Free from her ex-husband, she unveiled her hidden identities, dazzling the world and thriving. The regretful ex chased after her, a diamond ring in hand, pleading for reconciliation. But a business tycoon had him dragged away, saying, "Piss off. She's my wife." ===== "Let's end this marriage." That single sentence was all it took to plunge Christina Jones into a woman unwanted by a wealthy family. Three years of loyalty to her husband, Brendon Dawson, had bought her nothing but heartbreak. On the day that should have marked a joyful third anniversary, Christina had gone to Brendon's office, eager to invite him out to celebrate. Stepping inside, her eyes fell immediately on an ornate necklace gleaming atop his desk. She had believed the necklace was meant for her. However, Brendon noticed her stare and snapped the jewelry box shut with a careless hand. "Yolanda's come back. This is her present," he explained, his words sharp and cool, making sure there was no room left for misunderstanding. Everything became painfully clear in that instant. Christina dropped her gaze, thick-rimmed glasses doing little to mask the ache and disappointment swimming in her eyes. Brendon's old flame, Yolanda Mitchell, had returned and reclaimed her place in his heart. Meanwhile, Christina realized that after three years at Brendon's side, she'd never really belonged there--never held his love, always on the outside, now set aside like something worn out and unnecessary. Irritation creased Brendon's brow, his patience fraying as he watched Christina stand silently, shoulders slumped. "I'll make sure you're compensated. Let's get this over with and move on. Don't kid yourself into thinking you belong where you never did," he said, his voice cold and final. Honestly, Brendon had never found fault with Christina's appearance, figure, or way of managing the household. The thing was, she simply bored him. In his eyes, she was flavorless--a meal that left him unsatisfied, easy to set aside. Efficiency in the home didn't make her the woman he longed for. Christina's silence only deepened the lines in Brendon's forehead. His tone grew cold. "You've got three days to make up your mind. Don't test my patience--I won't wait forever." Without a flicker of hesitation, Christina replied, "No need for more time. I'll sign right now." She calmly picked up the pen and wrote her name on the divorce papers. Together, they went through the motions at court, and soon every legal formality was behind them. Walking out, Christina felt a heavy ache in her ch*st, yet a strange sense of freedom crept in as well. The hope of ever reaching Brendon's heart was gone--she would no longer waste her life in a one-sided relationship. From now on, there'd be no more oscillating between hope and heartbreak, no more self-inflicted wounds from loving a man who couldn't love her back. Lingering pain had felt like dying by a thousand tiny cuts; best to finish it all at once. Now, at last, it was done--irrevocably finished. A sudden ring from Brendon's phone broke into Christina's reverie. He answered, worry quickly sharpening his features. "What? Yolanda's been hospitalized? I'm on my way With no farewell, Brendon rushed to his car and sped away, never pausing to offer Christina a ride or even a second glance. Whenever Yolanda was involved, Brendon would abandon everything, swept up in thoughts of her alone. As soon as Brendon disappeared, a sleek black-and-red Bugatti rolled to a stop right in front of Christina. Out hopped Davina Morris, Christina's closest friend, sporting a bold outfit and a wide, mischievous grin. "Freedom looks good on you, Christina. Congratulations on finally escaping that mess." With a flick of her wrist, Davina tossed the keys to Christina, eyes twinkling. "How about something a little crazy tonight?" Catching the car keys with effortless charm, Christina simply walked over and sat behind the wheel. "Hop in," she said, no hesitation in her voice. Davina wasted no time in settling into the passenger seat. With a stomp on the accelerator, Christina left the courthouse--and the past--far behind. The Bugatti tore down Azure Highway, the engine's roar mixing exhilaration with a sense of release. "We really ought to hit a b*r to celebrate. If you hadn't held me back, I would've uncorked a bottle and doused that j**k with it right then and there," Davina said, her indignation bubbling over. "You pick the place. But first, I need a stop at the salon," Christina answered, her calm belying her need for a bit of reckless fun. Davina shot her a side glance. "Three years off the radar, and people are still searching for you. When are you going to reclaim your crown and turn the medical world upside down again?" A shrug was all Christina offered. "Haven't made any plans yet," she replied, voice cool and detached. A sharp, almost mocking laugh slipped from Davina. "Word is, your ex is tearing up the city trying to track the legendary doctor King down, desperate to save his precious sweetheart. Imagine his face if he ever learns you're actually King." Not a word left Christina's lips. She just stared ahead, her expression unreadable. ...... Meanwhile, Brendon's car raced through traffic, his nerves raw with worry. He dialed his secretary mid-drive. "Still no progress on King's whereabouts?" King's reputation echoed around the globe, a healer wrapped in legend and secrecy, vanished without a trace for three years. All attempts to locate King had led nowhere. The doctor's true identity remained a puzzle--no one had ever seen King's face, nor even confirmed their gender. The secretary's voice crackled through the line. "We've contacted everyone we know, Mr. Dawson, but King is still missing." Brendon's brow furrowed. "Don't stop until you find King. I don't care what it takes!" "We'll keep at it!" Restlessness gnawed at Brendon as he pulled into the hospital's parking lot and bolted toward the entrance. No matter how high the price, he wouldn't stop searching for King--Yolanda's life depended on it. Chapter 2 Raise The Stakes In the Vertbrook B*r, Christina slid off her black-rimmed glasses and tucked them into her hands. Without them, her eyes sparkled with mischief and warmth. Gone was the flat, straight hair she always wore like armor. Now it flowed in waves, framing her face like she belonged on the cover of a magazine. With that red lipstick and confident glow, she turned heads without trying. She moved like someone who'd shed a skin. Whatever plain, quiet version of herself used to exist at home--she wasn't here tonight. Davina leaned in, swirling the straw in her c**ktail. "Hey, there's a shooting match next week. You thinking of signing up?" "Not a chance," Christina replied without missing a beat. "It's been forever. My hands aren't as steady as they used to be." "Come on, who cares?" Davina flashed a teasing grin. "Use it to blow off some steam. Picture Brendon's face on the bullseye and go full demolition mode." A low chuckle slipped out as Christina brought her glass to her lips. "That's t**pting." "Right?" Davina grinned, her tone rising with excitement. "Oh--and guess who's going to be there? Dillan. The guy who almost knocked you out four years ago. You bailed, and now he's been hogging the spotlight ever since." Davina didn't wait for Christina to respond as she added, "And get this--the prize this year is a custom Bugatti. Not a model you can just go out and buy. One of a kind." She passed her phone to Christina without missing a beat. "Here. Take a look at the competition." Christina flipped through the details in seconds. The prize money wasn't the only thing catching her attention. What really stood out was the twist--contestants would be hidden behind masks and aliases. But whoever came out on top? They'd get to force the others to show their real faces. "If you enter and win, you have to make Dillan take off his mask. I need to know what that guy looks like!" Davina exclaimed. "Okay." Christina gave her w**eglass a gentle swirl. The corners of her mouth curled into a teasing grin. "If I show up, I'm not just going to play. I'm going to raise the stakes. Davina tilted her head, curiosity sparking in her eyes. "Alright then, tell me--what exactly are you thinking?" Christina shot Davina a sly grin. "Let everyone know--whoever takes the crown this year gets a personal session with King. No expiry date, either. As long as they meet King's terms, the deal stands." Davina nearly spilled her d**nk. "You're kidding! If that gets out, people are going to crawl over each other just to sign up. This thing's about to blow up." "I'm heading to the restroom." Without another word, Christina rose from her seat. She didn't make it far before a small crowd of men stepped into her path, their swagger loud enough to silence the room. "Well, look what we've got here," one of them said, grinning. "You look like you could use some company. How about a drink?" They l**red at her, scanning her from head to toe like she was something they could own. Ice filled Christina's gaze. Her voice dropped like a warning. "Move." That only seemed to encourage them. "Feisty," one of them said with a chuckle. "We like a girl who makes things interesting." Christina didn't flinch. "Last chance. Get out of my way." Instead of stepping out of her way, one of them whistled, reaching out a hand toward her ch*st with a l**d grin. That was all it took. Christina snapped his wrist before his fingers even brushed her. The sickening crunch made the whole group freeze. The man yelped, "What the h*ll--" The other men didn't get the chance to retaliate. Christina moved like a storm. A kick to the knee. An elbow to the jaw. One by one, she dropped them with cold precision. Within moments, the entire group lay sprawled across the floor, gr**aning and clutching bruises they'd remember for weeks. Above them, the second floor balcony overlooked the chaos. "That woman's a knockout," one of Brendon's buddies said, his jaw practically on the floor. "Cool, confident--exactly my type." Brendon's gaze drifted to