Lucy Darling

My Veil of Vengeance follows Lucy Sinclair, a 21-year-old woman caught between love, betrayal, and ambition. After a heart-wrenching betrayal by the charming but deceitful Nathaniel Cross, who ends up destroying her family and drugging her and, she unexpectedly has a one-night encounter with Nicholas Lazarus, a mysterious billionaire in town. But when Lucy finds out she’s pregnant, her life is thrown into chaos. Now, she must grapple with the truth and will she find and know her child’s father. Is it the man who broke her heart, Nate? Or will Nicholas be the one to help her rebuild her future? Torn between the past and a chance at redemption, Lucy must decide if she will let betrayal define her—or if she’ll seek revenge on those who wronged her. Will Lucy find peace, or will the web of lies and love trap her forever?

"Marry me or give me my child," his deep, penetrating voice rang through her ears like a ticking bomb. **** Winter made an impulsive decision to spend an intense night with a stranger in the club she had stumbled into. Yet she had no idea one weak moment would get her pregnant. Not a damsel in distress, Winter relocated to another country and gave birth to a child, beginning a life with only two people in her world. However, her happiness was fleeting, as she unexpectedly returned to a place she had sworn to avoid at all costs. "How can Grandpa fix my marriage without my consent?" Winter snapped, unwilling to compromise.She was meant to meet her grandfather, who suffered a life-threatening accident, only to find out that he had fixed her marriage. Determined to end the allaince, she decided to meet the man her grandfather had chosen for her—only to find out he was none other than the one she had a one-night stand with. Even worse, he was an underworld don. Kalix Andreas, a shrewd and brutal mafia boss, displayed authority and charisma. Known for his cold demeanor and keen, strategic mind, he is capable of instilling both fear and loyalty and is also the last person Winter wanted to get involved with She was certain that no man in the world could break the barriers she had built around her heart, or maybe it was all an illusion on her part, as the man who embodied every trait of a mafia boss had previously been a naive puppy. But that was only on the surface; the man harbored secrets that linked them both. With her heart and ideals at odds, Winter finds it difficult to accept Kalix's love for her. She was prepared to share parental responsibilities, but falling in love was a major obstacle.However, Kalix was determined to seduce her and claim her as his own. "I've waited years for you, Angel. No matter how strong the walls are, I will break them with my love. You have to be mine." His love was his biggest win, but the man carried a dark past that awaited to succumb to Winter. Will she be able to accept it or will she keep running away? PS: I DO NOT OWN THE COVER. CREDIT TO THE RESPECTED OWNER.

God above all. A story of two youngsters who were originally match makedfrom heaven. Louis was a child who was sacrificed by his father to the devil inorder to get money for his heart surgery since his father was a poor man. Louis was to get married to a devil after he reach 24 years. Thanks to his mother's prayers God gave him a chance before reaching 24 he met a girl called Lucy who had to be his guardian against the evil. Later they separated because Louis was to be taken to his father's place before he reaches17years. After 10 years Louis got a girlfriend Sarah who never loved him but his money when Louis found about this he was shocked that he blamed God for this. n angel from heaven appeared to him and told him to go and find Lucy before he reaches his 24th birthday and get married to her. unfortunately Louis hadn't seen her for 10 years and he didn't know where she was,he decided to look for her in every corner of the world untill one day he found her in a terrible situation were she was being chased by two water demons which wanted to kill her before meeting Louis. at the same time the angel appeared and helped them to fight the demons. later he told them why they have to get married and told Lucy the cause of her sister's death was related to Louis' father. later the two got married but the evil did not stop to hunt them till the day they made Lucy half dead and told Louis to get married to the devil and they produce the child who will spread the evil all over the world. Louis had no choice but to agree inorder to save his love so he had to go under the lake to get married to the devil. fortunately the angel gave him a medallion which helped him to escape from the devil's hands at that time the agreement which was made by his father was already destroyed and his wife was also out of danger. the angel helped him to escape and took him to the heavens which was forbidden so the angel had to lose his power if being an angel and Louis had to return to earth to be with his lover.

