Those Who Make Paths Catherine Fisher

Her only mistake, was loving the wrong person. She's an orphan, lost her mom at birth and dad five years later. Her aunt became her guardian and got her into modeling school, where she met Jackson. He not only became her manager, he won her heart and they got married in the space of three months against her aunt’s wish. Jackson gave her love, beauty, money... but little did she know it was only a façade. A bait to lure her and hide his arrogant and obsessive heart. Their marriage lasted four years and she endured his abuse until one night when she finally got a chance to escape. Moving into Atlanta seemed like a fresh start until she crossed paths with Jake Robbins, the handsome billionaire heir. "Make me, yours, marry me, Laura." Jake let out. "What?!" Laura opened her eyes wide, staring at the man smirking at her. Saying the most sacred words, using the most casual tone. “We are in the middle of nowhere for goodness sake!” she added “The next minute is not guaranteed, so why wait?” He shrugged. Never in a million years did she ever imagine talking about marriage with the grumpy and arrogant billionaire heir, not after the hell she went through in her traumatic former life. However, with Jake, there was something different, but what happens when her past comes to light? Find out in this story!

[ Rewrite of Master of Element and Rules, Conquerer of Worlds. The characters will be the same, though there will be some changes in the plot line. If you like the novel, then you can try the rewritten one ] Ryker is born as the oldest of 14 siblings, so he is the one responsible to take care of them all. When given the choice of choosing the easier path or the harder one, he will take the harder, more arduous path, to ensure his siblings will be safe. However, the path he took is hard and long. Ryker must master countless Paths to rise to the top of the world he is on. But he will endure, for the sake of his siblings. He will walk great distance, travel through countless nations and visited the myriad realm, to become the strongest in the world, and later, the universe. Yet, why did all the women he met is interested with him??!!!!!! -x- "Big brother, you are strong enough. You can add more women into your harem," "I already have hundreds, even thousands of women! And you wanted me to add more!" "Yes," "Of course," "For the sake of our bloodline," "It is more fun this way," "I want more big sister," "All of you, huh, fine, I accept, just make sure this is the last one," ( Spoiler, it is not the last one.)

For fifty years, the world bled. The Ouranios Alliance crushed the demonic Daimonas, ushering in an era of uneasy peace. But from the ashes of defeat, a single spark of vengeance ignites. Nyx, son of the fallen Daimonas leader, swears an oath: to tear down the victors and avenge his people. His journey into the dark arts begins with a single, ancient grimoire, but the path to omnipotence is paved with blood, betrayal, and the ghosts of a war that refuses to stay buried. Will Nyx become the savior his people crave, or will his thirst for revenge consume him entirely?

An unexpected journey took a group of university students into a secret room from which, upon returning, they began to disappear one by one. In order to unravel the mystery, they joined forces, traversing heaven and earth, diving deep into seas, crossing the farthest corners of the world, and even daring to time travel, only to find that behind each puzzle lay yet another.

In a world beyond worlds, far removed from the concepts of time and space, there exists a mysterious tree. Seven friends encounter this tree after a series of unfortunate events, resulting in their deaths. Now, they are fated to be reborn over and over again, bound by a System they know little about. This is their story, a tale of tragedy, overcoming impossible odds, and surmounting mortality...

Nevalis, a nobleman from the Kingdom of Phillirion, thought of nobles as the ones he read about in books. A noble title did not mean money or power, but rather had deeper, higher values symbolizing responsibility and honor, for those who lived with the saying "with power comes responsibility ".  But when Nevalis went out into the world, he did not find it as he had imagined. Reality hit him in the face. Those bastards aren't nobles! Who do they think they are? They tarnished the noble title! They don't deserve that title anymore!" "I will be a true nobleman, a nobleman of all the nobles who have passed this world!" Nevalis seeks to truly redefine nobility, to fulfill his dream of becoming a true nobleman, more noble than all those who held the title before him. The plot revolves around his personal journey, which brings a combination of suffering, sacrifices, and ascent towards his goal, in the face of a cruel world full of illusions and deviations. The novel combines the profound lessons of honor and responsibility, and the challenges faced by humans in their quest for perfection.

A second life? Reincarnation? He didn't want that. He was done. All he wanted was a quick death. Then the sweet embrace of nothingness. Yet when he woke up he found himself in a world of sword and magic. He wanted to slit his throat instantly but some twisted sense of curiosity begged him to stay. Even if it was just for a while longer.