the woman with the wavy hair, and the longer he stared, the stronger the sense of recognition grew. There was something in her face--something uncanny--that made him wonder if he was looking at Christina, his ex-wife. After spending the afternoon at the hospital with Yolanda, Brendon had agreed to hit the bar on her suggestion. Blowing off steam sounded harmless--until now. "Hold on a second," Yolanda murmured, squinting at the woman downstairs. "Isn't that Christina?" "Wait, you're telling me that knockout is actually Christina? Get out of here. That can't be the same dull housewife who barely spoke." Curiosity sparked in the group as they leaned in, squinting for confirmation. Recognition settled in fast--it really was Brendon's ex-wife, and the shock hit them like a sl*p. Katie Dawson, Brendon's younger sister, didn't hide her disdain. "Look at her--dressed like she's auditioning for attention. I guess getting dumped made her desperate. Bet she's prowling for a s**ar daddy." The group laughed, quick to follow her lead. "Typical," someone sneered. "Women like that only know how to latch onto a man." "Brendon dodged a bullet. With that look? She's practically advertising herself." "Take the man away and she's got nothing left. Just another gold-digger trying to act like she's someone." Their voices scratched against Brendon's patience like nails on glass. He'd had enough. "Cut it out!" he snapped, his tone sharper than they'd heard all night. Without waiting for a reply, Brendon gave them one final glare and stormed off in Christina's direction. Chapter 3 Her Indifference "Brendon!" "Wait, Brendon!" Katie and Yolanda both called out, their voices overlapping as they rushed to stop Brendon. Before Brendon could move any farther, they stepped in front of him, forcing him to stop. "Please tell me you're not about to run to that b**ch," Katie said, disbelief tightening her voice. A flicker of anger crossed Brendon's face. "Watch your mouth, Katie. That attitude isn't just rude--it's disgraceful. You're carrying our family name. Try not to drag it through the mud." Yolanda gently placed a hand on Katie's shoulder, her tone sweet and measured. "Brendon, please don't be so harsh on Katie. She's still young and doesn't know better. If you still care about Christina, just be honest with me. I won't make things difficult for you. I'll go quietly." Yolanda's eyes were red with tears as she made a move to turn away, her face full of hurt. Seeing her like this made Brendon's heart twist. "Yolanda, no--don't go," he said quickly, stepping forward and grabbing her hand. "You're misunderstanding. There's nothing left between Christina and me." "Then be straight with me. Is there still a part of you that loves her? Because… If there is, I can handle it. I won't hold it against you." Yolanda's voice was small and trembling as she met his eyes. Brendon couldn't ignore the way her face twisted with hurt and hastily said, "You're overthinking it. Whatever Christina does now has nothing to do with me anymore." Yolanda reached for his hand, her voice gentle but firm as she said, "Perhaps Christina has a reason to dress like that. Maybe she's struggling to fend for herself. We should help her." Brendon was impressed by Yolanda's apparent kindness. "You've always had a golden heart, Yolanda. But don't fret over Christina. She's not struggling the way you think. I gave her enough to live comfortably, and if she chooses to be a gold-digger and discards her self-respect, that's on her." Yolanda seemed like she wanted to say more, but suddenly lost her footing, her body leaning back as her balance faltered. Brendon moved fast, catching her before she hit the floor. "Yolanda!" His voice cracked with pani "I... I'm fine. It's just too noisy here. I feel a bit dizzy. Let's go back to the private room." Yolanda's voice came out faintly as she leaned against him. Holding her steady, Brendon frowned. "You should've stayed in the hospital and rested a few more days. You shouldn't have insisted on leaving." Turning toward Katie, he instructed, "Katie, take her back to the private room. I'm going to the restroom and I'll be back in a minute." Suspicion danced in Katie's eyes like a match to dry paper. "You're not seriously planning to sneak off and meet Christina, are you?" Before Brendon could respond, Yolanda gently placed her hand on Katie's arm. "It's alright. If Brendon wants to speak to Christina, let him. She's not just some stranger--she was part of his life once. Pretending she doesn't exist won't make her disappear. And if her inappropriate attire tonight stirs up gossip, it won't just fall on Brendon--it could drag down the Dawson name too." "You're always so thoughtful, Yolanda, even considerate of that bit--" Katie stopped herself just when she caught Brendon's cold stare. She froze, swallowing her next words. A beat later, Katie's tone shifted. "Brendon, you see, Yolanda's still not in the clear. If something happens while you're out here wasting time, that's on you!" With an exasperated sigh, Katie latched onto Yolanda's hand. "Come on, Yolanda. We're leaving." ... Downstairs, Christina exited the restroom. She gave her hair a casual toss, a small gesture that turned every head in the b*r. Men watched her openly, eyes trailing her c**ves with a hunger that didn't even try to hide itself. From a short distance away, Brendon stood rigid. His jaw tightened as he watched the scene unfold, those men's stares igniting something bitter inside him. They weren't just looking--they were un**essing her with their eyes. And he hated it. "Christina Jones!" Brendon called out, voice low but taut with irritation. Christina's head turned slowly, her gaze meeting his with a cool detachment. She gave him a slow, deliberate once-over before answering, "What do you want?" Her tone was casual. Distant. Like he was just another stranger in the crowd. That chill in her voice struck a nerve. It rattled something in Brendon he wasn't ready to name. Without thinking, Brendon marched over and seized her wrist. "You're coming with me." Chapter 4 At Least I'm Not Delusional With a swift j**k, Christina yanked her wrist free from Brendon's grasp, eyes narrowed and voice sharp. "Try that again, and you'll regret ever laying a finger on me." Instead of backing down, Brendon found his irritation boiling over. He couldn't explain it, but it felt like control--something he'd always taken for granted--was slipping through his fingers. "This place doesn't suit you!" he snapped, voice cold. "No need to play dress-up just to make me look your way." That made Christina laugh--sharp, humorless, and laced with contempt. "Wow. You think this is about you? Don't delude yourself. We're finished. Whatever you think you still have a say in, you don't." "Is that really what you want?" Brendon asked, his stare hard and searching. "To erase everything just like that?" "Don't you want the same?" Christina retorted flatly. "Don't forget, we've already divorced." Brendon's hand twitched, and before he could stop himself, he reached for her again. But her reflexes were faster. With a crisp sl*p, she knocked his hand away. "Sh*t!" Brendon recoiled, holding his wrist, fury flashing in his eyes. "Are you insane?" "If I am, at least I'm not delusional," Christina said casually, her gaze drifting down to his g**in and back up with a derisive smirk. "Though you might want to get yourself checked for any functional problems." Rage twisted across his face. "You've got a real mouth on you!" "Appreciate the compliment," Christina replied with a shrug, completely unfazed. Brendon's anger flared even hotter. "I came here to warn you because I didn't want to see you crash and burn. But if this is what you want, go ahead. Make your mess. I'm done trying." Without saying another word, Brendon spun on his heel and stormed off, his frustration echoing in each step. Christina's transformation hadn't gone unnoticed. Still, in his mind, it was nothing more than a flashy attempt to draw his attention. Across the room, more than a few men couldn't stop staring, their eyes tracking Christina like prey. She met their gazes with a look so sharp that it could cut glass, and whatever boldness they carried dissolved on the spot. Every spine stiffened. Whatever fantasy they'd been brewing got snuffed out before it even formed. No one in that b*r forgot what had happened earlier. Those foolish enough to touch her were left broken--one of them, quite literally, had his manhood destroyed. Nobody dared try again. Not after witnessing that brutal reminder. ... Elsewhere, inside a private, soundproof room tucked away from the crowd, two men silently observed the commotion. Dylan Scott leaned back in his chair, eyes narrowing slightly as the striking Christina strode away from the scene, her presence drawing focus like gravity. Something about her brought back a name he hadn't spoken aloud in years--Rose. The masked woman who had nearly shattered his pride at that shooting match four years ago. He could still picture the glint of her eyes behind the mask. "She's got bite," Ralphy Graham, Dylan's friend, commented, his gaze flicking from the bar to Dylan. "If Brendon picked a fight with her, he'd be eating dirt." The quiet authority in Dylan's posture was undeniable. He didn't need to speak to make his presence felt--his energy did the work for him. Ralphy caught the flicker of interest in his friend's eyes and said, "Don't tell me she's cracked that cold wall of yours. You thinking of pursuing her?" A shift in Dylan's expression sobered the air. "Finding any leads on King is all I care about," he said evenly. A crease formed on Ralphy's brow. "Still nothing?" Dylan's features were drawn tight. "Not a trace." "It's like King disappeared off the face of the earth," Ralphy said, a note of frustration slipping into his voice. "But King is the only one who can treat your sister. That hasn't changed." At those words, Dylan's grip tightened around his glass. "Exactly. That's why I'll keep looking--no matter how long it takes." Without