After failing to become a Tama-Artist, a group of people who wield Rei to control mystical jewels known as Tama, Lucien "Lucy" bitterly lost his mother to the "kyuketsuki" left in her by his father. He planned to seek revenge against those who made his mother's life a living hell. However, an unfortunate incident led to his death, and he ended up in the first Yōkai no Mon theater, where he gained power at a terrible cost. Lucy's actions become increasingly malevolent, but the unexpected news of his long-lost daughter forces Lucy to reexamine his actions. In a world where those with the Nana no Tsumi bodies, and reijuus are craved for, will Lucien's actions affect those around him, and hopefully find his salvation?

Although it was a contract marriage, she loved her husband whole-heartedly. But only to be told that he never loved her. "Let's divorce, I owe her an explanation." Her heart broke to ashes. She decided to focus on her medical career and her baby. To her surprise, powerful men starting chasing after her, wanting to be a stepfather to her child. And her child's real father, her ex-husband, regretted his past decisions deeply. "Darling, I'm sorry, I know I was wrong. Please, let's get married again."

Alpha Kane is notorious in the werewolf world—a ruthless leader whose enemies tremble at his approach. Known as the "Ladykiller," he has left a trail of satisfied women, all yearning for a taste of his intense passion. With a reputation for electrifying encounters, he reigns supreme in the realm of desire, leaving a legacy of pleasure in his wake. At 28, Kane has resigned himself to a life of dominance and pleasure, convinced he will never find his mate. That is until fate introduces him to Elena, a captivating and naive young woman whose purity stands in stark contrast to his dark desires. When their paths cross, he is struck by the intensity of their connection but is equally horrified by the idea of tainting her innocence with his brutal needs. Kane grapples with a tumultuous dilemma: Should he protect her from the dark passions that define him, or will she ignite a fire within him that challenges his very identity? As he struggles to reconcile his predatory instincts with the tender bond forming between them, the stakes rise. Can he tame his ruthless nature to embrace the love he never expected? Or will his fears drive them apart, leaving them both unfulfilled? As desire collides with innocence, Elena must decide: will she surrender to the alpha’s intoxicating allure and explore the depths of her own passions, or will she find the strength to confront his demons and demand the love she deserves? In this gripping tale of power, submission, and redemption, witness a love story where dark desires collide with the purity of the heart, challenging the boundaries of pleasure and passion. Will Kane become the prince charming he never thought he could be, or will he forever remain a prisoner of his own dark legacy?

What happens when, in the midst of struggling to keep up with life, you suddenly discover that you were a princess in a past life? Now, you're just a waitress with a drunken mother and a pile of bills to pay. But deep down, you know one thing: you’ll find the stupid jerk responsible for ending your royal life, no matter what it takes. Alexia POV: Then there are the spoiled, narcissistic rich jerks who think their daddy's car gives them a free pass to treat women like objects. Not today, Satan. These guys are like walking perfume ads with egos bigger than their bank accounts. I swear, they should just marry themselves—they're clearly their own type. When one of those jerks lands at my table, I can smell the entitlement from a mile away. I don't even wait for the inevitable sleazy pickup line or the "accidental" brush of their hand against mine. Nope. I pawn them off on one of the other waiters faster than you can say "unpaid rent."

