It's an assassin's job to kill and many in the field have a policy; all witnesses must be terminated. Purga, whose real name only the dead are aware of, follows said policy religiously. That's until she is caught during work by a young man who is happy to know he'll be put to death and actively encourages it. To him, being a witness was a blessing, to Purga it was a curse.

Josh Starke was a regular high school student in his 1st year until one day, when he was surfing the internet, discovered a website that that granted him a game-like system, and a legacy given by famous authors in the past. Join Josh as he travels down the path of a legendary author, one who can make create worlds in a few sentences and and send people into different lives with novels.

"You look scared, what's wrong?" I heard Toby's voice ask with a small laugh. It startled me, making me blink a few times in shock before I turned to look at him. It was Monday morning and the start of the summer school season. We were standing in the school hall with a bunch of other teachers, watching students walk in. Most of them looked tired and irritated — like they'd been forced out of bed and instructed to come to school —which probably wasn't too far from the truth. Many people took summer classes because they'd failed them during the year, and not just because they liked learning during the holidays.

"They look like this every year," Mr. Philip, the physics teacher said, laughing as he walked by us and towards the hallway that led to the offices belonging to science teachers. Toby laughed, before motioning for me to follow him, and we headed to the art room together.

"We're lucky because we don't have to walk from classroom to classroom since all at classes are held right here," he said with, as he spread out his hands motioning to the wide room. He looked refreshed today. His brown eyes were wide and looked excited, and his face had more color than before. His brown curls were also shorter and cupped around his face more smoothly - a haircut?

I looked around the art room, a little confused about where to sit. I wasn't a student anymore, but the desks set up in the room belonged to MR. Dave, Mr. Steve, and Toby respectfully.

"You can sit by Dave's desk," I heard Toby say, answering my unasked question. I muttered a 'thank you' before heading to the seat. The feeling I had when I did was both odd and satisfying. Mr. Dave's desk was decorated with stickers and engravings — personalization at its best. I smiled, spotting some of the scribbles and carvings that belonged to students.

Chelsea was here, 2009.

As I read the messy engraving I started to wonder how long Mr. Dave had been working behind the desk I was now sitting by as a teacher.

"He's very restless." Toby's words made me turn to him. He was writing something down on a notepad, the odd way he held his pen like it was a brush made me smile a bit.

Little things.

Little things that I noticed about him were endearing to me.

"He scribbles on everything he can get his hands on, you should see his report folder. He's restless, but aren't we all?" Toby laughed in that small lisp way of his — like it was a part whisper and a part chuckle. He paused what he was doing, looking at nothing in particular as he continued talking. "It's an artist thing I suppose, manifesting in us in different ways. Dave's might be scribbling at everything in sight, and mine might be being overly organized."

I smiled at that, humming in agreement as I picked the bag I'd put down on the floor when I took a seat. I fished for my schedule, finding it and reading through it to see that I only had one class today. I turned towards Toby again, watching him type, and I noted that look of concentration was on his face where he frowned a bit and bit his bottom lip. I soon looked away, deciding to go through my phone. I was a bit shocked to see I had a message from a while ago — I barely got those if I didn't count the ones from my parents, and a certain kind of awkwardness seemed to emit from the phone in my hands when I realized it was from Wyatt as well.

WYATT:

I hope you're off to a good start. Just checking in.

9:32 AM.



ME:

I'm doing fine. Thanks for asking.

9:42 AM.


I put my phone away after sending the reply, deciding that I should spend the free time I had sketching my composition for a painting I was going to do in the future. I carried my drawing pad and pencils everywhere with me, so they were always within reach. I took them out of my backpack and started working on the painting's concept. I was soon in my own little world, drawing and humming like I was in the art room with my mother when she played here old school house songs with her music player. I didn't realize when Toby came up behind me, and it was when he leaned forward and took hold of the table's edge that I sat up in shock, looking up to stare at him in confusion.

"I wanted to see what you were doing," he said, smiling lightly before turning his attention to my sketch. "It's well done, like always. What's it for?"

I looked away from him to turn to my drawing of a stumbling horse. I shrugged at it, trying to swallow the feeling of my heart racing before answering Toby's question. "It's a composition for an exhibition on movement. I'm going to have a couple of paintings displayed with my mum's soon."

"Oh," he said in response, leaning away from me. The action gave me an odd feeling. It felt like a mixture of relief and disappointment.

I turned to find that he'd made his way back to his table and was now typing into his laptop. "I thought it was for your college portfolio," he suddenly said.

"I've already submitted that," I said, turning away from him to face the sketch in front of me. In a way, I felt like the horse in the drawing but stumbling over feeling and words instead of rocks.

"That's good, head start and all. A lot of people don't finalize their portfolio till the week before college starts," he said, the art room falling into a think silence after his last word. For several minutes the only sound in the room was the sound of my pencil moving against my drawing pad and the sound of Toby's noisy laptop keyboard.

You're not going to get very far if you don't talk to him at least. A voice in my head said. I sighed, pausing what I was doing to turn towards him. Toby was writing something down, but I wasn't sure what. I opened my mouth but closed it when I realized I didn't have anything specific to say.

Come on. I scolded myself, feeling my hands shake. Why are you like this?

"Is something wrong?" Toby's voice made me turn towards his table again. I shook my head at his curious expression, running a hand through my hair as I watched him replace the look with an unconvinced one.

"No, I just wanted to ask you how college was like for you," I said, trying to sway the conversation to another direction. I watched as his lips let out a small 'oh' before he ran a hand through his hair, the strands of hair falling back into place immediately after. I frowned, thinking that was an odd response.

"It was fine," he finally muttered after a while, shrugging as he turned back to his laptop to continue typing.

"Just fine?" I asked, watching as he sighed before leaning back in his chair.

"Yeah, just fine," he repeated, making me nod my head before turning away. I didn't want to come off as nosy.

"I enjoyed my course. I love arts, but I made a mistake along the line. I wanted to do my masters I that university right after, but along the line, I got desperate to leave the university altogether. Yeah, so there's that..." Toby ended up rambling when I hadn't questioned him further. I frowned a bit, wondering what to say to that, but the sound of the art room's door swinging open made me turn towards it to find five students walking in. I looked over at my schedule that I'd placed beside my drawing pad on the desk, and I realized that it was a class Toby was taking, not me.