pause, he downed the entire drink. A shrill ring sliced through the room, breaking the tension. Without missing a beat, Ralphy reached for his phone and answered, looking composed at first. But within seconds, that calm shattered. His eyes lit up with sudden, electric excitement, and his posture shot upright. Dylan raised an eyebrow, voice steady. "What could possibly rattle you like that?" The call ended with a sharp tap. Ralphy turned to him, breathless with disbelief. "It's about King. The sh**ting competition!" Confusion flickered across Dylan's face. "What are you talking about?" He hadn't expected King's name to be tied to a sh**ting competition. Ralphy explained, nearly bursting, "King just released a statement. Next week's champion of the shooting competition gets an opportunity for treatment--no expiry, just has to follow King's terms." Ralphy almost bounced in his seat. The competition he hosted had just become the hottest event of the year because of King's announcement. "No sh*t! Seriously?" Dylan leaned forward, his voice dropping, but the edge in it sharp. "Say it again." With unwavering certainty, Ralphy said, "Whoever wins the sh**ting competition earns a treatment session from King. And Dylan, you've been on top of the shooting competition for three years straight under the alias of Dillan. If anyone's walking away with that prize, it's going to be you!" Chapter 5 Beat Him Once Again Dylan didn't wait for Ralphy to say another word. He turned sharply and walked away without hesitation. That sudden exit made Ralphy blink. "Where are you headed?" he called out, still riding the high of the news. "I'm heading back to train. If I want that win, I can't leave anything to chance," Dylan replied, his voice cold, eyes set like flint on the future. Finally, there was hope--his sister might get the treatment she needed. So long as that phantom from his past--Rose--didn't show up, victory was within reach. Still, he couldn't afford to gamble on luck. He'd push harder, train longer. Failure wasn't an option. Elsewhere, Brendon stood frozen with his phone in hand, staring at the notification of King's statement. "It's real! King's giving out treatment! You're going to be okay!" Katie gasped from across the room and rushed forward, pulling Yolanda into a tight hug. Uncertainty clouded Yolanda's face. "But… Isn't Dillan still undefeated? I heard no one's even come close to beating him in years." Katie waved the concern off with a confident smile. "It doesn't matter who wins. We'll make an offer they can't refuse. There's no way anyone will refuse money." "That's right. Yolanda, you have my word--I'll do everything in my power to get King to treat you," Brendon said, his voice steady with conviction. "No matter what it takes, I'll find a way to ease your pain and make this illness less of a burden." Tears welled up in Yolanda's eyes as she clutched his sleeve. "You're always doing so much for me. I don't even know how to thank you." Brendon held her close, one hand soothing her hair. "You don't have to. I'm not doing this for thanks--I'm doing it for you." Moved beyond words, Yolanda buried her face against his ch*st. "Brendon, thank you." And so, the long-awaited day of the shooting competition finally arrived. By morning, the sh**ting grounds were packed tighter than ever. The rare luxury car was a flashy incentive, but it was King's offer of treatment--more precious than gold or any fancy car--that pulled the crowd in like gravity. Barely had the opening round finished before contestants began dropping like flies. As each round grew more demanding, the numbers thinned fast, only the most skilled sh**ters hanging on. Brendon held his own long enough to break into the top ten, but his run ended when he pushed too hard for the top five. The disappointment etched itself clearly across his face. "It's alright, Brendon. We've got more than enough money to work with," Katie said, fully prepared to use their wealth to secure the championship by any means necessary. Yolanda offered a softer response, her voice warm and gentle. "You did everything you could, Brendon. Making it that far was amazing. Please don't be so hard on yourself." One look at Yolanda's calm, supportive smile eased some of the tension knotted in Brendon's ch*st. Even so, her grace only deepened the self-reproach for not being skilled enough to win the prize of King's treatment twisting inside him. He hated coming up short. Now, only two names remained on the board. One man. One woman. Everyone recognized Dillan--the reigning champ with a perfect track record. The woman standing across from him, Chrissy, was a mystery to most. The final challenge came with a twist--contestants had to sh**t while blindfolded. Dylan had already pieced it together. Chrissy wasn't some unknown competitor. She was Rose--the same Rose who had disappeared without a trace three years ago. She hadn't just returned. She had reinvented herself under a brand-new alias. Standing across from the very woman who had once crushed him in the past, Dylan felt the weight of that memory press down hard. Even so, three years of relentless training had reshaped him. This time, he believed he could take her down. With steady steps, Dylan walked onto the stage. A black mask concealed his face, but the resolve in his stance said everything. The staff tied the blindfold tightly, and the final showdown began. First sh*t--direct hit. Right through the center. Second sh*t--another bullseye. Then came the third. All around him, the crowd leaned in, the arena holding its breath like one giant lung. When that final sh*t struck dead center, the silence shattered into wild cheers. The audience leapt from their seats, the roar deafening. "Dillan is amazing! If I fl**t with him and win him over, I bet I can talk him into giving up that prize once he wins!" Katie exclaimed from the front row, clapping her hands together and beaming. "You're smitten with him, aren't you?" Yolanda tilted her head, an amused sparkle in her eyes. Flushing, Katie quickly waved it off. "Absolutely not! I'm just trying to secure King's treatment for you, that's all." Yolanda chuckled. "You've always looked out for me, Katie. I'm so lucky to have you." Brendon crossed his arms. "This match is Dillan's to take. No question." Brendon hadn't taken Chrissy seriously since she walked in. In his mind, women just didn't belong in the upper tier of this sport. The name Rose still lingered in his memory--her win years ago felt more like a lucky strike than a real triumph. If she had the skill, she wouldn't have vanished three years ago. Now blindfolded and standing center stage, Chrissy--who was actually Christina--made no move to sh**t. Instead, she turned her body slowly, letting the eyes of the crowd follow her every motion. Whispers broke out almost immediately. "Is she giving up?" "Maybe this is her way of backing out without saying it outright." "I said it from the start--women just can't hold their own in a match like this." But as the noise grew louder, Christina raised her w**pon behind her back and, without adjusting her stance, pulled the trigger. The sh*t rang out sharp and clean. "Direct hit!" the announcer shouted. Gasps rippled through the audience. She had landed a bullseye--and under conditions that were harder than earlier rounds. "How is that possible?" "No way. That was pure luck!" While the crowd clung to doubt, Dylan's confidence began to slip. It was happening again. He was about to lose to Rose. From her second sh*t to her last, Christina never missed. Each movement was fluid, each sh*t dead-on. She moved like she had eyes in the back of her head. Sh*t after sh*t, bullseye after bullseye. The difficulty of Chrissy's round surpassed Dylan's, leaving no room for dispute--Chrissy had won. Cheers erupted, c*rses followed, and stunned silence filled the gaps in between. Those who bet everything on Dillan were left stunned and broke. Meanwhile, Davina couldn't stop grinning. She had bet on Chrissy from the start--and now she was walking away with more money than she knew what to do with. Dylan remained rooted to the spot, his disbelief anchoring him in place as Christina strode straight toward him. "You will peel off the mask yourself, or should I do it for you?" Christina said casually, determined to see his face as per the privilege that came with the winner. The voice modulator built into her mask disguised her tone, keeping the crowd guessing. But Dylan didn't need a voice to recognize her--he knew. This was Rose. No doubt. With no hesitation, he reached up and pulled off his mask. Gasps swept through the arena as his face came into full view. Revealed beneath the mask was none other than Dylan Scott, head of the city's most powerful dynasty and the silent force behind the very competition they were watching. Brendon exhaled in quiet relief. Had Dylan come out on top, not even the Dawson name would've held any weight to sway him into giving up the prize of King's treatment. Compared to Dylan's influence, the Dawson family would've been brushed aside like a rumor. Masked and silent, Christina moved past Brendon and his crew, her steps aimed at Davina--until Katie suddenly stepped in her way. "Hold it right there!" Katie planted herself in front of Christina, eyes narrowed with smug defiance. "That reward--sell it to us. Just say how much you want." "Nah, not for sale," Christina said, her voice dry and unmoved. Helping Yolanda had never been on her agenda. Not now. Not ever. "You seriously think refusing us is smart?" Katie snapped. "Do you know what happens to people who go against the Dawson family?" "I don't," Christina said with a shrug. "And I don't care. I said it's not for sale." "You arrogant--" Katie's words failed her as rage took over. In one furious motion, she lunged forward and yanked the mask off Christina's face... ...... What happens next? Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app) &5&
Kismet Read-20 Facebook and Instagram ad
Kismet Read-20 ran this video ad since Jun 27, 2026, 133 days so far.