BURN ME ALIVE IF YOU DIDN'T LIKE THIS BOOK...AFTER READING THAT IS Regressing back in time after sacrificing his life for someone undeserving someone who didn’t even shed a tear after his death just total blank. The person he begged for love rejected him every single time. Now, he returns to when he was 18 again. Looking at her face, he wants to try again, to fall in love with her once more, to want to... but no, he no longer wants to feel that pain again. Some feelings never change, but you have to leave them behind, right? And one life should be enough to try. He made a commitment to never love her again. This life is his chance to live for himself. But who knew he wasn’t the only one regressed? The ultimate black heart curse is broken... and time reverses. Avey: “Lucy, can we.” Tears in her eyes. Lucy: Looking blankly at him. Avey: “Can’t you at least give me one chance?” Lucian: Silently looking at her. what about other people who hurt him too: mother, sister, friend and ofc her Will he give up on love for his own peace, or will he be too afraid to feel that pain again? --- Additional Tags: Regression, Time Travel, Yandere, CEO Girl, Mafia, Family Conflicts, Mother’s Failure, Revenge, Heartbreak, Sacrifices, Unworthy Love, Beautiful Love Story, Strong Characters, Loki ---

I had three simple rules: 1. Never remove the hood and mask. 2. Don’t attract attention. 3. Follow rule one and two at all costs. Simple, right? Well, I followed them religiously—until Jason came along and shattered them all. I didn’t want anyone to know my identity. I just wanted to stay in the shadows, finish school, and disappear. But no, the stupid jock had to get in my way, and now my peaceful, hidden life is in ruins. I didn’t mean to embarrass the school’s golden boy. His name? Jason. He’s the son of the country’s richest CEO. Ironically, I chose this place to hide from my own father, the man I’m trying to escape. I look too much like him, and if anyone made the connection, my cover would be blown. Hence, the hood and mask I wear every single day. But now, instead of just hiding from my father, I have to watch out for Jason, too. He’s vowed to make my life miserable. I still can’t figure out his obsession with me—one minute he’s humiliating me in front of everyone, and the next he’s trying to kiss me behind the bleachers.

Alec has one goal: escape the suffocating walls of the orphanage that has been his prison for most of his life. With his fifteenth birthday looming, he counts the days until he can finally break free. But Alec's escape plan takes an unexpected twist when he begins to experience vivid, otherworldly visions—visions of three mysterious men, each more powerful and enigmatic than the last. One man is perched on a cloud, his wild white beard and lightning-charged eyes crackling with energy, promising a force unlike any Alec has ever known. Another is calm, his tranquil demeanor belying the tempest that simmers beneath the surface, his presence both soothing and deadly. The third man is unpredictable—a fire-dancing figure whose laughter hides a darkness Alec cannot quite understand. Each man wants the same thing: Alec, as their vessel. But why him? And what does being their vessel truly mean? As Alec struggles to understand the visions that haunt him, he is faced with a choice: embrace the power these men offer, or continue fighting for freedom from the only life he's ever known. With his birthday fast approaching and the pressure mounting, Alec must decide whether to accept a fate far stranger—and more dangerous—than anything he could have imagined. A life of power, or one of freedom? The choice could change everything.

Lucy, a stunning girl with Indonesian and Dutch roots, returns to Indonesia after hearing her mom, Ratna, is critically ill. Even though she’s been living in the Netherlands for years, Lucy feels she has to be with her mom during her final moments. But little does she know, this trip isn’t just about grief it’s about an unexpected change. After her mom passes away, Lucy starts experiencing some seriously weird stuff. She can see things that no one else can, and suddenly, she’s got supernatural powers running through her veins powers passed down through generations of shamans in her family. She tries everything to get rid of these abilities, but the more she fights it, the deeper she gets tangled in a dark world of blood rituals, curses, and a fate that’s pulling her in... Ready for a wild ride full of mystery, indonesia's shaman traditions are packed with all kinds of culture and crazy customs,Family secrets, and mind-blowing powers? This story is packed with supernatural thrills, creepy rituals, and tons of suspense that’ll keep you on the edge of your seat. Get ready to dive into Blood curse of shaman you won’t be able to put it down!