He got up, leaving what he'd said hanging in the air. I watched as he put on a smile to greet the students as they settled down on donkey benches, but his facial expression looked out of place - slightly nauseous, like he'd opened a can of bad sardines.

I shook my head, wondering why I was over thinking things before returning to my waiting sketch. Later in the day, I got to take a soon to be freshmen class. The students were grumpy at first, but they soon warmed up to me. It was great, seeing as I don't know what I would have done if they hadn't.

"Good job today," Toby told me as I packed up my things at the end of the school day. I thanked him in a low tone before adjusting the straps of my backpack and leaving the art room. I felt for my phone in my pocket when I felt it vibrate against my thigh. Taking it out, I saw that it was another text from Wyatt.

WYATT:

Are you done?

2:05 PM.



ME:

Yeah.

2:07 PM.

I ended up typing and pressing send. I soon found smiling soon after. Wyatt and I weren't really talking yet, but it was a start. I liked the short texts — I could get used to them.

I took the bus home, letting myself look out the window and watch the passing scenery. I soon found myself thinking back to what Toby had said.

"Fine."

I sighed, resting my head against the window. I was probably overthinking things. For instance, the mistake might not be as grave as I thought it was. A missed assignment, maybe?

The bus stopped at my bus stop a few minutes after and walked the rest of the way home to be greeted by my sisters and parents asking me questions. Sometime in the evening, Wyatt asked Xander and I if we were up for watching a movie with him, and we agreed. We didn't talk too much during the movie — just exchanged basic questions and answers, but it felt comfortable - nice, and I was able to take my mind off over overthinking things in the process. If Toby wanted to tell me more about his experience, he'll tell me in his own time.

The Prodigy Series is a collection of 10 books that follow 10 gay couples over 10 years. Each book/Volume features a different couple. 

[Book 1/Volume 1 - The Genius]

Wyatt Wilson has always been at the top of his grade. He's winning every quiz, debate and academic Olympic under the sun. His teachers adore him, his mates envy him and everyone generally thinks his parents are genuinely proud of him. But that's not the Wilson household for you. Meet the Wilsons, a family of seemingly generational artists. Wyatt's parents aren't interested in grades and scholarships; they're interested in art contests, exhibitions and art style. Every Wilson can create art - except for Wyatt. 
  
 As Wyatt struggles with being accepted at home, a new threat in form of a foreign exchange student threatens to take his place at the top of the class. Can Wyatt cope with losing the one thing that makes him relevant?

[Book 2/Volume 2 - The Tech Wiz]

Benjamin Maxwell is a Tech Wiz. He brings crashed computers back to life, gives gadgets whole new operating systems, recovers long lost data, and hacks into secure networks without even breaking a sweat.

Benjamin Already knows he has a secure place in his dad's tech repair shop after he graduates from high school. But what happens when Felix, a senior Ben has been crushing on since he got into high school asks him to join a young inventors contest as his partner?

Will Benjamin realize his talent is worth much more than he's been giving it credit for?

[Book 3/Volume 3 - The Artist]

Caleb is an artist, he's a master in every possible medium, and nothing less was expected from him as a Wilson, an extended family of high aspiring artists. Caleb enjoys creating art, but he doesn't enjoy the pressure that comes with it, and the expectations his parents weigh on him. 

Creating art slowly became a chore, and Caleb lost the spark that made his work shine, but things change when he meets Toby, a new teacher fresh out of college in his high school's art department. Toby helps him rediscover his love for art, and Caleb comes to a realization that his feelings for Toby were starting to head towards an irreversible direction.

"Bryanna, I'm so sorry honey but I'm late for work so you have to ride with your sister to school". Catherina, their mother, looked at her daughter apologetically as she hugged her before rushing out.

Yup, this is Bryanna's life. They are freaking rich and had everything you could ever dream of. Their parents made sure to provide everything for her and her sister. But sadly, even with all their money, they have grown apart because they have no time as a family. The only time they get to spend together as a family is during the weekend. Bryanna and Brittany are two different words apart, Brittany is a bitch but on a different level, Bryanna is not but they always have each others back, or rather, Bryanna always got her sister's back. Well as for school, they attend the most expensive and prestigious school in London, they were allowed to wear whatever they want to school.

"Eww! Don't tell me you are wearing that disgusting dress to school".

'Here comes the bitch'. Bryanna silently said.
"So  oh great fashionista please tell me what's wrong with my dress?" Brittany said sarcastically, playing along. 

"First of all, that is a fashion disaster, I can't even believe we are related, like seriously". She catwalk down wearing a pink Zanzea short sleeve vertidos robe plunge v-neck sexy bandage mini dress, pink thick heel waterproof short Martin boots, generic pink small round sling bag, gold bohemian pearl love heart double layer necklace, gold reptile ear cuff clip earrings and her gold bracelets. Her long platinum blonde hair was styled as side fishtail braid with hair wrap and braided wraparound.

"As much as I ensure your criticism, I had rather go to school now than being late". Bryanna grumbled.

"Shut up". Brittany said and catwalk outside. She drove her pink ferrari portfolio to the gate, "Hop on Bryan".
She grumbled silently and entered the car.

"Fasten your seat belt for your safety". Before she could do it, Brittany drove off in full speed.

"BRITTANY!!" She yelled.
_______________________________________

"Hey Yanna!" Samantha waved at her on seeing her entering the school. Sam is Bryanna's best friend basically since they were in diapers.

"What happened today? you are late". Sam asked propping herself beside Bryanna locker.

"Bitchny happened". She grumbled.

"By the way I just heard a great news". Sam said excitedly.

"What is the news?" Bryanna asked closing her locker.

"We are getting a new transfer student, I heard he is quite a catch". Sam said excitedly.

"Well good for the school".

"At least pretend to be excited". Sam rolled her eyes as she followed her friend.

"You know I'm not interested interested besides I have you to be all excited about it". She retorted sticking out her tongue.

"Why I'm I still friends with you?" Sam laughed rolling her eyes.

"Because you love me". She smiled and hugged her arm.

"Eww.... Gross that should be illegal". Sam made a vomiting sound.