Ad copy
Free from her ex-husband, she unveiled her hidden identities, dazzling the world and thriving. The regretful ex chased after her, a diamond ring in hand, pleading for reconciliation. But a business tycoon had him dragged away, saying, "Piss off. She's my wife." ===== "Let's end this marriage." That single sentence was all it took to plunge Christina Jones into a woman unwanted by a wealthy family. Three years of loyalty to her husband, Brendon Dawson, had bought her nothing but heartbreak. On the day that should have marked a joyful third anniversary, Christina had gone to Brendon's office, eager to invite him out to celebrate. Stepping inside, her eyes fell immediately on an ornate necklace gleaming atop his desk. She had believed the necklace was meant for her. However, Brendon noticed her stare and snapped the jewelry box shut with a careless hand. "Yolanda's come back. This is her present," he explained, his words sharp and cool, making sure there was no room left for misunderstanding. Everything became painfully clear in that instant. Christina dropped her gaze, thick-rimmed glasses doing little to mask the ache and disappointment swimming in her eyes. Brendon's old flame, Yolanda Mitchell, had returned and reclaimed her place in his heart. Meanwhile, Christina realized that after three years at Brendon's side, she'd never really belonged there--never held his love, always on the outside, now set aside like something worn out and unnecessary. Irritation creased Brendon's brow, his patience fraying as he watched Christina stand silently, shoulders slumped. "I'll make sure you're compensated. Let's get this over with and move on. Don't kid yourself into thinking you belong where you never did," he said, his voice cold and final. Honestly, Brendon had never found fault with Christina's appearance, figure, or way of managing the household. The thing was, she simply bored him. In his eyes, she was flavorless--a meal that left him unsatisfied, easy to set aside. Efficiency in the home didn't make her the woman he longed for. Christina's silence only deepened the lines in Brendon's forehead. His tone grew cold. "You've got three days to make up your mind. Don't test my patience--I won't wait forever." Without a flicker of hesitation, Christina replied, "No need for more time. I'll sign right now." She calmly picked up the pen and wrote her name on the divorce papers. Together, they went through the motions at court, and soon every legal formality was behind them. Walking out, Christina felt a heavy ache in her ch*st, yet a strange sense of freedom crept in as well. The hope of ever reaching Brendon's heart was gone--she would no longer waste her life in a one-sided relationship. From now on, there'd be no more oscillating between hope and heartbreak, no more self-inflicted wounds from loving a man who couldn't love her back. Lingering pain had felt like dying by a thousand tiny cuts; best to finish it all at once. Now, at last, it was done--irrevocably finished. A sudden ring from Brendon's phone broke into Christina's reverie. He answered, worry quickly sharpening his features. "What? Yolanda's been hospitalized? I'm on my way With no farewell, Brendon rushed to his car and sped away, never pausing to offer Christina a ride or even a second glance. Whenever Yolanda was involved, Brendon would abandon everything, swept up in thoughts of her alone. As soon as Brendon disappeared, a sleek black-and-red Bugatti rolled to a stop right in front of Christina. Out hopped Davina Morris, Christina's closest friend, sporting a bold outfit and a wide, mischievous grin. "Freedom looks good on you, Christina. Congratulations on finally escaping that mess." With a flick of her wrist, Davina tossed the keys to Christina, eyes twinkling. "How about something a little crazy tonight?" Catching the car keys with effortless charm, Christina simply walked over and sat behind the wheel. "Hop in," she said, no hesitation in her voice. Davina wasted no time in settling into the passenger seat. With a stomp on the accelerator, Christina left the courthouse--and the past--far behind. The Bugatti tore down Azure Highway, the engine's roar mixing exhilaration with a sense of release. "We really ought to hit a b*r to celebrate. If you hadn't held me back, I would've uncorked a bottle and doused that j**k with it right then and there," Davina said, her indignation bubbling over. "You pick the place. But first, I need a stop at the salon," Christina answered, her calm belying her need for a bit of reckless fun. Davina shot her a side glance. "Three years off the radar, and people are still searching for you. When are you going to reclaim your crown and turn the medical world upside down again?" A shrug was all Christina offered. "Haven't made any plans yet," she replied, voice cool and detached. A sharp, almost mocking laugh slipped from Davina. "Word is, your ex is tearing up the city trying to track the legendary doctor King down, desperate to save his precious sweetheart. Imagine his face if he ever learns you're actually King." Not a word left Christina's lips. She just stared ahead, her expression unreadable. ...... Meanwhile, Brendon's car raced through traffic, his nerves raw with worry. He dialed his secretary mid-drive. "Still no progress on King's whereabouts?" King's reputation echoed around the globe, a healer wrapped in legend and secrecy, vanished without a trace for three years. All attempts to locate King had led nowhere. The doctor's true identity remained a puzzle--no one had ever seen King's face, nor even confirmed their gender. The secretary's voice crackled through the line. "We've contacted everyone we know, Mr. Dawson, but King is still missing." Brendon's brow furrowed. "Don't stop until you find King. I don't care what it takes!" "We'll keep at it!" Restlessness gnawed at Brendon as he pulled into the hospital's parking lot and bolted toward the entrance. No matter how high the price, he wouldn't stop searching for King--Yolanda's life depended on it. Chapter 2 Raise The Stakes In the Vertbrook B*r, Christina slid off her black-rimmed glasses and tucked them into her hands. Without them, her eyes sparkled with mischief and warmth. Gone was the flat, straight hair she always wore like armor. Now it flowed in waves, framing her face like she belonged on the cover of a magazine. With that red lipstick and confident glow, she turned heads without trying. She moved like someone who'd shed a skin. Whatever plain, quiet version of herself used to exist at home--she wasn't here tonight. Davina leaned in, swirling the straw in her c**ktail. "Hey, there's a shooting match next week. You thinking of signing up?" "Not a chance," Christina replied without missing a beat. "It's been forever. My hands aren't as steady as they used to be." "Come on, who cares?" Davina flashed a teasing grin. "Use it to blow off some steam. Picture Brendon's face on the bullseye and go full demolition mode." A low chuckle slipped out as Christina brought her glass to her lips. "That's t**pting." "Right?" Davina grinned, her tone rising with excitement. "Oh--and guess who's going to be there? Dillan. The guy who almost knocked you out four years ago. You bailed, and now he's been hogging the spotlight ever since." Davina didn't wait for Christina to respond as she added, "And get this--the prize this year is a custom Bugatti. Not a model you can just go out and buy. One of a kind." She passed her phone to Christina without missing a beat. "Here. Take a look at the competition." Christina flipped through the details in seconds. The prize money wasn't the only thing catching her attention. What really stood out was the twist--contestants would be hidden behind masks and aliases. But whoever came out on top? They'd get to force the others to show their real faces. "If you enter and win, you have to make Dillan take off his mask. I need to know what that guy looks like!" Davina exclaimed. "Okay." Christina gave her w**eglass a gentle swirl. The corners of her mouth curled into a teasing grin. "If I show up, I'm not just going to play. I'm going to raise the stakes. Davina tilted her head, curiosity sparking in her eyes. "Alright then, tell me--what exactly are you thinking?" Christina shot Davina a sly grin. "Let everyone know--whoever takes the crown this year gets a personal session with King. No expiry date, either. As long as they meet King's terms, the deal stands." Davina nearly spilled her d**nk. "You're kidding! If that gets out, people are going to crawl over each other just to sign up. This thing's about to blow up." "I'm heading to the restroom." Without another word, Christina rose from her seat. She didn't make it far before a small crowd of men stepped into her path, their swagger loud enough to silence the room. "Well, look what we've got here," one of them said, grinning. "You look like you could use some company. How about a drink?" They l**red at her, scanning her from head to toe like she was something they could own. Ice filled Christina's gaze. Her voice dropped like a warning. "Move." That only seemed to encourage them. "Feisty," one of them said with a chuckle. "We like a girl who makes things interesting." Christina didn't flinch. "Last chance. Get out of my way." Instead of stepping out of her way, one of them whistled, reaching out a hand toward her ch*st with a l**d grin. That was all it took. Christina snapped his wrist before his fingers even brushed her. The sickening crunch made the whole group freeze. The man yelped, "What the h*ll--" The other men didn't get the chance to retaliate. Christina moved like a storm. A kick to the knee. An elbow to the jaw. One by one, she dropped them with cold precision. Within moments, the entire group lay sprawled across the floor, gr**aning and clutching bruises they'd remember for weeks. Above them, the second floor balcony overlooked the chaos. "That woman's a knockout," one of Brendon's buddies said, his jaw practically on the floor. "Cool, confident--exactly my type." Brendon's gaze drifted to the woman with the wavy hair, and the longer he stared, the stronger the sense of recognition grew. There was something in her face--something uncanny--that made him wonder if he was looking at Christina, his ex-wife. After spending the afternoon at the hospital with Yolanda, Brendon had agreed to hit the bar on her suggestion. Blowing off steam sounded harmless--until now. "Hold on a second," Yolanda murmured, squinting at the woman downstairs. "Isn't that Christina?" "Wait, you're telling me that knockout is actually Christina? Get out of here. That can't be the same dull housewife who barely spoke." Curiosity sparked in the group as they leaned in, squinting for confirmation. Recognition settled in fast--it really was Brendon's ex-wife, and the shock hit them like a sl*p. Katie Dawson, Brendon's younger sister, didn't hide her disdain. "Look at her--dressed like she's auditioning for attention. I guess getting dumped made her desperate. Bet she's prowling for a s**ar daddy." The group laughed, quick to follow her lead. "Typical," someone