Tattered Lace

… At first, El was just a seven-year-old boy, surviving in a war-torn village steeped only in the air of misery and the stench of death. He was far from ordinary though – for his fragmented memories made it difficult to remember many things, yet it gifted him with an uncanny intelligence. With only a few tattered books from a crumbling, wooden library, he taught himself how to read, clinging to knowledge as his only solace. He believed his fate was sealed, destined to die like other children who succumbed to illness or starvation, then left him there alone. However, everything changed the day his village was attacked by unknown people. The invaders slaughtered everyone, yet for reasons he couldn’t fathom, they left him alive. When El awoke under the pale light of the full moon, the attackers returned, searching for what they called "A breath that was left." Helpless, he was captured. What followed was a blur – six years of his life erased from memory. He woke up again, his head bandaged, in the care of a mysterious man who brought him to Mirthwater, a city in one of the Four Vassal States of the Ryxhaton Empire. Then without much of an explanation, he abandoned him there. Left to fend for himself, El navigated the harsh underside of Mirthwater, while haunted by dreams of the unknown he couldn’t make sense of. But his quiet struggle for survival suddenly took a dark turn when he stumbled into a brewing conflict hidden within the city’s shadows. Unwittingly thrust into a world fraught with danger, he found himself face-to-face with creatures born from humanity’s darkest desires and worst nightmares. Now, El’s must confront the horrors lurking in the depths of Mirthwater and uncover the truth about his past – before it consumes all of him. … This novel is entirely work of fiction. The names, characters, and incident portrayed in it are the work of the author's imagination. Any resemblance to actual persons, living or dead, event or localities is entirely coincidental. Contains themes regarding mental health and violence that may not be suitable for all readers. Viewer discretion is advised. ...

… At first, El was just a seven-year-old boy, surviving in a war-torn village steeped only in the air of misery and the stench of death. He was far from ordinary though – for his fragmented memories made it difficult to remember many things, yet it gifted him with an uncanny intelligence. With only a few tattered books from a crumbling, wooden library, he taught himself how to read, clinging to knowledge as his only solace. He believed his fate was sealed, destined to die like other children who succumbed to illness or starvation, then left him there alone. However, everything changed the day his village was attacked by unknown people. The invaders slaughtered everyone, yet for reasons he couldn’t fathom, they left him alive. When El awoke under the pale light of the full moon, the attackers returned, searching for what they called "A breath that was left." Helpless, he was captured. What followed was a blur – six years of his life erased from memory. He woke up again, his head bandaged, in the care of a mysterious man who brought him to Mirthwater, a city in one of the Four Vassal States of the Ryxhaton Empire. Then without much of an explanation, he abandoned him there. Left to fend for himself, El navigated the harsh underside of Mirthwater, while haunted by dreams of the unknown he couldn’t make sense of. But his quiet struggle for survival suddenly took a dark turn when he stumbled into a brewing conflict hidden within the city’s shadows. Unwittingly thrust into a world fraught with danger, he found himself face-to-face with creatures born from humanity’s darkest desires and worst nightmares. Now, El’s must confront the horrors lurking in the depths of Mirthwater and uncover the truth about his past – before it consumes all of him. … This novel is entirely work of fiction. The names, characters, and incident portrayed in it are the work of the author's imagination. Any resemblance to actual persons, living or dead, event or localities is entirely coincidental. Contains themes regarding mental health and violence that may not be suitable for all readers. Viewer discretion is advised. ...

Ann Alvador Justice knows nothing of her past. Her memories are a void, and her future looms as uncertain as the thick harmattan fog that cloaks the horizon. But one thing is clear: to reclaim her rightful place, she must wield vengeance as her weapon, strength as her armor, and power as her destiny. Her journey is a treacherous one, fraught with secrets, blood, and betrayal. Determined to seize the title that was stolen from her, Ann's heart hardens, her resolve unshakable — until she crosses paths with a man whose gaze is as cold and unyielding as the shadows they both seek to outrun. "What if you are unable to pay?" he asks, a trace of amusement in his voice. Ann’s response is unwavering, her eyes steely. "Then I would pay back with my body and soul." Bound by a dangerous pact, their lives intertwine in a dance of desire and deception. As the layers of Ann’s forgotten past unravel, she discovers that what was once buried refuses to stay hidden. Old enemies resurface, and new betrayals strike from the shadows, threatening to shatter the fragile ground she stands on. With each revelation, Ann is forced to confront the darkness within herself. She faces a harrowing choice: succumb to the fear that has long haunted her or embrace the predator she was born to be. When pushed to the edge, Ann’s claim is undeniable: "No one touches what's mine," she declares, her voice laced with fierce possession and unyielding determination. In a world where power is the ultimate prize, Ann refuses to be a victim. This time, she won’t run. This time, she’ll fight. Slm...

CONTENT WARNING: CONTAINS SEVERAL DARK THEMES, LIKE DEATH & GORE. (Read with Caution.) The female lead may or may not be cruel. (Roast her with caution) _________ The art of revenge is often a slow burn - calculated, patient and emotionally restrained. But what happens when vengeance strikes instantly? After being banished and dethroned as Luna by her pack Veronica Gordon is betrayed by her fiance' and is brutally murdered by him and his lover,her body shredded for organ trafficking on the eve of her wedding. Death should have been the end,but Veronica defies it, striking a deal for a second chance. Bound to the site of her demise and granted the powers for her revenge, she transforms the place into Delilah's Inn,an establishment named after the infamous biblical seductress. Her mission is clear: lure and destroy cheating men and their accomplices. Centuries later, Delilah's Inn becomes a legend, immortalised in a mysterious novel with only 200 copies printed every five years. Adonis Callum, a 23 year old university student and devoted fan of the tale, devours every edition. But his obsession takes a grim turn when he meets the same fate as Veronica - betrayed and murdered by his lover. Instead of passing on, Adonis is sent to the Inn by The Grim Reaper,who hopes to expedite his soul collection. Yet Adonis,with his innocence intact, proves immune to the Inn's seductive power. To escape and reclaim his life, he strikes an unlikely deal with the Grim Reaper: make Veronica fall in love with him - a woman whose heart has been dead for over a century cursed to feel nothing but cruelty. As Adonis navigates the sinister politics,lies and anguish entangled within Delilah's Inn, he must decide if his freedom is worth breaking through Veronica's icy facade - or if her revenge will claim him too. ______ TROPES: •— Werewolf. •—Dominant FL. •—Isekai x Transmigration. •—Dark Romance. •—Betrayal x Revenge. •—Slow Burn. •—Horror?(I'll leave that you to decide) •—Boss × Employee relationship. •—Reverse Grumpy x Sunshine. •— Possessive x obsessive. •— Morally Grey FL. ______ Recommended Reading Theme: Dark. Recommended Reading Font: Lora, cardo Or Merriweather. _____ EXCERPT: I walked into the room, my chest still heaving as I stopped in front of her. She sat there, calm and unbothered, as though she hadn’t just spilled blood in the lobby like it was her second nature. Her crimson-polished nails clicked rhythmically against the smooth table. Her gaze was fixed on the open book in front of her—a book she hadn’t turned a single page of all morning. “I see you love standing, Adonis.” Her voice was calm, almost too calm. She didn’t bother looking up. “It was just a hug, Veronica,” I said through gritted teeth. “You shouldn’t have done that. Maya has served you loyally for years—” “Until she touched what is mine.” Her voice sliced through my words, sharp and absolute. I laughed bitterly, shaking my head. “What’s yours? What’s the point of being yours when you treat me like… like I’m nothing?” The book slammed shut with a deafening clap. She rose to her feet in one fluid motion, every step toward me deliberate, predatory. Her eyes met mine, cold and unrelenting. “No one touches you but me, Adonis. Good, bad, whatever label you want to slap on it—I don’t care.” My breath caught in my throat, but I forced myself to hold my ground. “That’s not love, Veronica.” She tilted her head, a cruel smile tugging at her lips. “Love?” She laughed, soft but sharp, the sound laced with mockery. “Don’t insult me.”