"And I'm the only one who can tolerate your craziness". Bryanna said proudly. They both laughed.

Ring ring

The bell rang for everyone to go to their classes.

"Ugh.... I have history this morning not fair". Sam grumbled.

"Lol, your bad, besides history is not that hard I have mathematics ti's morning".

"I wish I was like you, anyway gotta run to class or else Mr Clarke will give me detention even if I'm one minutes late".

"Then see you at lunch in our usual spot". Bryanna waved at Sam.

"Yeah sure, no problem!" Sam yelled and sprinted down the hallway.
_________________________________

"Good morning class". Miss Sheila greeted as she entered the class. Immediately the whole class quieted down. "I believe you guys used your weekend wisely, doing your assignment because today you are submitting it".

"Ugh....." the whole class grumbled.

"Quiet down! Oh before I forget, clear your desk, it is time to test your knowledge, we are having a test now".

"Nooo". The class shouted with terror.

"No need to panic but just keep in mind that this test is part of your continuous assessment, so you can fail or pass it, it's totally up to you". Miss Sheila smiled. "Bryanna distribute the question".

Bryanna got up and shared the questions to everyone.

"The test is just thirty minutes, your time starts now, good luck". Miss Sheila smiled, "No cheating, if you are caught cheating you will not be given any mark for the test and your exam, so you automatically fail". She said smiling slyly.

"Bryanna open your work properly I can't see". Rickky kicked her chair from behind.

"Leave me alone". Bryanna whispered angrily.

"Nope, until you show me the answers".
She ignored him and continue writing. Seeing that she isn't answering him again, he pinched her back from behind.

"Ouch!.... Stop". She whispered yelled.
"Nope until you show me". He continued pinching her.

"Bryanna is there a problem?" miss Sheila asked eyeing Rickky suspiciously.

"Nope ma, all is good". She lied using her eyes to warm him to behave or else she's gonna report.
"Ok then, continue don't mind me". She smiled and walked away.

Thirty minutes later,

"Time's up! Drop your pen, if you are still writing then you automatically fail". Miss Sheila smiled at the class. "Now form a straight line with your paper and submit". She instructed. The whole class grumble and complied. "Thanks for your participation, oh yes before I leave, submit your assignment to Bryanna, Bryanna bring the assignment to my desk in twenty minutes time". Miss Sheila smiled before she left the class.

Bryanna took all the assignments, "Anyone else?" she asked. Seeing no one coming to her, she gathered the assignment and left heading to the teachers staff room.

"Ahhhh!! Noooo!!" she cried as someone ran into her, she watched as the whole assignments fly up in the air before scattering around. "Shit! Can't you watch were you are going!" she angrily got up picking up the assignment.

"I'm so sorry, I was in a rush for my next class that I didn't see you there, here let me help you". The boy said bending down and picking some of the assignments.

"Obviously you are blind not to see me". Bryanna angrily said as she picked the last assignment.

"Here, I'm so...." the words got stock in his throat as he stared at her speechless. She took the papers from him. She was so beautiful, she wore an oversize baggy shirt and sweatpants that didn't do any justice to her curvy body, her long dark brown hair was messy so she used her hand to arrange it, her beautiful light hazel eyes stared at the papers with relief as she counted them, her red lips moving, her beautiful white porcelain skin was clearly visible in her baby face.

"Thank goodness it's complete no one got lost". She smiled happily before turning on her heel and sprinting ahead.

'she's beautiful, I wonder who she is, she didn't even look at me'. He muttered, "Oh shit I'm late". He continued running to his class.

----------------------_---

"I'm sorry I'm late, here are the assignments miss Sheila". She breathe relieved and dropped the assignment on the table.
"No problem, you may leave".

Later, lunch time,

"Hey Sam". She greeted as she dropped her tray of food on the table and sat down.
 "Hey Yanna, guess who  came to my class today?" Sam asked excitedly.
"Who?" Bryanna asked biting her crisp grilled cheese sandwich.
"You are no fun, at least pretend to be interested, glutton".

"I'm hungry okay". Bryanna pouted drinking her yogurt before continuing wolfing down on her crisp grilled cheese sandwich.

"Well..... The new guy and he is soo handsome!" Sam squealed. "Are you even listening to me?" Sam asked pouting.
"Yea Yea go on".
"You are no fun". She playfully hit her head.
"At least your day was better than mine".
"What happened?" Sam asked eating her potato salad.
"well we wrote math test today and Rickky kept disturbing me, he is so annoying and won't leave me alone". Bryanna grumble angrily stabbing the chicken with the fork.
"Do you want an honest opinion?"

"You are gonna say it even if I don't want to hear it".

"Well you know that guy actually likes you". Sam winked.
"That's disturbing, you are blind". Bryanna made a vomiting sound.
"You have a secret crush". Sam teased laughing.
"Please don't ever say that, I'm gonna throw up if you continue".

"What's going on?" Sam asked staring at the large crowd in front of the cafeteria.

What would you do if one day your life turns upside down?
This was exactly how Brittany and Bryanna felt like. They were born with a silver spoon and never suffered once in their life but everything changed when their dad lost his job.
Meet Brittany, the social butterfly and Queen bee of the school. She has a lot of friends and is a bitch.
Meet Bryanna, the younger sister. She's a nerd, intelligent and not sociable. She doesn't give a fuck about anybody. She only have one friend, Samantha.
The only thing common between them is their goddess beauty and their unique Hazel eyes colour.
Imagine their shock when they found out their dad lost his job.

"I lost my job". Their dad dropped the bomb.
"This can't be happening to me!! This is a freaking nightmare!! Someone please wake me up!!" Brittany screamed.
As if it was not enough that they were poor, they got ridiculed and to make matters worst, they were driven out of their house. When it seems all hope was lost, their uncle came to their rescue and helped them.

Will Bryanna and Brittany be able to adapt to the changes in their life?
Follow Bryanna and Brittany as they overcome every challenges they face on their life.

This story is an original written by me, plagiarism is strictly prohibited.

After hearing from Mr. Lazaro that we were to leave in four hours, I immediately left the port and ran down the muddy streets to the town. I live a few kilometers from the port and I knew I made record time when I reached my house in under thirty minutes. Like a madman, I threw open the door to the surprise of my wife who was still cooking breakfast.