After a tragic accident that claimed the lives of his parents and little sister, Leo, just 17 years old, found himself shouldering all responsibilities alone. By some miracle, he survived the past four months on his own—attending high school, juggling multiple part-time jobs, and enduring sympathetic gazes that pained him. The only respite he found was in books, which offered him an escape and some semblance of joy. One day, while engrossed in the book 'Path of Heroes: Battle Against the End,' his life took an unexpected turn. Halfway through the story, he inexplicably found himself transmigrated into the world of Path of Heroes, inhabiting the body of Azriel Crimson—a character never mentioned in the story's first half. An extra. Someone seemingly irrelevant to the plot. Unfortunately—or perhaps fortunately—fate had other plans, and Leo soon discovered that being a mere extra was not his destiny after all. -------------------------------------- Character illustrations will be available on Discord. Discord: https://discord.gg/9zZ69PVNFJ Also: Powerstone = PS 200 PS = 1 Extra Chapter 400 PS = 2 Extra Chapters 600 PS = 3 Extra Chapters

In the mystical land of Elarion, every young adult faces the Path Ceremony, a rite that determines their life’s purpose. For Aria Evercrest, the choice isn’t simple. Living in the shadow of her mother’s mysterious death, she’s driven by an insatiable curiosity and an unyielding desire to uncover the truth. Against her cautious father’s wishes, Aria chooses the rare and perilous Path of the Seeker—a destiny reserved for those bold enough to uncover the world’s greatest secrets. Accompanied by her loyal friends—Lyric, the clever and sharp-tongued Scholar; Kael, the stoic and fiercely protective Warrior; and Finn, the charming Healer with hidden insecurities—Aria embarks on a journey filled with magic, danger, and discovery. Their quest begins with an ancient map that promises answers about Elarion’s forgotten past, but it quickly becomes clear they are not the only ones searching for it. To check out Character art and design follow on our X (Twitter) page! https://x.com/scottmenga?t=S_ZMZEBP-KwdT17Q4xOtyA&s=09

"Let me take a look." Mr. Wright’s voice was calm, professional even, but his touch—steady and assured as he lifted me onto the desk—was anything but ordinary. His hands, broad and strong, lingered just a moment too long on my arm as he steadied me, sending an unwelcome but undeniable shiver down my spine. I swallowed hard, trying not to notice the way his tie loosened slightly as he leaned in or the faint scent of cedarwood and worn pages that seemed to follow him everywhere. He was close enough now that I could see the faint worry lines etched into his brow as he carefully slid the strap of my uniform off my shoulder. "Alina," he said softly, his voice low but tinged with exasperation, "why do you always end up hurt?" His fingers ghosted over the darkened skin near my collarbone, examining it with the precision of someone who cared too much but tried not to show it. "You need to stop being reckless," he murmured, his tone shifting, softer now. "If anyone bullies you again, come to my office, and I’ll deal with them." It was a simple offer, but I had to remind myself, loudly and firmly, that this was my Mr.. The man responsible for my education, not... whatever my mind was trying to turn him into. "Mr. Wright," I started, trying to regain control of the situation—and my racing heart. "This really isn’t a big deal. I can handle myself." His jaw tightened ever so slightly, and for a fleeting moment, I thought he might argue. Instead, he stepped back, his hands falling away from me as if realizing they’d overstayed their welcome. --------------------------------------------------------------- Alina Hart, a sharp-tongued high school senior, hides behind sarcasm and wit to mask the pain of fractured family life. Shipped off to a prestigious boarding school by a father who no longer sees her, Alina struggles to find her place in a world of strict rules and academic expectations. Enter Mr. Cristiano Wright, a 27-year-old literature teacher whose calm demeanor and sharp intellect make him both an enigma and a fasciChrision. Tasked by Alina’s older brother Ethan to keep an eye on her, Wright finds himself drawn to the complexity beneath her rebellious exterior. In the backdrop of Shakespearean sonnets and Romantic poetry, Alina and Wright navigate an increasingly fraught connection. What begins as reluctant mentorship soon transforms into a tangled web of forbidden emotions, unspoken words, and an undeniable pull that neither can ignore. Set against the bustling corridors of an urban high school and the quiet corners of a library filled with unspoken confessions, Silent Flames, Forbidden Paths explores the fine line between admiration and desire, duty and vulnerability. As Alina and Wright grapple with their feelings, they must confront their moral boundaries and the cost of their choices. Can they maintain the lines they’ve drawn, or will their emotions blur them beyond recognition?