In a world devastated by an unforgiving apocalypse, Qing Xia struggles against a life filled with despair. Surrounded by the suffocating remnants of society—polluted air, barren land, and the haunted expressions of humanity—he often envies those who have found peace in death, escaping the relentless suffering of existence. Yet, the memory of his family's sacrifice fuels his determination to endure, making him one of the last survivors in a landscape of desolation. But fate has other plans. During a routine mission, Qing Xia’s life abruptly ends, or so he believes. To his shock, he awakens reborn as an idol on the brink of obscurity, a mere shadow in a vibrant world. Eager for a second chance, he seeks solace in a newfound identity, yearning for a life filled with simple pleasures. However, tranquility slips through his fingers as he is thrust into an unexpected chaos—a variety show that pulls him into the heart of danger, where secret agents, ruthless hitmen, and shadowy figures lurk. With every step, the weight of his dreams collides with a reality he never wished to face. As he grapples with relentless uncertainty, Sian realizes that the struggle for peace may lead him deeper into turmoil. In this haunting journey, can he carve out a destiny in a world that seems determined to tear him apart? The winds of fate do not blow as one wishes, and with shadows closing in, every moment counts. ---------------------------- Black box: Someone: "Darling, help me deal with these people." Sian: "Stay away from me. I have nothing to do with you or them." Someone, with fake tears: "Darling, I’m hurt. Come kiss me here, and the pain will go away." Sian, holding a military knife: "Does it hurt there? How about I just cut it off for you?" Someone, stripping Sian’s clothes: "Darling, you look so beautiful when you’re angry. I can’t take it anymore." Sian: "Go to hell! Ah—ahh! Stop it—stop! That hurts! Quit biting me, you damn dog!"      ---------------------------------------     Dear readers, welcome to an exciting adventure! This is a captivating BL novel filled with +18 scenes that add a spark of joy and love and some sadness. If you’re open to exploring vibrant stories and vibrant connections, dive right in to accompany our Angel, the MC " Sian," on his journey in this new world.

"Bad Wolf!" "Darling, come here", he gently coaxed. Even though she knew it was only a facade, he was obviously luring her for his own benefit, she still couldn't help falling for it, falling for him. Always. Even when he knew she wasn't as naive as she seemed, he still couldn't help but want to hold her in the palm of his hands, to cherish her. His Little Darling. Always.

Un joven mago llamado Kaito se embarca en una misión para recuperar la Estrella de la Luz, un artefacto capaz de darle al poseedor un poder inimaginable

[Romance + Comedy+ R18 scenes + violence+ supernatural elements] Zeva Chen, the protagonist of the story. She is an orphan with her parents passing away, at young age. So, she had learnt to strive and survive in the dog eat dog world today. She is young, and an absolute beauty. But well, try to mess with her and you are going to go back home Black and Blue. Yes, she was a little crazy too. You might call her a little Rebel, who would do anything to get something that she has her eyes fixed on. That was what the world saw her as. But deep inside, our girl was a softie and a sweetheart. She deeply cared about people whom she loved. And it so happened one day, that she saw a family in a brink of death situation. While trying to save them, Zeva herself was about to meet death. BUT! She did not die. She was saved by a 'System', who had chosen to get attached to her. Hence, she gets a system that would help her reach the heights of success in her life. And the most baffling thing about it was - Her system's manager was a three years old looking kid. Now not only she has to complete the tasks given to her by the system, but also babysit the little trouble! And that was not only it! The main thing is yet to come. Our girl has fallen in love! With her professor? Unfortunately. Fallen in love? Wait-! That's an understatement. She was obsessed! She turns on ready to do everything to get him, not knowing that the 'so called professor' had his eyes on her.... NOW READ THE BOOK! ENOUGH INFORMATION HERE. (This story is going to go for long... so be prepared!)