sneered. "Women like that only know how to latch onto a man." "Brendon dodged a bullet. With that look? She's practically advertising herself." "Take the man away and she's got nothing left. Just another gold-digger trying to act like she's someone." Their voices scratched against Brendon's patience like nails on glass. He'd had enough. "Cut it out!" he snapped, his tone sharper than they'd heard all night. Without waiting for a reply, Brendon gave them one final glare and stormed off in Christina's direction. Chapter 3 Her Indifference "Brendon!" "Wait, Brendon!" Katie and Yolanda both called out, their voices overlapping as they rushed to stop Brendon. Before Brendon could move any farther, they stepped in front of him, forcing him to stop. "Please tell me you're not about to run to that b**ch," Katie said, disbelief tightening her voice. A flicker of anger crossed Brendon's face. "Watch your mouth, Katie. That attitude isn't just rude--it's disgraceful. You're carrying our family name. Try not to drag it through the mud." Yolanda gently placed a hand on Katie's shoulder, her tone sweet and measured. "Brendon, please don't be so harsh on Katie. She's still young and doesn't know better. If you still care about Christina, just be honest with me. I won't make things difficult for you. I'll go quietly." Yolanda's eyes were red with tears as she made a move to turn away, her face full of hurt. Seeing her like this made Brendon's heart twist. "Yolanda, no--don't go," he said quickly, stepping forward and grabbing her hand. "You're misunderstanding. There's nothing left between Christina and me." "Then be straight with me. Is there still a part of you that loves her? Because… If there is, I can handle it. I won't hold it against you." Yolanda's voice was small and trembling as she met his eyes. Brendon couldn't ignore the way her face twisted with hurt and hastily said, "You're overthinking it. Whatever Christina does now has nothing to do with me anymore." Yolanda reached for his hand, her voice gentle but firm as she said, "Perhaps Christina has a reason to dress like that. Maybe she's struggling to fend for herself. We should help her." Brendon was impressed by Yolanda's apparent kindness. "You've always had a golden heart, Yolanda. But don't fret over Christina. She's not struggling the way you think. I gave her enough to live comfortably, and if she chooses to be a gold-digger and discards her self-respect, that's on her." Yolanda seemed like she wanted to say more, but suddenly lost her footing, her body leaning back as her balance faltered. Brendon moved fast, catching her before she hit the floor. "Yolanda!" His voice cracked with pani "I... I'm fine. It's just too noisy here. I feel a bit dizzy. Let's go back to the private room." Yolanda's voice came out faintly as she leaned against him. Holding her steady, Brendon frowned. "You should've stayed in the hospital and rested a few more days. You shouldn't have insisted on leaving." Turning toward Katie, he instructed, "Katie, take her back to the private room. I'm going to the restroom and I'll be back in a minute." Suspicion danced in Katie's eyes like a match to dry paper. "You're not seriously planning to sneak off and meet Christina, are you?" Before Brendon could respond, Yolanda gently placed her hand on Katie's arm. "It's alright. If Brendon wants to speak to Christina, let him. She's not just some stranger--she was part of his life once. Pretending she doesn't exist won't make her disappear. And if her inappropriate attire tonight stirs up gossip, it won't just fall on Brendon--it could drag down the Dawson name too." "You're always so thoughtful, Yolanda, even considerate of that bit--" Katie stopped herself just when she caught Brendon's cold stare. She froze, swallowing her next words. A beat later, Katie's tone shifted. "Brendon, you see, Yolanda's still not in the clear. If something happens while you're out here wasting time, that's on you!" With an exasperated sigh, Katie latched onto Yolanda's hand. "Come on, Yolanda. We're leaving." ... Downstairs, Christina exited the restroom. She gave her hair a casual toss, a small gesture that turned every head in the b*r. Men watched her openly, eyes trailing her c**ves with a hunger that didn't even try to hide itself. From a short distance away, Brendon stood rigid. His jaw tightened as he watched the scene unfold, those men's stares igniting something bitter inside him. They weren't just looking--they were un**essing her with their eyes. And he hated it. "Christina Jones!" Brendon called out, voice low but taut with irritation. Christina's head turned slowly, her gaze meeting his with a cool detachment. She gave him a slow, deliberate once-over before answering, "What do you want?" Her tone was casual. Distant. Like he was just another stranger in the crowd. That chill in her voice struck a nerve. It rattled something in Brendon he wasn't ready to name. Without thinking, Brendon marched over and seized her wrist. "You're coming with me." Chapter 4 At Least I'm Not Delusional With a swift j**k, Christina yanked her wrist free from Brendon's grasp, eyes narrowed and voice sharp. "Try that again, and you'll regret ever laying a finger on me." Instead of backing down, Brendon found his irritation boiling over. He couldn't explain it, but it felt like control--something he'd always taken for granted--was slipping through his fingers. "This place doesn't suit you!" he snapped, voice cold. "No need to play dress-up just to make me look your way." That made Christina laugh--sharp, humorless, and laced with contempt. "Wow. You think this is about you? Don't delude yourself. We're finished. Whatever you think you still have a say in, you don't." "Is that really what you want?" Brendon asked, his stare hard and searching. "To erase everything just like that?" "Don't you want the same?" Christina retorted flatly. "Don't forget, we've already divorced." Brendon's hand twitched, and before he could stop himself, he reached for her again. But her reflexes were faster. With a crisp sl*p, she knocked his hand away. "Sh*t!" Brendon recoiled, holding his wrist, fury flashing in his eyes. "Are you insane?" "If I am, at least I'm not delusional," Christina said casually, her gaze drifting down to his g**in and back up with a derisive smirk. "Though you might want to get yourself checked for any functional problems." Rage twisted across his face. "You've got a real mouth on you!" "Appreciate the compliment," Christina replied with a shrug, completely unfazed. Brendon's anger flared even hotter. "I came here to warn you because I didn't want to see you crash and burn. But if this is what you want, go ahead. Make your mess. I'm done trying." Without saying another word, Brendon spun on his heel and stormed off, his frustration echoing in each step. Christina's transformation hadn't gone unnoticed. Still, in his mind, it was nothing more than a flashy attempt to draw his attention. Across the room, more than a few men couldn't stop staring, their eyes tracking Christina like prey. She met their gazes with a look so sharp that it could cut glass, and whatever boldness they carried dissolved on the spot. Every spine stiffened. Whatever fantasy they'd been brewing got snuffed out before it even formed. No one in that b*r forgot what had happened earlier. Those foolish enough to touch her were left broken--one of them, quite literally, had his manhood destroyed. Nobody dared try again. Not after witnessing that brutal reminder. ... Elsewhere, inside a private, soundproof room tucked away from the crowd, two men silently observed the commotion. Dylan Scott leaned back in his chair, eyes narrowing slightly as the striking Christina strode away from the scene, her presence drawing focus like gravity. Something about her brought back a name he hadn't spoken aloud in years--Rose. The masked woman who had nearly shattered his pride at that shooting match four years ago. He could still picture the glint of her eyes behind the mask. "She's got bite," Ralphy Graham, Dylan's friend, commented, his gaze flicking from the bar to Dylan. "If Brendon picked a fight with her, he'd be eating dirt." The quiet authority in Dylan's posture was undeniable. He didn't need to speak to make his presence felt--his energy did the work for him. Ralphy caught the flicker of interest in his friend's eyes and said, "Don't tell me she's cracked that cold wall of yours. You thinking of pursuing her?" A shift in Dylan's expression sobered the air. "Finding any leads on King is all I care about," he said evenly. A crease formed on Ralphy's brow. "Still nothing?" Dylan's features were drawn tight. "Not a trace." "It's like King disappeared off the face of the earth," Ralphy said, a note of frustration slipping into his voice. "But King is the only one who can treat your sister. That hasn't changed." At those words, Dylan's grip tightened around his glass. "Exactly. That's why I'll keep looking--no matter how long it takes." Without pause, he downed the entire drink. A shrill ring sliced through the room, breaking the tension. Without missing a beat, Ralphy reached for his phone and answered, looking composed at first. But within seconds, that calm shattered. His eyes lit up with sudden, electric excitement, and his posture shot upright. Dylan raised an eyebrow, voice steady. "What could possibly rattle you like that?" The call ended with a sharp tap. Ralphy turned to him, breathless with disbelief. "It's about King. The sh**ting competition!" Confusion flickered across Dylan's face. "What are you talking about?" He hadn't expected King's name to be tied to a sh**ting competition. Ralphy explained, nearly bursting, "King just released a statement. Next week's champion of the shooting competition gets an opportunity for treatment--no expiry, just has to follow King's terms." Ralphy almost bounced in his seat. The competition he hosted had just become the hottest event of the year because of King's announcement. "No sh*t! Seriously?" Dylan leaned forward, his voice dropping, but the edge in it sharp. "Say it again." With unwavering certainty, Ralphy said, "Whoever wins the sh**ting competition earns a treatment session from King. And Dylan, you've been on top of the shooting competition for three years straight under the alias of Dillan. If anyone's walking away with that prize, it's going to be you!" Chapter 5 Beat Him Once Again Dylan didn't wait for Ralphy to say another word. He turned sharply and walked away without hesitation. That sudden exit made Ralphy blink. "Where are you headed?" he called out, still riding the high of the news. "I'm heading back to train. If I want that win, I can't leave anything to chance," Dylan replied, his voice cold, eyes set like flint on the future. Finally, there was hope--his sister might get the treatment she needed. So long as that phantom from his past--Rose--didn't show up, victory was within reach. Still, he couldn't afford to gamble on luck. He'd push harder, train longer. Failure wasn't an option. Elsewhere, Brendon stood frozen with his phone