Have you ever wished you exactly knew how to accomplish your dreams? Not feeling the slightest doubt anymore? Being aware at any time how every choice, action and decision of yours affects your future? That's what happened to Jake Wilderth, a procrastinating young man without ambition. When a mysterious silver spaceship, popping out from nowhere, delivered to each Earthling a bracelet containing an AI introducing itself as the Oracle, their destiny changed. From a boring uneventful life Jake began to strive for greatness, treading his Path over the dead bodies of many. What a blessing it would have been if he was the only one profiting of such a gift! But when everyone became equal to face the future, he soon realized no gift comes for free.. Just a warning. Volume 1 sets the atmosphere in a Earth slowly degenerating into chaos and can be considered as a big prologue. It is slow and not as rewarding for the readers than mainstream stories on this website. If you can push through it will be worth it. For some real action you need to wait chap 27. =================================== Discord link: https://discord.gg/d8udP7Q

In a time when the samurai are hunted by the empire, a young boy's father—once a proud warrior—is taken by the imperial army to aid in their search for the remaining samurai. Under his mother's orders, the boy flees his village to seek refuge with his father’s former comrades, where he is raised in the way of the warrior. Years later, as the empire tightens its grip, the boy joins his newfound brothers in a battle that will not only decide the fate of the samurai—but also confront him with a past he thought was lost.

“If you want my heart, prove your worth.” One fateful day, Jin Ye, the Emperor of the Hwan Empire, discovers a man’s name mysteriously etched onto her skin: Yeon Mugeon. The decree is clear—he is her Soulmate, chosen by the will of Heaven itself. Curious but skeptical, Jin Ye tracks him down to a remote, desolate borderland. What she finds is not the noble warrior or formidable partner she expected, but a lowly peasant—ordinary, powerless, and utterly unfit to stand beside an emperor. “We are a match ordained by the Heavens. But is such a thing truly of any significance?” “Then why...?” “To decide whether to take your head if I found you unsatisfactory. What use is a Soulmate if they’re dead?” “In that case... I desire to possess you.” Deeming him beneath her, Jin Ye orders her loyal confidant to cast him into a cursed wasteland teeming with monsters. Yet against all odds, Mu-geon survives the impossible and returns to her side—not as the hopeless peasant she dismissed, but as a ‘man’ bound to her by an unshakable thread of destiny. “I am not afraid to offer you my everything. Even if you command me to become a monster.” “I grant you permission... to stand as a man before me.” #SoulmateAU #Romance #Fantasy #LoveTriangle #FamaleLead #Loyalty Text copyright ⓒ 2024 by Jeong Euncho All right reserved. The Korean edition was originally written by 정은초, Korea Translated and Published by We’ve Lab.

"God’s Path has been opened! Everything is possible... For those who wish to become God!" But... What would happen if a young man who only wants a normal life were thrown into the middle of God's Path? Well, the boy called Demon is about to find out. Gods, Superpowers, Divine Treasures... How many mysteries lie within God's Path? And why does he always find himself at the center of them? Follow Demon’s journey as he escapes from a cursed world and ventures toward the end of God's Path.

Welcome, reader, to the world of Xian Li! In a world obsessed with innate talent and effortless cultivation, Xian Li stands as a refreshing exception. He's not your typical chosen one, destined for greatness from birth. No, Xian Li is the underdog, the "talentless" youth who discovers a hidden path to power – the ancient and forgotten art of Titan Cultivation. His journey is not one of effortless ascension; it’s a grueling path paved with intense training, hilarious mishaps, and unexpected triumphs. Think of it as a fantastical, action-packed underdog story with a dash of romance and a whole lot of humor. He's not just a cultivator; he's a master of self-deprecation, always ready with a witty quip or a humorous internal monologue, making him incredibly relatable, even as he battles powerful enemies and navigates complex sect politics. You'll root for him as he rises from obscurity, facing challenges that would break lesser individuals. This isn't just a story about cultivation; it's a journey of self-discovery, resilience, and finding strength where you least expect it. Get ready to meet Mei, the cold but noble cultivator, and Lin, the kind and supportive friend, two contrasting female characters who add depth and complexity to Xian Li's journey. You'll witness his blossoming relationships, the trials he overcomes, the friendships he forges, and the enemies he conquers. We'll delve into a world brimming with ancient secrets, treacherous quests, and a thrilling war against demonic cultivators. Throughout it all, Xian Li's spirit remains unbroken, fueled by his determination and the unwavering support of those around him. So grab your popcorn, buckle up, and prepare for an epic adventure filled with laughter, action, and a whole lot of heart. The world of Xian Li awaits!