Moonlight Obsession is a gripping werewolf-shifter romance that unfolds under the haunting glow of the full moon. Lucy, a young woman with a mysterious past, finds herself drawn to a secluded town where she encounters the enigmatic and irresistibly powerful billionaire, Caleb, whose charm is rivaled only by the dark secrets he keeps. Unbeknownst to her, Caleb is no ordinary man—he is a shifter, caught in a world where ancient traditions and fierce desires collide. As their connection deepens, Lucy discovers that her attraction to Caleb is more than just fate—it is a bond forged by blood and a dangerous obsession that neither of them can escape. As they navigate their tumultuous love, they must confront rival shifters, dangerous forces from Caleb’s past, and a love that could either save or destroy them. With passion, betrayal, and thrilling twists, Moonlight Obsession delves into the shadows of forbidden love, where every moonlit night promises a new, heart-stopping chapter. Will Lucy embrace her newfound destiny and the haunting allure of Caleb, or will the darkness consume them both?

林羽穿越进武侠游戏《江湖风云录》，绑定强大系统，在这逼真的游戏世界开启称霸武林、改写命运的热血征程。一路上，他邂逅佳人苏瑶，与恶霸激战，又遭遇神秘组织，还意外重逢现实死对头赵宇。凭借系统赋予的能力和秘籍，林羽在江湖中披荆斩棘，最终为守护挚爱苏瑶，不惜付出失去记忆和受限实力的代价，改写她的命运，两人携手在江湖续写传奇。

In a world haunted by deadly creatures called Gins, Lucy joins the Hunter Organization to avenge her parents’ tragic deaths. Led by her uncle Leonard, the group battles Gins that harm humans physically and mentally.Lucy’s quest for revenge takes an unexpected turn when she’s forced to team up with a chaotic group of misfits. As they fight powerful Gins and uncover dark truths, Lucy learns that vengeance isn’t her only path...

I wanna destroy that tight p*ssy of yours....... Ahh!!! let me go you bastard.. I promise I won't tell anyone hahahah who will you tell darling... said Liam to Sarah.......

Eric Crown rushed into the hospital, carrying the injured woman mindful of the fact that she is heavily pregnant. He left his assistant Andrew behind, who was trying to catch up with him. Andrew had tried to carry the woman from Eric but he refused to allow him or even allowed his driver touch her. ""Somebody help me" Eric immediately alarmed the hospital nurse at the reception immediately he entered with the injured woman. The emergency staff and nurses ran to him immediately seeing the injured woman in Eric's arms. Doctor what can be done for her Eric asked she is so seriously injured. We have to get the baby out of her first, the doctor replied assessing her injuries. We will try to save her life, I hope the baby is still alive the doctor added. What! Eric exclaimed shock. Take her to the operating theatre the doctor instructedthe emergency personnel there. The nurses and emergency staff put her on a hospital stretcher, and started wheeling her to the operation theatre. A nurse came with some papers for Eric to sign, he didn't even look at them he just signed. Dr. Robert, the medical director of the hospital was already informed of Eric's coiming. He just got to Eric at this time and asked who the woman involved in the accident was? Eric, still in shock with blood all over his shirt and trousers turned to Dr. Robert puzzled. What does that have to do with anything ? Dr. Robert was surprised by Eric's answer. Mr. Crown, I wanted to know if she was a family member he explained. No, I don't know her. She was hit by my car and we just rushed her here. Dr. Robert has known Eric for a long time, well known for his compassion and charity work but he never get emotionally involved. From the look on Eric's face, Dr. Robert felt there can only be one explanation then asked "were you driving" ? No, my driver was Eric answered. I see, you don't need to wait. Be rest assured we will take good care of her, it's just that from what I have seen she is in a critical condition. How critical Eric asked Dr. Robert. She might not survive Dr.Robert answered heavily, we were all quiet until a nurse came and told Dr. Robert they were ready for him at the operating theatre, he left with the nurse. She can't die, she cannot die Eric told himself. He felt this strong sense of attachment to her. Why is he feeling like this? As if, as if we have met before he thought. Sir, sir. sir? Andrew called out, touching Eric's shoulder lightly. Eric don't know how long he stood there but he suddenly realized Andrew was calling out to him. Sir, you need to change, there is a rest room over there Andrew said holding a change of clothes for him and pointing toward the restroom. Eric just continued to sit there, dazed! The incident playing over and over again in his mind. How come she was on the road at this time of the night? He wondered. She is heavily pregnant, why would any man allow his wife to move around at this time of the night?, and she was alone. Come to think about it, Eric didn't notice any wedding ring on her he thought, probably he didn't look properly. Mr. Crown, a nurse called out . Eric Crown looked up at her wondering when he sat down. Andrew immediately asked her what she wanted We need to know her name for our records she said We don't know Andrew answered.. But... It's an emergency, we had to rush her here, she was already unconscious Andrew explained. Then Dr. Robert suddenly came out of the Operating theatre, pulling off his face mask. We stood up as he walked toward us, eager for news . You have a baby girl Dr. Robert said smiling Me ? Eric asked surprised!

