Imai Akuma was about to go to sleep when he got an email from an unknown sender. The email included a questionnaire title, "What 10 things would you pick if you were suddenly transported to a new world?". After filling out the questionnaire and going to sleep, he wakes up in a cave with a different appearance. What happened to him and what will life bring his way?

On the beach, Yve has fallen asleep beside Vince after eating the food they bought. Her workload plus the things that Vince revealed tired her up.  Having understood all of this, Vince carried her back to the car and settled her in the front seat and drove back to the hotel.

After ensuring that Yve is comfortable on the bed, he went to the bathroom to freshen up only to be interrupted by Sylvan.
"What is it?"
"Primo, they found a report about Nyelle's mother. I sent the details to your email."
"Okay. Thanks."

Thinking that it must be urgent for even Sylvan to call him late at night, he went to his study to check his email. He didn't like what he read and for sure Yve wouldn't like this, too. But he's bound by the promise they made at the beach.

---
A few hours ago while eating on the beach
--

"Vince?"
"Hmm?" Vince said as he stopped eating to look at Yve doing the same thing to him.
"To be honest, I feel nervous knowing the dangers that being in the underworld might bring."
"Do you want me to quit?"
Yve looked at him and said, "As if it would be that easy to quit."
"So what do you want me to do?"
"Just be honest with me."
"...."
"I don't need you to tell me the specifics especially when it doesn't concern me. Don't make lies like you're going for a business trip or something. Just tell me you need to do something Primo-like."
"Primo-like, ei…" 
"..."
"Please, Vince. Other than that, I want you to ensure your safety as well. After that, I guess everything is fine with me."
"I promise." 

---
Back at the present
--
Vince took a deep breath and turned his laptop off and decided to tell Yve everything tomorrow morning. Before heading for bed, he instructed Sylvan to inform the police station that both of them are coming in the afternoon for their interview.  He finally took a shower and slept. 

The following morning, Yve was the first one to wake up and so she took the responsibility to prepare a simple breakfast for both of them. A few moments later, she saw Vince coming down from his room with a brown envelope in his hands. She decided to ignore it thinking it was related to Gray Group.

"Good morning, King!"
"Good morning, my Yve." Vince said and kissed Yve on the forehead.

But his next actions caused Yve to be curious. Vince pulled back a chair for her and urged her to take the seat. Yve decided to follow and was handed with the envelope. She gave him a questionable look.

"As much as I would like to hide it from you but a promise is a promise." Vince said as he went to the kitchen and served the food on the table. 
Yve reads the contents of the envelope and was shocked to see the title. 
"Did you held them captive?" Yve asked.
"Yes."
"How are they?"
"Nyelle is doing much better than your step sister."
"I want to see Nyelle now. Take me to her."
Vince knew about this but didn't say anything. He sat on one of the chairs and looked at her.
"How about your interview in the police station?"
"Ahh!! I almost forgot! I'll call Sylvan to…"
"There's no need. Upon receiving the report late last night, I ordered Sylvan to postpone your interview. It will this afternoon with me." Vince explained.
"Thanks. So, will you take me to where you're keeping her?"
"Do I have a choice?"
"NO!"
"Then to avoid your dangerous methods, I'd rather take you there myself before my subordinates kill you."
Yve swallowed her saliva in fear of what she heard but in the happiness of Vince's decision, she hugged her and whispered,
"Thank you so much."

Today is another busy day for me. Work and home are the only places I go to for the past 3 years. The end of THAT relationship ended my happy, easy-going life. But then, when I think about it, it was not his fault but mine. My friends would tell me that I need to move on. I HAVE MOVED ON. It's just I don't want any side trips anymore in my life. I have my dreams and I am working hard for it. Little did I know what the destiny has installed for me.

"Mom, I still love her. She ended the relationship without any valid reason and I didn't agree."

"But son, what if the reason is that she doesn't love you anymore? Isn't that a reason valid enough for you?"

"I have to know it this time, mom. I did try to go out on dates but still failed. I think meeting her again will help me know what is happening with me."

"I guess I have no other choice. But remember, don't let her disrupt your plans and the family's business."

"I know, mom. Steph, book my flight to the Philippines tomorrow."

"Vincent! Why are you in so much rush?!"

"Because I believe that the early bird gets the worm."



Just wait for me, Yve. I will get you back by hook or by crook.