Feng Yun thought he'd met his end after avenging his family's brutal murder. But instead, he awakens to an unknown being who offers him a second chance. With a mysterious deal struck, Feng Yun is reincarnated into a world where the deadly game "The Path to Godhood" has begun. Armed with his past life's memories and skills, Feng Yun embarks on a new adventure, determined to survive and uncover the secrets of this treacherous new world.

He had three major problems in his life. One; he woke up in a room with literally no memory of how he got there. Two; it turns out that an Apocalypse happened three years ago and now the world is completely infested with bizarre creatures. Three; he was forced to join a group filled with completely dysfunctional people that may be more trouble than they are worth it.

Love, lust, and desire... Austin didn't know much about all that in his past life, for he was average in all aspects of his life. A guy who took psychology and math to learn because he couldn't get into biology, the only exciting thing about him being the fact that when he died, he ended up in his favorite eroge game with the task of getting the girls and making the protagonist a loner. Love, like manipulation or time in hell... That was his choice from the God Of Games... The beautiful girls of tsunderes, the sadist, the masochist, the kuudere, and the...yandere, and more. A world with living, breathing women of high status and power who don't like to share... So what happens when Austin goes behind them?... What happens when the Gods that feel nothing feel for him? What happens when he becomes the gigolo of the Gods?... Well, come and find out as he tried to survive among all the crazy women that exist... [There will be a lot of sex scenes, but it might only start after about 60 or so chapters.] (Note: Hey, first of all, this is not a fanfiction! It's true that the beginning of the story and some parts resemble some novels, but none of the characters are related to others from the novel. Also, the story flow will become completely different later!! Again, not a fanfic! The image does not belong to me; if the creator wants to remove it, message me.) My Discord: https://discord.gg/XyYvJ389mg

The words that make readers cry—what they did to the writer. They tore at the soul, clawed their way through the heart, and demanded to be bled onto the page. This story is born not of ink but of wounds, of the fractures between black and white, snow and fire, love and hatred. In these pages, contradiction reigns. A love so fierce it ignites wars within, a hatred so tender it whispers of longing. The voices are many, yet they share one heart—a battleground where passion and betrayal, beauty and cruelty, fight for dominance. Here, the fragile walls of a mind crumble as it struggles to reconcile with the angel who became the war, with the devil who promised salvation. It’s a story of falling, of building, of breaking, and of daring to love even when it destroys. Turn the page and enter the chaos, if you dare.

the possession of death scattered across the world ready to wreak havoc

Jace was just an ordinary college student with no faith in the divine, no belief in afterlives, and no preparation for what came next. One rainy evening, his life ends, and he finds himself cast into a formless void of infinite nothingness—a liminal space where souls without ties are forgotten and dissolved. Before oblivion claims him, a self-proclaimed god named Myrr intervenes. Myrr is neither benevolent nor malevolent but a cosmic rogue, drawn to the novelty of Jace’s unaligned existence. Instead of condemning Jace to the abyss, Myrr offers him an extraordinary deal: reincarnation in a world of magic, danger, and eternal conflict. There’s a catch, of course—this world is locked in a stalemate between two warring factions of divine forces, and Jace’s presence is meant to tip the scales. Awakening in a body stronger, faster, and sharper than his own, Jace discovers that survival in this new realm is anything but guaranteed. Armed with mysterious skills granted by the world’s system and little guidance from his so-called benefactor, he must navigate hostile lands, grow stronger, and decide how—or if—he will disrupt the precarious balance of power. It’s a second chance at life, but the question remains: is Jace truly free, or just another pawn in a divine game?