Veneri, a human blessed with immortality is transmigrated in the vast world of Spheraphase, where immortals and mortals coexist amidst ancient dynasties and mystical forces. He becomes Vastarael Richinaria, a prince of the Aeterium race, heir to Dynasty Richinaria, and bearer of a destiny laced with glory and unimaginable suffering. His journey unfolds against the backdrop of a world ravaged by Epoch Cycles, where chosen champions are sent to alternate timelines to solve critical crises and rewrite history. Will Vastarael overcome the cycle of suffering and achieve true ascension? Or will he succumb to the crushing weight of his own destiny, leaving Spheraphase to fall into chaos? Not that he cares if it falls anyway...

Present life Lily Rylan's life is turned into a nightmare when her stepmom, Viviana, calls her on phone on her wedding day, speaking with a hint of malice in her voice, tells her not to enter the wedding venue, instead instructing her to return home immediately. "Don't come to the wedding hall," her stepmother Viviana says, her words dripping with venom. This shocking command is just the beginning of a day filled with betrayal and heartbreak. As Lily arrives at the family manor, she pays the taxi driver, who immediately congratulates her, wishing "Lily a happy marriage." This makes Lily feel weird, and she quickly steps out of the taxi, raising her beautiful wedding gown. "Thank you," she says, smiling brightly, despite already feeling nervous. Walking from the gate, Lily's stunning wedding gown is on full display. The beautiful, big manor looms before her, complete with a fountain of water at its center. As she enters the manor's parlour, she's met with an elegant yet tense atmosphere. Her mother's picture is discarded in the least viewed spot - a secluded spot which is hardly seen in the parlour wall, while her stepmother's pictures are all over the walls, featuring her father intimately standing, holding her, and her stepsister, Liliana, by her side, smiling brightly. Lily still feels disgusted by them and immediately looks away, taking out her handkerchief and cleaning her eyes, as if she's seen something dirty. She's pulled from her thoughts by her stepmother walking down the staircase, followed by her father. "You called me home, stepmother Viviana? Is it anything serious?" Lily asks, her voice laced with concern. "How many times should I tell you to call her mother, but never mind for now," her father says, his voice firm but laced with a hint of annoyance. Her stepmother Viviana continues, beaming happily, "Your fiancé was drunk during your engagement after you left, saying you had something important to attend to. Now, we thought about it and finally want to tell you they were drugged and slept together. You don’t want your stepsister to be sad or give birth outside marriage, we won’t allow it. You have to allow her to marry him. No one knows how you currently look like now, so allow your sister to marry her husband."her father stated and continued his statement "He's the father of her unborn child, you have to understand," her stepmother immediately smiled brightly smirking at her happily. A sad smile is etched across Lily's face because they're only telling her this so she won't embarrass them by going to the wedding hall, which would be made impossible. Her father's eyes narrow, his voice cold. "You will do as we say, Lily. You will step aside and allow Liliana to marry Zayn." Lily's eyes flash with anger. "What if she has been with him for a long time, or even if he's not the father of the baby?" she spits, her voice venomous. Her stepsister, Liliana, smirks, and Lily retorts, "Her slutty mom gave birth to a slut like herself." This makes everyone gasp, and even the maids quickly escape from the family quarrel, not wanting to hear what would lead to their death. Lily's father immediately delivers a hard slap on her face, making his five fingers appear on her face. "You ungrateful wench," he growls angrily. Lily wipes the blood off, raises her head, and looks at her father scornfully. "You're just trying to cover up your own mistakes," she says, her voice cold. "You did the same thing, that's why you feel it's normal, right?" She says mockingly. Her father is about to hit her again when Liliana steps forward, saying, "Dad, no, don’t hit her again. I can understand how hurt she feels." lily and her husband moments shush I don’t want others to hear this sweet sound from you my white rose do you know how surprised I am you are finally mine lily this made lily shudder not with fear but in a sweet way coz his look said it all