"You startled me, Toto! What is it?" asked my wife as I kissed her cheek and ran towards the dresser.

"I have great news, Rosa." I said and told her briefly what happened in the last few hours as I hastily grabbed a bag and started snatching a few shirts still hanging to dry. I was still breathless, but managed to pack the bag with clothes. "We leave in a few hours so I need to hurry," I said before closing the bag and bringing it to the door.

"Wait! Shouldn't you have your breakfast first?" asked Rosa. "There's still time."

I dropped the bag at the door and sat at the table where Rosa had already served a plateful of rice, dried fish and eggs. I sat down and devoured everything like a ravenous dog. Rosa just watched me and poured me coffee as I finished.

"So this means you'll be missing our little girl's birthday," she said.

It was in my mind when I was considering Mr. Lazaro's offer and merely nodded to Rosa. "You will have to celebrate without me. Make sure that she gets that doll she's been asking for."

I had finished eating and stood up. I went to our small bedroom where my daughter slept in her small bed. She was still sleeping peacefully with a blanket brought to her chin. I watched her for a few moments before bending down and planting a kiss on her forehead. She moved a little, but remained sleeping. I rose slowly and went back to the outer room where I found Rosa standing at the door.

"Be careful out there," she said and came to me for a tight embrace.

"Of course, I will," I told her as I kissed the top of her head. She looked up and I saw her bright eyes. It would be days before I could look at those eyes again. "See you in a week," I managed to say before kissing her again. She kissed me back and then, I picked up my bag and ran out the door. I did not look back and ran without stopping until I reached the port.

Surprisingly, the mist had started to dissipate and I went to the boat that would be carrying me in the next several days. The boat was a white yacht that seemed to glow in the diffuse light. On her side, painted in green letters was her name – Ceres. 

I climbed aboard and was welcomed by the first officer, Bert. He was wearing a hat and a short-sleeved shirt. "Welcome aboard, amigo!" he said ushering me in. "Get to know your boat and know her really well. Take care of her and she will take care of you."

A lovely lady approached me holding a tray with a bottle of wine and glasses. Her hair was held up in a tight bun and she was wearing a short skirt that revealed her nicely shaped legs. She smiled, noticing me looking at her calves. "You must be Toto. Come with me and join Mr. Lazaro. My name's Emma, by the way." She was able to get a hand up to shake mine while holding the tray.

"Excuse me." I heard a voice from behind me and saw a young man carrying a portfolio under his arm. 

"This is Lito," said Emma, letting him through. "He's the deckhand. Very busy boy." Lito did not respond nor bothered to look, but walked briskly ahead of us.

"Toto! Nice to have you back. Your foreman was not lying when he said you were punctual and dependable," said Mr. Lazaro after raising his left wrist to look at his watch. He was seated at the saloon and was just given the portfolio by Lito who was already walking away. Seated next to Mr. Lazaro was Joseph who was busily writing on a notebook, his glasses still sliding down his nose.

"Happy to get here on time, Mr. Lazaro," I said.

"Have you met the rest of the crew?" asked Mr. Lazaro. "I see you've met Emma already.

"I've also met Bert and Lito." I replied.

"You'll meet the others soon enough," said Mr. Lazaro. "And you'll have plenty of time to get to know them better. Bumping into them repeatedly the next several days may even make you tired of seeing them." Mr. Lazaro laughed, tilting his head backwards on the settee as he placed his legs on top of the table in front of him and stretched his right arm against the seat's backrest. 

"I was quite relieved that you agreed to this at such short notice, Toto," Mr. Lazaro said as he brought out a pack of cigarettes and offering it to me. I respectfully declined. "You don't smoke? Such a rarity given all the seafaring men that I've met." Mr. Lazaro turned to Joseph who merely pushed his glasses up before getting a file from the portfolio.

"How about a glass of wine," said Mr. Lazaro after sipping his own wine. 

I shook my head. "I haven't touched alcohol in the past three years, Mr. Lazaro."

"Wow! You are indeed a rarity, Toto," said Mr. Lazaro, his eyes widening. "But I respect your decision." He then pulled out a cigarette which Joseph was quick to light up.

"Thanks, Joseph," said Mr. Lazaro, puffing out smoke. Then, he turned back to me. "As I was saying, Toto. I was quite relieved that you agreed, given the short notice. You see, as of this morning, I already had a guide.  Then, for some silly reason, he backed out."

Another puff of smoke and then Mr. Lazaro looked at me in the eye. "And that's why I was desperate to find a dependable man, a trustworthy man who will guide me through the islands."

Mr. Lazaro took his glass and emptied its contents in several gulps. I was surprised that he was drinking that much so early in the day. He then turned to Joseph and said, "Very well. Would you brief Toto on what he shall be doing the next several days? I see you have all your notes ready."

"I think I'd better get my stuff in order first, Mr. Lazaro." I said politely.

Mr. Lazaro looked at the bag that I was carrying and said, "I forgot. You haven't slept a wink since your shift at the port. I'm sorry." He apologized. He sat upright and placed the empty wine glass on the table. Then, he turned to Emma who was still standing nearby. "Emma, please bring Toto to his sleeping quarters and make sure he has everything he needs."

"Sure, Sir," Emma said as she led me from the deck to my sleeping quarters.

As we walked, I was thinking how lucky I was that their guide backed out at the last minute. It was much later that I would realize that crossing paths with Mr. Lazaro would be the start of a series of events that I would consider the worst in my life.

Stories tell of the vampire that was vanquished a century ago, but unknown to everyone, he survived to exact vengeance on the society that wanted him destroyed. Severely weakened, he sailed across the oceans until he reached a paradise island where he stayed to regain his strength until it was time to return to an unsuspecting modern world.

Iris smiled politely, nodding. She wondered why Grandpa Lu suddenly started talking about his grandson out of nowhere. However, she wasn't really surprised because she noticed that he had a tendency to suddenly veer off-topic during conversations. It seemed that Grandpa Lu really doted on his grandson. He spent a few minutes raving about his beloved grandson.

"My Haohao—I mean Zihao is thirty years old this year so he's a whole decade older than you. But that shouldn't matter! Age shouldn't be an issue when it comes to relationships—I mean 'friendships'! Am I right?"