A book, found by a boy and his mother, titled 'The Records of Alex Lunaris' shows them a diary written by a long-forgotten woman. This is the story of Alex Lunaris, the Witch of Eternal Space. **Temporary Cover** Heya guys, this is Luci, the author, I would like to say that the first few chapters are gonna be introducing y'all to the main character and the main power system. There will be a dedicated chapter for the power system, don't worry. Anyways, please do enjoy my first novel, and expect more to come!

Xia Lihua was born with a beautiful voice. A voice as sweet as hers was hard to find. She used to be her cousin sister's shadow singer. Her family exiled her to the United States when she was set up by her cousin sister and stepsister. She returned to her own country after completing high school in America only to discover her father had given orders for some guys to murder her. After narrowly escaping death, she was saved by a friend who rushed her to the hospital and with the help of a genius hacker she was able to eventually escape from the country, hiding in Milan for two years. Except for her grandfather who doted on her, the rest of the Xia family assumed that she was dead. After three years, she returned, stronger than ever, to face-slap the scumbags and exact retribution. She is now the nation's sister- a top idol and a movie queen. She is also known as the Ice Empress in business world! People called her the Nightingale because of her melodic voice, little did she know that she will be become the night songstress of the man whom she hated the most. She didn't know that she was the reason why the demon king couldn't sleep at night. All he could think about from morning till dusk was her. He could wreck devastation on earth for her, and this time he would do anything to keep her. The devil bigshot has made up his mind and is chasing her! Netizens: Is Emperor Yang pursuing you, sister Hua? Xia Lihua: No! He is just my ex-fiancé and a die-hard fan. Emperor Yang: What ex-fiancé? Bullshit! Tell them that you are my wife, little bird. Author note: The author is not Chinese and this is her own story. THIS IS NOT A TRANSLATION. [ Update: Cover art by- @dixerqua ;) (DO NOT STEAL!!!) ]

it's a adult dark romance

Lucy, the Luna of the Moonlight Pack, struggles with infertility and the pressure to produce an heir. When she finally becomes pregnant, her joy is short-lived as she discovers her husband, Alpha Alfred, has also impregnated her step-sister Aris. Despite announcing her own pregnancy, Lucy finds herself marginalized as the pack favors Aris's child. Isolated and mistreated, Lucy suffers a miscarriage and is falsely accused of attacking Aris. Devastated, she flees the pack, ending up in a nearby town with no resources. There, she encounters the Lycan King Xavier, who offers her a position as his maid. Lucy adapts to life in Xavier's palace, hiding her true identity. In a shocking turn of events, Xavier announces Lucy as his fiancée at a royal gathering. This revelation sets off a long hidden secret as Luna uncovers a mysterious history between Xavier and Alfred and also the death of her parents. As Lucy learns the truth about their past and also hers, she learns that her parent did not just die mysteriously but was killed by her own ex mate and his mother.