Zara's eyes were glued to Xavier's bare chest, unable to look away. The sculpted muscles, the deep V-line, the way his sweatpants hung low on his hips—she couldn't help but be captivated. It was as if her brain had short-circuited, and all logic had left her. She moved a step closer, almost unconsciously, her hand lifting as if to touch his chest. Before her fingers could make contact, Xavier's quick reflexes caught her wrist. His grip was firm, but not harsh, and he raised an eyebrow, looking at her with an amused expression. "What do you think you're doing?" he asked, his voice low but laced with a hint of teasing. Zara, startled but determined not to show weakness, scratched the back of her head awkwardly, trying to save face. "What do you mean? Why are you walking around shirtless?" she countered, trying to shift the focus off herself. Xavier's smirk deepened, his dark eyes glinting with mischief. "I'm not the one sneaking around in other people's rooms, Zara. You're the one who barged in here." Zara blinked, her mind scrambling to find an excuse. "Oh, right," she muttered, still not sure how to explain her behavior. She gave him a sheepish grin, but her eyes darted back to his chest, trying to look casual. "I was just… looking for something," she said, her words trailing off as she tried to think of a better lie. Xavier didn't buy it for a second. Slowly, he took a step forward, closing the distance between them. Zara instinctively took a step back, but Xavier followed, not giving her any space to escape. Her heart raced as she backed up again, trying to keep some distance between them, but Xavier wasn't making it easy. "Trying to run away now?" Xavier teased, his voice laced with playful challenge. He moved another step forward, and Zara continued retreating, her back now against the wall. Her breath hitched as she realized she had nowhere else to go. "I wasn't trying to run away," Zara said quickly, her voice a little too high-pitched. "Just, you know, I… I don't want to intrude. I just—"  But Xavier wasn't interested in her stammering excuses. His gaze remained locked on her, and as he stepped closer, his hand that had caught her wrist slowly slid down to her fingers, brushing against her skin. The gentle touch sent an unexpected shiver down her spine. Zara's heart hammered in her chest, and she took another step back, this time bumping into the wall with a soft thud. She couldn't help but feel the heat building between them, the tension so thick it was almost palpable. Xavier, now mere inches from her, tilted his head, his lips curling into a playful grin. "I think you're lying," he murmured, his voice soft, but full of mischief. "You were trying to touch my chest, weren't you?" Zara's face flushed with heat, and she tried to push back against him, but it was like trying to move a mountain. She cleared her throat, trying to recover some of her composure. "Maybe I was," she admitted, her voice low. "But, um… so what? It's not like you're making it easy to ignore." Xavier's grin widened as he leaned even closer, his body just inches away from hers. The closeness was overwhelming, and Zara's mind started to spin. She could feel the heat radiating off his chest, and she had to fight the urge to reach up and touch it again. "Is that so?" Xavier whispered, his breath warm against her ear. He placed his hand on the wall beside her head, trapping her in place as he stared down at her with a wicked gleam in his eyes. "You sure about that?".

Riz is a fresh graduate who has been job hunting for a year. In terms of talent, he has no talent. Always a mediocre type of person. The only good point he has is that he is a hardworking person. After so many failed interviews, he starts to get dispirited. However, as he does not so easily give in to that feeling, he resolves to try his luck in the last interview he has. Indeed, it is his last interview. An accident occurs on his way there. When he opens his eyes, he is in the middle of the forest, tattered clothes with blood on it. "Th-this...", Riz was shocked as he found his body smaller than it should be. It didn't take him too much time to understand everything that happened. He becomes the youngest son of a count. Finding himself in the backward world, he who has no ambition previously is in a dilemma. At first, he just wants to live quietly and enjoy the richness and privilege as a noble. But then circumstances push him in a different direction. One event led to another, now he finds himself at the top of power.

After the death of her grandmother, a mute artist returns home only to discover she’s been sold out by her uncle and aunt. With her world crumbling, she struggles to rebuild her life, tangled in the web of her enigmatic buyer. She convinces herself that, despite his behavior suggesting otherwise, he is better than her family. But everything changes when she uncovers his true nature and demands her freedom—only to be met with an unexpected ultimatum. --- "You must be wondering why I brought you under my roof and paid so much for you, knowing how much I despise wasting resources, right?” These are the same questions I’ve been asking myself, but why is he suddenly posing them to me now? Am I about to be set free? Or am I about to face a new prison, one with stricter walls? Come on, Carmela. You're a writer—don’t let your imagination run wild. In books, the female lead is usually hit with endless rules and restrictions when faced with these kinds of questions. Is that my fate, too? "First and foremost," he began, his voice smooth but laced with an edge, "I’ll admit I brought you here for selfish reasons. But I don’t want my motives to be an obstacle in your life." He stepped closer, his gray eyes locking onto mine like magnets pulling me into a dark abyss. "I’ll give you one hour. Run as far as you can, and I won’t chase after you." His words froze me in place, but my body betrayed me, refusing to step back as he approached. His hand slid around my waist, lifting my face to meet his smoldering gaze. "Stay," he murmured, his voice a melody that sent shivers through me, "and you will be mine. Forever. I don’t let go of what’s mine." As suddenly as he drew me in, he released me, leaving the room without a second glance. Yet the rush of emotions he stirred refused to settle. --- "I no longer wish to be your slave," I declared, my voice firm. "I’ll repay every cent my adoptive family owes you." Nix tilted his head, a smirk tugging at his lips. "You sure?" "Six months," I replied. "With interest. If I fail, I’d rather jump off a cliff than live as your property." His laughter, deep and intoxicating, echoed around us. "No, beloved," he purred, his tone both dangerous and alluring. "I won’t let you die so easily." He set a small box before me, his eyes dark and unreadable. "Accept my proposal. Be my wife for one year, and I’ll erase the debt. I’ll even give you a billion to rebuild your life." His offer hung in the air, heavy with promise and peril. Before I could respond, he vanished into the crowd, leaving me alone with the weight of his words. --- "Ahem... that man you were with—what’s your relationship with him?"* Damian’s voice broke the silence. I met his gaze, raising a brow. "Why do you care?" "Don’t get me wrong," he replied, his tone stern. "But he’s dangerous. You shouldn’t be involved with him."* "Really?" I leaned back, crossing one leg over the other, feigning indifference. "Yes, Carmela. Cut off all ties with him," Damian warned, his voice cold and unyielding. But will she walk away... sign the contract... or take the ultimate plunge? **Coming Soon.**

**unedited version-I will release the edited one soon** y/n erased her own memory in an attempt to leave behind her tumultuous past and start anew. All she could recall was a brief but intense fling with Tom Riddle, where shadows danced and dark arts whispered temptations at midnight. Leaving behind Evergreen, her heart shattered and the weight of her dark history, she stepped into the hallowed halls of Hogwarts, where hope flickered like candlelight. It wasn't long before she crossed paths with Draco Malfoy, the embodiment of danger wrapped in charm. Their fiery confrontations crackled with tension, each argument laced with unspoken desire. What started as battles of wits and sharp words quickly ignited into a passionate affair. Stolen glances turned into heated touches in dimly lit corridors, where secrets intertwined with secrets, and lies dripped like honey from their lips. Each encounter burned brighter than the last, a whirlwind of thrilling passion and unyielding attraction that left them breathless and wanting more. As they danced on the edge of chaos, y/n realized that love might just be the most dangerous magic of all.