+++
Sylvester dropped the landline receiver after speaking
with Agent Dakolo, he sat back into his seat, trying to
decide whether to attend to the Agent's request first or to
follow after Henry. He chose the latter and got up from
his seat. He picked up his phone from the table and
proceeded out of the office.
Two minutes later, he was seated in the visitor's seat
behind Henry's table. Henry wasn't paying much
attention to him but was focused on his work on the
laptop.
'Here's what I wanted to show you' Henry quickly handed
a paper to Sylvester and turned back to his laptop. 'How
was the interview? What position did she apply for?'
Henry asked.
'There was no interview' Sylvester answered without
taking a look at the paper he was handed. 'She only came
to submit her credentials in person'
'I see' Henry said in a low voice, acting less interested.
'You thought I invited her over for an interview?'
'Yes, of course. You are the Boss here and you don't need
my permission to interview anybody' Henry answered
with a slight chuckle.
'But we already agreed to work with those available and
not to take in anyone else for now. I wouldn't go against
our agreement'
Henry paused and looked up, he fastened his eyes on
Sylvester's face. 'I didn't suggest that in anyway' He said
and turned his face back to the laptop. 'Oh! You thought
that was the reason I didn't agree to see her?'
'What else could be the reason?'
'I wasn't aware of the interview before, neither do I know
the position the interview is for so I didn't think I had any
business to do with her' Henry answered, keeping a light
smile on his face.
Sylvester remained quiet for a while, staring at Henry's
face. He had thought Henry was angry but Henry's
demeanor and words have proved him wrong.
'So what do you …' Henry paused on seeing that Sylvester
had not checked the paper given to him. 'Come on, read
what's there'
Sylvester picked the paper and scanned briefly through
it. 'When did you start working on this?'
'It wasn't my work, Dayo did it' Henry replied. Dayo was
the new employee that was taken in the week before.
'It looks good but we have to find how crackable these
codes are' Sylvester commented.
'That's why I was in your office then, I wanted to check
through your history log but I've been able to check it
from here'
'So, are they crackable?'
'Yes, it's even made up of very easy combinations'
'Does that make it usable or not?'
'It's not usable. It would be easily cracked by the
opposition'
Sylvester folded the paper and dropped it on the table.
'Agent Dakolo called some minutes ago, he'll be here in
the afternoon to get a report on all that we've been doing
concerning the breach we've been experiencing'
'Okay, I've been expecting him to ask for it. I prepared a
report already and he doesn't even need to come here,
we could mail it to him' Henry said.
'I think he'll also like to get some explanations, that's why
he wants to come physically' Sylvester put in.
'No problem, we'll be ready for him'
'So what do we do now with Mr Dayo's piece?' Sylvester
asked as he got up from the chair, ready to leave for his
office.
'We'll just keep it and keep working, we need something
deeper' Henry tapped the enter key on her laptop
keyboard in a loud manner and then relaxed into his
seat, signifying that he was through with what he was
doing. He stared up at Sylvester's face. 'You know we are
trying to entrap this group, so we have to be wiser than
they are. We cannot afford to use simple keys and scripts
in tackling them, that'll be making mockery of ourselves'
'Alright then' Sylvester shrugged and turned to leave.
~~~
**Kabakawa, Batagarawa Katsina, Katsina State. **
After lodging in an hotel for two days, the team finally
moved into the rented apartment for which they had
paid the rent fee for a year. The house wasn't too
expensive but it was big enough to contain all of them. It
was already furnished to their taste before they moved
in.
They had chosen a flat with three bedrooms in the two
storey building house with a total of six flats. Theirs was
located by the left side on the middle floor. Tarasha had
carefully chosen an apartment for them in an open area
this time, it would reduce the rate of unnecessary
suspicions. But they also had to be extra careful and
watchful.
It was Monday morning and work had begun already.
Cole was seated behind a table, composing an email on
his laptop to inform the Ata's foundation of their team's
arrival into the country. Benny was in one of the rooms
where he and Cole had chosen for themselves, arranging
the new arms and ammunitions into the wardrobe. He
neatly arranged the various sizes of bullets and sealed
explosives in a section. He arranged the pistols in another
section and long guns in another. The last section was
used to store his clothes and Cole's.
Aisha was also in her room, setting the place in the order
she wanted. She hissed on seeing the little bag of clothes
which she brought to the place. Although the bag was
actually the biggest bag amongst all bags of clothes the
team had brought, she still thought it to be small. Their
kind of job would not satisfy her desire to always take
her best clothes around town.
She hissed again as she saw herself in the mirror on
bending to arrange the makeup kits placed in front of the
mirror. What did she even need the clothes for now that
her hair was gone? She looked like a man, she thought.
She gave a brief mockery laugh at herself as she rubbed
her palms on the head. She then turned back to pick a
small case which contained more makeup kits. That
wasn't for her but for the team, the team would
frequently need to change their appearances on this
operation. Another small bag was lying beside the case, it
contained camouflage materials like artificial beards,
masks, wigs and even skinlike gloves.
Benny walked into the living room after he was done with
arranging the tools, he met Cole already closing his
laptop.
'Have you finished typing the email?' He asked as he
moved to sit on the couch.
'Yes, we'll see it when we come back from the boutique'
Cole answered, standing up with his closed laptop in his
hand.
'You want us to go now?' Benny seemed not too
comfortable with the idea.
'Yes, what else should we do now?'
'Why don't you send the email now and let's see their
reply, they may probably engage you in a chat' Benny
tried to convince Cole.
'I've sent the mail to the Boss first for vetting, until she
replies us we cannot forward it to the foundation' Cole
responded with a wry look on his face. 'Dust your lazy a-s
and let's go out to get the clothes now. I'll go get Aisha.'
With that Cole walked away, leaving Benny who remained
on the seat tiredly. For Benny, it was always fun to get
new clothes but this one was different, the clothes would
have to be disposed off at the end of the operation.
~~~
**Abuja**
2pm
'You went this far?' Dakolo stared Henry in the face as he
read the report provided to him. 'Even the US CCTV
officials have not discovered up to this, nice job' he
commended cheerfully jamming his palms together.
'Thank you sir' Henry smiled.
'The only thing that looks similar in this their report is…'
Dakolo began but stopped abruptly. He bent to bring out
the report from the US CCTV from his small brief case
which was placed by the leg of the chair he was seated.
He placed the binded four pages report on Henry's table.
Sylvester was the first to pick up the report and open it.
Dakolo opened back Henry's report which was still in his
hands. He began to flip the pages until he got to the last.
'Here' he said, pointing a particular area on the page.
'This code looks similar to theirs'
Henry bent forward to look at where Dakolo was
pointing. Dakolo handed it over to him to have a better
view.
" BN 10354
' Encrypt XL
<< — t.a.r– n.e.f — >>
Run script = enter '
>>"
That was one of the most mysterious encryption code
Henry had ever come across. He had never seen the key
words anywhere else before and since he discovered the
script, he not been able to decrypt it.
Dakolo collected the report Sylvester was holding and
opened to the second page. 'Here ' he pointed another
area to for Henry to look at. The encryption script Henry
saw in the US report was similar to the one in his report.
"BN 20679
'Encrypt XL
<< — s.e.r— n.e.f — >>
Run script = enter '
>>"
'What??' Henry's lips vibrated as he fixed his eyes on the
code, looking slightly baffled. He took his eyes off to
Dakolo face. 'The assassin group is larger than we
thought, it's a worldwide organization'
Dakolo licked his lips slowly and silently as he watched
Henry fix his eyes again to the report.
'Can I…' Sylvester who was anxious to see the correlation
stretched forth his hand impatiently to collect the
reports from Henry.
'So now that we know that we are dealing with a
worldwide assassin group, we have to up our game'
Dakolo finally spoke. 'Your engineers have to be
informed about what they are dealing with. And I think
the corporation has to establish a strong connection with
the US corporation'
'Wow! I wasn't aware that there have been breaches in
the CCTV operations in the US too' Henry spoke in low
tones, relaxing his back in the seat.
'There have been' Dakolo replied him, tapping a finger on
the table as he stared into the air and inhaled. 'The breaks
always comes during the period of assassinations just like
ours'
'Hmm… Same strategies, same codes' Henry said
thoughtfully.
Dakolo stared at Henry's face for a moment. 'Henry E.G, I
need to ask you some questions' Dakolo stated after a
brief moment of silence.
Henry sat upright and adjusted himself to pay attention,
surprised at the Agent's sudden change of tone. 'What
questions sir?'
'You were kidnapped recently' Dakolo paused and stared
at Henry's face, noticing a change. It was obvious to him
that Henry wasn't comfortable with the new subject.
'Yes sir' Henry confirmed reluctantly.
'It happened after you got a job from the late Chief Jubril
Lawal?' Dakolo continued, making sure he maintained
eye contact with Henry. Henry noticed this and decided
to try as much as possible to hide his expressions, else
the Agent would extract every information from him
even if he tried to lie.
'Yes, I don't know if the job was for Chief Jubril but it was
brought to us by one of his workers' Henry answered.
'Chief Jubril sent him' Sylvester quickly put in.
Dakolo took a glance at Sylvester and fixed his eyes back
to Henry's face. 'Let's talk about your abduction first. It
lasted for less than a day. How did you escape?'
'I was told that they left us to go after they had a
disagreement amongst themselves' Henry replied.
'You were told?'
'Yes, I was knocked out. I only opened my eyes after
we've moved far away from there'
'You and your girlfriend?'
'No, but a very close lady friend'
'Well, I don't need to go into details of how you were
abducted that day. I know that you have been questioned
about that already.' Dakolo adjusted to a more
comfortable seating position and placed his chin on his
right fist. 'You mentioned during your interrogation with
the police that your suspect was Dare, Chief Jubril's son?'
'Yes' Henry confirmed with a nod.
'But you didn't mention to me that you've seen him
recently' Dakolo frowned.
'Sir, we've not really been able to discuss personal
matters since you came into town'
'That's true.' Dakolo paused and turned to Sylvester who
was already clearing his throat to announce his desire to
leave since he felt he wasn't concerned with the
questioning.
'Mr Sylvester' Dakolo called with a chuckle. 'You have to
wait, I also have some questions for you too.' Sylvester
nodded in reply and comported himself. Dakolo turned
back to Henry.
'Let's push the personal matters aside for now' Dakolo
continued with Henry. 'Did you ever think that the kidnap
could be related to the job brought by the late Chief's
PA?'
'No' Henry replied sharply after narrowing his eyes
thoughtfully.
'You don't think so?'
'Yes, I don't' Henry shook his head in negative to
emphasize. He thought again briefly. Omotara was the
suspect behind the number he was investigating, so was
it really possible that she had planned their kidnap.
'So you insist that it could have only been Dare Lawal?'
Dakolo pressed. 'Wait' he cut in before Henry could
speak. 'What was the result of your investigation?'
Henry's heartbeat increased thrice in speed. The question
he was scared of have been finally asked. Was he now
going to turn Omotara in? Knowing fully well that Agent
Dakolo would not stop until he fishes out who Alexander
Evelyn really was and probably even associate her with
the Chief's assassination which Henry believed Omotara
was innocent about.

This story is about a Lady Assassin who was
trained in Russia, specially skilled in the art and
carrying out the job with no fears, restraints or
apologies.
She became so powerful and was greatly feared
by several of her male counterparts, including
some of the masters who trained her. She hated
so many things, God was number one on her
hatred list.
She came down to Nigeria and was still involved
in her profession until she met someone who
was willing to help her start a new life.
But people from the past came into her life
bringing back old memories. Then she met her
match, another fierce assassin