in hand, staring at the notification of King's statement. "It's real! King's giving out treatment! You're going to be okay!" Katie gasped from across the room and rushed forward, pulling Yolanda into a tight hug. Uncertainty clouded Yolanda's face. "But… Isn't Dillan still undefeated? I heard no one's even come close to beating him in years." Katie waved the concern off with a confident smile. "It doesn't matter who wins. We'll make an offer they can't refuse. There's no way anyone will refuse money." "That's right. Yolanda, you have my word--I'll do everything in my power to get King to treat you," Brendon said, his voice steady with conviction. "No matter what it takes, I'll find a way to ease your pain and make this illness less of a burden." Tears welled up in Yolanda's eyes as she clutched his sleeve. "You're always doing so much for me. I don't even know how to thank you." Brendon held her close, one hand soothing her hair. "You don't have to. I'm not doing this for thanks--I'm doing it for you." Moved beyond words, Yolanda buried her face against his ch*st. "Brendon, thank you." And so, the long-awaited day of the shooting competition finally arrived. By morning, the sh**ting grounds were packed tighter than ever. The rare luxury car was a flashy incentive, but it was King's offer of treatment--more precious than gold or any fancy car--that pulled the crowd in like gravity. Barely had the opening round finished before contestants began dropping like flies. As each round grew more demanding, the numbers thinned fast, only the most skilled sh**ters hanging on. Brendon held his own long enough to break into the top ten, but his run ended when he pushed too hard for the top five. The disappointment etched itself clearly across his face. "It's alright, Brendon. We've got more than enough money to work with," Katie said, fully prepared to use their wealth to secure the championship by any means necessary. Yolanda offered a softer response, her voice warm and gentle. "You did everything you could, Brendon. Making it that far was amazing. Please don't be so hard on yourself." One look at Yolanda's calm, supportive smile eased some of the tension knotted in Brendon's ch*st. Even so, her grace only deepened the self-reproach for not being skilled enough to win the prize of King's treatment twisting inside him. He hated coming up short. Now, only two names remained on the board. One man. One woman. Everyone recognized Dillan--the reigning champ with a perfect track record. The woman standing across from him, Chrissy, was a mystery to most. The final challenge came with a twist--contestants had to sh**t while blindfolded. Dylan had already pieced it together. Chrissy wasn't some unknown competitor. She was Rose--the same Rose who had disappeared without a trace three years ago. She hadn't just returned. She had reinvented herself under a brand-new alias. Standing across from the very woman who had once crushed him in the past, Dylan felt the weight of that memory press down hard. Even so, three years of relentless training had reshaped him. This time, he believed he could take her down. With steady steps, Dylan walked onto the stage. A black mask concealed his face, but the resolve in his stance said everything. The staff tied the blindfold tightly, and the final showdown began. First sh*t--direct hit. Right through the center. Second sh*t--another bullseye. Then came the third. All around him, the crowd leaned in, the arena holding its breath like one giant lung. When that final sh*t struck dead center, the silence shattered into wild cheers. The audience leapt from their seats, the roar deafening. "Dillan is amazing! If I fl**t with him and win him over, I bet I can talk him into giving up that prize once he wins!" Katie exclaimed from the front row, clapping her hands together and beaming. "You're smitten with him, aren't you?" Yolanda tilted her head, an amused sparkle in her eyes. Flushing, Katie quickly waved it off. "Absolutely not! I'm just trying to secure King's treatment for you, that's all." Yolanda chuckled. "You've always looked out for me, Katie. I'm so lucky to have you." Brendon crossed his arms. "This match is Dillan's to take. No question." Brendon hadn't taken Chrissy seriously since she walked in. In his mind, women just didn't belong in the upper tier of this sport. The name Rose still lingered in his memory--her win years ago felt more like a lucky strike than a real triumph. If she had the skill, she wouldn't have vanished three years ago. Now blindfolded and standing center stage, Chrissy--who was actually Christina--made no move to sh**t. Instead, she turned her body slowly, letting the eyes of the crowd follow her every motion. Whispers broke out almost immediately. "Is she giving up?" "Maybe this is her way of backing out without saying it outright." "I said it from the start--women just can't hold their own in a match like this." But as the noise grew louder, Christina raised her w**pon behind her back and, without adjusting her stance, pulled the trigger. The sh*t rang out sharp and clean. "Direct hit!" the announcer shouted. Gasps rippled through the audience. She had landed a bullseye--and under conditions that were harder than earlier rounds. "How is that possible?" "No way. That was pure luck!" While the crowd clung to doubt, Dylan's confidence began to slip. It was happening again. He was about to lose to Rose. From her second sh*t to her last, Christina never missed. Each movement was fluid, each sh*t dead-on. She moved like she had eyes in the back of her head. Sh*t after sh*t, bullseye after bullseye. The difficulty of Chrissy's round surpassed Dylan's, leaving no room for dispute--Chrissy had won. Cheers erupted, c*rses followed, and stunned silence filled the gaps in between. Those who bet everything on Dillan were left stunned and broke. Meanwhile, Davina couldn't stop grinning. She had bet on Chrissy from the start--and now she was walking away with more money than she knew what to do with. Dylan remained rooted to the spot, his disbelief anchoring him in place as Christina strode straight toward him. "You will peel off the mask yourself, or should I do it for you?" Christina said casually, determined to see his face as per the privilege that came with the winner. The voice modulator built into her mask disguised her tone, keeping the crowd guessing. But Dylan didn't need a voice to recognize her--he knew. This was Rose. No doubt. With no hesitation, he reached up and pulled off his mask. Gasps swept through the arena as his face came into full view. Revealed beneath the mask was none other than Dylan Scott, head of the city's most powerful dynasty and the silent force behind the very competition they were watching. Brendon exhaled in quiet relief. Had Dylan come out on top, not even the Dawson name would've held any weight to sway him into giving up the prize of King's treatment. Compared to Dylan's influence, the Dawson family would've been brushed aside like a rumor. Masked and silent, Christina moved past Brendon and his crew, her steps aimed at Davina--until Katie suddenly stepped in her way. "Hold it right there!" Katie planted herself in front of Christina, eyes narrowed with smug defiance. "That reward--sell it to us. Just say how much you want." "Nah, not for sale," Christina said, her voice dry and unmoved. Helping Yolanda had never been on her agenda. Not now. Not ever. "You seriously think refusing us is smart?" Katie snapped. "Do you know what happens to people who go against the Dawson family?" "I don't," Christina said with a shrug. "And I don't care. I said it's not for sale." "You arrogant--" Katie's words failed her as rage took over. In one furious motion, she lunged forward and yanked the mask off Christina's face... ...... What happens next? Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app) &5&
Placements and targeting
More ads from Kismet Read-20
Her career skyrocketed after ditching her ex, drawing in a swarm of admirers. Her regretful ex tried everything to win her back, only to watch her wedding of the century with another guy as the beloved of a billionaire. ===== "Stop it, Neil. This isn't fair to Katelyn..." Today was her anniversary with Neil Wheeler, and Katelyn Bailey had already planned the celebration. Katelyn excitedly came to the villa to find Neil, unexpectedly met with the w*man's voice coming from the master bedroom. Hearing that was enough to drain all the color from Katelyn's face, and it definitely didn't help when she recognized the voice. It was Lise Cooper. She was Neil's old flame. Katelyn never expected her to return. Yet there they were, in the master bedroom... "Why is it unfair? Our families joined by marriage for mutual benefits. Katelyn is just my wife in name. I don't care for her at all. I've never touched her since we got married." "I pity her! Three years of marriage, and she hasn't won her husband's heart," Lise commented. Katelyn began to tremble. Those words pierced her heart. Her marriage to Neil had always been one of convenience, and not by love. For the past three years, Katelyn had devoted herself entirely to her family. She did the laundry, cooked meals, and tried her best to be a good housewife. Despite her efforts, Neil had never shared a bed with her. Katelyn had believed she wasn't meeting his expectations and had failed to earn his approval. But now, she realized he had never cared for her. The ongoing sounds from the room made Katelyn's heart ache. "Bang!" All of a sudden, the door flew open. When Neil saw Katelyn, he froze for a moment before his expression turned cold. With disdain, he barked, "Get out!" Even though he had been caught, he still carried himself with an air of arrogance. Katelyn felt a sharp pain in her chest. Staring at her husband, who showed no remorse, she asked in disbelief, "Neil Wheeler, why are you doing this to me?" With a soft sigh, Lise said, "Katelyn, you should understand that Neil doesn't love you, I'm the only one he loves, which is why he can only be intimate with me. I'm sure you can understand our situation, right?" Lise smiled. She had deliberately chosen to s*duce Neil on their anniversary, relishing the thought of Katelyn being overwhelmed. Katelyn clenched her fists tightly and glared at Lise with bloodshot eyes. "You're proud of being a home-wrecking woman, aren't you?" Lise's eyes turned red as she replied, "How could you say that? Would I have broken up with Neil if your parents hadn't threatened my family's safety? Katelyn, forcing love only leads to suffering. And remember, in any relationship, the one who isn't loved is the real outsider." Katelyn stared at her in shock. So this was the story Lise had fed Neil. It was now clear to her how Neil couldn't seem to move on from Lise. The truth was that neither Katelyn nor her family had forced Lise and Neil apart. "That's a lie!" Katelyn wanted to defend herself, but before she could speak, Neil cut her off. "Katelyn, if it weren't for you, Lise wouldn't have suffered so much these past few years. How dare you and your parents treat her that way? I