[Warning: Mature Content Included] After stepping on a landmine, Qin Yan never expected she would be blown into another world—let alone a world full of beastmen! That alone was something she could handle, but what truly rattled her was how she, a person valued at millions back on Earth, was now being sold for a measly bag of unrefined salt that wouldn’t even cost her a dollar to buy in a side stall. People line up to see her on Earth but here, she was purchased at a bargain price and treated like a discarded, secondhand dog bowl! If that wasn’t enough to crush her pride, she was then thrust into an arranged marriage with a brutish bear-man—only for him to reject her outright? Qin Yan seethed, ready to tear his snout off. “No way am I marrying her! Just look at her! She’s flat in all angles, no curves! If I didn't know better, I might even mistake her for a man without any milk jugs to offer. Who would be blind enough to choose her?” he roared, pointing rudely at the stunned and speechless Qin Yan. All... FLAT??? N-No curves?! No milk... milk jugs?! ‘Then just marry a cow, you disgusting pervert!’ she fumed internally, her face flushed with rage and wanted to cry foul in upset. ‘Boohoo! I’m just a late bloomer, these… these pair of kumquats will grow eventually into juicy melons lateeer! You hateful bear! Even if he drools and beg for it later, she will never let him have a piece! Qin Yan swore but it seemed fate had a twisted sense of humor. "Woman, leave that fool and come with me. If he refuses, I won’t hesitate to bite and poison him to death." A feral voice hissed as a violent gust of wind swept the air, followed by a piercing screech. A huge pair of wings covered the once blinding ray of sun. "Hey, worm! You think you can skip ahead of me?" A second beastman growled from above, his voice laced with authority. "I called dibs first—ah no. She’s actually carrying my child! Right, she is. So, get lost while I'm being nice!" Wait... wha—? What, what child, what dibs? Qin Yan stood frozen, thunderstruck. C-Crazy... These crazy madmen! I’m only nineteen! How could I wantonly associate with so many men? Let alone two annoyingly handsome beasts! I refuse to be seduced! Shit! Oh god, I know I'm a head-turner, sexy and pretty! But… But why are all these beastmen suddenly fighting over me now, when they used to avoid me like the plague?! In any case, faced with the brooding sight of the crimson bear, Qin Yan gulped and clung tightly to his fluffy fur, looking as if she had been wronged. "Darling! Hubby! I don’t know these two men. Ah, they’re both con-artists, just trying to ruin our marriage!” Qin Yan pointed at them accusingly. “L-Leave me alone! I’m already married!" ---- WSA2025 Entry #beasts #transmigration #beautyandbeasts

No one falls in love by choice, it is by chance. No one stays in love by chance, it is by work. And no one falls out of love by chance, it is by choice. … “ Let go of me, you monster!” She screamed, bitter tears dripped slowly from her flushed face. Her beautiful eyes were sorrowful, reflecting the pain and hurt in her heart. Delilah's soul froze the next moment her gaze met his, his eyes were like an abyss of chillness, ruthless and cold, and his grip on her tightened. " No way" he hissed, his voice low, laced with venom. … After her childhood sweetheart, Su Zhe Jin, Harrison Su moved away; Chen Qing Qing, Delilah Chen was left devastated. She, with her family also planned to move few years later but who would have thought they'd be caught in a terrorist attack. Delilah, a shy, jovial, innocent girl with a very fragile personality, moved to D city to further her high school education. There in Fulfilled Dreams High School… Was a story on its own. One night, while scheming through the attic in her home, she found a box… more like, the box found her. The box revealed numerous secrets that made her believe her life was filled with mystery. After high school, Harrison reportedly travelled out of the country, as Delilah began to face crisis after another. Drama erupted when a woman and her daughter arrived, claiming to be the real wife and daughter of Chen Xiao, Delilah's father. She was forced to get engaged to the crippled son of a wealthy family. Harrison returned home, only to realize she got engaged to another man from a wealthy family. Resentment, jealousy, anger, the pain of betrayal overwhelmed him to do the unthinkable. «««««««♦»»»»»»» I hope you enjoy reading it as I did writing. Remember to leave your honest reviews, this humble author is ready to listen to your thoughts. ♥ midsummer07.

Deep within a cruel jungle where the treetops whisper secrets and the shadows have ancestral power, a young boy named Micheal is 'woken' to a destiny he never pursued. Drafted by the jungle, he is thrown into a world of magic, danger, and mystery where the line of friend and foe blurs with each passing step. It is alive-an old, sprawling force full of beauty and danger. The thing is, it is fractured, too. Beneath the surface teeming with life, darkness brews, ready to consume everything in its path. As Micheal explores this living maze, he finds the jungle's magic is not only a means but an organized, muscular force-one that shapes, empowers, and razes. It has chosen him as its vessel. But this gift comes with a price: every victory that Micheal wins drags him deeper into the web of the jungle, testing his courage, his will, and his very humanity. With such shadowy figures as Vaelor, who wish to twist his purpose, and allies whose guidance is laced with danger, Micheal has to decide if he should give in to the magic of the jungle and lose himself or resist it at the risk of everything else. On one final conflict between the forces of old, Micheal's decisions will seal more than his fate. The balance of the jungle, maybe even the world, rests on his shoulders. A tale of discovery, survival, and sacrifice-this is a journey where even the most insignificant decisions have the potential to echo across a world of magic and mystery. Micheal didn't ask for this road, yet he must walk it. The jungle has called him, and its heart waits for no one.

“You think you have everything figured out by forcing me to marry you, don’t you? Tsk!” Roxanne spat mockingly, her eyes spitting fire at the man before her. “I love you too, Roxxy.” Sebastian regarded her with an endearment that always caused her skin to crawl. A soft smile laced his lips-one she longed to wipe off his face. If possible, Roxanne wished she could tear his treacherous face with her bare hands. “I will so make you pay, Sebastian Sinclair. You would wish you never crossed paths with me. That is a promise!” As she whispered these words into his ear, her warm breath tickled his skin, causing Sebastian to lose control. Before she could step away from him, he swiftly grabbed her by the waist and pulled her closer. The slow love song in the background added to the fake image of love between the couple. The grand wedding reception had no flaw, except the singular couple that stood in the middle of the dance floor. One was overjoyed to finally have her, while the other couldn’t wait to torment him for every pain he caused her. “Get your filthy hands off…” Before Roxanne could finish her words, her husband claimed her lips hungrily, causing her to go stiff in his arms, after all, she couldn’t push him away in the presence of all the guests. The loud cheers and applause filled the room, making almost everyone envious of the power couple. However, one thing was certain, all hell would break loose soon enough. ============== In her past life, Roxanne Winslow felt nothing but pure hatred towards her husband. For all she knew, he got her brother arrested and later murdered in prison. However, he still used that fact to force her into a marriage, hiding the truth about her brother’s death from her. As payback, Roxanne cheated on him, plotted, and even schemed against her husband, until she was finally faced with a divorce agreement from Sebastian. It was only after she gladly signed the divorce document and ended up betrayed, scammed, miserable and dead that she realised Sebastian Sinclair has always been the umbrella that blocked out the scorching sun for her. Now that she got a second chance to live, Roxanne would worship the ground on which Sebastian steps, just so he won’t bring up the topic of divorce. She must atone for all her sins, protect Sebastian, and make him happy in this lifetime. The problem is, even if she wanted to remain Mrs Sinclair, a thousand reasons were waiting to tear their fragile union apart...

