolds when Dylan's uncle makes a dangerous move to sabotage their budding relationship, proving that familial bonds can lead to betrayal. Can Dylan and Hailey’s marriage withstand the external pressures and their deep-seated insecurities? As their initial animosity shifts to a fierce partnership fueled by authentic connection, they must learn to trust each other to safeguard their future. In a captivating blend of suspense, romance, and family intrigue, "Bound by Inheritance" explores themes of resilience, the quest for self-worth, and the courage to ch

The past week had felt like a lifetime of dodging my own feelings. As I sat at the head of the table, I felt the dam about to break, then the door swung open, and my heart lurched. Chris stood there, a storm cloud personified. His expression was unreadable, but one thing was clear: he wasn't smiling. My staffs exchanged glances, their gazes then focusing on me. "Eve," Chris's voice was low. "We need to talk." The room went silent, thick with nervous energy. The unspoken question hung in the air. "Chris," I said, my voice calm despite my pounding heart, "can this wait? We're in the middle of an important meeting." I wanted him to leave, to deal with this later, on my terms. "No, it can't," he said, stepping into the room. His anger simmered beneath the surface, but there was a visible vulnerability that made my own heart ache. "Please excuse us," I told my staffs, who hurriedly packed and left us alone. "You just left. You left after that night with just empty words on a piece of paper and then went out of the country for a whole week, Eve. A whole week." I was surprised to see him so vulnerable, so angry. It was the first time. It was obvious he was hurt, and I knew I was wrong. He stalked towards me, like a predator, and as he got closer, the anger seemed to flicker, replaced by a different intensity. He stopped in front of me, and then, without warning, his arms wrapped around me, pulling me into a tight, desperate embrace. My breath hitched. I went stiff for a moment, surprised by the contact. Then, almost instantly, my arms went around him, clinging to his strong frame. A mix of emotions flooded me: surprise, relief, and an overwhelming need to simply hold him. I breathed in his familiar scent, a comforting aroma that had been haunting my senses for the last week. He held me tightly, as if afraid I'd vanish if he let go, and I didn't resist. I had dreamed of this. He pulled back, his hands on my shoulders, his gaze searching mine with an intensity that made my heart flutter. The anger lingered, but it was mixed with something else. Something softer. "I missed you terribly," he whispered, the words barely audible, but they resonated through me. ------ Eve, a fashion powerhouse ruling the world's runways, needs a fake boyfriend and fast, to appease her matchmaking mother.   Christopher, a charming, secretive, and dangerously attractive heir to the biggest conglomerate in the country. needs a distraction from his father's unwanted marriage plans. Their solution? A temporary romance brokered through a "rent-a-partner" app. What starts as a mutually beneficial arrangement quickly evolves into a sizzling romance, throw in a jealous childhood crush, a clash of powerful families, and a whirlwind of hilarious misunderstandings, and you've got a recipe for a romance that's as unexpected as it is unforgettable. Will their carefully constructed facade withstand the pressure, or will their fake relationship crumble under the weight of their undeniable, and quite unexpected, love?

Hailey just wanted to carefully have fun like others, still be a straight A student and maybe fall in love. Going through many phases and hitting through multiple feelings, that was it, that is what a teenage life is all about. Becoming more popular than you could think, finding love where you least expected, defeating trials you never thought you'd win, maintaining integrity and confidence when it has all been stripped off you, all that, she grabbed all that with full hands and had victory within herself which she never dreamed of. Enjoy...