will never forgive the Bailey family." Neil had already stood up and dressed, his gaze toward Katelyn as cold as ice. Katelyn's heart continued to ache. In that moment, she abandoned any attempt to explain and smiled bitterly. She realized how blind she had been to love a man who cheated on her and felt no remorse. A flash of satisfaction crossed Lise's eyes. "Neil, don't be so hard on Katelyn. She overheard us at the door earlier. You haven't sl*pt with her in three years, so it's understandable she's feeling unbalanced." Katelyn trembled with rage. She stormed over to the bed and snapped, "You shameless! How dare you spew such nonsense? Didn't anyone in your family teach you any manners? I'll be happy to give you a lesson then." She quickly raised her hand... "Katelyn!" Neil's eyes narrowed. Without a second thought, he rushed to defend Lise. Caught off guard, Katelyn was struck and staggered back. Anger flared in Neil's eyes as he growled, "Who do you think you are? How dare you hit Lise! Marrying you is my biggest mistake in life." He turned abruptly, yanked open the drawer of the nightstand, and pulled out a divorce agreement. He threw it at Katelyn and shouted, "Sign it. I never want to see your face again!" The divorce agreement had already been prepared and signed by Neil. Katelyn fought back a bitter smile. However, she knew it was time to let go of her marriage. He didn't love her and had even betrayed her. There was nothing left for her to hold on to. Without hesitation, Katelyn picked up the agreement, quickly signed it, and threw it at Neil's face. "Neil Wheeler, I'm done. From now on, we have nothing to do with each other." As soon as she spoke, her phone rang. Katelyn froze when she saw the caller ID. Ignoring Neil's reaction, she swiped to answer the call. The voice on the other end sounded urgent. "Iris, when are you coming back to work? The orders at the studio are piling up. Someone has even offered a hundred million dollars for a chance to work with you." Chapter 2 Better Not Play Dirty Tricks "I'm back now. I'll be there in a second." Since Katelyn no longer needed to focus on Neil or play the docile and devoted wife, she was determined to return to her career immediately. She resolved never to fall in love again. Katelyn's expression grew serious. Although her appearance remained unchanged, Neil sensed something different about her. Her gaze and demeanor had shifted. Even the look in her eyes was no longer the same. Neil stared at Katelyn without blinking. For some reason, he felt irritated when she signed the divorce agreement so decisively. From the very beginning, she had loved him with every fiber of her being. He couldn't understand why she signed the divorce agreement so readily. Believing she might be playing games with him, Neil walked closer and sneered, "You'd better not try any dirty tricks, Katelyn." Katelyn ended the call and looked at him directly. "Do you really think you deserve that?" she retorted. Back in the day, she had loved him and cared only about him, which made her willing to endure everything for him. Now that they were done, he meant nothing to her. Without giving the two shameless another glance, Katelyn turned and left the villa. She walked with her head held high, as if nothing in the world could bring her down. Lise noticed Neil's eyes were still on Katelyn and felt a pang of jealousy. Suddenly, her phone buzzed with a message. After reading it, Lise's mood brightened. She exclaimed, "Great news, Neil! Iris has agreed to work with us. Her manager just sent me a message." Neil snapped out of his thoughts and looked at her with surprise. "Are you serious?" Wheeler Group's design department had been facing a major issue with a critical project. Recently, their designer was caught plagiarizing. If they didn't meet the deadline, the company would owe the client several billion dollars in compensation. Only five days remained. The only designer capable of completing such a massive project on such a short notice was Iris, the top designer in the industry. The Wheeler Group had been trying to contact her for weeks but had been repeatedly rejected. Surprisingly, Lise had managed to secure the opportunity. She showed Neil the message and said excitedly, "It's true. You can go to the negotiation tonight. I spent the whole night convincing her manager. My efforts finally paid off." Iris was famous but had a difficult personality. Over the past three years, she hadn't produced any new designs and seemed to have disappeared. For that reason, anyone wanting to work with her had to go through her manager, but her manager was notorious for avoiding people. Neil placed his hand on Lise's and said seriously, "Lise, I've never forgotten how much you've done for me. I will keep my promise to you." She nodded eagerly in response. Suddenly, she frowned and winced in pain. Neil asked with concern, "Is everything alright with you?" Lise forced a smile and replied, "I'm fine." Neil gazed at her intently and stated, "Don't lie." After hesitating for a moment, Lise slowly lifted the hem of her dress to reveal large b*uises on her knees. Neil's expression immediately changed. In that moment, he realized why Iris had agreed to work with them. Lise had to get down on her knees, begging for their cooperation. Feeling deeply moved, Neil looked at her with affection and said, "Thank you for everything you've done for me, Lise." Lise responded shyly, "I'm willing to do anything if it helps you." Meanwhile, Katelyn had just arrived at her design studio. As she looked at the familiar office she had been away from for three years, she felt a pang of regret. She had wasted so much time on a man who wasn't worth it. Aimee Stephens, her manager, spotted her and quickly trotted over. Dressed in a black suit dress, she looked both professional and capable. She gave Katelyn a big hug. "My little Iris! You're finally back! I've missed you so much." A hint of guilt crossed Katelyn's face. "I'm sorry. It was all my fault. Aimee, tell me about this order." Aimee knew the importance of business. She led Katelyn to the sofa, where they both sat down, and said, "The offer was made by Lise Cooper. She did it on behalf of Neil Wheeler. Let me show you the documents." Katelyn was stunned. The next moment, she let out a sudden chuckle. What a small world! He had told her to leave, but now he badly needed her assistance. Chapter 3 Changed Tremendously Aimee looked at Katelyn with surprise and asked, "Isn't Wheeler Group your husband's company? You didn't help him? Why did they reach out to me instead?" Katelyn pressed her lips. She had known about the crisis in the design department and had offered to assist, but Neil had told her to leave and not cause any trouble. With a bitter smile, she responded coldly, "We're divorced, Aimee." Their marriage had lasted only three years, but she had loved him for ten. All that love had been wasted. In the end, she felt she deserved this unfortunate outcome. Aimee's eyes widened as she looked Katelyn up and down. Clicking her tongue, she remarked, "So, the love-struck girl has finally woken up. I warned you not to marry him after finding out he had an ex-girlfriend that he couldn't forget. I tried hard to change your mind, but you were determined. I guess you had to learn it the hard way." Katelyn's expression remained calm, though her once lively eyes seemed dull. Suddenly, she let out a chuckle and said, "You're right. I learnt my lesson the hard way. From now on, Aimee, I'm focusing on my career." "Fantastic! That's what I want to hear. Forget about love! Your career is what matters," Aimee said with enthusiasm. Then, she quickly added, "What's your plan for the collaboration? We can walk away from the 100 million dollars and give those b**tards what they deserve." Katelyn looked at her and asked, "The response you gave them was as vague as always, wasn't it?" Aimee nodded in confirmation. That was how they operated. They would preliminarily accept an offer once everything seemed in order, but the response remained vague. This allowed them time to further investigate the client. If anything suspicious came up, they would end the partnership immediately. Katelyn smiled as she thought it over. She had reviewed the file and knew that if Wheeler Group missed the deadline, they would owe their client several billion dollars. She chuckled and said, "Alright. Let's keep them hanging. Let them know we'll be at Skyline Building tonight." The Skyline Building was a place that catered to solely the upper class. The guests there were not only wealthy but also held significant influence. Lise sat in a private room, with a gentle smile, she said, "Neil, I'm sure you'll close the deal tonight." Neil smiled, "It's all thanks to you, Lise. I'm lucky to have you." Lise blushed, already envisioning her success. If the deal went through, Neil would realize her true worth and see that only she could truly help him. The meeting was scheduled at seven in the evening. The door to their private room was left open, allowing a clear view of the corridor. At the same moment, they both noticed two figures approaching. Lise's smile froze. She stared at one of the figures in shock. She wondered if she was seeing things, but it looked just like Katelyn. Neil also spotted Katelyn, and surprise flickered in his eyes. She wasn't dressed in her usual casual shirt and loose trousers. Instead, she wore a black, form-fitting dress that accentuated her figure. Her long hair was styled in loose curls that cascaded over her shoulders. She looked both alluring and distant. Her neck was graceful, and her waist was slender. To Neil, she resembled a figure from a classic oil painting. He pressed his thin lips together as his eyes traveled over her from head to toe. It had only been a day since they last saw each other, but Katelyn seemed completely transformed. Just yesterday, she was still his dull and mediocre wife. Now, he couldn't help but imagine the attention she would draw from other men when she was in a crowd. It seemed like Katelyn hadn't noticed them, as she walked straight ahead. Then, something unexpected occurred. Chapter 4 You Also Dragged Miss Stephens Into Trouble Katelyn and Aimee were discussing something as they walked. When Katelyn saw the drunk man stumbling toward Aimee, she quickly stepped in front of her to shield her. The drunkard scowled at Katelyn. "Hey, what is the matter with you? How dare you get in my way! Move aside!" In the next moment, he noticed how attractive Katelyn was, and his eyes lit up. "Hey, beautiful, are you alone? How about we hang out together?" He reached out toward her, but before he could touch her, Katelyn shied his hand away. The man's expression darkened. "You should be thankful I'm even interested in you. Don't be stupid!" His loud voice drew the attention of others nearby. Neil's eyes widened in surprise. "Is that Felix Ellis?" Lise was equally shocked. Felix was here? Felix Ellis was a notorious th*g in Chaepstow, known for making his living through loan sharking. He was ruthless and would do anything to