Today, Old Master Lu was very happy. It could be said that all his gloominess from before had been swept away. Initially, he had been terrified to have taken on such a horrible form. Although he had told everyone he was an ice-cream, he had known exactly what sort of creature he looked like in his heart.
Everyone in the surroundings had been mocking him, telling him to evolve into a pile of shit...or simply a bag of fertilizer.
Truthfully speaking, in this game that didn't allow one to delete their accounts regardless of what they evolved into, he wasn't able to accept it!
After spending his time in agony for two days, he finally gathered the courage and went to ask the instructor as to what he would evolve into. In the end, when he moved nearer to the instructor, the overlord next to her already pointed at him and cried out in alarm, "Feathers, a ball of feathers!"
At that moment, his heart turned cold!
But in the end, the instructor's next sentence was that he was a phoenix seed. Upon hearing that, he suddenly felt joy as though he just struck the lottery!
Until now, he was still feeling dizzy.
(I am an awesome phoenix?)
(Wahahaha, as expected...the heavens help those who help themselves!)
(Didn't I say that I've been attracting online traffic every day with my posts for the game. Even if I didn't get any credit for it, I did still work hard, right? How can the game bear to let me evolve into shit?)
He, who was still lost in excitement and happiness, suddenly received an email from the official game station.
"Dear player [My ancestor Old Master Lu didn't Cheat]. Hello, firstly, the game's backstage staff want to thank you for your selfless promotion of the game. Through the discussion of the work team, in order to thank you for your support, we gave you a special reward, granting you the bloodline of a hidden job. You should have already received it in game. But yesterday, the game's A.I. reported that all the elf players displayed immense dissatisfaction toward you possessing a hidden job. Hence, we hope that you could write another article regarding the strategy guide about the benefits of ordinary elf jobs to placate them. As for the information needed, we have already sent it to your email. In the future, the work team will give you remuneration according to the effects of your guide. We also hope that you can continue to support our game. Thank you!"
Signing off: Xiye Game Studio, sincerely wishing you well.
After receiving the email, Old Master Lu was stunned for some time. He then shouted in excitement, "As expected!!"
After that, he read through the content of the email many times, tears flowing down his face. As expected, his hard work wasn't wasted. The game studio truly had a conscience. His ancestor must be blessing him, allowing him to acquire a hidden job.
When he thought of this, he hurriedly replied to the email.
"Hello to every boss in the gaming studio. Firstly, I am really very honored to be able to receive the recognition of the official game station. Being able to write for such a wonderful game product, it's really my, Lu Xiaowei's, glory to be able to do so. The humble me appreciates and admires the efforts of the work team very much. Such an era-crossing game yet still choosing to treat the players so well. In addition, there are no moods to purchase anything in-game at all, resulting in the loss of a source of income for the gaming studio. I'm really very impressed by the work team's far-sighted strategy and will definitely do my very best to promote the game. I'll give all my meager strength to do so, and there's no need for your side to mention anything about remuneration. Lastly, I'm very thankful for the work team to grant me a hidden job. I wholeheartedly wish for [Star Ocean] to be popular, becoming a wondrous divine work that would never die off!"
Old Master Lu glanced at the email he wrote. After looking through a few times, he then carefully hit the reply button. He didn't expect his actions to be able to gain the notice of the official game station. This was truly a huge surprise. The excited him hurriedly tactfully declined the mention of remuneration.
He didn't care about this bit of remuneration. The cafes of his Lu Clan were extremely prosperous back in the time of his ancestor. Although the business had declined a lot when it came to his generation, he still wasn't thinking much for this bit of remuneration. Comparatively, he regarded the business value of this game much more highly.
Right now, the game showed no signs of earning any income by creating an in-game store. Since this was the case, this meant it was most probably planning to go for the gift card system, a one-time fee or a monthly fee system!
What did this represent?
This represented a huge business opportunity for the players.
As for charging a fee for in-game items, those p2w players wouldn't mind mindlessly throwing money at the game station. But then the space where top-quality players could perform would become very limited. If the balance of the in-game store was not that good, there was basically no space for normal players to perform. But if this game adopted the game style of [Titan], which implemented a one-time fee, things would be different!
Everyone would be on the same starting line. In that case, players who had spent a large amount of time and energy would have the advantage. This would also be fair as top-quality players had an even larger space to perform!
Originally, he felt that he no longer had an opportunity to make his ancestor's former glory to re-appear as he missed the starting phase of [Titan]. Yet, he didn't expect that he would encounter another divine work like [Star Ocean] in his robust years, and he even received such preferential treatment. This time around, if he couldn't succeed, he would truly have wasted the bloodline of his clan!
After all, his ancestor was a man who could go head-to-head with the number one mid-laner, FAKER, of the league of legends back then and boasted of a 50% win-rate against him. So, as his descendant, how could Old Master Lu's talent be weak?
When he thought of this, Old Master Lu grew increasingly emotional. He drew in a deep breath and opened up the information that the official game station had sent to him. He was preparing to use the information and write a good article. Maybe, they would then give him some good items in-game to reward him. This was a rare-to-come by backdoor chance; hence, he had to do this well.
Moreover, his hidden job was truly too ostentatious. Humans wouldn't worry about scarcity but uneven distribution. This hidden job of his would easily arouse jealousy in others. By writing this article well, he could lower the risks for himself.
Hence, he concentrated and read through the information. This read actually caused him to tremble. The system of this game was not ordinarily huge. If it wasn't because the game's performance in the early phase was so good, he even doubted if the game system could sustain balance when so many complex jobs were introduced. Just the elf race alone had so many jobs. There was even a note in the email saying that there would be even more races to choose from for new players in the future!
The more he thought about it, the higher the anticipation he felt in his heart for the game's later phase!
----------------------------------------
On the other hand, Xiye felt a little ashamed when he saw Old Master Lu's reply which stated that he didn't want any remuneration. Using his subject's natural talent like this while giving him nothing, even scamming him that his evolution into a phoenix seed was something given by the 'game', was this idea a little too dirty?
Could he really be a black-hearted overlord?
(Mn...This is just a makeshift stratagem due to my temporarily poor finances. In the future, when this overlord struck it rich, I will definitely treat these honest and simple indigenous players kindly.)
"Ding! Hello, respected Overlord Xiye. The few high-grade jobseekers you booked have already confirmed their interview timings. Do you want to meet with them?"
This voice caused Xiye who was thinking of other things to awaken from his stupor. After that, he collected his thoughts. This should be the reply sent to him by the talent network. He hurriedly opened up the email.
He read through the content. It basically stated that the recommended high-grade instructors were willing to meet him for an interview. Xiye felt his heart shake with excitement when he saw this. He stood up and rubbed his hands. He then instructed the A.I. to help him monitor the elves' evolution. He then prepared himself and headed out for a long journey.
As long as all of these things were settled, his first batch of basic combat force would appear and his large-scale expansion plan could finally be started!


Player: I'm a worker whose monthly salary doesn’t even hit $5,000. My monthly rental already takes up half of my salary, I don’t have a girlfriend and is reprimanded by my superior every day. However, I feel very happy because there has been a new virtual game recently. In the game, I have a powerful bloodline. Not only do I have my own fleet, I even have a powerful overlord that granted me a colonized planet. Although I know this is fake, but inside there, I found the meaning of my life!
Actually...the overlord who gave him the planet really wanted to tell him that this game wasn’t fake. (You really have your own fleet and colonized planet…) but the overlord knew that he couldn’t say this. Because, once he said it, these subjects who thought of themselves as ‘players’, would definitely not be as terrifyingly hardworking as now!!


Completing an interview looked as though there was only one on-camera reporter talking in front of the camera alone and it appeared as though it could be casually carried out anywhere and anytime but in fact, it was actually a huge project that required the precise cooperation of an entire professional team to complete, particularly an interview involving patronages.
Upon hearing the urging from the other side of the phone, Julie, an experienced interviewer, turned bright right away as she increased her pace. "Henry, I suddenly have a hunch that a good fortune is befalling us…"
"Your hunch is not bad, miss. That old fellow Patin actually quietly obtained an opportunity to interview the boss behind LS through some backdoor methods. In fact, even though that Asian skinny guy who looks prematurely senile always keeps a low profile, and there's a lot of 'news hit' on him. This is a very unusually rare opportunity. Seizing it will likely make you a real anchor... "
"Archers, you have 15 — no, 14 minutes to get to the Ocean Empire Building! We'll leave now immediately!" Stimulated by the words on the phone, the female reporter who rushed into the interview car yelled at the driver excitedly and shouted at her cell phone, "Of course I understand that this opportunity is very rare! Henry, stop talking, and quickly send me the information about the interview target and interview questions."
"Ok, I'll send them to you right away! I wish you success, girl!" The last sentence resonated from the other side of the phone and the call was hung up right away. After more than ten seconds later, when Cathy, who was the assistant, was fixing Julie's makeup, a compressed email was sent to the tablet of the female reporter.
Without wasting even one minute, Julie opened the mail impatiently while allowing Cathy to continue to touch up her face with a small delicate brush.
Due to the reason that the internet network in Noah World had just recently been established, and the sudden eruption of the chaotic war had turned to get a complete copy of the information into a dream. There was not much information about the young Asian boss of LS Group.
Other than some brief legendary introductions of how he had founded the LS slaughterhouse and established the foundation of the group that had a net worth of tens of billions of dollar at the age of seventeen, and had published a joint publishing paper in the world's top academic magazines such as 'Science' and 'Natural Biology' at almost the same time, and had directly entered Stanford to study a doctorate degree in Biology, there were only a few more news articles of mixed judgments.
Swiping her finger continuously to read all the information quickly, Julie was just about to study the interview question carefully when she suddenly found that the photo in the photo report on the tablet screen had an inexplicable familiarity, prompting her to murmur, "I should have seen this photo before but I don't have any impression about it at all. How strange…"
"Do you mean the photo of the boss behind LS, Miss?" Cathy, who had just finished touching up the makeup for Julie, tilted her head and looked at the tablet curiously, "Lisheng Zhang? This name is really familiar. Oh, that's right, Riley's Asian brother's name seems to sound like this as well. And their facial features are a bit similar. Maybe he can make an impression of the LS Group's boss ten years later if he starts to take drugs."
After becoming a god, Zhang Lisheng had become healthy and young, completely unlike his often pale and skinny appearance that he used to have when he had to feed his wizard guys with his blood essence.
On top of that, Asians looked similar in the eyes of the Westerners so even though the female reporter had sharp professional observations, she could not see through the truth just based on one old news photo.
She merely laughed and told her assistant, "Don't be so mean, Cathy. Riley is your good friend."
Since the time was pretty rush, Julie did not think too much and merely swiped the tablet and began to work out the interview questions.
At the same time, the interview car galloped under the hot sunshine of New Washington A and finally arrived at the entrance of the Ocean Empire Hotel early about ten minutes later.
"We've arrived, miss. 11 minutes and 47 seconds! It's a miracle! It looks like my destiny is not to be an ordinary interview driver but an F1 driver, isn't it?" The driver with a brownish-red Mexican face of the interview car remarked proudly as he parked the car steadily.
"The reason you could make such a miracle today is because you haven't encountered any red light all the way, and there's no red light on the F1 track anyway, so you know what? Just drive your interview car with peace, Archers." Jotting down the key point of the interview speedily, Julie breathed a long sigh of relief and got out of the car. Together with her assistant, photojournalist, lighting engineer, and so on, she entered the hotel.
Unlike the hot and dry weather peculiar to the daytime of a sandy oasis city outside, the lobby of the Ocean Empire Hotel, which had a combination of natural scenery and modern civilization, was cool and humid. Unfortunately, before the female reporter and her group of followers could even catch their breath, the reception staff of the LS Group had already gone up to greet them together with a group of their NBC TV colleagues.
After studying Julie from up to down several times in a scrutinizing gaze, one of LS' receptionists, a tall and solemn-looking middle-aged African-American woman wearing an old-fashioned gray suit extended her hand and said, "You must be Miss Julie Mihr, the anchor host from NBC. I'm Lans Flittel, the Director of the Media Department at LS Group. Nice to meet you."
"Good afternoon, Madam Lans, I'm very honored to be able to work with you but before this, may you please allow me to ask about the situation of my injured colleague first?" Julie shook hands with a middle-aged woman with force and asked sincerely.
"Of course, please feel free to do so."
"Tommy, how's Luke?" The girl smiled at Lans with a thankful smile and turned her head to ask her colleague.
Upon seeing that Julie did not mention the interview when she first arrived but asking about the competitor's injuries first, the ugly expressions on the few unlucky fellows, who had encountered the accident but was safe, but whose hard work had gone down the drain, eased a little. Somebody answered in a low spirit, "He's still being rescued in the hospital but he's out of danger now."
"That's good." Julie nodded with a relieved expression and immediately entered the main topic. Turning her head, she told Lans, "Madam Lance, I've already jotted down the interview questions on the way, but I have some new ideas. Can I have some of your time to discuss this with you?"
"Miss Julie, the interview questions were concluded after three full days of meticulous discussion." Lans said with a frown. "The reason I agree to you taking over the interview is because of your relatively gentle interview style. But now that you said so, just minutes before the interview…"
"I only need three to five minutes, Madam. I just need you to listen to my opinions, please. You can disregard it if you don't agree to it after listening to it."
"Alright then." Lans raised her hand and look at her watch. "You have 5 minutes."
"Thank you, Madam. It's like this, I hope that I can ask Dr. Lisheng a few innocuous personal questions at the beginning of the interview so as to shorten the distance between him and the general audience..." Julie voiced out her opinions rather quickly. amazingly, she managed to add three questions in just a few minutes' time, causing the colleagues who thought that she was merely lucky for obtaining this opportunity to see her in a new light.
After successfully reaching a consensus with the head of the LS Group's media department, Julie eagerly turned her attention to her former partner. "Hanks, I'm ready, can we start recording the opening credit now?"
"You're really anxious, Julie. Oh, if it wasn't for the fact that this Madam Lans from the LS's media department doesn't recognize my overly spicy interview style, this opportunity should have been mine..." Hanks seemed to want to crack a magnanimous joke but the apparent sullen expression on his face showed that he was actually in a bad mood at this moment.
However, when the camera that had turned on turned towards this ace reporter, his expression immediately became professional. "Good afternoon everyone, I'm Hanks Elton. I'm currently live from the hotel lobby that has a unique sense of style of the Ocean Empire Building, the landmark building of New Washington A… In a while, my beautiful colleague Julie Mihr will meet with a legendary person… Let us ask Julie together, are you ready?"
"Aww, Hanks don't be like this. I'm starting to become nervous again being asked by you and the audience in front of the TV..,"
Under the cooperation of two experienced and natural seasoned reporters, the opening credits of two to three minutes finished recording.
After that, the reception staff of LS brought the two interview groups, that had mixed together and appeared to be parading mightily, and more than half of the program department group to the staff-only elevator.
They went straight up the hotel's executive floor on the eighty-sixth floor, crossed a long corridor covered with red cashmere carpet and soon saw a huge scanning door standing tall in front.
Behind the door was a single desk used by a girl with a supermodel figure and a pretty face; further behind were more than ten burly men in police anti-riot gear who were standing straight against the wall.
The scene before their eyes took the knowledgeable TV station staffs by surprise. Then, when they were just about to remove all metal objects from their bodies automatically, Lans suddenly chimed in, "Everyone, this is not a metal scanner. You can safely pass through it as long as you're not carrying a weapon. Of course, if anyone has the habit of carrying a gun or a dagger longer than five centimeters, you'd have to take them out and we guarantee that we'll keep them well for you. We'll return them to you when you leave."
"Please rest assured, Madam Lans, we NBC staffs don't have the habit of interviewing people with weapons." After staring at each other in surprise, Julie replied with a wry smile on behalf of all her colleagues and took the lead to walk through the scanning door with brisk footsteps. Then, she told the young girl who looked like a secretary behind the door, "Miss, I'm Julie Mihr, a reporter from NBC TV and we have an appointment to interview Dr. Lisheng."
"I'm Alice Jolie, the head of the LS Group's security department. Dr. is already waiting for you. Please follow me, Miss Julie." The girl stood up and responded with a polite smile. However, she waited until all of the TV staff members had passed through the scanner without exception before turning around to lead Julie to continue this endless journey.
They walked through another long corridor and finally came to a huge classic carved mahogany arch at the end of the corridor.
Alice gently pushed open the wooden door and walked into the office the size of half a football field, before saying softly to a back bathed in dazzling sunlight, "Dr., the NBC reporters are here now."