In a world overshadowed by eternal darkness, monstrous creatures born from meteorite fragments have ravaged humanity, forcing survivors underground into a colony devoid of light. Among them is Zami Agatoru, a young man burdened by tragedy and destined for greatness. Once a promising warrior of his clan, Zami was the sole survivor of a monster attack that claimed his family and clan. Now, he dwells in the vast, oppressive underworld, facing unimaginable horrors while seeking redemption and purpose. Zami’s strength stems not from supernatural powers but from years of relentless training and a cursed ability: revival. Upon death, Zami revives moments before his defeat, retaining memories and honing his skills over countless lifetimes. This ability has allowed him to surpass human limits, evolving both mind and body into the perfect warrior. Armed with a black katana forged from an otherworldly stone and a toxic dagger he crafted from monster bones, Zami ventures deeper into the colony. He faces terrifying Vessels, avatars of powerful entities tied to the meteorites. Each Vessel wields devastating abilities, challenging Zami’s resolve and pushing him beyond his physical and mental limits. As Zami progresses, he unravels the colony's dark secrets: the origin of the meteorites, the true nature of the Vessels, and the essence of the creatures that worship these fragments. Along the way, he uncovers the deeper truth about himself and the entity that dwells within him—Karesh, a being tied to the meteorite’s power. Driven by the need to protect humanity and confront the Vessels, Zami faces impossible odds. From the Abyssal Cradle, home of the fearsome Wailing Dread, to the Forsaken Hollow, where the Silent Agony’s true body lies, and the Withering Spire, where Shattered Dominion warps reality itself, Zami battles creatures that defy logic. Amid this chaos, Zami grapples with his humanity. His stoic, emotionless demeanor hides a young man carrying the weight of loss and duty. Moments of quiet—crafting weapons, preparing food, or reflecting on his clan’s philosophy—highlight his depth and resilience. Through countless revivals, bloody battles, and grueling challenges, Zami inches closer to his ultimate goal: destroying the meteorite fragments and ending the monsters’ reign. But with each battle, the cost of his journey grows heavier, forcing him to confront the essence of sacrifice, mortality, and the question of what it truly means to be human.

In Gehenna, a world where spirits and humans coexist, warriors known as Spectrals wield supernatural powers by bonding with ancient spirits through advanced technology called Spectral Interfaces. However, an ancient and rare power known as Memory Crafting—tapping into the memories of the dead to gain their skills—exists in the shadows. Kiehra Ashbluff, a powerless janitor in the Phantom Sentry, has lived in obscurity, haunted by her past in the brutal ghetto of Abyss. Everything changes when she bonds with an ancient and twisted spirit known as "No. 33". Their bond leaves Kiehra with unimaginable power capable of literally reshaping the world around her. Unfortunately, she is dangerously inexperienced in controlling it. She must now navigate the treacherous politics of the Phantom Sentry while concealing her overpowered abilities. As Kiehra rises in rank, she uncovers whispers of Memory Crafting, a lost art feared and revered. She encounters a rogue Memory Crafter who can access the memories and skills of dead warriors, making him a formidable swordsman. Though Kiehra distrusts his eerie abilities, a looming catastrophe forces them into an uneasy alliance. Together, they must uncover an ancient conspiracy threatening both the spirit realm and Gehenna itself. In a world on the brink of collapse, Kiehra must learn to master her overwhelming strength and embrace her destiny—but can she do that without letting herself be swallowed up by her own power?

An Invitation demanding them to a ball was an act of acceptance in their society, but it was something else in the way of his thinking. His Household was indeed the wealthiest in the society back in the day. But after the death of his father whom his mother believed to be a murder causes the collapse of their household. Even the distant family refuses to help them which relocate the family into one of their private property. A place that was saved from the bidding by greedy ancestors. As the eldest, he became the backbone of the family and promised he would stay out of the way of noble life ever again. He is now a well known Apothecary in the town. It was a tough job at first because the villagers thinks he was a scammer because there is no way a noble would treat people such as poor people like them. His kindness made the people forget his origin and began to accept his family existence. Finishing his treatment, coming home with a letter on the table in his room, his sister attended the ball stating this is the chance for the family to gain their righteous again, and the way to find out the real deal behind their father's death. It is indeed a humiliation. Adeena did not return after that he issued the missing case but none would care to take on the case of a fallen noble. He came to the residence asking for Adeena's where about only to be answered, there was no invitation toward the family at all. In a dilemma, he must choose to let her go, but if he wishes for his sister back he must gain his standing in the society and meeting those people who harm his family back in the past. " I promise I won't let people know that I am a dangerous being mother, I would shield every part of my skin until I found Adeena and bring her back" Leaving his mother behind, he walked into the last place he sought for help. As he believed that person would not let him down.