"Yes," Iris agreed.

The two professors also nodded.

"Xiulan my girl, tell Grandpa, how old is your boyfriend? I think that having a mature older man like my grandson is better than a young boy around your age. Mature older men tend to be already financially secured and established in their careers, so they'll more likely dote and pamper their lovers compared to younger fellows who are still struggling to establish themselves."

She nodded again, agreeing with him. "My boyfriend is thirty-one. He's also already financially secured and established in his career."

Grandpa Lu was surprised and couldn't say anything for a few moments.

'What?! Her boyfriend is even older than my Haohao?! Dammit! Who is this bastard?! I want to know!"

Professor Schwarz couldn't help but giggle. Professor Hisakawa was able to maintain his composure but his twitching mouth betrayed his real emotions. 

Unlike Iris who still had no idea what was going on, the two professors knew exactly what Grandpa Lu was trying to do. Iris only thought that Grandpa Lu was really proud of his grandson so he couldn't help but rave about him to other people. 

The two professors knew the identity of Iris' boyfriend. They also knew that Lu Jianhong had a connection with Jin Liwei and Jin Corporation. They could've chosen to clarify the situation to the elderly man but they chose to remain silent. They were feeling very entertained. They couldn't wait until both Lu Jianhong and Jin Liwei figured out their unexpected new connection through Iris.

Later, Iris and the two professors stayed for dinner. They ate a lavish Greek feast which tasted even better when eaten in the Mediterranean-style home.

After dinner, Professor Schwarz and Professor Hisakawa excused themselves after Lu Jianhong suggested for them to tour the rest of the mansion. Although it was worded as a suggestion, the two professors knew that it was more of an order. It seemed that Lu Jianhong wanted to have a private talk with his new student. They followed the housekeeper for the tour.

Lu Jianhong led Iris from the dining area to an opulent lounge room. It had a big enclosed stone fireplace. It wasn't burning at the moment, but Iris imagined that it must be nice to stay in this room during winter. There were small olive trees planted in big terracotta pots and some flowering plants to add colour. In the middle of the room, there was a tiered fountain with a statue of a voluptuous woman on top holding a jug from which water poured out. It completed the classic Mediterranean ambiance.

Iris felt very impressed. She thought that the entire property was ostentatious when she first saw it, but as she spent more time inside the mansion, she began to appreciate its classic and luxurious elegance.

They sat down and the butler began serving them hot rooibos herbal tea blend [1]. Iris sipped her cup and nodded in appreciation.

After serving them, the butler left and returned a few minutes later to hand his master an envelope. He bowed before leaving again to give them privacy.

"Alright, Xiulan my girl. Let's start talking business," Grandpa Lu said.

Iris set her cup down on the low table in front of her. She straightened and faced Grandpa Lu, an attentive expression on her face.

He started by asking her about her current financial situation. Iris was comfortable at the moment. "Very" comfortable to be exact.

A few weeks ago, Qiao Yu finally reached the one billion RMB mark, officially making Iris a billionaire in the country. In addition to this, her money that she stowed in various bank accounts across the world had a collective total amount of about 60 million US dollars. It was actually less than half of what Qiao Yu was currently managing.

Iris was truthful, admitting that the majority of the 60 million was earned from hacking jobs. Grandpa Lu didn't bat an eye since he was already aware of how she was admitted to Cross Academy. He knew that she was an excellent hacker but didn't really know the specifics. He wasn't really well-versed in this field. 

He trusted Professor Dupont's decision. If Professor Dupont dared admit Iris personally, then it meant that he saw something special in her. This was proven by assigning her notable instructors like Professor Schwarz, Professor Hisakawa, and of course the legendary business genius Lu Jianhong.

"Hmm… Not bad," Grandpa Lu commented, rubbing his perfectly groomed mustache. "Especially since you're still so young. However, as my student, this is far from my standards. Let me take a look at your financial portfolio in our next meeting. Better that you bring your financial manager as well."

"I understand, Grandpa Lu."

Next, they talked about properties. Iris actually didn't own other properties besides her penthouse. Properties didn't really interest her that much. She was already satisfied with her penthouse.

"How naïve! Xiulan my girl, as my student, real estate should be one of your priorities. I'll teach you its importance next time."

She nodded, mentally taking note.

They discussed her other sources of income as well. Currently, she was already starting to earn from her music career. Compared to the rate Qiao Yu was earning for her, her current music earnings were rather insignificant. However, Iris didn't mind. She loved music and even if she didn't earn anything from it, she would still gladly do it without complaining. Besides, she technically just started out. Once she stabilized her music career, the money would surely come.

After revealing her finances, Grandpa Lu had a thoughtful expression. He was already starting to formulate a rough financial plan for her. As his student, it was his mission to mould her into a successful business figure.

"This is for you," he said, handing her the envelope his butler gave to him earlier.

Iris opened it and took out what was inside. Her eyes widened and she looked at him in shock.

"Grandpa Lu, this…"

"Ahaha! Consider it as a welcome gift to my student!"

She ran her fingers on it, smiling. "Thank you very much, Grandpa Lu."

"You're welcome, my girl! As my student, it's only natural that you should have one. Use it wisely! If you don't, I have the power to ask them to revoke it. Understood?"

She nodded.

It was the legendary exclusive black card with her name on it.

Then she read the accompanying document. Once again, she was surprised because unlike the exorbitant amount other cardholders were paying, she didn't need to pay any annual fees while enjoying the same privileges as them.

So this was how it felt like to be a student of Lu Jianhong.

###

Footnotes:
[1] An herb grown in South Africa which can be brewed into an herbal tea. Also called "red bush tea".

A world-famous hacker and daughter of the most powerful criminal family who ruled the international Underworld for many generations is killed when their organization is annihilated in a single night.

She is reborn into the body of Iris Long, a teenage pop singer, wild party girl, and spoiled brat. For the former princess of the Underworld who lived an overprotected and shackled life, this new life is a chance to finally live the life of freedom and independence that she always wanted.

Jin Liwei is the most powerful man in the country's business world. Cold and ruthless, he is someone only a few dare offend. When the infamous Iris Long, who used to chase his younger brother, wakes up from a year-long coma, his unfeeling heart moves for the first time and he falls hard for this unexpected genius girl.