Deep in the Dungeons of The Vampire continent, Vascalo, The sounds of a werewolves screams and howls reach far beyond its walls. Each day the same phrase echoes throughout the halls... "Vermouth...." Alpha, The Prince of all werewolves is a prisoner of Vascalo, is improsoned, being ruthelessly tortured day by day, by his psychotic ex vampire lover, each day crying out, "Vermouth." But after over a 150 years of torment he is finally set free and heads out on a quest of unquenchable Vengeance. Who or what is the mysterious Vermouth, and how did it lead to his imprisonment? And most of all will he enact Revenge on the woman who held him captive for 150 years? Excerpt from the story "Which do you choose?" A woman with pale white skin softly chanted. "Sex... or Suffering?" She stood over a man in chains licking her lips at him lustfully. The man below her, was a complete abomination. He had tattered skin and battered bones, torn apart from years of sadistic torture. His thick black hair had grown long both on his head and his face, nearly reaching the ground from both ends, and a smell as foul as death emanating from his pores. And yet... As the woman gazed upon the man, she looked at him not as an ugly monster, not of a broken soul, but as if he was the most beautiful object that occupied her world. The man leaned up, straining to look up at his captor through the chains that restrained him. As his frigid blue eyes met his captor, a silent rage poured over him. "I... will....." This story was inspired by Berserk the manga and is incredibly gory and may have traumatizing subject matter.

A world full of humanoid animals called Anisarians divided into 12 different habitat nations. Petty squabbles and past rivalries have erupted into all out World War between the nations, forcing all caught in the crossfire to choose a side. In the chaos are five interconnected stories of heroes and villains, mighty rulers, and humble refugees just trying to make it through the turbulent times they now find themselves unable to escape from. Only the strongest shall rule in an age of betrayal, conquest, and atrocities. But in a world turned monstrous. Some will not give in to what instinct demand's them to be in order to survive. Only time and blood will tell who will stand victorious, or rule over nothing but an empire of the fallen. Note: Some chapters may be unfinished. Still a work in progress as I figure out storylines, structure and motivations. Faction Guide: Allied powers: Ocean Monarchy, Forest Federation, Desert Republic, Northern Coalition. Axis powers: South Pole Empire, Deep Sea Confederation, Savannah Sovereignty, Swampland Horde. Neutral/Territory: Volcanic Isles, Jungle Nation, Tropical Tribesmen, Nocturnal Nomads. Mercenary factions: Army Ant Raiders. Fire Ant's. Visual Reference For look and Art style of each faction: https://www.pinterest.com/freedomforclone/_saved/ Character/allegiance/title/species Guide: OCEAN MONARCHY: Shena Veso. Lieutenant. Hybrid Shark. Fereen Vosento. Corporal. Flying Fish. Whelios Whelorum. Retired. Octopus. Dregadon Veso. Deceased. Great White. Nora Veso. Widow. Great White Neso: Private/gunner. Tiger Vesa: Private/medic. Queen angel fish. Kiros: Sgt. Sea turtle. Argus. Admiral. Sailfish. Koa. Prime Minister. Sea otter. SOUTH POLE EMPIRE: Veadora. Empress. Albatross. Ryana. Princess. Albatross. Aravos. Exiled Prince/Warden. Albatross. Garotan. Varangian Guard. Polar Bear. Nea. Servant. White Seal. JUNGLE NATION: Naru. Hunter. Orb Weaver Spider. Esiva. Seamstress. Orb Weaver Spider Nadia. Archer. Orb Weaver Spider. Naya. Weaver. Orb Weaver Spider. SAVANNA SOVEREIGNTY: Ryo Sen Serasi: Janissary. King Cobra. Chai'ra. Janissary Apprentice. Cheetah. Kenno. Commander. Crocodile. Darg. Sgt. Warthog. NORTHERN COALITION: Boreca. Queen. Snow Leopard. FACTION FLAGS/SYMBOLS South Pole Empire: White winged Diamond, light blue background. Ocean Monarchy: Three golden Scallop Shells. Sea blue background. Savanna Sovereignty: Golden scarab in center of golden sun, black background. Volcano Islanders: Five different flame's one atop the other representing four different clans. Red, orange, black, blue and white. Yellow background. Tropical tribesmen: Pink waterlily amidst light green background. Nocturnal Nomads: White crescent moon, white star at center. Black background. North Pole Coalition: White Snowflake amidst grey background. Forest Federation: Five light brown interwoven branches representing five different federation states united as one. Forest Green Background. Swampland Horde: Ring of tan teeth, representing ancestors of death to honor in life. Murky green background. Deep Sea Confederation. Conjoined purple lightning bolt striking downward like jellyfish tendrils. Solid black background to represent darkness of the depths. Jungle Nation: Light Green Hexagonal jade ore stone. Dark green background. Desert Republic: ? Garotan the great army of the fist. Iron grey fist set between black and dark green background. Kashan the outlaw prince army of the claw. Blood red claw marks amid bright green background. Army Ant Raiders: White Ant skull amid blood red tattered flag.

When tragedy strikes, Elizabeth Stone's world crumbles. Orphaned at a tender age, she's forced to rebuild her life under her aunt's care, thanks to the generosity of her best friend's father. But the shadows of her past linger, shrouded in mystery. The sudden collapse of her father's company remains a dark secret, hidden from prying eyes. Years later, Elizabeth's life seems back on track. She's on the cusp of marrying her loving boyfriend, Andrew, after five blissful years together. But fate has other plans. A surprise visit to Andrew's apartment on his birthday unleashes a devastating truth: he's been betraying her trust with none other than her best friend, Penelope. The revelation shatters Elizabeth's world, leaving her heartbroken and questioning everything she thought she knew about love, loyalty, and friendship. With her heart in tatters, Elizabeth must navigate the treacherous landscape of her own emotions. Will she find solace in the familiarity of forgiveness, or will she brave the unknown and risk everything for a chance at true freedom? What will happen when she meets the handsome Kaius Blackwood, CEO of Blackwood Industries and the most influential bachelor in Snow City.