Fifteen-year-old Mary appears to have a bright and promising life, but beneath the surface, she battles inner turmoil. Haunted by guilt over a childhood incident with her younger brother, Mark, Mary struggles with self-harm as she faces the growing pressures of family conflict, academic decline, and bullying at school. Mary's life takes a darker turn when a manipulative new student, Ryan, enters her world. Drawn in by his charm, she hopes he can help her escape her pain, only to be betrayed by his sinister motives. Together with Mona, a jealous classmate with a vendetta against Mary, Ryan's deceit leads Mary into an emotional and physical downward spiral. As her family’s financial struggles and emotional distance worsen, Mary finds herself isolated from the few sources of light in her life, including her best friend, Sophie. The story builds to a devastating climax when Mary overdoses, sending her into a coma. From there, The Dark Side explores themes of guilt, betrayal, redemption, and recovery as Mary fights her way back to the surface.

If we cross paths again in another life, will we become friends or foes? When I am no longer Bai Renshu, the vicious demon condemned to damnation, and when you aren't Wei Zheng, the beloved son of the heavens, will our destinies be intertwined differently? The day our labels of good and evil fade away and become mere memories, will we be able to see each other for who we truly are beyond our predetermined roles? "You and I have been cast as adversaries in this lifetime, but I hope that in another life, we'll have the chance to rewrite our story together. Until that fateful day arrives, I will cling to this hope, this belief that our destinies are not set in stone. And I beg, with all my heart, that you will too." Warning: Contains mature themes

lies and misunderstanding lead to something much more than mere friendship

Isabelle Moreau, a fiercely independent woman in her early thirties, has built a successful career and seems to have the perfect life. However, her world comes crashing down when she discovers that her charming and ambitious boyfriend, Adrian, has been secretly engaged to another woman, and their entire relationship was built on manipulation and lies. Heartbroken and humiliated, Isabelle leaves Adrian and seeks solace in her old childhood home. In a moment of despair, Isabelle drives through the rain-soaked streets of Paris, only to lose control of her car and crash into a tree. As darkness envelops her, she awakens to find herself transported fifteen years into the past, back in her eighteen-year-old body. Confused and overwhelmed, Isabelle realizes she has been given a second chance to rewrite her fate. Determined to make better choices this time around, Isabelle decides to avoid Adrian altogether. She shifts her focus to her studies, excelling academically, and begins to explore her interests and passions. Isabelle reconnects with her family and old friends, strengthening bonds that had frayed over the years. Along the way, she meets Daniel Carter, a brilliant and kind law student, and they form a deep and meaningful friendship. As Isabelle navigates her new reality, she begins to notice positive ripples in her life. Her decision to cut ties with Adrian creates new opportunities, and she feels empowered by the better choices she is making. With the support of her best friend, Claire, and the encouragement of her family, Isabelle embarks on a journey of self-discovery and personal growth. "Paths Rewritten" is a story of resilience, redemption, and the transformative power of second chances. It explores themes of love, betrayal, and the importance of making choices that align with one's true self. As Isabelle rewrites her future, she discovers the strength within herself to create a life filled with purpose and genuine happiness.

Elena’s pulse quickened, her thoughts spiraling as she struggled to focus on the conversation at hand. She wasn’t sure if it was his words or the way he was looking at her that made her feel so unsettled. She wasn’t used to being challenged like this, especially not by someone like him. “I’m not sure I’m ready for that kind of risk,” she said softly, though part of her wondered if she was simply making excuses. “Then maybe I can show you what it’s like,” Jay replied, his voice low and inviting. Elena’s breath caught in her throat. His words were loaded, tinged with something unspoken, something that sent a shiver down her spine. She wasn’t sure if he meant to flirt with her, but it certainly felt that way. But that was the problem, wasn’t it? Jay Matthews was a risk. The kind of man she wasn’t supposed to get involved with. She could already hear her mother’s voice in her head, scolding her for even considering someone like him—someone who didn’t come from the right background, who didn’t share the same values or ambitions. Her family had always been clear: the only people worth her time were those who could elevate her status, not someone who might bring her down. “I don’t think that’s a good idea,” Elena said firmly, though even as she said the words, part of her knew they weren’t true. Jay studied her for a long moment, his expression unreadable. Then, to her surprise, he stood up and walked toward the door. Before leaving, he glanced back over his shoulder, his eyes locking with hers one last time. “We’ll see,” he said simply, before stepping out…