A young man from the Miaowei Tribe brought up by his strict father, suddenly turned into Rank 1 Wizard on the day he was orphaned. He then obtained the ability to control giant worms. 
Soon after, he found his mother who was in a faraway foreign land by accident. From a small mountain village, he managed to jump into the amazing arena that was a global metropolis.
Thus far, we have a young man who inherited the legacy of mastering ancient demons from an ancient country. 
From Western civilization to other worlds, a fascinating saga is born.

➿
17 Hours Before..



River Kennedi enters the relative calm of his small, shared Apartment Complex. A rundown space, with second hand Furniture and displays of amateur art. A place kept spotless, except for the litter of completed, half finished and discarded paintings and drawings. The only case of disarray, against the washed out, but immaculate decor. 

River whisked his Raven black hair, away from his face. Squinting his emerald green eyes, against the burning haze of oil paint and acetone. He kicked off his old converse Sneakers, shaking off his knapsack--discarding it on the floor beside his shoes. He yawned marginally, feeling his body grow fatigued as his clothes rustled. His baggy Denims and Pullover Hoodie, a size to big for his petite frame. 

His face was contrite with weariness, and his legs ached from working a twelve hour shift. Something he was accustomed to, yet still found the side effects to be entirely bothersome. 

A loud clang in the Kitchen echoed throughout the Apartment. Capturing River's attention as he shimmied out of his grey Pullover, dropping it on the old, cloth Couch. 

"Shit!" The voice of his Roommate followed shortly after, making River chuckle lightly as he walked towards the Kitchen. 

James Bordeaux, the Roommate,  was standing over a spilled bucket of Canvas paint. A gruff frown on his subtly handsome features. His dirty blond hair caught up in a messy ponytail, and his blue eyes scowling at the predicament he faced. 

The paint had splattered all over the low, wooden cupboards--forming a puddle on the tiled floors. It's bright tint leaving speckles of red across the small, old doors. 

"That's gonna be a little hard to remove," River said, jolting James out of his terrified trance. 

"River! Goddammit, you scared the crap out of me!" James exclaimed frowning--his British accent as deep and attractive, as his magazine worthy face.

"You'll get over it, once you get that mess cleaned up. We can barely afford to pay for this place as it is and I'm pretty sure Ms. Corrigan won't appreciate your splatter art all over her Kitchen Cupboards." River mused and James mocked his smile. 

"Ha ha, you're a bloody comedian." James deadpanned, entirely annoyed. 

"And you're a bloody mess." River faked a British accent, causing James's bushy eyebrows to scrunch up in confusion. 

"Are you going to help me or not?" James asked, his ocean blue eyes pleading. 

River scoffed lightly, knowing well that he needed rest for the next day to come. Another five hours at the Burger Joint, and the next few hours of daylight searching for a new Job. 

"Nope." River said, walking towards the Refrigerator. The only decent piece of electrical appliance in the small, stuffy Apartment. 

"I hate you," James griped out and River grinned. 

"I'll live with myself." River said, removing a bottle of spring water. "Besides, I need to rest. I have a long day ahead tomorrow. You know I'd have helped, if I wasn't so sleepy." 

"This is why you should have chosen Art as a Major, yah bloody wanker." James implored, watching River down the bottle of Water in just one go. 

"I don't think your Professors would appreciate my stick figures, and smearing of paint with my tiny and not so manly fingers. Enigmatic my ass." River scowled with a thoughtful glance at James who rolled his eyes. 

"Fine I'll do it my damned self, meanie." James sassed and River smiled, nudging James as he passed him. Careful not to step into the paint, that would have surely stuck to his feet for days. 

"Where's Cassie?" River asked, noticing that James' character of a Girlfriend wasn't around. "She's usually strolling around half dressed, speaking crazy and screaming at you." River grinned at James. 

"Watch it, Mr. I can't get a Boyfriend because I'm too busy with my Business Degree." James mocked in a freakishly squeaky voice, and River frowned at the inaccuracy of it. 

"Hey, I don't sound like that! And I sure as hell don't have time to be coddled and fondled by a man." River challenged, but James simply scoffed. 

"And I presume fondling yourself while you think I'm sleeping is better?" James grimaced at River, who's cheeks tinted in abysmal embarrassment. 

"Dammit those old, squeaky ass beds," River cursed under his breath. James only smirked at River's rant, but he instantly realized he was allowing the paint to dry. 

"At least you're man enough to admit it," James gibed, roaming through drawers for something to clean the mess with. 

"Shut your Pie-hole, and clean that paint up, Mr. Bordeaux." River retorted, throwing the empty, water bottle at James' head. 

"You bloody wanker!" James screamed as River sped-walked away. 

River loved the banter between him and James. It was the one thing he looked forward to, after a long day of rude customers and a nagging Boss. He however felt the urge to tell James that he had been fired, but he also hoped that the high paying internship that he had been contacted about, would be granted before he had to. 

It had been days since he submitted his resume. He thought of it almost every hour, which led to him being distracted. It also roused up a sudden confidence in him. A confidence that made River talk back at his Boss, Mr. Bash. Who then proceeded to fire him. He thought if only he had kept his mouth shut--then again. River was tired of being spat on, walked over and screamed at by a man whom was much shorter than him. A man who in James's most colorful opinion, was an Arsemonger.

•

River entered the cramped interior of his Bedroom. A rectangular space, with mismatched wooden, metal, and plastic furniture. He hurriedly stepping out of his Denims, grimacing at the sudden coldness--seeping through his pores. Caused by the stone floor, that was the same bland, cream color as the papered walls. Murky and as boring as River thought himself. A trait he hated, yet lived with because of his past. 

He discarded the Blue Denims atop his bed, yawning and covering his mouth. 