[WARNING: MATURE CONTENT] "My Winky is Gone?!" Su Yan exclaimed inwardly, grappling with the reality of his changed body. He was no longer the person he once was. Now he had reincarnated into a different world and inhabited the body of a woman whose name was Su Mu. In the blink of an eye, Su Yang's world turned to darkness as a truck staggered towards him, bringing an abrupt end to his life. To Su Yang's surprise, instead of an eternal void, He awakened in an unfamiliar room. As Su Yang stumbled to his feet, He couldn't help but notice the silver strands cascading down his reflection in the mirror—a stark contrast to the familiarity of his former self. A sense of bewilderment filled the air as he took in the surroundings, realizing that this was not the world Su Yang once knew. It wasn't just the change in scenery that caught his attention; it was his huge breasts, beneath the surface of the pink nightgown with a v-neck lace trim highlighting the gap between those huge breasts. He hesitantly examined himself, and there, in the nether region, undeniable alterations had taken place. The silver-haired beauty—a statuesque figure adorned with a pair of full, graceful breasts—stared back at herself in the mirror. Questions flooded Su Mu's mind. "How did this happen?!" she was turned into a beautiful woman with a perfect figure that could make anyone fall for her. But 'he' who has become 'she' is facing a major problem, and that is she can't make herself like men over women. "But, will I?"

"So, what do you want to do?" Audrey's voice was gentle yet probing, seeking a glimpse into the depths of my heart amidst the wreckage. "I want to forget it all," I replied, the words raw and desperate. "Forget our relationship, forget the lives I took." Fresh tears welled, blurring my vision. "Are you sure? Some memories are worth holding onto," she countered, her voice laced with worry, as if fearing I was making a choice I might regret. "Not when they hurt. Not when they're constant reminders of what could have been," I retorted, each word a painful admission. "I have a way," she said suddenly, a flicker of determination igniting her features. She headed upstairs, beckoning for me to follow. A small spark of curiosity flickered within me amidst my despair.

The story revolves around the life of Isla Ashcroft–a beautiful 18 year old soul and an orphan. She always dreamt of studying at Central High– a college known for its academic record and rich entitled kids. Her hardwork and determination finally paid off when she was offered a scholarship from her dream college. Central High was located in the heart of Crestwood.The black walls and the charcoal grey interior were laced with mysteries and darkness. It felt as if the entire college was hiding secrets of its own. Isla officially joined Central High. Little did she know,her arrival at Central High would set a chain of events–drowning her in a web of love,lust and mysteries. Her life took unexpected turns when she met Zayn Blackwood–the 19 year old ruthless bully of Central High.

WSA 2025 ENTRY In a brutal world where weakness is a sin, Kael'tar reigned as the Demon Emperor for a thousand years—until his trusted general betrayed and killed him. Reincarnated into the lower realm, unfortunately, he’s not reborn as a mighty prince or a powerful warrior—he’s stuck in the body of a weak, lowly farmer. Stripped of his power and status, he faces a harsh new reality where survival is a daily struggle. Kael'tar looked at his hands: "I went from ruling empires to milking cows. What a downgrade." Kael'tar sighed dramatically. Kael'tar looked at his reflection in a muddy puddle, wearing tattered clothes "Great. Betrayed, killed, and now... I'm a farmer? I used to command armies, strike fear into the hearts of those so-called Gods, and now? I’m picking vegetables. Perfect. Maybe next life I can be reincarnated as a sword or a throne. At least they get to sit in one place and look important." "Alright, Kael'tar. Time to climb back to the top. One problem at a time. First: Figure out how to stop being dirt-poor. Second: Don’t get killed by farm animals. Third: Take over the world again. Simple." Can the fallen Demon Emperor rise again, or will this new life break him for good? The journey begins, and the world will tremble once more.

Between the howls and wails, the screams and cries of women being raped, and the villagers being eaten and butchered like cattle, there was a middle-aged man who was desperately running away while yelling his lungs out. ''Why.... WHY!!! YOU ABSOLUTE FUCKERS!!!'' His clothes were in tatters and marred in blood, with his body being barely able to function. His state was simply beyond recognition. As for where he was running to... It didn't matter... He just wanted to flee the hellish scene that was unfolding behind him. His remote village, the one he had lived in his entire life, was now a fiery beacon illuminating the night. ''Whyyyyy areeeeeee youuuuuuuuuu runninnnnnnnnnnng awwaaayyyy froooooom usssssssss?'' Terrifying low growls and voices could be perceived behind him, and every time he heard them, his body released adrenaline to try to override its limits, but to no avail as his injuries were just too severe. The humanoid creatures pursuing him were like shadows, barely distinguishable through the cover of the night. Their eyes, akin to black holes, were fixed on their prey as it struggled for its pathetic life. Their faint and sinister giggles kept reverberating through the darkness... *** As blood rushed up his throat and leaked at the corners of his mouth, his sinister appearance aggravated to where he resembled a devil. During his maniacal laugh, his punctured lungs had finally given out, causing his whole body to collapse on the ground and dyeing it a scarlet shade. His mind went blank, while his consciousness left his battered body. *** After what appeared to be a few minutes, he suddenly woke up. He was startled at first, but he soon realized that he had indeed died. Everything around him was black, without an ounce of life in sight. He was basically a spirit floating in the absolute void. ''So this is what happens when you die... You just drift in darkness... That's actually underwhelming. I wonder if I'll just fade away'' When Derrick's thoughts started to drift, a prompt appeared in front of him. [Welcome to System Nemesis, Derrick Tarlin] [Would you like to seek revenge? Yes/No]

Selene, a girl haunted by a cruel stepmother and the memory of her mother, found herself caught in a royal web of obligation. A decree from the king demanded a marriage of convenience—a forced union with Prince Damon, rumored to be the devil himself. Her stepmother, driven by her own wicked ambitions, shoved Selene into this treacherous arrangement, forcing her to stand in for the step-mother’s daughter, Merceline. Damon, the brooding second prince of Beville, was under pressure from his family to marry. He'd always kept a distance, but when he met Selene, with her startlingly vibrant green eyes, something shifted within him. There was a spark, a connection he couldn't ignore. This wasn't just a political alliance; it felt... different. "Selene, look at me. It's not what you think," Damon urged, his voice low and husky. "Stop," Selene whispered, backing away, her heart hammering against her ribs. "I don't want to hear anything." Damon's touch, though gentle at first, lingered on her skin. He wanted to reach into the turmoil he saw in her eyes, to unravel the secrets she held within. "I love you, Selene, my sweet wife," he murmured, his voice laced with a desperate plea. "I can't hide it anymore." Selene, caught in a whirlwind of feelings, found herself drawn to Damon's intensity. He was everything she'd never dared to hope for. But deep down, a fear of the unknown lurked within her. "Answer me, wife," he pressed. "I... I don't know what to say," she stammered, her breath catching in her throat. "I didn't hear that," he said, a hint of steel in his tone. "Repeat yourself." His touch tightened. He pinched her chin, and a flicker of pain laced her confusion, but he quickly followed that with a tender kiss on her chin, smoothing away any sign of distress. "Give me time to sort out my feelings before I confess to you," Selene whispered, her voice barely audible. Her heart pounded. "Good," Damon murmured, and then, with no warning, his lips met hers. Their encounter was just the beginning of a dangerous game. Their forced marriage hid a passion that burned hotter than any decree, and one question hung heavy in the air: could their hearts find a way through the politics and deceit, or would the rumors of the devil prince become a chilling reality?