She wants to fly freely and soar high beyond the sky. He wants her everything, to tie her to himself and to never let her go.

This is her journey to super stardom. This is his journey in accompanying her. Together, they will rock the world while facing many challenges.

But what will happen when she discovers that she can never escape from the shadows of her previous life? Will she still be able to live her dream life of freedom and independence? Will he be able to protect her from the dangers?

###
Instagram: Arria Cross (@arriacross)

HGWS Discord Server: 
https://discord.gg/cSUhBdz
...

WARNING!!! WARNING!!! WARNING!!!

This novel is rated 18+ (no one 17 and under allowed). It contains mature adult themes, coarse language, explicit sexual content, and occasional graphic violence. Reader discretion is strongly advised. Please do NOT read if you are under 18 or if you feel uncomfortable with any of these elements. 

And despite of what some of the negative reviews are claiming, there is NO rape in this novel. Many scenes are deliberately made uncomfortable (clear 18+ warning), but there is NO rape.

Also please remember that this is a work of "fiction". Thank you!

Carol, Mr Wilde's personal assistant and a proud member of the LGBTQ community, knocked on the door.
"Your guest, Debbie Connor, has arrived. Would you like to receive her in your office or would you like to receive her in the meeting room?"
Wilmer looked up from his computer and glanced at his watch. It was already four in the afternoon? Time flew by way too quickly. The last thing he remembered eating was breakfast. Where had all that time gone?
"No need, please let her in. I'm thinking of heading out to grab a late lunch myself. You can end early for today if there isn't anything else."
Carol smiled and ushered Debbie in. The ex-lawyer was a lady in her thirties with ginger hair. Although she wasn't very tall, she carried herself confidently, making her appear taller in person.
Wilmer remembered the portfolio Debbie submitted. The lady didn't really have much experience dealing with children so it was a tough choice to leave his children in her hands. Luckily, Wilmer decided to interview the lady and put off making any hasty decisions. Seeing Debbie Connor in person made him rethink his initial opinion of her.
"Good day, Mr Wilde. I heard that you haven't had lunch yet. May I recommend a quaint cafe in the area I'm a personal fan of?"
Wilmer checked his watch. According to Carol, his schedule was free for the rest of the day.
"Sure," he smiled and dismissed Carol.
Carol nodded and watched as her boss left with Ms Connor. The secretary wasn't nosy in her boss' private life. Besides, Debbie was a married lady. Surely she wouldn't have to report it to Mrs Wilde... right?
The cafe Debbie suggested wasn't too far from the office. In fact, it was so secluded that Wilmer wouldn't have found it himself. There was hardly anything about it on the maps. 
The cafe was run by an elderly couple who took pride in their home-brewed drinks and pastries. Wilmer ordered for both of them and took some time to enjoy the ambience. The peacefulness was like a spot of Shangri-La in the busy city.
"I think I will be a regular here," he told the ex-lawyer.
Debbie smiled. "It sure is peaceful, isn't it? I used to come here all the time whenever I was working on a stressful case just before I fought it out in the courtroom."
The CEO nodded. He could understand why. "Why are you interested in becoming a governess? Surely you would have other passions even after leaving your career behind."
Debbie wasn't fazed by how direct Wilmer was. Her smile never wavered.
"I will be honest. If it wasn't for Benjamin bragging about the talented girl called Scarlet, I would probably have never signed up for the job. Benjamin might not have told you, but I was a writer myself. I just lost touch with the pen after publishing my fifth paperback because I found more enjoyment in editing and mentoring aspiring writers. I'm not a very creative person even though I love the beauty of a good book. I just find helping the creation of books more magical than actually writing it."
Wilmer blinked. While it was true that he wanted to engage a governess for Scarlet, he wondered if it would be possible to have Debbie groom the two other children.
"Will you have problems handling two other children as a governess? They don't need much attention because their areas of interest are very different and it takes a more self-directed learning approach."
Debbie tilted her head to the side. Two other children? Benjamin didn't mention anything about it and the world knew that the Wilde's only had one daughter. Could they be illegitimate children? Does Orita Wilde know?
The ex-lawyer hesitated for a long time and Wilmer took the hint.
"It's alright, you don't need to give me an answer now. The school term has only started for them, I will contact you again next week. If you have any questions, feel free to let my secretary know. Carol will assist you as much as she can and I do find you to be a rather suitable candidate."
They charged a little more leisurely after that and enjoyed the home-brewed coffee. Wilmer was impressed with Debbie's enthusiasm about writing and thought that Scarlet might be happy if Debbie accepted his proposal. Still, he didn't want to be too pretentious and make decisions on the girl's behalf.
"It might sound sudden, but I think you will get along really well with Scarlet. She is a naturally curious and creative individual. However, she had gone through some terrible things recently. It would be nice if you could take some time out of your busy schedule to visit Scarlet after school and just talk to her to know her better. As a father, I am a failure. I don't know how else I can help my daughter, who is suffering alone."
Debbie raised her brows. From the rumours, the Wilde's were a very loving family and she was slightly surprised to find that it was true. Still, what did Mr Wilde mean by a failure as a father?
"Pardon my impertinence, but I would like to ask what happened. Why would you consider yourself a failure as a father?"
Wilmer sighed heavily and started telling his long tale. Throughout the tale, Debbie remained silent. Her opinion about the Wilde's changed a little when Wilmer disclosed that Scarlet was adopted. She wasn't given the details about Scarlet's circumstances, but she didn't want to pry. Apparently, it was a decision made by the Ice Queen without consulting the CEO beforehand.
"You don't have any objections to what your wife did? We're not talking about a dog or a cat, we are talking about a child..."
Wilmer chuckled. "No. In fact, I am very happy to have Scarlet in our family. She brings colour into our lives and I can see the positive influence she brings to Alex and my wife. It only troubles me that she wouldn't completely open up to us. I might have made a bad move back then, but it was the only way I thought could pull her out from her depression."
Debbie paused. "Depression?"
Wilmer looked around and shook his head. "Let's take this conversation to a different location, shall we?"