River huffed heavily as he fell backwards into the Bed--in his boxers and an old but favored Band Shirt. Frowning as the loud squeaking resonated throughout the entire Bedroom. He gazed up at the lightbulb in the ceiling, his facial expression neutral. 

He quickly fished his phone from his left pocket. Sliding the cracked screen across, hoping to find something interesting. He then decided to check his emails, a small twinge of hope, inspiriting within him. That hope burst into nauseating nervousness, as he saw the brand new email in his inbox. 

Titled; Black and Co. Application. 

He swiftly flew up, in a sitting position. His heart palpitating so loud, he could hear it beating as if within his eardrums. With a fidgeting thumb, he opened the email. But his mobile data seemed to be slowed down, as it usually did when his megabytes ran dry. 

So he waited ten seconds, but nothing. 

Another ten seconds, then his patience ran dry--yet still there was nothing. 

He opted to wait another ten, but he gave up after just three seconds, the moment he remembered his Laptop. The only thing in the Apartment, that was connected to the Neighbor's Wifi. 

"Crappy phone!" River cursed under his breath, dropping the cellphone on the Bed. 

He then rose to his feet, hurriedly striding towards his cluttered Computer Desk. Where his HP laptop sat, halfway opened. He hastily opened it up, narrowing his gaze as the screen lit up. Within seconds, he entered his password and smiled. For the screen was already on the email tab. 

He paused for a second, even more agitated than before. His head felt swollen, and he feared if he water any longer. 

His brain would explode. 

River squeezed his eyes shut, clicking the mouse once. He let out a dry huff of air, slowly opening one eye. 


From: Grace Keller, CFO. Black & Co. 
Received 12:55 pm. 
Subject: Re:Application.

After reading that first line, both of River's eyes opened. Peering at the screen, with squinty yet eager eyes. 

Hello Mr. Kennedi, 

           This reply is in regards to the Internship Application that you have submitted. I have to say I'm quite pleased with your Resume, and I look forward to you attending a scheduled Interview. 


An excited scream erupted from River's lips, but both his hands swiftly covered his mouth to stop himself. River looked around, to see if James was nearby--unable to contain his excitement. He soon squeaked almost inaudibly, continuing the email. 


I have taken the liberty of setting up an interview on the nearest date possible. I hope that you will be able to attend on such short notice. I am aware that you have been recommended, by a well known Professor at Lockwood University here in New York. 

However, I wasn't able to review your Application until earlier today, but it is to my understanding that it had been sent to us a week ago. 

My apologies for the wait, and I sincerely do hope that the chosen date of the Interview is convenient to your daily schedule. 

See below. 

January 21, 2016. 3:00pm. 

Looking forward to meeting you, Mr. Kennedi!

〰

River's eyes widened as he read the date out loud. He was finally rudely interrupted by James--bounding into the Room. A bottle of Jergens Lotion, clutched in his hands--almost defensively. 

"Umm," River grunted and James's frightened expression, changed to one of relief. 

"Thank heavens! I thought someone attacked you!" James said, clutching his chest with genuine concern written in his eyes. 

River however, glanced from James, to the bottle of Lotion in his hands. "So you came to my rescue with a bottle of Lotion." It was more of a statement than a question, and James frowned at the revelation. 

"Uhh, yes?" 

"What were you going to do?" River asked and James's left eyebrow rose in limpid puzzlement. "Moisturize them to death?" River queried, and James's gaze flattened. 

"Has this bloody thing ever been in your eyes?" James asked, walking into the Room. 

"No, it hasn't." River said, sounding a little bit concerned. 

"Oh, well." James dropped the bottle of Lotion on River's bed as he plopped down lazily. "The least you could do is say, 'thank you James, for coming to save me. What a true knight in shining armor you are." James recited, almost too dramatically and River groaned in angst. 

"Thank you James, for coming to my rescue with a bottle of Lotion, obviously almost empty due to your rigorous amounts of masturbation." River mused and James cocked an eyebrow in his direction. "Your beds are squeaky too." River smirked at James's horrified look. "But as you can see, I'm fine. Just excited." 

"That's what that girly scream was?" James asked, befuddled and River face-palmed himself roughly. 

"No, you moron, well, kind of!" River seemed confused, and James seemed even more baffled. "I'm excited because I got the Internship." River deadpanned finally and James scowled. 

"The Black & Co.?" He asked and River glared at him incredulously. 

"No, for Men.com." River muttered, "Yes! For Black & Co., twit!" River snapped and James glared at him, but it soon turned into a broad smile. 

"Now way!" James exclaimed excitedly and River grinned proudly. 

"Yes, way!" 

"I knew you would get it, babe!" James said confidently and River blushed, a big grin on his lips that hurt from smiling a bit too much. 

"The interview's tomorrow!" River said, rising from his seat and sitting down beside James. 

"Uhh, tomorrow, tomorrow?"James's smile faded, worrying River immensely. 

"Yes tomorrow," River answered, his smile fading a little as he saw the look on James's face. "Aren't you excited?" River asked with a pout and James sighed heavily. 

"I am, I am but-," he paused and River frowned marginally. "You have to go see your Mum tomorrow. You know that visits to that God- forsaken place is complicated enough as it is." 

River scowled as he pondered the outcome of not going to see his Mother. 

He considered not going, but the Hospital only allowed visits twice per week in that Ward. So River had a decision to make, and it was enough to down his spirits. 

"Ugh, you're right." River said, falling back on the Bed. 

James followed suit, and they both gazed up at the ceiling. River was lost in thought, and James opted to remain quiet. To give River time to think about his options, and come up with a solution to his problem.

"Do you think she'll wake up?" River asked and James shrugged. "What if she does and I'm not there?" He queried, but James didn't have the answers he sought after. 

"I don't know, babe." James sighed, his worry for his Best Friend, obvious and genuine. "This Internship is a once in a lifetime opportunity. If your Mother does wake up from her Coma, I'm sure she'll understand why you weren't there." James advised and River gritted his teeth, considering James' words deeply. 

"The Interview is at 3:00, and visiting hours starts at 2:30pm." River acknowledged, and James nodded. 

"Go see your Mother, if even for ten minutes then go to your interview. Your Mother lived her life, despite how terribly it turned out. Don't let anything stop you from living yours," James said as he rose from the Bed, nudging River's cheeks in the process. 

"Ok," River pursed his lips, rising up to a sitting position. 

"I'm going to make us some Pasta, and you can tell me all about this new internship." James grinned and River blushed lightly, smiling up at James. 

"Ok," River nodded and James rose an eyebrow at him. "Babe," River let out exasperated, and James pointed a finger at him--clearly pleased. 

River watched in angst as James exited the room--his feet pattering against the floor lightly. He then turned to his Laptop--a slight grimace masking his features. 


〰


Soundtrack - Remember I Told You by Nick Jonas ft. Anne Marie and Mike Posner

Highest Rank | #1 in the LOVEWINS category | Book FOUR of the Color Of Love Series. 

In the pursuit of happiness, River Kennedi inherits a new life through sheer luck, or quite possibly his own potential. His secrets, his vulnerabilities, and the very best of him, is brought out when Sebastian Black walks into his life. Bringing with him, just enough baggage and just enough of the real and genuine him to make his own place in River's heart. 

| CAUTION | - This story contains sexual relations between two MEN. If you aren't a fan of LGBT Stories, then Color Me Black ISN'T for you. 

This book or any portion thereof may not be reproduced or used in any manner whatsoever without the express written permission of the Publisher, except for the use of brief quotations in a book review.

Copyrighted Material. (Proof of Copyright- https://static.copyrighted.com/images/seal.gif )