The clock ticked past midnight, each second echoing like a hammer in the hollow silence of the apartment. Rain lashed against the windows, the storm outside mirroring the tempest brewing in Emily’s chest. She sat rigid on the couch, her fingers digging into the upholstery, eyes fixed on the door. David’s keys jingled in the lock, his laughter—warm and carefree—seeping through the wood before he did. He stumbled in, tie askew, the sharp tang of bourbon on his breath. But it wasn’t the alcohol that made her stomach churn. It was the cloying sweetness of jasmine perfume clinging to his collar—a scent that didn’t belong to her. “Where have you been?” Emily’s voice trembled, though she’d rehearsed the question a hundred times in her head. David froze, his smile dissolving. “Work ran late. You know how it is.” “Work ends at six, David. It’s *midnight*.” She stood, her legs unsteady. “And since when do you wear lipstick to the office?” His hand flew to the smudge of crimson on his white sleeve—a shade too bold, too *alive* for the muted tones of their marriage. His face hardened. “You’re imagining things.” “Am I?” She stepped closer, the jasmine scent now suffocating. “Or is it *Jane* from accounting? The one who ‘just needs your help’ every time I call?” His laugh was a cold blade. “You’re paranoid. Always picking fights—” “Paranoid?” Her voice cracked. “You haven’t touched me in months! You come home smelling like *her*, lying to my face—” “Enough!” He slammed his fist on the table, a vase rattling. “I’m tired of your nagging! What do you even do all day? Sit here and wait to accuse me?” The words struck deeper than any slap. Emily’s breath hitched. “I gave up my career for you. For *us*—” “Us?” He sneered. “There *is* no ‘us.’ Just you, digging through my things like a desperate—” She didn’t see his hand move. The crack of his palm against her cheek split the air, her head snapping sideways. She stumbled, clutching the wall as the taste of copper bloomed on her tongue. David loomed over her, his eyes wild, foreign. “You… you pushed me to this,” he hissed, grabbing his coat. “Clean yourself up. You’re pathetic.” The door slammed. Emily slid to the floor, tears mingling with the blood on her lip. Outside, thunder roared. But beneath the pain, a spark ignited—a flicker of defiance. Her gaze landed on the shattered vase, its jagged pieces glinting in the lamplight. *Pathetic.* The word echoed, twisting into a vow. She would rise. Not for him. Not for “us.” But to make him regret the day he underestimated the woman he’d reduced to ashes. -**Chapter One: The Scent of Betrayal (Continued)** The air hung thick with venom. David’s chest heaved, his earlier bravado fraying at the edges. Emily wiped her bleeding lip with the back of her hand, her eyes blazing. “You think Jane *wants* you?” she spat, her voice a razor. “Or does she just pity the man who needs to steal confidence from a bottle and affairs to feel alive?” David’s jaw twitched. “Shut up.” “Why? Because it’s true?” She laughed, cold and sharp. “You’re a cliché, David. A middle-aged fraud in a tailored suit. Even your *precious* promotion—did you earn it, or did you cry your way into it like you did when your father called you a disappointment?” He lunged forward, but she sidestepped, her words relentless. “Jane must be desperate. Or blind. Tell me, does she know you couldn’t even—” “I said *shut up*!” he roared, his composure crumbling. “Couldn’t even *what*?” she taunted, stepping closer. “Finish a sentence? A marriage? Or is that why you’re so bad in—” The slap exploded like a gunshot. Emily’s head whipped sideways, her body crumpling to the floor. The world blurred—a kaleidoscope of shattered glass and spinning shadows. Her cheek burned, but worse was the silence that followed, broken only by her shaky breaths.

Nathan Cole never imagined he'd fall for his stepbrother's fiancée. But from the moment he meets Sophia Reed—the woman who is set to marry Ethan, his perfect, overachieving stepbrother—he knows he's in trouble. Sophia is everything Ethan could ever want: intelligent, graceful, and heartbreakingly beautiful. But beneath her composed exterior, there's something else—something Nathan can't ignore. At first, it's just curiosity. The way she looks at him when no one's watching, the way her breath hitches when he gets too close. He tells himself it's nothing, just a harmless attraction. But the more time they spend together—planning the wedding, sharing stolen conversations, dancing around the fire that burns between them—the more impossible it becomes to deny the truth. Sophia isn’t just Ethan’s bride-to-be. She’s the woman Nathan can’t stop thinking about. And worse? She might feel the same way. As the wedding day looms, their restraint is tested, their desires pushed to the edge. Nathan knows crossing the line would mean betraying the only family he has left. But when love and loyalty go to war, only one can win. Will Nathan walk away before it’s too late, or will he risk everything for a love that was never meant to be?