At age 10, Scarlet Liu Xiu Wen was tested with a Mensa IQ of 156.

By age 12, she was publishing books with the pen name Permanent Frost. By age 14, she was a successful vocalist-composer in the band called Britannia. By age 16 Scarlet had a successful career as a model and actress going by the stage name of Liu Xiu Wen.

However, there was a secret that the world didn't know. Away from the limelight, Scarlet took on yet another persona online as Pirate S - the eccentric half-genius. Everyone who lurked in the forums knew her name. Known for her unusual takes on life and mostly popularly for her "Human Observation Diary" blog, Scarlet enjoys the nerd life in secret.

Human Observation Diary has always kept to a very standard format but one day, a reader pointed out that the blog has recently been differing from its usual format. Intrigued by the trigger, Scarlet investigates her latest human observation - an online NEET by the name of Jedd77.

From further interactions, Scarlet finds herself helplessly drawn to him. As their friendship develops into something more, Scarlet has to make a choice.

To give up her secrecy and allow Jedd77 to be a part of her life? Or continue the game of cat and mouse even after the face reveal.

***

Special chapter release on other milestones, check out my discord and patreon for more details, thank you for the support!

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Grimmo 12, living room.
    It's an evening.
*
"Kreacher! I bought five houses today to house the Black family. Listen to the problem. Go with this portkey," I gave Kreacher one of ten portkeys, "clean up the houses. Dump all the garbage, old curtains, tablecloths, pieces of furniture and anything that rots. Don't try too hard. There'll be goblins doing repairs anyway. If you find anything of value, report it to me. It'll take you two hours."
        The sky's been dark for the last hour, and there you go. Just as soon as Kreacher left, it rained. I didn't want to close the window. Instead, I lit the fireplace, fixed the cushions and lay down on the sofa by the fire, looking at the fire.
        A disgruntled Crookshanks entered the living room. He spent the whole day in the backyard, and he came here clearly only because of the rain. The cat jumped on the opposite sofa, he also lay down looking at the fire. After a few minutes of contemplation, the cat rumbled quite a bit.
I pulled a blanket over my head and fell asleep.
     *
    Grimmo 12, living room.
    A quarter to 11 pm on September 6, 1991.
*
        The lawyer is most likely from a family famous for its magical alcohol. The magical world is small, and prosperous families are even smaller. There's only one thing I need to learn from him that might make my life a little easier in the long run. Okay, trying to strengthen me is a good thing! I took a card with Big Ben, bent my legs a little and waited for the portkey to work.
        I found myself in a spacious, light and tall room, half Victorian. The style spoiled the furniture, the bookshelves, and the quite modern, unflattering desk behind which Mr. Ogden sat. A visitor's chair was waiting for me in front of the desk. The wall opposite the shelves was decorated with plaster painted ornaments, wrapped in high lancet windows. I looked at all this as I approached the table.
"Have a seat, mister," Mr. Ogden started.
"Mr. Stranger, sir."
"As you wish, Mr. Stranger. The goblins set up this meeting and reported that their client needs legal advice."
"Yes, Mr. Ogden, I need legal advice. First question. Suppose a young man from an ancient family is invited to study at Hogwarts. A young man ignores the invitation. If he suddenly secretly comes to Hogwarts, perceives Hogwarts as a pupil or a perimeter breaker?"
"The list of Hogwarts disciples takes effect when the names of the disciples are written into Hogwarts' magic book. It all depends on whether the young man's name is written there by Headmaster or his deputy," Ogden took a long pause. "Mr. Stranger, you do realize that it's enough to apply the formula "who benefits?" to your question and take into account the latest news buzz to reveal your incognito?"
"Mr. Ogden, you read and analyze the latest noise in the papers. You are not an idiot. So you understand why it's not worth doing."
        Ogden's answer about the student list neither brings me closer to the target nor removes me from it. I don't want to get into Hogwarts as an intruder. On the other hand, a rat and a Sirius in the canon went into Hogwarts like their own home, and nobody cared. Or is it the animagus and Hogwarts' security systems don't work on it? 
"Question numbers two. Recently, Wizengamot, it must be assumed, not without pressure from Dumbledore, passed a law according to which all Muggle babies in Britain must study at Hogwarts. Suppose, outside of Hogwarts, a Muggle-born uses spells.
He's expelled from school under the Reasonable Restriction of the Use of Magic by Minors Act. What happens to the Muggle-born? He'll be expelled from school under the law."
"Given the corrupt nature of our courts, the Muggle-born will have what the judge needs. There's no precedent yet, Dumbledore's law was passed recently, so it's not clear what's going to apply to the Muggle-born."
"Thank you, Mr. Ogden."
 My visit to the lawyer turned out to be one big "snap". I might as well have spat on the ceiling. Whoever's stronger is right, that's the whole system of courts in Magic Britain. "Money transferred to your name account?"
"If you would be so kind. Have a nice day."
"Goodbye, Mr. Ogden," I've gone to Gringotts. 70 galleons wasted!
        At the post office, I organized a Hermione parcel containing messenger parchment. I'll give the paired one to her parents. Three books on the traditions of magical society and a short explanatory note:
         *
        Dear Hermione,
    
        This parchment is for contacting your parents.
        Books in a parcel about the traditions of magical society, as I promised.
         
        Good luck with your studies.
         