[WARNING: MATURE CONTENT] Euphy woke up in a desolate, abandoned bunker with no memory of how she got there. Stripped of her past and with no clues who she was, she was relying on the mysterious food supplies being delivered through a dumbwaiter to survive—until one day, they stopped. Forced to venture into the unknown, Euphy embarks on a perilous journey for survival, uncovering secrets that entangle her in a web of misfortune. As she navigates this dangerous world, she must confront her forgotten past and a royal who seeks to claim her for his own. Her quest for truth turned into a desperate fight for her very existence and freedom. Will Euphy escape the web of misfortune, or will it consume her? ** The king’s gaze flicked back to her, but this time, it seemed colder, more deliberate. His eyes swept over her torn camisole. “Who did this to her?” His voice was eerily calm, yet the weight of the question hung in the air like a storm cloud. She froze, not daring to speak, her heart thudding loudly in her chest. “I did, Your Majesty,” Count Greyfang answered, his tone almost smug, as if he expected approval. Her blood boiled at the casual cruelty in his voice. “Why?” the king asked, uninterested, his gaze fixed on Greyfang with a dangerous indifference. “I... I thought you would like it if she appeared... tattered,” Greyfang stammered, his earlier arrogance faltering under the king’s scrutiny. The king’s eyes narrowed, a cold menace creeping into his voice. “And what made you think I’d like that?” Before Greyfang could answer, there was a sudden, swift movement—a breeze cutting through the stillness of the room. Without warning, Greyfang’s head plopped to the ground, rolling a few feet away from his body before the lifeless form crumpled to the floor. She gasped, her eyes snapping shut in terror as the room plunged into silence. She could hear the sickening thud of Greyfang’s body, but she didn’t dare open her eyes. The rest of the room remained eerily quiet, as if the sudden execution had been expected. The king, sitting loosely on his throne, and unbothered, simply muttered, “Insolent bastard. Dare to compare me to a lustful animal.” He waved a hand dismissively. “Get this filthy thing out of my sight.” She flinched, fearing for a moment that he had referred to her, but the sound of heavy boots dragging Greyfang’s lifeless body confirmed otherwise. She kept her eyes tightly shut, too afraid to witness any more horror. The coldness in the king’s tone, the casual cruelty of his actions—it left her trembling. ** OTHER STORIES: Miss Not so Typical: Consider me Humored Too Gay for You: You Give me Heart Eyes A Night in the Galaxy Express Railway Join the discord: https://discord.gg/mCBYVgW8MH

WARNING: Mature Content The story of a knight who has fallen in love with his queen. It was nothing but that, a simple plot for a fairytale, or was it? He stood proud at seven feet, everything looked minuscule in his sight. He towers above all knights who looked at him with disgust and alarm. He was one of the rebels not long ago, but for an undisclosed reason, he has betrayed his so-called 'brother at arms' for a seat at the round table. People murmured whenever he passes them by, the atmosphere itself was laced with terror as this all muscled barbarian held his head high. Panic in the hearts of many was evoked by his presence alone as he stood before the queen who was forced to face him. "My queen," he knelt before her, and even yet the queen had to look up from her throne to meet his eyes. The frail queen was very small compared to him, her fragile countenance barely reached five feet and her innocent face makes her look like a child. He took in the vision of her as she sat there, trying to look brave as she met his eyes. His queen, the reason why he risked it all and will risk it all again. She sat on the throne judging his motives and all the while fearing him. Was she disgusted by him too? He can't tell. The crowd disappeared and all thoughts from his mind were gone as he was faced with her. She has dark auburn hair that reached past her shoulders, small lips that curled into a thin smile, and eyes that expressed her immense disgust and anger for what she had labeled him in her mind - one of the reasons for the destabilization of her kingdom. He wants it all, all of what she offers. Her beauty, her brilliance, her frailties... at that moment he realized, he wanted all of her.

Ethan Cole was, by all appearances, an ordinary young man navigating the familiar ups and downs of life—until the night everything changed. That was when he encountered the "Unlimited System." This mysterious system didn't merely make Ethan wealthy—it granted him unimaginable riches and set him on a path that was both exhilarating and perilous. The catch? Each mission the system assigns doesn't just test his wit and resolve; it also unlocks incredible powers, elevating him to new heights of strength and influence. But this isn't just a tale of lavish spending and indulgence—though those moments certainly add flavor! Ethan's journey is laced with challenges, each step bringing him closer to reshaping his destiny. From building NovaTech Innovations into a technological marvel to buying a football club and even creating an app poised to revolutionize the food delivery industry, Ethan's rise is nothing short of meteoric. And yet, the further he climbs, the more he discovers the shadows lurking behind his newfound success. Beneath the surface lies a hidden world—a world ruled by the Great Families, an elite group whose wealth is only part of their power. For these families, strength is the ultimate currency, and disputes are settled not in boardrooms but in combat arenas. Whether through sparring matches or life-and-death duels, they prove their dominance with skill, strategy, and sheer might. Drawn into this dangerous realm of secret societies, high-stakes confrontations, and unrelenting ambition, Ethan must use every ounce of his intelligence, strength, and ingenuity to navigate the intricate web of power that surrounds him. Expect a whirlwind of twists, heart-pounding action, and moments of sheer wonder. From outsmarting ruthless rivals to unraveling the enigmatic traditions of the elite families, Ethan's journey is as unpredictable as it is thrilling. It's a story where rules bend, reality tilts, and every turn brings something unexpected. [A Friendly Note: If you find, after reading a few chapters, that this story doesn't suit your taste, please feel free to set it aside. There's no need for complaints or condemnations—I'm simply writing this for the joy of it and for those who find delight in the journey. Constructive feedback is always welcome, but I must admit I don't have the time or inclination to engage with negativity. Let's keep the spirit of fun alive!] [One last note: This story unfolds in a world similar to ours, but not quite the same. Don't be surprised if everyday rules of finance, law, or logic occasionally bow to the demands of adventure and storytelling. After all, where's the fun in sticking to the ordinary?]