"Are you sure you don't want to go back to the office today?" For the last time, Jade asked the man who just entered her room.
Marcus hated the idea that Jade would be paying for her hospital bills so he insisted to pay for it instead. They even had a little quarrel before Jade agreed to let him shoulder her bills.
"This is my responsibility as your husband! Or are you telling me that I am incapable of taking good care of my wife?"
Jade was speechless. What's wrong with the man? Why does he keep on involving their marital status every time this day? It's not like him and Jade was a little bit confuse.
What is this? A sudden change of heart? Hmm…
"I want to take a break for this day. I'm sure tomorrow would be a busy day."
"If that's what you want then sure. Let's take a break for now. But can we visit Jackie before we head home?" Her eyes were pleading.
Marcus heaved a sigh of defeat. "10 minutes."
"30." Jade bargained.
"15." Marcus raised his brow sarcastically.
"25."
"20."
"Call!" Jade grinned playfully as they both trek the hallway to where Jackie's mom was.
Eh? She furrowed her brows. This is not the room she took for Jackie's mom.
"Why did you take me here? This is not Mrs. Long's room. It's on the other side." 
Marcus smirked as he opened the VIP room. He entered and motioned the woman to follow him at once.
"Mr. Hanes!" Jackie stood up as soon as she saw her boss. "M-miss Jade…" She greeted them both. "Please come in. I'm sorry I couldn't come to see you a while ago. How are you feeling now?" Jackie asked the lady who sat on the chair beside her mother's bedside. Marcus, on the other hand, sat on the couch at the living room.
"I'm fine. Thank you." Jade smiled at her. "But how did you know?"
"Mr. Hanes told me. I didn't know you two were married." Jackie grinned teasing the woman. 
"He told you?" Her eyes widened in disbelief.
"Yes, he did. He visited us while you were lying unconscious." The young lady sat opposite the woman. "Thank you miss Jade. I don't deserve the favor you are giving me and to my family but I will surely repay your goodness in the future."
They talked a little more before Jade bid her goodbye.
"Do you want to have dinner outside?" Jade suggested as soon as she entered Marcus' car.
"Dinner outside? Are you tired of cooking for me?"
Jade pouted in annoyance. "I just want to treat you to a good restaurant. Besides, you might be getting tired of eating the dishes I prepare."
"I love it. I prefer the foods that you cook rather than the foods outside."
Jade's heart skipped a beat. 
He loved her cooking? She giggled within her. But what's wrong with Marcus? He's been acting strange today. Why does he keep on complimenting her? Not that she doesn't like it but it's just a bit… weird.
���But if you don't want then we can find a restaurant to your liking. I don't want t-----"
"Let's just head home." She grinned sweetly. "If my husband loves my dishes then it's my pleasure to cook for you then."
Marcus smirked. "I would love that."
MEANWHILE… 
Barry was watching the latest news that was sweeping the whole country at the moment. The KSAN company versus the Enchanteur Chemicals. He doesn't know who copied who but the situation right now gave him an idea on how to get closer to his son.
If the management didn't change yet, then the KSAN's CEO should still be that nasty old man. 
"Ah, guess it's time to meet an old friend." He sneered in contempt. "I told you old man, you'll be needing my help in the future and looked like the time has come." He chuckled evilly.
"Look like the heavens are helping me with my plans." He added before he brought out his phone and dialed a number. 
"I need your help." He voiced as soon as the man answered the phone on the other line.
"What is it this time?"
"The CEO of the KSAN company… Can you help meet him this week?"
"I bet you watched the latest news. But I don't see any connection on your plans with you meeting that arrogant old man.
"I need him. I told you I have to work on something for the meantime and I need that old man. He could be the fastest way."
"Well, if that's what you want then I will schedule an appointment with him within this week."
"Thank you." Barry uttered before he dropped the call.
Everything is falling into place and everything is falling according to his plans. Therefore, Barry stood up and picked up his jacket and went to his favorite pub. Hope it was still the same despites how many years had passed.
********************
"I'm sorry madam chairwoman but I cannot contact Mr. Marcus right now. His phone was turned off." Sonny reported back. 
As soon as she watched the latest news at the television, her house phone as well as her email address kept getting swarmed by different news anchor asking for an exclusive interview about the issue. 
"Dang it! What is that child doing right now in times of such crisis?" She was beyond mad. 
After a few minutes of calming her nerves, she remembered Jade. So she dialed the woman's number and luckily, it went through.
"Thank God someone finally answered my call!" The old woman yelped as soon as Jade answered. "Do you know where Marcus is right now? Where is he and what is he doing? He's not answering any of my calls and----"
"Grandma, I will call you once we get home." Marcus snatched the phone from Jade's hand when he heard her grandmother's voice. Jade was not on loudspeaker but Marcus can still hear the old woman's voice. She was too loud to his liking.
"I told you to turn off your phone, didn't I?" Marcus admonished the woman.
"I'm sorry. I worried that grandmother must be worried sick. She couldn't contact you since you turned off you phone that's why---"
"I have my reasons why I turned off my phone. And that old woman has a lot of ways to check me out so she should be the last person you should worry about."
"Ehm." The woman nodded obediently.
They were still on the road when the rain suddenly poured out. 
"Why does it has to rain at a time like this?" Marcus muttered annoyingly since they were stuck with the traffic. 
'You need to live so you can bring the truth into light…'
An image suddenly popped out before Jade's eyes. Papa!? She exclaimed.


What if the price of her marriage with the man she loves means losing her birthright? Will she be able to thrive in an environment created through lies and stealing some precious lives?

Jade is an orphan who married the handsome heir, Marcus Yoseph Hanes. Though it was just a marriage of convenience, Jade decided to fight for her marriage life. She could have succeeded but in order to save the man she loves, her life becomes the sacrifice.

It was too late when he realized his true feelings towards the woman. Marcus fell in love without knowing when and how it started. But what’s the use of it now? it’s too late to tell her the words she’s been dying to hear. If he can only turn the pages backwards!

But the heavens seem to have heard the cries of their young hearts. Few years later, the same face that haunts the man’s dream almost every night appeared right before him. She may have the same face with different name but Marcus knew it was his wife! 

Can the forgotten romance they once had paves way for two hearts to reunite? 
With past secrets revealed, could love be enough to fight for what their hearts truly desires?

#Love or Birthright

EXCERPT:

“I’m sick and tired of this damn contract!” Jade stormed in his office and tore the marriage contract before her husband. She was so upset and she doesn’t care about the consequences of her action anymore. “I demand a revision of this agreement. I don’t care if you are still head over heels over your ex-girlfriend but the fact that we are married, you must also consider my feelings towards you! You want to flirt with her, fine! do it! But not in front of me, not if I am around. Do it once more and I will surely pull her hair and drag her out of the office!” She was shivering in anger.

She’s done. She’s done dealing with all the shitty craps! It’s time for her to speak up and fight for her right.

“I don’t care what kind of relationship you once had but now that we’re married, I won’t just stand on the side and watch. And this damn contract?” She threw the pieces of paper in his face. “It’s all ripped and ineffective starting right now! So for this next five months, tell your ex that she is not allowed inside this office starting NOW!” she blurted and just like a child, she stomped out his office.

He was left dumbfounded. He never expected such an attitude from the meek woman he once knew. Was she really his wife? Wasn’t she always gentle and soft spoken? Guess he doesn’t totally know her. 

His lip curved to form a smile before he let out a crisp laugh. “Revision of contract? I’ve been planning to do that anyway.” He smirked mischievously.


***NOTE: Not a Reincarnation story..?

Connor Jackson. These two words make every girl go crazy, screaming and begging for a chance to meet him. He's the world's most popular pop star, and has finally made it to where he can headline his own tour. 
Katelyn Jackson. Nobody has ever heard of her, unless you're in the soccer business. She's a lean, mean machine on the soccer field; she knows how to get the job done. And she also happens to be the younger sister to the great Connor Jackson.
So when everything seems to be falling in place for her soccer dream, it's just in time for her parents to break the news to her. She's going on tour with Connor. No matter how much she begs, cries, and pleads, her parents won't bend, and she finds herself forced to travel the United States with her pop star brother, leaving her soccer dream behind.
But when she gets to meet the lead singer, Zach Matthews, of one of her brother's opening acts things don't seem so bad anymore...

The sound a solid attachment of a shoe makes can sometimes be very powerful. Often times the deciding factor in lives. For someone getting queried at work, after a long wait, this sound increases fear of being dismissed, to another awaiting the doctors diagnosis and most importantly the sound of a lady's heel can either be greatly appreciated by a man or insanely irritating.

In this case, to the man sitting atop his throne like the king he is in the industry, whose space has been invaded by the woman who is currently cat walking towards his desk whilst giving him looks that he assumes are meant to turn him on, he is fervently pissed.

I heard the sound of someone coming into my office after I had left strict instructions to my secretary not to let anyone in. How difficult is it for people to follow simple instructions. I do not tolerate insubordination in my company.

The first thing I see when I look up is a pair of legs in a very tight and I bet uncomfortable skirt. My eyes trail up to a similarly tight top, "how is this fellow breathing?" she must have thought that my silence and the way in which I have been analyzing her was progress so she strikes a pose.
Hmm, might as well play with my meal.

I lean back on my chair and drag my eyes to see the individual that wishes to incur my wrath, up to the face of my secretary of two years. 
"What nonsense is she playing at! she knows I do not condone such an attitude except by my female acquaintances that have been given an invitation by me"

I get up from my chair and walk towards her, I can see that this excites her because she comes forward while unbuttoning her top, to reveal more flesh. Am I supposed to be aroused by this skank? I don't think so.

When I reach her, I look down because even on heels she was still brief in comparison to me. I rake my eyes over her.

"hmm Ms. Blakely?" I say while leaning into her, almost touching.

"huh?" she pants. Disgusting.

"you are fired" turning my back on her I begin walking back to my seat with purpose. This irritant has just wasted precious amounts of my time.

"what?" she exclaimed probably in shock that all her devises did not work.

"get your belongings and leave this premises in the next fifteen minutes or you'll be thrown out by security. The clock is ticking." she must have seen the look in my eyes because she scurries out of the office almost falling on her face due to those heels.

After she leaves I sit back and drag my hands through my hair. Fuck! I don't need this right now, not with so much work as regarding the closure of a very important deal. I have gone through more secretaries than most business men I know. And when miss Blakely stayed for a year, I thought she would last. Apparently I was wrong.
"well I can't dwell on that right now. I got work to do." so I roll my chair back to the desk and dial my Vice president's office. We will have to share secretaries again. I also contact the HR department. I need a secretary. Maybe I'll just stick to a male this time around.

*****
"Okay Arjana, you don't look too bad" couldn't help but praise myself. I had been worried about what to wear especially as I couldn't afford much due to a shortage in my allowance. then I remembered there was something I could wear, thanks to Project defense. It was an office gown with a jacket which complimented my body and gave off a formidable look.
If this is what I'm going to look like everyday to work then I love it. Because I look like one who has her life planned out, knows what she wants and will get it. Not bad at all.

The building in front of me was one thing and one thing alone, intimidating. Some companies co own building and accommodation spaces but not Zarlton Corp. 

This company is owned by Kyros Iason Vasilis. He started the company from scratch, then along the line, when the company was doing well he started buying out other businesses about to crash and built them up. So this company has so many branches and arms, talk about Real estate, Advertisement, shipping and some others. 