        Mr. Evans.
         *
     
    Gringotts, the familiar meeting room, a quarter to 3:00 in the afternoon.
       *
 Something died today in the forbidden forest, I was met by a smiling Shnagrog. Does my species bring joy to people... to goblins? Which one of me is the future Dark Lord then?
"Good day, Master Shnagrog."
"Good afternoon, heir to the Black family. You must have seen the candidate's portfolio?"
"That's right, but I never came to an unequivocal decision. I'm inclined to hire Miss Bosworth. But as a result of her probationary work, I'm going to make a decision. Still, her previous experience isn't exactly what I was looking for."
"Then I suggest we proceed with the interview," Shnagrog went up and moved into the chair at the end of the table, thus taking on the role of observer.
        Soon in the meeting room entered a girl in her twenties, with blonde hair, medium height, a face a little like Joan Granger. I stood up and tilted my head, greeting her. Eh, time to learn etiquette. Who knows how many rules I just broke? It's not professional anymore.
"Good afternoon, Miss Bosworth."
"Good afternoon, Mister..."
"If you don't mind, call me "sir" for an interview."
"As you wish, sir."
"Miss Bosworth, I have reviewed your portfolio. You're a college graduate in journalism, but it's hard to tell from these cuts about your analytical skills and how to produce material."
"Alas, sir, and "Witch Weekly" and "Daily Prophet" specialize in gossip."
"I offer you a probationary period. If you do well, then we will continue our cooperation and your wages will increase."
"Sir, will my articles be printed? Why do you need journalistic services? I know all potential employers. I doubt you're one of them. They wouldn't be interviewing incognito. I only came to this interview because it's organized through Gringotts."
"Your articles will be printed. But I can't promise that they'll be published under your name. The thing is, I have powerful enemies, and they'll probably try to get me through my employees. If we make a contract with you, I'll leave a pseudonym of your choice under which your articles will be published."
        It'll scare anyone away. Bosworth's thinking hard.
"What's the payment, sir?"
"For the first two months, on probation, two hundred and fifty galleons a month. If we continue our relationship, the payment will increase by a hundred galleons. The employee can be provided with accommodation for the duration of his work. This is a cottage."
        Thoughts were repeated, but this time it was shorter. Not every wizard makes three hundred and fifty gallons a month in the magical world. The Ministry's average salary is 200 galleons.
"Sign what?"
"Master Shnagrog, would you please certify the signing of the contract?"
        Shnagrog gave us the prepared contract sheets, and after our signatures he signed them himself as a witness.
"Miss Bosworth, take this," I gave her a reusable regular key to door Grimmo 12, "This is a portkey to my house. Can you make it to the meeting tonight at 9:00 p.m.?"
"Call me Anna. And what do I call you? We already signed the contract."
"Do you own the occlumency, Anna?"
"Yes, sir."The occlumency is one of the few magical arts that every magician needs. So I trained it with special diligence and achieved above-average results."
"I signed a contract as heir to the Black family, but in Magic England I'm known as Harry Potter."
 She tired me out. I'm uncomfortable dragging a woman into my business. But we'll talk to her, and I'll try to cool her thirst for journalism. I've got time to rest before the evening meetings. The Militants are expected at 7:00 p.m. I ordered Shnagrog some more details and went home.

No money, no Titles, no Superpowers. No MC. The story of the survival of an angry and insolent bastard. The story about how Harry is loved by two girlfriends. Hate and Fury.  
All/Most characters belong to their respective authors, I own no rights to them apart from the storyline.
I'm not a native speaker, so don't expect grammar perfection.
Schedule: 14 chapters per week. 2/day. 
https://ko-fi.com/tomsky1

It was around 11 and Yumi was just about to fall asleep, when she heard footsteps coming closer and closer to her room, she had thought it was the nurses walking by, but that person wasn't a nurse as they stopped at the front of her door and began opening it.

Her sense were shard and since the door was open there was some light so she could see the shadow and as they got closer she could see they had a dart, no soon she saw it was two small daggers. 

They were gonna hit her with it , but instead of being worried she was wondering who was trying to hurt here, that's not your typical reaction.

They began to raise their hand and they shot it but she didn't react because she could see on how they shot it they weren't aiming for her as it landed about 2 feet above her head. The second one thought, she saw their hand was lower which meant this time they were aiming for her head.


They shot the dagger,but as it was a couple of inches away from her face she got up quick and caught it between her middle and index finger just between her eyes and as fast as she caught it she threw it back just as fast.

The person had caught the dagger the same way but this time they said something.

"Just as expected from a student of Master Bai" 

"Who are you, how do you know that?"

"Well he told me of course"

They Flicked the lights on and to her surprise, it was him, the dazzling masterpiece of gods work, the guy that ran over her and broke her leg.

"Yours quit an interesting person Yumi Sang or should I say Yumi Yan" 

She had changed her last name to Sang which was her mother's surname so that they won't find her, but how did he find out?

"How the hell do you know that?"

"If I want to find something it can be done within seconds"

She saw his eyes though they looked like they had sparkles in them, they were so intimidating. Any person looking at those eyes would've froze to death, but not her instead she gave him the same intimidating look.

The scene was so intense that the air was dense, so much that you could chock, but if you were to look closer you can see two people at an equal power, it's like they already understood each other without having to say a word.

A sign came out of Yumi's mouth

"So what do you know about me so far"

He sat down and opened the portfolio and started reading off what was written down.

"Ran away from home and they don't know where you are, you have full scholarship to Harvard University, you graduated earlier than your class impressive, but can I ask why did you runaway from home?"

"They planned for me to get married right after high-school which meant I wouldn't go to college while my sister could go"

He saw she had teary eyes but soon they show of hatred.

"They didn't even tell me about this I overheard them taking , they were just planning to sell me off without me knowing"

"Because I was labeled as the illegitimate child of the Yan family"
 
She again had teary eyes, he couldn't bare his to see her cry but he didn't know why, without a thought he went and hugged her, he knew how she felt because he to held the same title of his family.

She had always been strong but today she was balling her eyes out in front of a stranger, as soon as his firm and muscled but yet so gentle arms were around her she felt nothing but warmth, she felt so safe in the arms of a stranger but she couldn't help rapping her arms around his waist and feel the warmth of this chest as they both would fall asleep.

Love is known to be pure and delicate as a flower, 

but what type of love will bloom upon the richest man there is and the “King” of the underworld nicknamed the Devil,

And a woman, strongest among all and the title that will soon follow her as the “Queen” of the underworld, nicknamed as the fiercest Lioness. 

Read on to see them overcome their challenges and unfold their past and how they get their revenge.

=======
 
“Babe can’t we just stay in bed for a little while longer”. Ruyu groaned.

Yumi was running her fingers through his hair as he slept on her chest. “No you have a Multi-Trillion company to run”.

=======


Hi guys author here, I just wanna say I love this story I been dying to write it and I finally am.

There is a lot to come and many characters to be introduced, I hate to read story’s where there’s a lot of misunderstandings, so here there’ll none of that.

 The story will go on straight forward, the main characters will be like that as their love for each-other grows stronger, with NO misunderstandings.

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