There's always that one person who takes hold of one's heart that even when they are gone its as if they are still here . This is the same situation between Aston and Lucy , after there sad farewell lucky for them they do get a second chance at love

Hannah, a 2nd year in college, always was close to her sweet friend Cleodarel. One unexpected day a new guy joins their class, who says to be Cleodarels brother. Now what put Hannah on guard was how distant Cleodarel seemed with that guy and how they didn’t look of the same blood. Who knew this encounter would lead to a disturbing situation for Hannah?

[Warning: Mature Content R18] Aubrey Young knows she’s average. She has average looks, average height, average personality, average intelligence and she likes it that way. The less attention on her the better. One day she catches the attention of a decidedly un-average “man.” Forget average, he is the hottest guy in the university, Rhyland Leslie Darling. Rhyland is uber rich, smart, and handsome. And he knows it. He also has a secret. He is a werewolf and an Alpha at that. An inveterate playboy, he has sworn never to settle down after seeing the destruction ‘love’ has brought to his family. That is until he meets Aubrey. Irresistibly drawn to her unique scent, Rhyland discovers that only Aubrey has the ability to calm him down during his HEAT. But it’s not only Rhyland who is attracted to Aubrey. It quickly becomes apparent that she has a scent that can enhance the abilities of ALL the werewolves and another powerful race… VAMPIRES. With this unwanted unique ability, Aubrey becomes sought after by the two constantly warring races. She soon realizes she has to stick with Rhyland, the only one strong enough to protect her. Along the way, Aubrey finds out that she was not as "average" as she once thought, that she is actually one of the remaining survivors of a SPECIAL RACE. Soon, Aubrey realizes that she herself must grow stronger in order to protect her loved ones and defeat a formidable enemy. Get ready for a fantasy love story that takes you on a roller coaster of emotions! ^u^ Disclaimer: I do not own the cover illustration. Credits go to the original artist. Send me a message! I'm in Discord as buttonswrites.

"I never knew you were such a cowardly man," she began, her tone sharp and biting, her chin raised in defiance. "Too weak to break the news to me yourself. How pathetic." "It isn't like that," Ezekiel protested, stepping closer. "I have my reasons." "Reasons?" she snapped, pulling her hands away as he tried to hold them. Her glare hardened, a look of disgust flashing across her face. "My lady," he began, his voice thick with longing as his green eyes searched hers for any trace of understanding. Tentatively, he lifted a hand toward her face, only to let it fall back to his side. "I thought you, of all people, would understand me. Hear me out. This is what is expected of me—what I must do to secure my title. I—" "How is that any of my concern?" she interrupted, her voice like a whip, cold and unforgiving. "Do you expect me to be swayed by your empty words? Your honeyed excuses? I won't be moved by this pathetic display." "Can you just listen to me?" he snapped, his voice hardening in frustration. "Listen to what?" she shot back, venom dripping from her tone. "Your pathetic moaning and excuses? You've made a mockery of me, Ezekiel. You humiliated me—used me as nothing more than a bauble to decorate your arm before discarding me like trash. You are pathetic." "Eris," he growled, his once affectionate green eyes now shadowed with an eerie red. "I am still Duke Loxley, and I will not tolerate this tone from you. Know your place." She flinched at the harshness of his words but held her ground. "Sienna is a necessity," he continued, stepping closer to her. "I have to marry her to secure my title, but my affection—my care—it remains with you. I love you, Eris." The confession hung heavily in the air, but she did not falter. Instead, she took a deliberate step back, curtsying with practiced grace. "Apologies, Your Grace," she said, her voice detached and cold. "This mere human seems to have forgotten her place and overstepped. I will ensure it never happens again." "Eris..." He reached for her, desperation seeping into his voice, but she pulled away, her movements deliberate and precise. "Please excuse me. I will be taking my leave," she said, turning on her heel and walking away without a second glance.