The final, venomous echoes that reached his ears were laced with sorrowful cries, "I shall seek you out once more, and you will atone for the slaughter of my kin. Not even the grave can shield you from my fury." ******* Silas appeared to possess it all: a devoted girlfriend, loving parents, and a steadfast best friend who kept him grounded. He was navigating the labyrinth of college life, aspiring to earn a doctorate. Then, fate twisted its knife. One fateful day, a beguiling figure emerged from the shadows of an alley. A lifeless form lay sprawled upon the frigid concrete, blood trickling from her lips, shimmering like rubies beneath the pale moonlight. Her eyes, a haunting shade of crimson, held a universe of secrets, countless revelations, yet devoid of any trace of humanity. This enigmatic girl, known as Keira, was the last of her lineage, her family brutally extinguished by the hands of a former lover. For centuries, she has wandered the earth, seeking the reincarnation of the one who betrayed her in the most despicable manner. Those aware of the supernatural tremble at her name, for death and despair cling to her like a relentless shadow, a malignant curse. Will they unravel the enigma of their shared, sorrowful history before the sands of time run out, or will Keira thirst for vengeance and her obsession with Silas spell doom for them all? Can they uncover the truth behind the massacre of her family? Was Silas the traitor, or does a deeper tale lie hidden in the shadows?

Barlon Sena is a boy who lived a boring life, his only happiest moments were with his Grandfather who made him have good times, forgetting his life situation. However, everything changes when his grandfather dies, leaving nothing more than a cap that he wore on his fishing trips. What no one knew was that that tattered and harmless cap held great power. Fisherman's tales were never lies.

On the day I was born, my village was struck by a series of bizarre events. First, Old Wang's white-haired dog, which had been with him for eight years, donned a black robe and stood upright, wandering the streets before stopping at my house to bow. Meanwhile, a horde of unusually large rats with blood-red eyes scurried through the streets, gathering at my doorstep and refusing to leave. This unusual sight enraged the village cats, sparking a fierce battle. Contrary to their usual behavior, the rats fearlessly clashed with the cats, leading to a gruesome scene with casualties on both sides. The villagers watched in stunned silence, while the elderly commented that such unnatural occurrences were omens of chaos as per ancient beliefs. That night, the strange occurrences continued with eerie opera singing emanating from an open space near my home. Curious onlookers ventured out only to discover the performers were figures made of paper, and the audience was a motley crew of supernatural beings surrounding a coffin. Inside the coffin, an old woman watched the spectacle with great interest. This sight terrified the villagers, who fled back to their homes, praying fervently for divine intervention from every deity they knew. The entire village, including my family, spent a sleepless night in fear. The following day, the creatures had vanished, leaving behind a mess that confirmed the night's events were not a dream. In rural areas, such supernatural incidents were often taken seriously, causing widespread alarm and speculation about a curse on my family. My grandfather, dressed in tattered clothes, rushed from the mountains and without explanation, began to beat my father and uncles severely, afterwards holding me and weeping bitterly. He ominously remarked that I was born a "bearer of sins, despised by both humans and ghosts," hinting at a mysterious affliction tied to my existence. That night, I developed a high fever and struggled between life and death, with my grandfather and uncles fighting off a malevolent spirit attempting to drain my life force. They fell ill from the ordeal, taking a month to recover. Years later, I learned of my grandfather's reasons for naming me Zhang Jiu Zui, meaning "Nine Sins," reflecting the burdens I carried from birth. Despite my introverted nature, inherited from my father's quiet demeanor, my grandfather took pride in my disinterest in worldly affairs, often taking me to his well-kept but humble abode filled with books on exorcism, folklore, and esoteric knowledge. I spent years immersed in these tales of demons and diviners, shaping my understanding of the world until academic pressures from high school forced me to visit less. My high school years ended in disappointment when illness ruined my chances at university exams, an event my grandfather oddly celebrated as fortunate. After deciding to retake the exams, my life took an unexpected turn when several luxury cars arrived at our village, heading straight for my grandfather's humble home. The well-dressed occupants from the cars approached with formal documents, knocking on his door with a sense of urgency and respect.

“Is Mr. Angelis there?” a hurried voice asked. The man introduced himself as Dereck. “No, Matt isn’t home. He’s in Brisbane until tomorrow,” Colette replied, her tone flat and resigned. She was ready to end the call and retreat back to the comfort of her bed when Dereck’s response froze her in place. He laughed. “Oh, is that what he told you?” A cold drop of fear slithered down her spine. “What is that supposed to mean?” she asked, her voice barely above a whisper, a mixture of fear and anger lacing her words. There was a pause on the other end of the line, and Colette could almost hear the gears turning in Dereck’s mind as he realized his slip. “What?” She stammered, before abruptly cutting the call. Matheo would attend the gala with Iris, and they would be the perfect couple, the power duo that everyone admired. Meanwhile, Colette would be here, in this cold, empty house, a prisoner of her own despair. The realization was suffocating, the betrayal too deep to bear. Her heart ached with a pain so intense it felt physical, a crushing weight that left her gasping for breath. She sat down on the edge of the bed, her body trembling with a mixture of rage and sorrow. Tears streamed down her face, but she made no move to wipe them away. What was the point? The man she had loved with all her heart, the man she had trusted implicitly, had chosen another over her. He had lied to her, betrayed her, and now he was flaunting that betrayal in the most public way possible. But this was new! Now, he had started lying to her. So, that he could attend the gala with Iris without his "stupid, unreasonable" wife demanding to be taken to a public place with him? He wouldn’t want that burden on him now, would he? No, Iris would look much better in his arms, cool and sophisticated, with her intellectual talks to charm his potential investors. She knew the ins and outs of his business and it wouldn’t be the first time he had taken her to such events. The thought made Colette’s stomach churn. But tonight, something snapped inside her. The dead flower of her heart, long withered from neglect and betrayal, turned to a crisp. She had been humiliated, shamed, hidden away in secret, and lied to. Matheo had been afraid she would embarrass him? Now she would show him what true embarrassment felt like. Maybe her marriage was over. Maybe her husband had only ever wanted her for one thing: sex. If that was the case, then tonight, she would be the epitome of sex. She would get ready to seduce him in public, and the whole world would see the actual of their marriage before she left him forever. If he wanted her as the whore, he will get the whore.