Getting a job here was the dream of every business oriented individual, as it will not only help you grow, with much experience but will boost your career to the front line. Even an interview was a struggle to acquire. Although I knew of this company i did not send an application as I thought it would be fruitless and a waste of time. Yet, here I am.

I walk pass security after signing in, to the reception desk, where a young adult male was seated with his focus on the computer screen he was typing at. I smiled, this will be me soon.

"excuse me" I called to him still maintaining my smile

"welcome ma'am. How may I help you?" he replies returning my smile, hmm so polite.

"I'm here for the Intern job, please"

"what's your name?"

"Arjana. Arjana Martins."

"here's an ID you may require it to get to the 40th floor. That's where the HR department is located. Good luck" he says still smiling

"thank you" I walk to a group of elevators and swipe my card. Time to boss up.

When I got to HR I recognized some of my colleagues seated already. And few others. You could see different emotions on  our faces. They must have arrived really early because when I check my wristwatch it's 7:30am and our interview starts at 8:00am. I have 30mins to talk my mind into a relaxed and confident state. I start my mantra "this job is mine."

One after the other we were called in, till it got to my turn

"Miss Martins" the interviewer calls. I stand up, adjust my gown and step into the room. There were two persons in the room seated behind a desk. Maintaining my smile I greet them. Was asked to seat and they started asking questions.

"your CV says that apart from being top of your class for Business administration and Strategic studies, you were also a Teachers Assistant. Plus a degree in Managerial studies."

"yes, that's right." I maintain eye contact with them while speaking

"how did you do it. I'm sure a young adult like you will also have a lot of social life. How did you handle the stress of juggling this three?

"I have always been interested in everything about business, how to start, where to pitch it, what one requires to control and also improve a business. Being a TA helped keep my grade from ever dropping in case of my social life like you said. At the end of my social activities I know I have a responsibility which had to be fulfilled. In other words, being a TA kept me in check. As for Managerial studies, it was an advise I took in after watching a short clip while studying. It said that having a degree in Managerial studies gives your career an added edge, not just during interviews but you understand what it means to manage almost anything business oriented. This I found to be true when I started the course. This three things where beneficial to my growth, I enjoyed doing them. And because of this, the stress wasn't a problem."

After speaking they look at each other, and leaned in to whisper. Hopefully good things. Because I really tried to sell myself well. Of course I omitted that I had and still have no social life because after school comes slave duties.

I was brought out of my thoughts by one of them. "Usually we would ask the candidate to go and we'll get back to them but we have to make an exception sometime." one of them said

And the other continued "Young lady you have impressed us and we'll like to talk about terms for the job."

I was overcome by joy but right now I keep calm, there will be time for celebration later so I school my features right and listen to them.
After so much discussion. They get up and shake hands with me
"welcome aboard"
"thank you" I replied the interviewer. My face is definitely going to hurt from smiling too much.
"There is something we must discuss immediately though. Although you will be working understand a staff we need you to handle the secretarial duties of the boss."

Wait, what?
she continued speaking "he is a very busy man but unfortunately doesn't know how to retain secretaries."
She must have seen the look on my face because she suddenly reassures me of my job

"you won't have to deal with him directly per se but through Emails. This should have been done by the VP's assistant but everyone is quite busy at the moment."

"we trust that you can handle this?"
"yes I can" wow
"of course you'll be paid accordingly" now this made me smile harder
"also we would like you to keep a low profile about this."
"I understand." Working for the boss I will be handling a lot of files that need to be protected so I can't bring attention to my self since I'm not his direct secretary.
"Now that it is all settled, let's get down to business" I agree. As much as I like hearing what they are saying I am eager to start work.

They give me directions to my new office. I leave the room, there are still some others to be interviewed. I make sure my facial expression is neutral and head to my new office. I like the sound of that.

 On getting there I'm shown around, given a desk to work, in an office adjourning my director. Also I'm given an email I will be using to communicate and handle everything with the boss.

I get down to work starting by going through his schedule. I see that some of them could not possibly work out the way it was set, so I rearrange the time frame. I also receive some calls as all the boss's office calls are now directed to my desk. Then I started proof reading some documents after which I filed them back to him.

At the end of the day I was truthfully stressed out. I made sure I wasn't needed and then left the office by 5:30pm. Some people had already left the office by that time because it was kind of empty.

I felt his lips trail down my neck and begin to suck on that sensitive spot

"oh my..." I moaned out loud. I couldn't hold it back. so much pleasure, there's something I want, just beyond my reach. He knows what that is, but is holding it back.

I can't think straight

"will you be mine?" I heard him ask. Somewhere in my scattered thoughts I know not to answer but I just want what he's offering so badly

so I say " Yes. yes I'll be yours, just ahhhh..."

what have I done...

To business tycoon Kyros Iason Visilis, whatever he wants, he must get

The day started just the same as any other for Theodora Watson. She rose from the bed as soon as the sun had risen thanks to her trusty alarm. Before she could get dressed she rushed to the bathroom and thoroughly brushed her teeth before and washed her face smooth. And once she finished she rubbed her moisturizer over her bare brown skin that always seemed to glisten under the natural night that beamed through the window. 

As she finally made her way to the walk-in closet, her phone had rung and she didn't hesitate to answer.

"This is Theo." She spoke before placing it on the speaker and continuing her habitual process.

"Hey, it's your favorite assistant." A cheery voice said over the line.

"Good morning, Rach. Something wrong?"

"No, just a sudden change to your schedule. Boss said it's urgent that you see her immediately upon arrival. Is there anything you'd like me to do before you get here?"

"Shit." She muttered to herself whilst buttoning up her plain white top.

"Uh, can you organize my schedule accordingly? I was supposed to be interviewing someone and it's probably good that it's been pushed back. I haven't had the chance to fully research the person anyways. Remind me who it is?"

"Renatta Gilbert. She's a renowned humanitarian who's proposed a way to help spread awareness on climate change and a long list of global issues. They're already calling her the next Mother Teresa so I'd suggest nailing this. I see she's also a vegan so I made a reservation at a nearby vegan-friendly restaurant for two as a way of apologizing for the delay. Anything else?" Rachel quickly responded.

"I love you and I don't know what I would do without you. See you in a bit."

"Peace."

As soon as she ended the call she hurriedly squeezed herself into her pencil skirt and tucked the top in. Once she was straightened out, she tossed on a blazer and stepped into a sleek pair of heels. 

She then combed her honey brown waves over her shoulder and after applying a thin layer of lip balm under a nude brown lip she was ready to go. On her way out she grabbed her bag by the door and hurried to her car that sat outside her quiet home.

And as she started her way to work her phone had rung yet again. Without looking she hooked it up to the speaker and carried on.

"This is Theo."

"And this is Alex. Is that seriously your greeting?" Her best friend giggled over the line.

"Shut up. It's supposed to be professional."

"Are you trying to convince me or you?"

"Did you call just to mock me or is this conversation actually going to go somewhere?"

"I called to invite you out for some fun, we can hang out like old times."

"You mean like last night? We were out so late that I forgot to get my shit together for work. I'm never going to allow you to seduce me like that any longer." 

"What if I told you it was a cooking class specializing in baking a molten lava cake tonight?" Alex hummed.

"I'll think about it. No promises." She relented.

"Good enough for me. See ya, babe."

After hanging up the phone she sped to her place of work and for once arrived earlier than usual. She then parked near the entrance and hurried inside to greet the perky receptionist on the first floor. Her head popped up once she heard footsteps and smiled at the sight of Theo.

"Good morning, Ms. Watson. In a rush?" 

She was, but Theo knew by now that it was always wise to see what the eyes and ears of the company had to say. 

"As always, Lisa. Have any idea what I'm walking into?" She asked the usually gossipy girl.

"Well you didn't hear it from me but we are supposedly expecting a huge guest within the next few days."

"How huge are we talking?" Theo replied.

Lisa quickly leaned forward in her seat as she prepared to spill all the juicy details. No one ever asked how the girl knew so much, but they were grateful for the useful information. It seemed she had a talent for being invisible and hearing things no one had even a hint of.

"So huge that we haven't even got a name. The visitor is high profile and can't risk  their whereabouts being known by the general public so their identity is top secret." 

"Nothing's too top secret for you though, is it?" Theo smirked.

"You bet your ass it isn't. So after some poking around, while I don't have a name, I do know it's a celebrity so private that only a select number of people actually know who it is. But somehow we managed to secure a once in a lifetime interview that will launch this company into the spotlight. Not that Elite needs it, but it will be huge!"

"Good to know. I owe you one, Lis."

"It's no surprise that you're gonna be in on it as you're one of the best writers this city's ever seen. I want the information. What good is the office gossiper if they're lacking the best details?"

"I'll see what I can do. Thanks, girl."

"No problem. Have a good day!" She returned with a smile.

--

"You needed to see me?" Theo said upon entering the office.

Joan Vance, editor-in-chief of Elite magazine wasn't a social person. She was never one to waste time with a quick chat, not when there was work to be done. So for her to request to have a chat just out of the blue it had to be serious. The silver-haired woman wasn't known to ever hold her tongue and her honesty was one of the main reasons Theo worked so hard to work under her.

"Please, have a seat. I have a rare opportunity in my hands and I want to make sure it gets taken care of by the right person." She got right down to it.

"And that person is me." 

Theo placed herself in the seat before her grand desk while hearing the surprising news.

"Without question. I've managed to secure a first time interview with one of the most fascinating men this world has ever known. You've heard of the Ross brothers?"

"The forefronts of biochemistry? They're easily the most sought after men in the country."