get what he wanted. Lise covered her mouth with her hand and exclaimed, "He's dangerous! Katelyn could get hurt. Neil, we should help her." Although Lise pretended to be concerned, there was a gleam of satisfaction in her eyes. She secretly hoped Felix would teach Katelyn a harsh lesson, which would also serve as her revenge. Neil gently patted Lise's hand and replied softly, "Lise, you're too kind-hearted. She brought this on herself. It's not our problem." Despite his words, he couldn't resist glancing toward the door. Katelyn was small and fragile. If Felix were to hit her, she could be seriously injured. With a slight frown, Neil decided to rise from his seat. But before he could act, Felix has been defeated by Katelyn. Neil watched in disbelief. The woman he once knew had transformed. She now radiated confidence and allure. He wondered if Katelyn had been hiding her true self during their marriage. Seething with rage, Felix glared at his henchmen and yelled, "What are you all waiting for? Get her!" The men quickly moved towards Katelyn. In response, Aimee stepped in, "If any of you lay your grubby little hands on my friend, you're all going to regret it. I'll make sure that you'll pay for it with your lives!" Felix's face went pale when he recognized the woman behind Katelyn. It was Aimee! Aimee managed the top designer Iris. Many powerful people avoided crossing her. Felix was suddenly intimidated. He hadn't expected Aimee to support the woman. Immediately, Felix's demeanor changed. He forced a smile and stammered, "Oh, Miss Stephens, is she your friend? I didn't realize. I'm sorry for the trouble." Lise stared at the situation in shock. This was unexpected. Neil also stopped, his brow furrowing in confusion. He never imagined that Katelyn had such a close relationship to Aimee. Only now did Neil realize that he knew absolutely nothing about his ex-wife. Aimee crossed her arms and said impatiently, "Enough! Get out of here! You'll regret it if you try to hurt her again." Felix quickly fell silent and fled the scene. Not long after, the corridor became quiet again. Aimee was about to respond, but Lise rushed over with a concerned expression. "Miss Stephens, are you okay?" Neil followed Lise, he gave Katelyn a cold look before saying hello to Aimee. Aimee ignored them completely. The way Aimee treated Katelyn was markedly different from how she treated them now, making Lise wonder about their connection. After a moment of hesitation, Lise said to Katelyn, "Katelyn, I understand you wanted to protect your friend, but that was too risky. What if you had been hurt? And see? You also dragged Miss Stephens into trouble." Chapter 5 I'm Sorry For Being Late "You've played the role of the delicate and kind-hearted soul for so long that you've started to believe it yourself," Katelyn said, her gaze filled with contempt. She realized Lise had simply been trying to drive a wedge between her and Aimee. Lise's face reddened with anger. Before she could respond, Neil chimed in, "Katelyn, enough!" He had witnessed the entire encounter in the private room. If Aimee hadn't intervened, Felix would have continued his h**assment. Neil was frustrated that Katelyn had shown no appreciation for Lise's concern. Moreover, he was irked that Katelyn had a connection with Aimee that she had kept hidden from him. Neil had been restless and anxious over the past weeks, while Lise had gone to great lengths to please Aimee. Katelyn, on the other hand, had done nothing. Neil's anger flared, and the tension in the air was palpable. Lise subtly tugged at his sleeve. Katelyn was Aimee's friend, and any conflict could negatively affect Aimee's view of them and jeopardize their potential collaboration. With a conciliatory smile, Lise said to Aimee, "Miss Stephens, our private room is just over there. Why don't we sit down and discuss the details of our cooperation?" Aimee glared at them with disdain. "When did I agree to work with you?" Lise and Neil were taken aback by her response. "You're a home-wrecker. Don't kid yourself into thinking Iris will work with someone as morally compromised as you. Stop dreaming!" Aimee growled. Lise stared at her, stunned and unable to hide her shock. She hadn't anticipated Aimee's harsh response. Despite feeling hurt, Lise didn't dare to confront Aimee or retaliate. The atmosphere turned icy in response to Aimee's remarks. Lise felt that Aimee's reluctance to cooperate might be due to Katelyn's influence. She suspected that Katelyn had spoken ill of them to Aimee, causing her to back out of their agreement. Lise suppressed her anger and shouted at Katelyn, "Katelyn, Neil's company is in crisis. Instead of helping, you've only caused more trouble. Stop behaving like a child!" Neil also glared at Katelyn and added, "Katelyn, are you finished causing trouble?" He blamed her for the issues affecting their cooperation, feeling that she had crossed the line. Katelyn's lips curled into a slight smile. Before she could respond, Aimee defended her. "Mr. Wheeler, stop flattering yourself." Neil's face paled slightly. Aimee continued disdainfully, "We've already chosen our partner. It's not you. Unlike you, he's respectable and hasn't been involved in any s**ndals. He adheres strictly to his morals, and he'd never cheat on his wife. Our studio doesn't work with s**mbags like you, Mr. Wheeler." "You! You..." Neil glared with icy anger. Lise quickly intervened, pinching his arm to calm him. Forcing a smile, she said to Aimee, "Miss Stephens, you've misunderstood. Katelyn's portrayal is not accurate. She is..." Clearly irritated, Aimee stated, "Enough of your excuses. I have no interest in your attempts to cover up. If you continue, you'll only diminish my respect for you. Please stop obstructing my path and acting like fools." Neil and Lise were visibly embarrassed and frustrated. Katelyn smiled, appreciating Aimee's sharpness. Just as she was about to speak, she noticed a commotion in the corner. All eyes turned toward them. A line of bodyguards moved with precision. Every single one of them looked intimidating, and they were escorting a noteworthy man. Dressed in a sleek black suit, he exuded an air of sophistication with every step. His face seemed almost divine, with features that looked meticulously crafted by God, himself. His eyes, deep and wintery, could captivate and unsettle anyone who met his gaze. Lise stood in awe, her eyes wide with amazement. She questioned whether she was imagining it when she realized the man was Vincent Adams. He was the president of Adams Group, a colossal business empire. The Adams Group started in real estate and later expanded into industries like medical and IT. Since Vincent took over the company five years ago, it had become one of the fastest growing companies in the world. And now, it was part of the ten biggest companies worldwide. His company played a significant role in the city's economy. Neil's expression tightened, his eyes reflecting his seriousness. Ignoring everyone else, Vincent approached Katelyn. His deep voice was like a cello's melody in the dark. "I'm sorry for being late." Katelyn stared at the man, puzzled about why he was speaking to her. She then glanced at Aimee, worried that her identity had been revealed. After a brief pause, Katelyn replied with a smile, "You're not late at all. Your timing is perfect." Her response seemed to soften Vincent's demeanor. His sternness gave way to a warmer expression. Standing side by side, their attractiveness created a noticeable chemistry. Neil tightened his fists, wondering if Katelyn had moved on with someone new right after their divorce. Filled with envy, Lise begrudgingly observed the situation, resenting that Katelyn had attracted such an influential figure. With a flattering smile, she approached and said, "Nice to see you here, Mr. Adams." Neil masked his feelings and greeted Vincent as well. "Good evening, Mr. Adams. What a surprise to see you here." Vincent acknowledged their greetings with a nod, clearly uninterested in engaging in further conversation. He turned to Katelyn, his eyes softening with warmth as he said, "I apologize for keeping you waiting." Aimee glanced at her watch and smiled, saying, "It's no problem, Mr. Adams. We've just arrived as well. Perfect timing. Shall we head to the room to discuss?" Both Lise's and Neil's expressions changed to shock when they realized that Vincent was the business partner Aimee had mentioned. What left them even more confused was the fact that Katelyn and Aimee walked into a private room together, arm in arm. Given the nature of the meeting, it was unusual for an outsider, even a friend, to be present. Katelyn's presence seemed out of place. Upon seeing Vincent's indifferent nod, Lise's frustration grew. She asked, "Aren't you supposed to be working with Iris? Why is Katelyn joining the negotiation?" Aimee retorted, "Why shouldn't Katelyn be here?" Lise and Vincent exchanged puzzled glances, wondering what she meant. ...... What happens next? Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app) &12&
Similar beauty and makeup ads
Der GRÖSSTE Sale des Sommers ist da 🔥 Sichere dir jetzt bis zu 40% RABATT auf alles. Entdecke, warum über 500.000 Kundinnen und Kunden auf uns vertrauen für klarere Poren und glattere Haut. Plus gratis Geschenke zu deiner Bestellung. Warte nicht, dieser Sale dauert nicht ewig. Jetzt einkaufen. https://www.vueskin.com/collections/all
We lied… and we’re sorry 😅 We thought this would just brighten your underarms. But it actually changed how women carry themselves. Reaching for tank tops. Raising their arms without thinking twice. 💁♀️ No bleach. No burn. Just gentle results in weeks ✨
Grace Enzymoteraphy: More than a Transformation, an Experience 🌺 Our Grace straightening is the darling of all hairdressers, but it continues to surprise with each application. 🤩 The Before and After: You have to see it to believe it! Throughout this video, we show the before and after of this client marveling at the result. Straightening, revitalized hair, natural movement and spectacular shine - all in a single application! And the best part is that this result is lasting, making your clients feel even more confident and empowered. 🏃 ♀️ Run to Our Website! 🏃 ♀️ link in our profile bio. The transformation that Grace Enzimoteraphy can provide is something unique that will make your clients loyal.
Worried About Harsh Chemicals Burning Your Skin? Not Anymore. 🛡️ Experience Instaglow Underarm Brightening Cream – the gentle solution that actually works. No bleach, no sting, no irritation. Just pure, science-backed brightening. Our dermatologist-approved formula combines Tranexamic Acid, Niacinamide, and soothing botanicals to fade darkness safely. Clinically proven results in 4-8 weeks, with zero harsh side effects. Stop sacrificing your skin's health for results. Try Instaglow risk-free today! Limited time offer. Try Instaglow now to experience worry-free brightening.
Keep exploring
Find more ads like this
Search millions of real ads by keyword, niche and format, and save the winners to your swipe file.