"Precisely. But they're no mere men. And all but one of them have been open about their life and goals. The very ruler of the seas, Poseidon. Finally, he's reached out to us for an exclusive piece on him. And of course, I've selected you for the job."

"I'm honored, but why us? Did he say why he chose us in particular?" 

"I didn't ask. You don't look a gift horse in the mouth." 

"My apologies then."

"None necessary. You do understand this has to be good, right? Don't mess up this rare opportunity. You're an excellent writer. Your honesty is what people love to see. It's raw, blunt, and influential. And for once it can take a load off."

"So you want me to write a puff piece for Poseidon. That's not like you or me."

"Just this once. It wouldn't hurt. Trust me, sometimes it's tough but we have to bend every now and then." Joan simply shrugged.

"I can't be dishonest with my readers. We have a chance to show the world who this man is. He knew that when he agreed to this. This is what the readers want. Isn't that important?" She argued.

For all she knew, the man could be a monster in the making or worse, an egotistical maniac who thought himself above everyone else because of his power.

"There won't be any readers if this goes wrong. We have a rare opportunity here, okay? This will be historic and I want us to be a part of that. Come on, Theo. I need you on this."

"Choose someone else. I'm sure many of my peers can do just as good. What good is my credibility if I compromise over one man?"

God, she internally corrected herself.

"That's a lie and you know it. Do it for me, okay? If it fails, it's my ass on the line here. It wouldn't kill you to be nice for once."

"Only on the inside."

"Quit being dramatic," Joan laughed, "He'll be here first thing tomorrow morning which gives you the chance to make a good first impression. After that, you are to shadow him for a while just to get a feel for the type of guy he is in his natural habitat."

"I thought this was just a simple interview. You didn't say I had to basically tag along with the guy!"

"It's not for long. I'm sure he'll want to get it over with as much as you do. It shouldn't take any longer than a week. We need this, Theo."

"Fine. But I want a bonus after this."

"You make it good and you can have anything you want."

"I'll hold you to that, Joan."

"You have my word.  What's on your agenda now?"

"Renatta Gilbert in five."

"Good. You have the rest of the day to yourself to prepare for Mr. Ross. See you first thing tomorrow morning."

"See ya."

The first thing she did once leaving her office was a quick pit stop back to the ever impatient Lisa who seemed to be awaiting her arrival.

"I have a favor to ask. But this remains confidential. Can you do that for me?"

"I am a walking gossip magazine. How the hell can I manage that?"

"Just do this one thing for me. Besides, I supply you with ninety percent of your info."

"That is true. What can I do for you?"

"Get me everything you know on Poseidon."

"Well, first of all, no one calls him Poseidon anymore. He is Ryan Ross."

"Good to know."

"Why him?"

"I'm curious. Seems like our mystery guest is a fan. I just want to get a good idea of who he is so I can better understand the subject."

"And the subject is..?" She asked with a growing smile.

Theo hated to let her down, but she couldn't risk being the reason the entire world knew of his identity. At least not so soon. 

"They shall remain confidential for now," Theo replied knowing very well she would be able to connect the dots.

But for now, all that mattered is that she kept it between the two of them for the time being.

"That's not fair. This job is boring without knowing all the good secrets." She all but whined.

"You'll be one of the first to know, I promise. Email me everything you can before the day is over, okay?"

"I'm on it. Have fun!" 

And that was the last she heard before speeding off to greet yet another important client.

--

Renatta Gilbert could only be described as a woman of few words. It was the main reason the world wanted to know more about what went on in her head. She would give a few speeches a year, head off on a charitable excursion, and then it was as if she never even existed. She'd then fall off the face of the earth doing do god knows what and hopefully, Theo could get just a peek inside her seemingly perfect life. The subject had just finished adjusting her stunningly perfect shoulder-length bob of chestnut waves when Theo hurried over to the table.

"So sorry for the delay, Ms. Gilbert. I'm-"

"Theodora Watson, a renowned journalist with a Pulitzer under your belt all under the age of thirty."

Renatta smoothly stretched her hand out and firmly shook Theo's whilst looked her over with an observant eye. 

"In the flesh. But that all pales in comparison to your work. I'm sure you hear it all the time." Theo quickly turned the attention back on the intimidating woman.

"Too much these days. It's like applauding a fish for swimming. Why reward me for doing what every person should strive to do?" Renatta replied.

"Because sadly, there aren't enough people like you. It's your work that inspires others."

"I see. Well, it seems as though you may be right. And I hope you don't mind that I ordered already and I didn't know what you would like."

"No problem. I don't normally eat when I'm in my interview mode."

"Great. Well, I'm a partially open book ready for whatever."

"Okay, let's start small. Late last year you proposed a bill that would enforce a requirement for all American citizens to perform a form of community service for an unspecified number of hours per week. So many have already been up in arms against such an idea. What's your response to that?"

"Well, I can't do anything but ignore the negativity. People are never going to agree on everything so it wasn't unexpected."

"You wouldn't see your idea as an unnecessary push? You can't force people to care."

"Not at all. Society doesn't always know what it needs without a little push and shove. Should it ever be put in place, people will come to see just how good it is when others have to make necessary decisions. It's not a job I asked for, but I'm not afraid to do what needs to be done."

"How do you mean? Would you say this is something chosen for you?"

"Precisely. Everyone has a purpose and I've known all my life what mine was. I will change this world for the better and one day the people will thank me for it." 

And something about the way she said those words shook Theo in a way she couldn't even describe. Never had she heard someone so sure of anything in her life.

"That sounds a bit-"

"Extreme? I know, but I wouldn't have it any other way."

"I see. Well, I think I've heard all I needed to hear for the article. It's been very nice to meet you, Ms. Gilbert."

"Renatta, please. And I feel the same way. You're truly something special Theodora and I hope to hear more from you." Renatta stated with shocking conviction.

"We'll see."

"I should say so. You may have heard but I hold annual galas to raise funds for my charitable foundations and I'd like to invite you to this year's event. It would be a great opportunity for you to rub shoulders with the people in my circle and perhaps see a more personal side of me."

"That's too kind. I wouldn't want to intrude."

"Nonsense. It's just a month away so I'll be sure to add you and a plus one to the list."

"Thank you so much, Renatta." 

"No problem. I'll keep in touch." Renatta said as she finished up her previously untouched meal.

"Of course. Until then."

And what that being said Theo rushed out of the restaurant and looked up to see a surprisingly darkening sky. She'd just made it back to her car when again she received a call from Alex which she quickly answered.

"Hey! The class starts in half an hour and a few of us were gonna meet up for drinks before going. Are you in?"

"I wish. After the day I've had I just feel like relaxing alone to recharge. I am just exhausted. I hope you understand." 

"Better than anyone. I'll save some cake for you. Sounds like you need it and I'm bringing it over for a much-needed sleepover tomorrow whether you like it or not. Understand?" 

And after such an intense interview, she could think of nothing better than a good ole kickback with her best friend. But tonight was all about her, her couch, and a glass of hot chocolate. Meanwhile, she also had to read over anything that would help understand the mysterious Ryan Ross

"Yes. I'd love nothing more. But tonight I just need to be alone."

"Alright, I love you, Theo."

"Love you more. Have fun!"

She checked her phoned one last time to see the email from Lisa had just arrived. And now with the rest of the day in mind, she sped home thinking of her couch the entire drive. 

Once she arrived home, her clothes fell off as soon as she'd made it into the door and she traded the tight wardrobe for an old shirt that fell to her thighs and a pair of knee-high socks that warmed her sore feet. Instead of dropping herself on her couch, she settled into her comfortable bed and laid back with her laptop propped up with Lisa's lengthy email waiting to be read with an image attached. And judging by the image, he was stunning. His piercing blue eyes felt as though they looked straight through her and were probably nothing compared to seeing them right in front of her. Unlike his brothers, he had a head full of sun-stroked blonde hair that he kept combed back, yet they stubbornly fell over into his eyes anyways. In the photo, his lips were pressed in a tight line that Theo felt never did move. And despite the seemingly intimidating stance the photo conveyed, she couldn't help but see a strikingly handsome man past the barriers.

Here you go Theo!, the first line of the email read.

I am undoubtedly the one and only source for every piece of information unknown to man but for the first time in my life, I am stuck with bits and pieces of unreliable information. Ryan Ross is easily one of the most mysterious men to ever walk across the earth. He's one of the most well-known entrepreneurs alive today but it's like he's a ghost. 

All that we know is what he wants us to know which is nothing besides being tight with his brothers and that's it. That is all we've ever gotten from his own lips. But, it seems we're not the first to try to take a dig into his life. I found early reports dating back to the 14th century. While they aren't very reliable and a bit all over the place, they can only describe the three brothers as conquerors who served one man more powerful than each of them combined. 

Somewhere along the way, their leader disappeared and they turned their lives around and decided to contribute their knowledge into fixing our previously unbeatable illnesses and more. I wish I could tell you more. But if I could say one thing, it is this: be very careful. They may no longer be the monsters first introduced to our world but what could he be hiding from the world that he wants to reveal now?

❝ Why me? Of all the women in the world, why choose a normal girl much different from your world? ❞

❝ It's simple. You make me feel human. I've done things, terrible things in my past, yet when I'm with you I no longer feel like the monster I once was. You are my purpose, my better half, and my soulmate. Nothing in this life or the next will ever change that. ❞

❝ They'll come for me now, won't they? ❞

❝ Yes. You are my greatest strength and my biggest weakness. They will rise from every corner of the world to take you away from me. ❞

❝ And what will we do then? ❞

❝ We'll fight. ❞
-
in which a man who's known nothing but darkness finds a light that he finds he can't live without

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